Complete Guide to Moving to the Philippines in 2026

The Philippines is an archipelago of 7,641 islands, 115 million people, and one of the warmest cultures you will ever encounter. It is also Southeast Asia’s best-kept secret for English-speaking expats. While Thailand and Bali dominate the relocation headlines, the Philippines quietly offers something neither can match: a population that speaks fluent English as an official language, deep cultural affinity with the United States, and a cost of living that lets you live comfortably on a fraction of a Western salary.

The country has long been a magnet for retirees — the SRRV (Special Resident Retiree’s Visa) is one of the easiest paths to permanent Asian residency. But a new wave of digital nomads, remote workers, and entrepreneurs is discovering what retirees have known for decades: the Philippines delivers an extraordinary quality of life for the money. Manila’s Makati and BGC districts are modern, safe, and globally connected. Cebu’s tech scene is growing fast. And the islands — Siargao, Palawan, Boracay — offer weekend escapes that most people only see on Instagram.

This guide covers everything you need to know before making the move: visa pathways, cost breakdowns by city, healthcare realities, safety considerations, tax obligations, and the cultural nuances that will determine whether you thrive or struggle. It is written for remote workers, retirees, and anyone seriously considering the Philippines as a long-term base.

See how the Philippines compares against other destinations in our best countries in Asia rankings, or browse by persona: retirement, digital nomads, or countries under $1,000/mo.

Why People Move to the Philippines

The Philippines attracts a specific kind of expat — someone who values human connection, affordability, and English fluency over polished infrastructure and efficiency. If that sounds like you, this country will feel like home faster than anywhere else in Asia.

English is everywhere

This is the Philippines’ single biggest advantage over every other Southeast Asian destination. English is one of two official languages (alongside Filipino), and it is the language of government, law, higher education, business, and media. Filipinos rank among the top English speakers in Asia — higher than Singapore in some proficiency indices. You can navigate bureaucracy, negotiate leases, see doctors, and build friendships entirely in English. No other country in the region offers this level of linguistic accessibility.

Incredibly affordable

A comfortable life in the Philippines costs a fraction of what it does in the West. A one-bedroom apartment in Makati rents for $350-500/month. A full Filipino meal at a local restaurant costs $2-3. A private doctor’s visit runs $15-30. Domestic flights between islands cost $30-80. For retirees on Social Security or remote workers earning Western salaries, the Philippines offers a lifestyle that would be unattainable at home.

Warmth that goes beyond the weather

Filipino hospitality is not a tourism slogan — it is a deeply embedded cultural value. The concept of “bayanihan” (communal unity) and “pakikisama” (smooth interpersonal relationships) means Filipinos go out of their way to help, include, and welcome foreigners. Expats consistently report that the Philippines is the easiest country in Asia to make genuine friendships.

US cultural affinity

The Philippines was a US territory from 1898 to 1946, and the cultural imprint is unmistakable. American pop culture, food chains, sports (basketball is the national obsession), and educational systems are deeply woven into Filipino life. For American expats especially, the adjustment period is shorter than in almost any other Asian country.

A massive expat community

An estimated 300,000+ foreign nationals live in the Philippines, with large communities of Americans, Koreans, Japanese, Australians, and Europeans. Retiree communities are well-established in Dumaguete, Angeles City, and Cebu. The growing BPO (Business Process Outsourcing) industry has also attracted professionals from around the world, making Manila one of the most internationally diverse cities in Southeast Asia.

Visa and Residency Options

The Philippines offers one of the most flexible visa frameworks in Asia. Whether you want a short trial run or permanent residency, there is a pathway that fits. Here are the six main options expats use in 2026.

Tourist Visa (9(a))

Citizens of over 150 countries can enter the Philippines visa-free for 30 days. What makes the Philippines unique is what happens after that: you can extend your tourist visa in-country, at any Bureau of Immigration office, for up to 36 months total. Extensions are granted in 1-2 month increments, costing PHP 3,000-5,000 (~$55-90) per extension. After 6 months, you will also need an Emigration Clearance Certificate (ECC) when you depart. This rolling extension system makes the Philippines one of the few countries where you can legally stay for three years on a tourist visa without leaving.

