Manila retirement lifestyle
Retirement in the Philippines

Your Best Years,
Live Them in Manila

Everything you need to know about retiring in the Philippines — SRRV visa, cost of living, healthcare, and the lifestyle that awaits you after 50.

60,000+
Foreign Retirees in PH
$1,500–$2,500
Comfortable Monthly Budget
Top 10
Asia Healthcare Ranking
#1
English-Speaking in SE Asia
Special Resident Retiree's Visa

SRRV — Your Path to Philippine Residency

The Special Resident Retiree's Visa (SRRV) is issued by the Philippine Retirement Authority (PRA) and grants permanent residency to qualifying foreign nationals aged 35 and above.

SRRV Classic

$50,000
Minimum deposit · Age 50+

For retirees without a pension. Deposit can be used to purchase a condo or long-term lease.

Most Popular

SRRV Smile

$20,000
Minimum deposit · Age 35+

For retirees with a monthly pension of at least $800 (single) or $1,000 (couple).

SRRV Human Touch

$10,000
Minimum deposit · Age 50+

For former Filipino citizens and their spouses. Lower deposit requirement.

SRRV Courtesy

$1,500
Minimum deposit · Age 50+

For former Filipino citizens who have served the Philippine government.

SRRV Benefits & Privileges

Multiple Entry Visa
Live in the Philippines indefinitely with no need to renew your visa annually.
Tax-Free Pension
Your foreign pension income is not subject to Philippine income tax.
Duty-Free Imports
Import up to $7,000 worth of personal effects duty-free upon arrival.
PhilHealth Access
Enroll in PhilHealth for affordable access to Philippine hospitals and clinics.
Property Rights
Use your deposit to purchase a condo unit or fund a long-term lease.
Travel Freedom
Come and go freely. No exit clearance required for SRRV holders.

How to Apply for SRRV

A step-by-step guide to getting your Special Resident Retiree's Visa through the Philippine Retirement Authority.

01

Choose Your SRRV Type

Determine which SRRV category fits your age, pension status, and deposit capacity.

02

Prepare Documents

Gather passport, birth certificate, police clearance, medical certificate, and proof of pension or income.

03

Open a PRA-Accredited Bank Account

Deposit the required amount in a PRA-accredited bank (BDO, BPI, Metrobank, etc.).

04

Submit to Philippine Retirement Authority

File your application at the PRA office in Manila or through an accredited agent.

05

Receive Your SRRV Card

Once approved, receive your SRRV ID card — your permanent residency document.

Cost of Living

What Does Life in Manila Actually Cost?

Prices as of 2026. Costs vary significantly by area — BGC and Makati are the most expensive, while Quezon City and suburbs offer better value.

$800 – $1,200/mo
Budget Lifestyle

Suburban condo, local dining, public transport, basic healthcare

Most Common
$1,500 – $2,500/mo
Comfortable Lifestyle

Mid-range condo in Makati/QC, mix of dining, Grab rides, private insurance

$3,000 – $5,000+/mo
Premium Lifestyle

BGC luxury condo, fine dining, private car, top-tier private hospital coverage

1BR condo rental (BGC/Makati)₱35,000 – ₱80,000/mo
1BR condo rental (Quezon City)₱18,000 – ₱40,000/mo
2BR house rental (suburbs)₱25,000 – ₱55,000/mo
Condo purchase (BGC)₱8M – ₱25M+
Retirement Lifestyle

Why Retirees Love Manila

From tropical beaches to world-class healthcare, Manila offers a retirement lifestyle that's hard to match anywhere in Asia.

Year-Round Warm Weather

Year-Round Warm Weather

Manila's tropical climate means no cold winters. Enjoy outdoor activities, beach trips to Boracay or Palawan, and a relaxed pace of life year-round.

World-Class Food Scene

World-Class Food Scene

From authentic Filipino cuisine to international restaurants, Manila's food scene rivals any major Asian city. BGC and Makati are packed with dining options for every taste.

Excellent Healthcare Access

Excellent Healthcare Access

Manila has world-class private hospitals with English-speaking doctors. Medical costs are a fraction of Western prices, making quality healthcare accessible for retirees.

Welcoming Expat Community

Welcoming Expat Community

Manila has one of Asia's largest expat communities. From golf clubs to social groups, there are countless ways to connect with fellow retirees from around the world.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about retiring in the Philippines and the SRRV visa process.

How long does the SRRV application take?
Can my spouse be included in my SRRV?
Can I work in the Philippines with an SRRV?
Is my foreign pension taxed in the Philippines?
Can I bring my deposit money back if I leave?
Start Your Journey

Ready to Retire in the Philippines?

Explore our health guides, find the best hospitals in Manila, and connect with the expat community that's already living the dream.