How Filipinos Can Access Global Markets Through Residency Programs

Being able to travel many countries visa-free, work and school in choice countries, and ultimately access the global market is something many only dream of. But what if I tell you this dream, especially as a Filipino, can be a reality?

With residency and citizenship programs springing up in different countries, getting access to the rest of the world has become even easier. 

In 2023, 2.16 million Filipinos worked abroad, a 9.8% increase from the previous year. Showing that more Filipinos are exploring the world and the opportunities it presents. Whether for school, work, or seeking investment opportunities. 

Residency programs offer a gateway to these dreams, granting visa-free travel, work rights, and access to international markets. 

Paired with the Philippines’ dual citizenship law (RA 9225), which allows natural-born Filipinos to retain or reacquire citizenship, these programs empower Filipinos to invest abroad, start businesses, or secure education while maintaining deep ties to their homeland. 

This post explores how Filipinos can leverage residency programs and dual citizenship to unlock global markets, blending ambition with heritage for a world of possibilities.

Why Filipinos Are Seeking Global Market Access

Wondering what this recent rise in Filipinos moving abroad is all about? Well, we may have the answer to this. 

There are many reasons Filipinos are seeking access to the global market with some citing the growing Philippine economy as the reason, while others are simply looking for better opportunities. 

With a growing economy, Filipinos are looking for countries to diversify their income stream and invest internationally. 

Some others are looking to tap into the global job market and work in countries with more opportunities. Others cite educational opportunities as the reason. The point is, there are a lot of different reasons why Filipinos are seeking residency permits abroad. 

With travel limitations and restrictions in movement, people who travel a lot know how this can affect your [plans. So Filipinos in this category seek the relevant residency or citizenship programs that makes traveling more seamless and opens them to the rest of the world. 

You can explore a host of different residency or citizenship programs available now from professional consultant sites such as Global Residence Index, providing worldwide residency solutions.  

Understanding Residency Programs

Residency programs systems that offer residency to deserving individuals. Typically, this is given in exchange for an investment, although there are other means. 

The investment varies depending on the country but the usual options include real estate, government  bonds, or business. 

In some countries like Portugal and Spain, these residency programs are called golden visas. While residency permits lets you live in the country and enjoy some benefits including visa-free access to some countries, it has its limitations. 

Which is why some people prefer the citizenship by investment route offered by some countries, especially in the Caribbean. This program grants you a second passport in exchange for a suitable investment.  You can review Vanuatu’s citizenship by investment pathways for more details. 

The Role of Philippines Dual Citizenship Law (RA 9225)

Before 2003, natural-born Filipinos who naturalized in other countries had to forfeit their Filipino citizenship. 

However, the Philippine government then came up with the Philippines Dual Citizenship Law (RA 9225) to help natural born Filipinos to retain a connection with their home country and hold dual citizenship. 

This law makes Residency programs viable and ultimately citizenship by investment possible. Since some countries let you apply for citizenship after being a resident for a number of years. 

Eligibility

• Natural-born Filipino who acquired a foreign citizenship through naturalization
• Unmarried children under 18 can get citizenship if included in their parent’s application
• People born abroad after January 17, 1973 to at least one Filipino parent. 

Process

• File a petition at a Philippine embassy or consulate near you with the appropriate documents which may include foreign naturalization certificate, current passport and birth certificate.
• Take an oath of allegiance, and no, you won’t need to renounce your current country. 
• Collect your passport.

Practical Steps For Filipinos

As a Filipino looking to explore residency programs across the world in order to enjoy the global markets, here is a step by step process.

Assess Goals

The first step is to assess your goals. Ask yourself what you would like to achieve with this residency program. Is it for education, job or business opportunities? Are you looking to diversify your income or secure your family’s future? 

Once you have come to an understanding of what your goals are, you’re well on your way to making the right residency decision. With a lot of options available, knowing your goals will help narrow down the choices.

Research Residency Programs

Now that you know what your goals for the programs are, it is time to research residency programs. Your research process can start from the internet, on forums, and from reputable sites like Global Residence Index. 

The aim here is not to make a decision just yet, but to analyze your options. Comp[are the programs based on their investment thresholds, market access and family inclusion to see which ones best suit your needs. 

Some options include:

Portugal Golden Visa  – with a minimum investment of about 250,000 euros

Malta Permanent Residency Program – a 100,000 euros donation 

Caribbean Citizenship from countries like Vanuatu and St. Kitts & Nevis – for as low as 130,000 euros.

Consult Experts

It is time to get the help of consultants like Global Residence Index to help you with your application. 

A residency or dual citizenship process typically requires a significant investment amount so you want to do it right. From documents to due diligence and background checks, by using the right consultants, you can rest assured while they handle the process. 

Apply For Dual Citizenship (If Applicable)

Is your chosen destination offering dual citizenship? As a Filipino, you can hold dual citizenship due to the Dual Citizenship Law (RA 9225). Countries like Antigua and Bermuda and St. Lucia offers dual citizenship to Filipino citizens.

If your chosen destination only offers citizenship to residents then you may have to go through the residency program. 

Secure Financing

Residency or citizenship programs usually cost a considerable investment so you may need to put together all the finance you need. From agency and consultation fees, to the investment or donation amount and processing fees. 

The investment option you choose also determines the amount you need. If you go for investment options rather than donation, you can recoup your money plus interest after the stipulated period, however, it is typically higher than donation.

Summary

You can take advantage of the global market by securing the right residency or citizenship program as a Filipino citizen. The government has even simplified the process through the Dual Citizenship Law (RA 9225).

Whether you’re looking to diversify your income and secure your future, tap into the global job market, or explore business and investment opportunities, obtaining a residency permit makes all these possible. 

It gives you access to the rest of the world, for example obtaining a Portugal residency makes obtaining a residency in any EU country easier. 

Consultants like Global Residence Index simplifies the process and provides guidance on the best option for you, to ensure you make the right decision based on your goals.