SRRV (Special Resident Retiree’s Visa)

The SRRV is the Philippines’ crown jewel for long-term residents. Administered by the Philippine Retirement Authority (PRA), it grants perpetual residency with multiple-entry privileges. There are two main tiers:

• SRRV Smile (age 50+): Requires a $20,000 deposit in a Philippine bank (non-convertible to investment). This is the most popular option.
• SRRV Classic (age 35+): Requires a $50,000 deposit that can be converted to a long-term investment (condo purchase or active business). For retirees 50+ with a pension, the deposit drops to $10,000.

SRRV holders enjoy visa-free travel in and out of the Philippines, exemption from the Bureau of Immigration’s annual reporting requirements, and the ability to work if they obtain a separate work permit. The annual maintenance fee is $360. The SRRV is one of the most cost-effective permanent residency programs in the world — significantly cheaper than Malaysia’s MM2H or Thailand’s Elite Visa.

13(a) Marriage Visa

If you are married to a Filipino citizen, the 13(a) visa is the most direct path to permanent residency. It grants a one-year probationary visa, after which you receive permanent resident status. Requirements include a valid marriage certificate, petition by your Filipino spouse, and a background check. After permanent residency is granted, there are no financial deposit requirements — making this the most affordable residency option.

SIRV (Special Investor’s Visa)

For those willing to invest, the SIRV requires a minimum investment of $75,000 in eligible Philippine securities, a publicly listed company, or an existing enterprise. It grants indefinite residency and multiple-entry privileges. The investment must remain active for the duration of the visa.

SVEG (Special Visa for Employment Generation)

The SVEG is designed for foreign entrepreneurs who create jobs in the Philippines. It requires establishing a business that employs at least 10 Filipino workers and has a minimum paid-up capital of $75,000. In return, you receive a special visa with indefinite residency. This is a niche option but valuable for entrepreneurs building Philippines-based businesses.

Work Visa (9(g))

The standard employment visa requires sponsorship from a Philippine employer, an Alien Employment Permit (AEP) from the Department of Labor, and proof that the position cannot be filled by a Filipino national. The process takes 2-4 months and the visa is valid for the duration of your employment contract, typically 1-3 years. The BPO sector and international schools are the most common employers of foreign workers.

Cost of Living: Manila vs Bangkok

The Philippines is one of the most affordable countries in Southeast Asia, and Manila — while the most expensive Philippine city — still undercuts Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, and Ho Chi Minh City on most metrics. Here is how Manila compares with Bangkok, the regional benchmark.

Manila: $1,000-1,800/month

Manila is where most expats land, and the costs depend entirely on which part of the metro you choose. In Makati and BGC (Bonifacio Global City), a modern one-bedroom condo runs PHP 18,000-25,000/month (~$325-450). Step outside the business districts and prices drop to PHP 10,000-15,000 (~$180-270). Street food and local eateries serve full meals for PHP 80-150 (~$1.50-2.70). A comfortable monthly budget including rent, food, transport, utilities, and entertainment lands between $1,000 and $1,800 depending on lifestyle. Electricity is the one cost that surprises newcomers — the Philippines has some of the highest electricity rates in Asia, driven by air-conditioning demand in the tropical heat. Budget PHP 4,000-7,000 (~$72-127) per month for a one-bedroom with regular AC use.

Cebu: $800-1,400/month

Cebu is the Philippines’ second city and growing fast as an expat destination. Rent is 20-30% cheaper than Manila: a one-bedroom condo in IT Park or Cebu Business Park runs PHP 12,000-18,000/month (~$215-325). The food scene is excellent and affordable — Cebu’s famous lechon (roast pig) costs a fraction of what a comparable meal would in any Western city. Monthly budgets range from $800 to $1,400. Cebu also offers easy access to world-class beaches and diving in Moalboal, Malapascua, and the Camotes Islands.

Provincial areas: $600-1,000/month

For retirees and remote workers willing to trade urban amenities for peace, provincial cities like Dumaguete, Davao, and Iloilo offer remarkably low costs. Rent for a decent house or apartment runs PHP 5,000-10,000/month (~$90-180). Local food is even cheaper than Manila and Cebu. A couple can live comfortably on $600 to $1,000 per month — a budget that includes domestic help, which costs PHP 5,000-8,000/month (~$90-145) for a full-time housekeeper. The trade-off is limited international dining, smaller expat communities, and fewer healthcare options.

Healthcare in the Philippines

Healthcare in the Philippines follows a familiar pattern across developing Asian countries: excellent private facilities in major cities, limited options in rural areas. For expats based in Manila or Cebu, the quality of care is genuinely impressive at prices that feel almost absurdly low.

