Philippines opens the doors to 'digital nomads' with new order
Move aims to draw remote pros, stimulate local economies, promote cultural exchange
Manila: Get ready, remote workers — paradise is calling.
President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr just signed Executive Order (EO) 86, officially making the Philippines the latest hotspot for digital nomads from around the world.
The new Digital Nomad Visa (DNV, officially rolled out on April 24, 2025) lets foreigners live, surf, work (and, maybe, sip mango shakes) in the Philippines for up to one year, with the chance to renew.
To qualify
Be 18+, prove you're making your money from outside the Philippines, have a clean record, and get yourself some solid health insurance.
Reciprocity
And make sure you're from a country that also welcomes Filipino digital nomads.
The goal
Boost tourism, grow the economy, and put the Philippines even higher on the global map for remote work.
Even prior to EO 86, the country is already ranked 7th fastest-growing remote work hub worldwide.
DFA to roll out rules
As per the Executive Order, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) will roll out the rules within a month, teaming up with agencies like the Department of Tourism and Bureau of Immigration to make sure it all runs smooth as “halo-halo” (mixed sweet local delicacy, surely worth a try) on a hot day.
Manila's message to potential nomads: Pack your laptops, nomads — the Philippines is ready for you.
Key points:
President Marcos Jr. signed Executive Order 86 creating a Digital Nomad Visa (DNV) for foreigners.
DNVs allow remote workers to stay up to one year, renewable, with multiple entry privileges.
Applicants must meet strict requirements (age, remote work, income proof, clean record, health insurance).
The move aims to boost tourism and economic growth, tapping into the rising global trend of remote work.
What it means:
The Philippines wants to attract more skilled remote workers who will spend money and help boost the local economy.
It positions the country as a major player in the remote work revolution.
Filipino remote workers could also benefit abroad since only countries offering DNVs to Filipinos are included.
60 countries
As of 2025, over 60 countries have introduced digital nomad visas or equivalent programmes, allowing remote workers to live and work legally while contributing to local economies.
These visas typically require proof of remote employment, minimum income thresholds, insurance, and clean health and criminal records. Visa durations vary, often ranging from six months to two years, with options for renewal.
At least 6 Asian countries countries now offer digital nomad visa, (including the Philippines), while dozens of European, African, Latin American nations have rolled out their own digital nomad visa schemes.
The UAE also offers professionals a virtual work visa – allowing them to live in the UAE and work remotely for companies across the world.
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