Martha Divakar · February 22, 2026 
Introduction
If you’re a NEET-qualified student from India dreaming of pursuing MBBS (or an MD equivalent) in the Philippines, you’re not alone. Thousands choose this path every year for its affordable fees, English-medium instruction, and NMC-recognized degrees. But one critical step often causes stress: securing and maintaining the right student visa.
The Philippine student visa (officially the 9(f) non-immigrant visa) allows you to study legally. Misunderstanding its duration and validity can lead to overstays, fines, or interrupted studies. This guide uses only official sources from the Bureau of Immigration (BI) and Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) to explain everything clearly.
We’ll cover the basics of the 9(f) visa, its initial validity, how extensions work for long medical programs, and practical steps for NEET students. Let’s ensure your journey to becoming a doctor stays on track.
What is the Philippine Student Visa (9(f))?
The 9(f) student visa is a non-immigrant visa for foreign nationals aged 18+ pursuing higher education (beyond high school) at BI-accredited universities, colleges, or seminaries in the Philippines.
For NEET students, this visa covers medical programs like BS-MD or Doctor of Medicine (MD), which typically last 5.5–6 years (including pre-medical BS + MD + internship).
Key eligibility points from the Bureau of Immigration:
- You must be accepted by a BI-accredited school.
- You need proof of sufficient funds for tuition and living expenses.
- The visa is temporary and tied to your studies.
The process usually starts with your school endorsing your application to the DFA, which then authorizes the Philippine embassy/consulate to issue the visa. If you’re already in the Philippines (e.g., on a tourist visa), you can convert directly at the BI office in Manila.
Initial Duration and Validity of the 9(f) Student Visa
The Philippine student visa starts with an initial validity of one (1) year from the date of issuance.
“The Student Visa is initially valid for one (1) year.”
Your passport must remain valid for at least six (6) months beyond your intended stay. Upon arrival, report to your school immediately; they help obtain the Alien Certificate of Registration (ACR I-Card) and Certificate of Residence for Temporary Students (CRTS) from the BI.
This one-year period gives you time to settle in, complete pre-med (if applicable), and prepare for extensions.
How Long is the Philippine Student Visa Valid for Medical Courses?
Medical programs in the Philippines, especially for NEET students, span 5–6 years. However, the 9(f) visa is not issued for the full course duration upfront.
It begins with the standard one-year validity. You must renew (extend) it annually to match your enrollment.
There’s no special longer validity for medical or MBBS courses; the rules remain the same. Your visa stays valid only as long as you’re continuously enrolled and endorsed by your school.
For a 6-year MD program, expect to handle 5–6 extensions after the initial year. This ensures compliance and avoids gaps in legal status.
Extension Process for Philippine Student Visa
Extensions keep your student visa extension in the Philippines active. Apply at the Bureau of Immigration (usually in Manila or accredited offices) at least one month before expiry, ideally with your school’s help.
Steps from official BI guidelines:
- Obtain the Consolidated General Application Form (CGAF) from the BI website or office.
- Submit pre-screening documents at the Central Receiving Unit.
- Pay fees and get Official Receipt.
- Attend hearing/biometrics (if required).
- Check approval online.
- Submit passport for visa stamping.
- Claim renewed ACR I-Card.
Extensions are typically granted for one year each time, based on proof of continued enrollment.
For medical students, include CHED Certificate of Eligibility (if required for Medicine/Dentistry).
Key Requirements for Extension
- School endorsement letter and proof of enrollment.
- Valid passport.
- Completed CGAF form.
- ACR I-Card renewal ($50 fee + PHP fees).
- Payment: Extension fee around PHP 4,020 (plus express fees; subject to change; check current rates).
- Biometrics: Previously captured data reused; new capture for under-11s every extension, or every 5 years for 11+.
File early; otherwise, delays can risk overstay.
Special Considerations for NEET-Qualified Students in Medical Programs
NEET passers often target the Philippines for its USMLE/NMC pathway. Your student visa for medical courses in the Philippines follows standard 9(f) rules; no extra duration perks.
But stay enrolled full-time. Dropping courses or failing can jeopardize extensions. Schools guide visa renewals, so build a good relationship with their international office.
Also, maintain passport validity and proof of funds.
Important Rules and Compliance
- Don’t leave the Philippines during pending extension processing in some cases.
- Carry your ACR I-Card always—it’s your ID.
- Overstaying attracts fines/penalties; avoid at all costs.
- Annual extensions tie directly to academic progress.
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FAQ: Philippine 9(f) Student Visa for NEET Students
- How long is the initial 9(f) student visa valid?
One year from issuance, as per DFA and BI guidelines.
- Can the 9(f) visa be extended for the full MBBS duration?
No, extensions are annual (usually one year each), requiring school endorsement every time.
- Is there a different validity for medical students?
No special rules; the same one-year initial and annual extensions apply to all degree programs.
- When should I apply for an extension?
At least one month before expiry to avoid issues.
- What happens if I overstay?
Penalties apply; consult BI immediately for regularization options.
Conclusion: Secure Your Future in Medicine
The Philippine student visa duration starts at one year, with annual extensions keeping it valid throughout your MBBS journey. By following official BI and DFA processes, timely applications, school endorsements, and compliance, you ensure uninterrupted studies.
Always verify the latest details on official sites, as policies evolve. Start early, stay organized, and your dream medical career in the Philippines can become a reality.
Ready to plan your path? Visit the Bureau of Immigration website or DFA portals today. Your first step toward becoming a doctor awaits; make it a smooth one!