Private hospitals: Manila and Cebu

Manila is home to several world-class private hospitals. St. Luke’s Medical Center (BGC and Quezon City campuses) is the country’s premier hospital, with JCI accreditation and specialists trained in the US, UK, and Australia. Makati Medical Center is the go-to for the Makati expat community. The Medical City in Pasig and Asian Hospital in Alabang round out Manila’s top-tier options. In Cebu, Cebu Doctors’ Hospital and Chong Hua Hospital provide comparable care.

Costs are dramatically lower than Western standards. A doctor’s consultation at a private hospital runs PHP 500-1,500 (~$9-27). An MRI costs PHP 8,000-15,000 (~$145-270) — versus $1,000-3,000 in the US. A comprehensive health screening (blood work, ECG, chest X-ray, ultrasound) costs PHP 5,000-10,000 (~$90-180). Dental work is 60-70% cheaper than US prices: a crown costs PHP 8,000-15,000 (~$145-270) versus $800-1,500 in the US.

PhilHealth and insurance

PhilHealth is the Philippines’ national health insurance program. Foreign residents with valid visas can enroll as voluntary members for PHP 4,800/year (~$87). Coverage is limited — it covers a portion of hospitalization costs but not outpatient care or high-end private facilities. Most expats supplement PhilHealth with private international health insurance. Policies from providers like Cigna Global, Pacific Cross, or local insurers like Maxicare cost $50-150/month depending on age, coverage level, and pre-existing conditions.

Medical tourism

The Philippines is quietly growing as a medical tourism destination, particularly for dental work, cosmetic surgery, and cardiac procedures. While it has not reached Thailand’s scale, the combination of English-speaking medical staff, US-trained specialists, and low costs makes it increasingly attractive. Many expats from Japan and Korea specifically travel to Manila for medical procedures.

The rural reality

Outside Manila, Cebu, and a handful of provincial capitals, healthcare infrastructure drops off significantly. Rural health units are underfunded and understaffed. If you plan to live in a provincial area, confirm your proximity to a credible hospital — and factor in the cost of emergency medical evacuation insurance. For anything serious, you will likely need to travel to Manila or Cebu.

Where to Live in the Philippines

Choosing the right location in the Philippines is arguably the most important decision you will make. The difference between Metro Manila and a provincial island is not just cost — it is an entirely different lifestyle. Here are the seven most popular areas for expats.

Makati

Makati is the Philippines’ financial capital and the traditional expat hub. The area around Ayala Avenue and Greenbelt is walkable, densely packed with restaurants, malls, and cafes, and home to the largest concentration of foreign residents in the country. Most international companies have their Philippine headquarters here. Condos are plentiful, with one-bedrooms ranging from PHP 18,000-30,000 (~$325-540). The nightlife in Poblacion has transformed this neighborhood into Manila’s most vibrant dining and bar district. Makati is the right choice if you want convenience, social life, and proximity to everything.

BGC (Bonifacio Global City)

BGC is Manila’s newest and most modern district — a planned city built on a former military base in Taguig. Wide sidewalks, green spaces, art installations, and strict traffic enforcement make it the safest and most pedestrian-friendly area in Metro Manila. It is also the most expensive: one-bedrooms start at PHP 25,000-40,000 (~$450-720). BGC attracts younger professionals, expat families, and anyone who values a clean, modern urban environment. High Street and Burgos Circle are the dining and entertainment centers.

Cebu City

Cebu is the Philippines’ second-largest metro and the fastest- growing expat destination outside Manila. The IT Park and Cebu Business Park areas are the professional hubs, with modern condos, coworking spaces, and a growing number of international restaurants. Cebu’s major advantage is access to beaches — Moalboal’s sardine run, Malapascua’s thresher sharks, and Oslob’s whale sharks are all within a few hours. The tech and BPO sector provides a professional community, and the airport has direct flights to Tokyo, Seoul, Singapore, and Hong Kong.

Dumaguete

Known as the “City of Gentle People,” Dumaguete is a small university town on Negros Island that has become the Philippines’ premier retiree destination. Silliman University gives the town a young, intellectual energy despite its modest size. The cost of living is exceptionally low — a couple can live well on $800/month. The retiree community is well-established with regular meetups, support networks, and English-speaking services. Apo Island (world-class diving) is a 30-minute boat ride away.

