Liberian possibilities to have permanent resident Visa in Philippines

Posted Wed, Jul 23, 2025 8:05 AM

Dear Sir/Madam,

Based on your provided information, the Liberian husband initially entered the Philippines under a 9F visa (student visa) in 1986, later stayed as a refugee, rendered voluntary services, and then worked as a missionary professional. He eventually married a Filipina and now has a son. You also mentioned that he is currently receiving a pension from the Social Security System (SSS), indicating long-term lawful residence and employment in the country.

Given these circumstances, it is highly possible for him to secure recognition of legal residency or even permanent residency status in the Philippines, especially under the following grounds:

a.) Marriage to a Filipina – Under Philippine immigration laws, a foreign national married to a Filipino may apply for a 13(a) Non-Quota Immigrant Visa, allowing permanent residence. His long cohabitation, family ties, and pension status strengthen this case.

b.) Length of Stay and Contribution to Society – His history of rendering voluntary services, missionary work, and contributions to SSS demonstrate good moral character and integration into Philippine society. These factors may be favorably considered in immigration and naturalization matters.

c.) Possible Naturalization – If the goal is full Philippine citizenship, his decades-long stay, community integration, and lawful record make him a candidate for judicial naturalization under Commonwealth Act No. 473, subject to strict requirements.

We recommend scheduling an initial consultation so we can assess all documents and provide you with the best immigration remedy—whether residency, citizenship, or regularization of status.