WHAT: Frustration and confusion among foreigners under 50 (without pensions) who are attempting to apply for a Section 13 Quota Visa for long-term residency.
WHERE: Bureau of Immigration (BI) main office in Manila and legal immigration consultancy firms.
THE REALITY: The BI halted the processing of new Section 13 Quota Visa applications to conduct a comprehensive internal review of eligibility standards and protocols. This is an administrative pause, not a permanent cancellation of the visa category.
WHEN REPORTED: Early 2025 / Ongoing 2026.
SOURCE: Bureau of Immigration (BI) internal memos and updates from licensed Philippine immigration lawyers.
STATUS: Confirmed. Applications are currently suspended until further notice.
WHAT TO DO: If you were relying on the Quota Visa as a backup plan, pause your application efforts for now. Consult a licensed, independent immigration lawyer about alternative pathways, such as the Special Investor’s Resident Visa (SIRV), a work visa, or a student visa, until the BI officially resumes processing.
