Ticket purchased, suitcase dusted, itineraries tightened, sounds like a sure enough easy trip right? I was quickly slapped in the face by that all too important word: VISA. And I'm not talking about a credit card, I'm talking about a travel Philippine Visa extension.
Apparently (and please excuse my ignorance on the topic), a Visa extension is necessary if you plan on visiting the Philippines, whether it be for tourism or business, for more than 21 days. I plan on being there at least 6 weeks! I've contacted the Philippine Consulate here in Los Angeles but have yet to receive a response. I'm going to go over there today. A Visa extension is granted for no more than 59 days of visit, which means I have to get out of there after two months.
Something that could help is that I plan on traveling to Hong Kong on May 13th and returning to the Philippines on May 19th. From what I've read, I wouldn't have to apply for the Visa extension if I am leaving the country before the 21 day marker.
I'll have to make sure I get this taken care of before I leave. Otherwise...I may be stuck in the Philippines...or even more fun...deported! (which is probably what I ultimately want to begin with).
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