Philippines 13(a) immigrant visa by marriage

A foreign national may apply for the 13(a) non-quota immigrant visa on the basis of a valid marriage to a Philippine citizen.

Probationary and permanent stages

Bureau of Immigration procedures distinguish conversion to a probationary 13(a) immigrant visa and a later amendment process to permanent non-quota immigrant status. The application includes documentary review, BI clearance/registration steps and a hearing process.

Marriage does not erase other compliance

The relationship must be genuine and legally valid, and current BI filing requirements apply. Work authorization, tax residence and citizenship are separate legal questions and should not be inferred from marital status alone.

Some nationality-specific family-residence categories can involve PRV or TRV rules, so applicants should confirm the correct BI family route for their nationality and circumstances.

Compare Returning Former Filipino 13(g), Quota Immigrant Visa, and the Philippines hub.

See also Asia, the legal disclaimer, and ReloTide methodology.

Official and supporting sources

Related routes in Philippines