Philippines 9(f) student visa in 2026

The 9(f) Student Visa is for foreign nationals who are at least 18 years old and will undertake a course of study higher than high school at a university, seminary or college authorized to accept foreign students.

School and immigration compliance

The educational institution and student must satisfy BI requirements. BI provides separate conversion and extension procedures and links the visa to alien registration.

Special Study Permit is different

BI separately lists a Special Study Permit (SSP). That permit should not be confused with a 9(f) visa and may be relevant to studies that do not meet the 9(f) framework.

Student status is also not an open employment authorization.

Compare 9(a) Visitor Visa, 9(g) Employment, and the Philippines hub.

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

Official and supporting sources

Related routes in Philippines