Foreigners with expired visas can stay in Philippines – BI

MANILA, Philippines — Foreigners whose temporary visitor’s visa has expired are allowed to stay longer in the country as the Bureau of Immigration (BI) suspended the issuance of OTL or Order to Leave.

Immigration Commissioner Jaime Morente signed an order suspending the OTL last Sept. 7, BI spokesperson Dana Sandoval said.

Morente said several foreigners were unable to leave the country because of the travel restrictions imposed by the government during the COVID-19 pandemic.

He said holders of temporary visitor’s visas or foreigners who have been overstaying are still allowed to stay in the Philippines.

“But they will still be assessed and required to settle their immigration fees and penalties,” Morente said.