Philippines Student Visa (9(f))
The Philippines Student Visa, formally the 9(f) Student Visa under the Philippine Immigration Act of 1940, allows foreign nationals to enrol in higher education programmes at institutions recognised by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED). A bona fide foreign student must be at least 18 years old at the time of enrolment, have sufficient means for their education and support, and seek entry solely to pursue a course of study higher than high school. Students are strongly advised to obtain the 9(f) visa before travelling to the Philippines, rather than entering on a 9(a) Temporary Visitor’s Visa and converting it after arrival, which can cause inconvenience mid-schooling. Applications are submitted through the Philippine Embassy in New Delhi, and the accredited educational institution typically helps facilitate the process with the Bureau of Immigration (BI). Final approval rests solely with Philippine immigration authorities.
Eligibility
To apply for a Philippines Student Visa, applicants generally must:
- Be at least 18 years old at the time of enrolment
- Have a genuine primary purpose of pursuing a recognised higher education programme (college, university, or graduate course)
- Be accepted by a school authorised by the Bureau of Immigration and recognised by CHED to admit international students
- Demonstrate sufficient financial means to cover education and living expenses
- Provide a notarised Letter of Support and Consent from parents (with proof of financial capacity), authenticated by India’s Ministry of External Affairs
- Appear in person at the Consular Section of the Philippine Embassy for an interview
- Hold a return air ticket valid until or after completion of the course
Applications filed on behalf of the student by agents or proxies are not accepted by the Consular Section.
Government Visa Fees
| Fee Component | Approximate Cost (India) |
| 9(a) visa application (initial, non-refundable) | Rs. 2,560 (subject to periodic change) |
| Full 9(f) visa processing fee | Rs. 16,000 (subject to periodic change) |
| BI conversion fee (if converting within the Philippines) | Approximately PHP 9,720 (approx. USD 157) |
| ACR I-Card fee (foreign national ID card) | Approximately USD 50 |
*Fee figures vary depending on whether you apply directly for the 9(f) visa through the Embassy in New Delhi before travel, or enter on a different visa and convert status with the Bureau of Immigration within the Philippines. Information may vary depending on the visa category and individual circumstances — always confirm exact Philippines Visa Fees with the Philippine Embassy in New Delhi (newdelhipe.dfa.gov.ph) or the Bureau of Immigration.
Processing Time
Philippines Visa Processing Time for the Student Visa typically ranges from 2 to 8 weeks, depending on the completeness of documents and the specific office handling the application. It is advisable to start the process at least 2 to 3 months before the school semester begins to avoid delays, particularly since the process involves both the accepting educational institution’s endorsement and the Embassy’s or Bureau of Immigration’s own review. The 9(f) visa is generally valid for 1 year and renewable annually for the duration of study. Applicants should ensure their existing immigration status (if applying via conversion) remains valid throughout the review period.
Required Documents Checklist
Step-by-Step Application Process
Important Notes
Why Choose Shivansh Consultants
Applying for a Philippines Student Visa requires accurate documentation, a genuine study purpose, and compliance with the visa requirements prescribed by the Philippine authorities. At Shivansh Consultants, we provide personalized guidance and end-to-end support, assisting you with student visa application forms, passport documentation, admission letters from recognized educational institutions, academic records, proof of financial support, accommodation details, travel itinerary, travel insurance (where applicable), and all required supporting paperwork. Our experienced consultants carefully review every application to help minimize errors, reduce delays, and ensure your documentation meets the applicable student visa requirements. We are committed to delivering transparent, reliable, and client-focused assistance throughout your Philippines Student Visa application process. While the final decision on visa approval rests solely with the Philippine immigration authorities, our goal is to help you submit a complete, accurate, and well-prepared Philippines Student Visa application with confidence.