Davao City

Davao is the largest city on Mindanao, the Philippines’ southern island. Despite Mindanao’s reputation for conflict (concentrated in the BARMM autonomous region, far from Davao), the city itself is one of the safest and most orderly in the country. It is significantly cheaper than Manila — rent is 40-50% lower — and the surrounding area offers Mt. Apo (the Philippines’ highest peak), the Philippine Eagle Center, and some of the country’s best durian. The expat community is smaller but growing.

Siargao

Siargao has emerged as the Philippines’ digital nomad island. Known primarily as a surf destination (Cloud 9 is a world-famous break), Siargao now has a small but active community of remote workers, several coworking spaces, and improving internet infrastructure. The vibe is similar to early Bali — relaxed, affordable, and community-driven. The trade-offs are real: internet can be unreliable during storms, healthcare is extremely limited (the nearest proper hospital is in Surigao City, a ferry ride away), and the island’s infrastructure strains during peak tourist season.

Boracay

Boracay’s White Beach is consistently ranked among the best beaches in the world. After a 2018 government-mandated cleanup and six-month closure, the island is cleaner and more regulated than ever. It is the most expensive destination on this list — driven by tourism — but off-peak months (June through November) see significant price drops. Boracay works best as a seasonal base or a place to spend a few months rather than a permanent home.

Taxes for Expats in the Philippines

The Philippines taxes residents on worldwide income. If you spend more than 180 days per year in the country, you are considered a resident alien and subject to Philippine income tax on all income regardless of source.

Progressive tax rates

Philippine income tax for residents follows a progressive scale topping out at 35% for income over PHP 8,000,000 (~$145,000). The first PHP 250,000 (~$4,500) is tax-exempt. For most expats earning moderate incomes, the effective rate falls between 20-30%. Non-resident aliens engaged in business are taxed at the same progressive rates, while non-resident aliens not engaged in business face a flat 25% on gross income.

SRRV holders and tax treatment

SRRV holders who are not employed in the Philippines and derive income solely from foreign sources face an ambiguous tax situation. In practice, many SRRV retirees live on foreign pensions and investment income without paying Philippine income tax, as enforcement on foreign-sourced passive income for retirees has historically been minimal. However, the legal obligation exists for those who qualify as tax residents. Consult a Philippine tax advisor — this is an area where the law and practice diverge.

Special economic zones

Workers employed within Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) registered companies may benefit from preferential tax treatment. Many BPO and tech companies operate within PEZA zones, offering their employees reduced tax rates. If you are considering employment in the Philippines, ask whether the company is PEZA-registered.

Double taxation agreements

The Philippines has double taxation treaties with over 40 countries, including the US, UK, Canada, Australia, Japan, and most of the EU. These treaties help prevent being taxed twice on the same income. American expats should note that the US taxes worldwide income regardless of residency — the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion (FEIE) and Foreign Tax Credit can offset some of this, but US filing requirements remain.

Safety in the Philippines

Safety in the Philippines requires an honest, nuanced conversation. The country is not uniformly safe, and pretending otherwise does a disservice to anyone considering a move. But the areas where most expats live are genuinely safe, and understanding the geography of risk is straightforward.

Metro Manila

Manila has a reputation for crime, but the reality is highly localized. Makati and BGC are very safe — comparable to any mid-tier European city. These areas have private security, CCTV, and well-lit streets. Petty crime (pickpocketing, phone snatching) exists but is manageable with basic urban awareness. Areas like Tondo, parts of Quezon City, and Manila proper have higher crime rates and are not where expats typically live or visit. Use Grab (ride-hailing) instead of random taxis, avoid flashing expensive electronics in crowded areas, and stick to well-traveled neighborhoods, and your day-to-day safety experience will be comparable to any large Asian city.

Cebu and the Visayas

Cebu City and the Visayan Islands (Bohol, Negros, Panay, Leyte) are generally safe. Tourist areas and business districts have visible security presence. Cebu’s IT Park is gated and patrolled. Dumaguete is one of the safest small cities in the Philippines. The primary concerns in the Visayas are petty theft and the occasional scam targeting tourists — not violent crime.

Mindanao

Mindanao requires specific awareness. Davao City is safe — it has a strong police presence and low crime rates. However, the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region (BARMM), particularly around Marawi and the Sulu Archipelago, has experienced armed conflict and is subject to travel advisories from most Western governments. General Santos and Cagayan de Oro are also generally safe. The key is specificity: “Mindanao is dangerous” is as misleading as saying “Europe is dangerous” because of conflict in one region.

