So you’re thinking about retiring to the Philippines. Maybe you’ve done some reading, maybe you’ve just started. Either way, you’re in the right place.

This site exists for one reason: to give you straight answers about what it actually costs, what paperwork is involved, and what life looks like on the ground — without the rose-tinted expat fantasy or the scare stories. Just practical information from people who’ve made the move.

Here’s where to start:

Visa & Legal

The Philippines has several long-term visa options for foreign retirees — the SRRV, the 13A spousal visa, and others. Understanding which one fits your situation before you start the process saves a lot of headaches. We cover eligibility, costs, deposits, and what the application process actually looks like.

Cost of Living

Your money goes further here than in most Western countries — but how much further depends on where you live and how you live. We break down realistic monthly budgets for different cities and lifestyle levels, so you can run the numbers before you commit.

Healthcare

Healthcare is the question most people get wrong before they move. The Philippines has good private hospitals in the major cities, but public healthcare isn’t what you’re used to. We cover what’s available, what it costs, and what expat health insurance options make sense for residents.

Banking & Money

Getting your money here, keeping it safe, and understanding the tax implications back home — it’s more involved than most people expect. We cover the best banks for expats, remittance options, and what US, UK, and Australian residents need to know about their tax obligations.

The site is updated regularly. If something has changed or you spot an error, the information on official government sites always takes precedence — we link to them where we can.