Authorities issue advisory on temporary visitor visa sticker shortage

IMPACT – LOW

What is the change? The Bureau of Immigration has issued a notice regarding contingency plans for the current shortage of 9(a) temporary visitor visa extension stickers, also known as “TV stickers.”

What does the change mean? Employees are urged to keep track of their official receipts for proof of 9(a) temporary visitor visa extensions.

• Visas/permits affected: 9(a) temporary visitor visa extensions.
• Effective date: Ongoing since Aug. 23.
• Next steps: Notify employees to keep track of 9(a) temporary visitor visa extension receipts.

Background: On Aug. 20, the Bureau of immigration released a notice regarding the shortage of 9(a) temporary visitor visa extension stickers. The government recommends that temporary visitor visa extension applicants should safeguard official temporary visitor visa extension receipts and present them when applying for additional temporary visa extensions, when departing the Philippines, and for any other immigration transaction where a temporary visitor visa extension sticker might be needed. Furthermore, the “TV Sticker” fee of 100 Philippine pesos (about US$1.84) will be suspended until further notice.

Analysis & Comments: The Bureau of Immigration’s contingency plan should ensure that the temporary visitor visa shortage will have minimal impact on employees or businesses in the Philippines. Employees are urged to keep copies of their temporary visitor visa extension application receipts.

Source: Deloitte LLP. Deloitte LLP is a limited liability partnership registered in England and Wales with registered number OC303675 and its registered office at 1 New Street Square, London EC4A 3HQ, United Kingdom.