Hi all, As most are already aware, if entering the Philippines with a Filipino or dual citizenship spouse, one could avail upon request of a Balikbayan privilege visa valid for 12 months. My question is…if the Filipino spouse leaves the country earlier, could the other stay in the Philippines (up to 12 months) and leave at a later date? Thanks for your input!
I'm thinking that should not be a problem. When leaving the Philippines on my own after staying here as a visa exempt balikbayan (but within the granted year) I have never been asked any questions. Neither was I asked questions when I had to convert my balikbayan status to a tourist visa after one year (on another occasion), but admittedly my wife was with me when I did that. I do note that your Filipina spouse is the one to request balikbayan status for you upon entering the Philippines, and obviously before they quickly stamp your passport with a tourist visa. Moreover, do bring your marriage certificate, just in case they ask.
Hi Dutchie, yeah, got my Balikbayan privilege stamped on my passport many times before but never asked the question if leaving the country separately… Thanks for your feedback!