Natural disasters

This is the safety factor that affects everyone in the Philippines. The country sits in the Pacific Ring of Fire and the typhoon belt. Typhoon season runs from June to November, with the strongest storms typically hitting in October and November. The eastern Visayas and northern Luzon are most exposed. Metro Manila experiences flooding during major storms. Earthquakes occur regularly, though most are minor. Volcanic activity is monitored (Taal and Mayon are the most active). The Philippines is well-practiced at disaster response, but having an emergency plan, a go-bag, and knowing your building’s evacuation procedures is essential.

Digital Nomad Scene

The Philippines’ digital nomad scene is still maturing compared to Thailand or Bali, but it offers one massive advantage those countries cannot: everyone speaks English. Networking, coworking conversations, and even casual cafe interactions happen in English by default. For remote workers who value social integration alongside productive work environments, the Philippines is increasingly compelling.

Manila’s coworking ecosystem

Manila has the most developed coworking infrastructure in the Philippines. KMC Solutions operates across multiple locations in Makati and BGC, with hot desks from PHP 6,000-10,000/month (~$108-180) and dedicated desks from PHP 12,000-18,000/month (~$215-325). WeWork has locations in BGC and Makati. Co.Lab and Clock In cater to freelancers and startups with more affordable rates. The BPO industry’s presence means Manila’s business districts have excellent internet infrastructure — fiber connections delivering 100-300 Mbps are standard in commercial buildings.

Cebu’s growing tech community

Cebu’s IT Park is the city’s tech hub, home to BPO companies, startups, and an increasing number of coworking spaces. The Company and aSpace offer affordable coworking with strong community programming. Cebu’s nomad scene benefits from the same English fluency as Manila, with the added draw of beaches and a more relaxed pace. Internet speeds in IT Park and Cebu Business Park match Manila, though residential areas can be spottier.

Internet reality

Philippine internet has improved significantly but remains uneven. In business districts (Makati, BGC, IT Park Cebu), fiber from PLDT, Globe, and Converge delivers 100-300 Mbps reliably. Plans start at PHP 1,299-1,699/month (~$23-31) for 50-100 Mbps. Outside these areas, speeds drop to 20-50 Mbps, and reliability suffers during typhoons and power outages. Starlink launched in the Philippines in 2023 and is gaining adoption in areas with poor terrestrial infrastructure. Always test internet before signing a long-term lease — speeds vary building to building.

Cultural Integration

Integrating into Philippine culture is easier than almost anywhere else in Asia, thanks to English fluency and the genuinely welcoming nature of Filipino people. But there are cultural nuances that will shape your experience.

Filipino hospitality

The warmth is real. Filipinos will invite you to family gatherings, share food without being asked, and go out of their way to help a stranger. The concept of “utang na loob” (debt of gratitude) means that kindness is remembered and reciprocated. Accept invitations. Bring food when visiting someone’s home. Show genuine interest in people’s families. These small gestures open doors that money cannot.

Religion and values

The Philippines is approximately 85% Christian (predominantly Roman Catholic), making it the largest Christian nation in Asia. Religion permeates daily life — from Sunday mass to fiestas honoring patron saints to the ubiquitous “po” and “opo” (respectful affirmatives, especially to elders). Religious holidays like Sinulog, Ati-Atihan, and Christmas (which starts in September in the Philippines) are massive cultural events. Even if you are not religious, understanding the role of faith in Filipino life helps you connect with the people around you.

Manila traffic

This deserves its own section because it will affect your daily life more than almost any other factor. Manila’s traffic is legendary — and not in a good way. A 10-kilometer commute can take 90 minutes during rush hour. The solution: live close to where you work or spend your time. If you are a remote worker, choose a condo near your preferred coworking space or cafe cluster. Use the MRT and LRT (Manila’s rail systems) during peak hours — they are crowded but faster than road transport. Grab is essential for getting around but surge pricing during rush hour can double or triple fares. Many expats in Makati and BGC design their entire lives to avoid leaving their neighborhood during weekday peak hours.

