Scenes during the One Paradise shore cleanup and benefit gig at #LaborUnion2018 held in San Juan, La Union on April 28, 2028. George Calvelo, ABS-CBN News

MANILA — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr has authorized the Department of Foreign Affairs to issue Digital Nomad Visas for foreign nationals who want to stay in the Philippines temporarily while engaged in remote work.

Executive Order No. 86, which the President signed on April 24, noted the need to establish a legal framework to facilitate the entry of digital nomads — foreign travelers who do remote work for overseas employers or clients — to boost the country’s tourism and economy.

Foreigners applying for DNV must comply with the following requirements:

a. Must be at least 18 years of age; 

b. Must show proof of remote work using digital technology; 

c. Must show proof of sufficient income which is generated outside the Philippines; 

d. Must show proof of no criminal record; 

e. Must have health insurance valid for the period of the DNV; 

f. Must be a national of a country that offers DNVs to Filipinos and where the Philippines has a Foreign Service Post; 

g. Must not pose threat to the internal or external security of the Philippines; and 

h. Must not be employed in the Philippines.

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Foreigners who are issued valid DNVs may enter the Philippines and stay for as long as a year. The visas are renewable and DNV applicants may get multiple entry privileges.

The EO also mandates the DFA, in coordination with the Department of Justice, Department of Tourism, BI, and Bureau of Internal Revenue “to study and, as may be necessary, adopt measures to effectively implement a DNV Program with the end in view of attracting eligible foreigners to avail the Program.” 

Pilot implementation of the digital nomad visa program is expected to start within 60 days of the effectivity of the order.

Advances in internet and teleconferencing technology has led to an increase in digital nomads who balance remote work with travel.

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This has led to an increase in tourism and commerce in places like Bali in Indonesia and other parts of Southeast Asia, but has also contributed to peace and order issues, heavier traffic and higher prices and rates for local residents.

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