Food culture

Filipino cuisine is hearty, flavorful, and deeply tied to social gatherings. Adobo (meat braised in vinegar and soy sauce) is the national dish. Sinigang (sour tamarind soup) is comfort food. Lechon (whole roasted pig) is the centerpiece of every celebration. Kare-kare (oxtail peanut stew), sisig (sizzling chopped pork), and lumpia (Filipino spring rolls) round out the essentials. Filipino food is designed for sharing — meals are communal, and “kamayan” (eating with your hands from a banana-leaf spread) is an experience every newcomer should try. Manila also has a thriving international food scene, with excellent Japanese, Korean, Chinese, and Western restaurants throughout Makati and BGC.

Island hopping

One of the greatest perks of living in the Philippines is the sheer volume of islands to explore. Weekend trips from Manila to Batangas (then ferry to Mindoro or Batangas beaches) are easy. From Cebu, Bohol, Siquijor, and the Camotes Islands are day-trip or overnight destinations. Palawan — with El Nido and Coron — is consistently ranked among the most beautiful islands in the world. Domestic flights on Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airlines are cheap (PHP 1,500-4,000 / $27-72 for most routes if booked early), making the archipelago surprisingly accessible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I buy property in the Philippines as a foreigner?

Foreigners cannot own land in the Philippines, but you can own a condominium unit (up to 40% foreign ownership per building). You can also lease land for up to 50 years (renewable for 25 more) or purchase through a Filipino spouse or corporation. Many expats choose long-term condo ownership in Makati or BGC as their primary residence investment.

Is the Philippines safe for solo female expats?

Generally yes, particularly in Makati, BGC, Cebu IT Park, and established expat areas. Filipino culture is respectful toward women, and violent crime against foreigners is rare. Standard precautions apply: avoid walking alone late at night in unfamiliar areas, use Grab instead of random transportation, and trust your instincts. Many solo female expats report feeling safer in the Philippines than in major Western cities.

Do I need to speak Filipino (Tagalog) to live there?

No. English is sufficient for daily life in Manila, Cebu, and most tourist areas. Government offices, banks, hospitals, and businesses operate in English. That said, learning basic Filipino phrases (“salamat” for thank you, “magandang umaga” for good morning) earns enormous goodwill and deepens your connections with locals.

What is the best time of year to move to the Philippines?

The dry season (December through May) is the best time to arrive and settle in. January through March offers the most pleasant weather — warm but not extreme, with low humidity and no typhoons. Avoid arriving during peak typhoon season (October and November) if possible, as storms can disrupt flights and logistics.

How do I send money to the Philippines?

Wise (formerly TransferWise) is the most popular option among expats, with low fees and mid-market exchange rates. Remitly and WorldRemit are also widely used. Once you have a Philippine bank account (BDO, BPI, or Metrobank are the largest), you can receive transfers directly. GCash and Maya (formerly PayMaya) are the dominant mobile payment platforms — essentially the Philippine equivalents of Venmo — and are accepted almost everywhere.

Can I work remotely on a tourist visa?

There is no specific digital nomad visa in the Philippines as of 2026. Many remote workers stay on extended tourist visas while working for foreign employers. This occupies a legal gray area — technically, a tourist visa does not authorize work of any kind in the Philippines. In practice, enforcement against remote workers employed by foreign companies and earning foreign income is minimal. The SRRV offers a more secure legal footing for long-term residents.

Making the Move

The Philippines is not the most polished country in Southeast Asia. The infrastructure can be frustrating, the traffic in Manila is genuinely terrible, and the bureaucracy moves at its own pace. But what the Philippines offers in return is something that polished cities like Singapore and Dubai never can: a genuine human warmth that makes a foreign country feel like home within weeks, not years.

For retirees, the combination of the SRRV’s low barrier to entry, world-class healthcare in Manila and Cebu, and a cost of living that stretches a pension three or four times further than at home makes the Philippines one of the best retirement destinations in Asia. For remote workers, the English fluency alone puts the Philippines in a class of its own in the region — add in improving internet infrastructure, growing coworking ecosystems, and weekend access to some of the world’s most beautiful islands, and the proposition gets even stronger.

Explore the Philippines’ full profile on our Philippines country page, or use our country comparison tool to see how the Philippines stacks up against your other top choices. Not sure where to start? Our personalized matching quiz takes two minutes and recommends the best countries based on your budget, priorities, and lifestyle.

Comparing the Philippines with other Southeast Asian options? Read our Complete Guide to Moving to Thailand or Complete Guide to Moving to Bali.