This Christmas season, Kabayan Remit is giving Overseas Filipino workers in the United Kingdom and Canada the chance to win a trip to the Philippines through Regalo Rush 2024.

A first in Kabayan Remit history, this holiday-themed raffle will gift lucky OFWs with cash prizes, appliances, and big discounts—including the grand prize: an economy flight to and from the Philippines.

By sending money to the Philippines with Kabayan Remit, OFWs in the UK and Canada can accumulate points and qualify for the raffle draw on December 14.

Who knows, this may be your chance to go home for the holidays!

Read on to learn how you can increase your chances of winning the money transfer app’s biggest pamasko yet.

• Who can join?
• How can I join the Kabayan Remit Rewards Program?
• How do I earn points? How do I win a trip to the Philippines?
• I want to raise my chances of winning. How do I refer a friend to Kabayan Remit?
• How do I get Regalo Rush raffle entries?
• What prizes can I win in Regalo Rush 2024? How can I claim my free trip to the Philippines if I win?
• Sending more love home to gets you closer to winning a free trip to the Philippines

Regalo Rush 2024 is open to all Kabayan Remit users in the UK and Canada who are enrolled in the Kabayan Remit Rewards Program.

Eligible OFWs must have made enough transactions using the app to land in the bronze, silver, or gold rewards tiers.

OFWs in the UK and Canada can join the Kabayan Remit Rewards Program by opening an account and sending their remittances through Kabayan Remit.

The more transactions and successful referrals you make, the more points you earn. More points mean bigger rewards.

The number of points you earn for every remittance or successful referral depends on your rewards tier. Based on how many points you have, you can fall under these four tiers:

• No Tier – 0 to 499 points
• Bronze Tier – 500 to 1,149 points
• Silver Tier – 1,150 to 2,499 points
• Gold Tier – 2,500 points or more

The higher your rewards tier, the higher the points you earn and the bigger the prizes. For example, in this rewards season, customers in the Gold Tier stand a chance to win trip to the Philippines this season!

To see how many points you can earn based on your tier and current location, check out the table below. 

Kabayan Remit Rewards Points Earned for Every Successful Transaction

You can earn more points to qualify for Regalo Rush 2024 when you refer a friend to Kabayan Remit.

To get the ball rolling, simply follow these steps:

1. Log in to your Kabayan Remit app.
2. Tap the “Invite” button at the bottom of your screen.
3. Choose “Invite friends” and copy the referral link made especially for you.
4. Share the referral link with your OFW friends and invite them to use Kabayan Remit.

1. Log in to your Kabayan Remit account.
2. Bring your cursor to the left of the screen and click “Refer a friend.” 
3. Invite friends to try Kabayan Remit using your specially made referral link or by sending them an invitation email.

Remember: A successful referral means your friend has opened a Kabayan Remit account and transferred a minimum amount of £100 (from the UK) or C$150 (from Canada) to the Philippines using the Kabayan Remit app. Sending links or invitations is only the first step!

As a bonus, referrals not only earn you more points to join Regalo Rush 2024, but they also earn you cash rewards. OFWs in the UK can earn £70 every time they complete three successful referrals, while OFWs in Canada can earn C$100.

To learn how you can earn through the Kabayan Remit Referral Program click here.

OFWs in Kabayan Remit’s bronze, silver, or gold rewards tiers are eligible to join Regalo Rush 2024. 

To qualify for a raffle entry, you must meet one of these criteria:

• You have earned 500 points in Kabayan Remit’s Rewards Program.
• You have made five successful remittances to the Philippines using Kabayan Remit.
• You have successfully referred five friends to Kabayan Remit.

You’ll also get to keep your points after you send in a raffle entry. That means you can keep adding to your existing points and to your Regalo Rush raffle entries.

Regalo Rush winners can look forward to winning any of these prizes:

• Three months’ worth of Kabayan Remit services for free
• A Nespresso Essenza Mini
• Cash or gift certificates

The grand prize winner will get the best Christmas gift yet: a trip to the Philippines to spend time with loved ones!

The OFW from the UK or Canada who wins the grand prize can even choose their travel dates, or they can choose to convert the cost of buying a direct flight to Manila into cash.

There’s still time to join Regalo Rush 2024 today! Start sending love and earning rewards points before the current rewards cycle ends. Follow our Facebook page for updates on the raffle draw on Dec. 14.

To open an account, download the Kabayan Remit app and follow these three easy steps:

1. Register for a free account using your name, email address, and country of residence.
2. Input your loved one’s details. This is the person you will be sending your remittances to.
3. Start sending love to major banks, e-wallets, and cash remittance centres in the Philippines, like BPI, GCash, or Cebuana Lhuillier!

Whether you’re in the UK or Canada, you can rest assured knowing that your funds go through bank-level security as it makes its way from your Kabayan Remit app to your loved ones back home.

To learn more about Kabayan Remit’s services and try our free calculator tool, click here.

To talk to someone about your Kabayan Remit account or transactions, contact our 24/7 bilingual support team here.

We all want a better life for ourselves and our loved ones. For some Filipinos, attaining this dream entails going abroad either temporarily or for good.

You may be one of many thinking of taking this route. But do you know where the road begins?

To get a better idea of the OFW process, its requirements, and its risks, read on.

OFW stands for overseas Filipino worker. This is a Pinoy who, by contract, may live and work abroad. The term OFW also includes our compatriots who have already become permanent residents of another country.

You can find OFWs all over the world, working in various fields, including construction, domestic work, healthcare, hospitality, and education.

One day, you will join their ranks too.

Before you begin your OFW journey, you must first register with the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW). You can sign up online through the DMW’s Online Services Portal.

Once you have entered the site, look for the e-registration section and click “Let’s Go!” Then, fill out the e-form, input your log-in details, and complete your OFW profile.

After completing these steps, you will receive a unique e-registration number, which you will need for your upcoming orientation.

After you have declared your intentions to become an OFW, you will need to attend a pre-employment orientation seminar (PEOS).

All you will need to do is log in to the PEOS website and access your training modules using your e-registration number. Do not worry, registration is free.

Once you have accessed the PEOS website, the next step of the OFW process is to go through each lesson in this training seminar.

Designed for professionals or those in the domestic field, the eight PEOS modules cover the following topics:

• Pricest – The first topic discusses life abroad, including, how to move around a new country, how to keep in touch with your family, how much you can expect to earn, and what skills you’ll need to go far.
• Job Search – You will learn where to find overseas jobs safely and legally. This module also talks about what documents you will need to have before you can leave the Philippines. 
• Forewarned, Forearmed – Illegal recruiters are always on the prowl, so this module teaches you how to spot these predators.
• The Price is Right – You will learn about all the government and agency fees an OFW needs to pay before they fly out.
• Seal the Deal – You will learn about the features of a proper overseas employment contract.
• Country Information – This module orients a prospective OFW about the country they are hoping to enter.
• Healthy and Safe – You will learn about the risks that come with being an OFW and how to keep safe.
• DMW Cares – Find out how you can stay connected with the DMW and its offices.

There are two ways of finding a job in the OFW process:

1. Applying through the DMW government placement branch
2. Applying through a DMW-licensed recruitment agency

Through this process, the government recruits you in-house and matches you with openings in countries that have signed agreements with the Philippines.

For example, Germany needed 600 nurses from the Philippines in 2022. Those who met the country’s qualifications and were interested in applying could register through the DMW’s official website or their online services portal.

Successful applicants were able to secure their documentation and airline tickets at their employers’ expense.

When working with a recruitment agency, always look for their DMW-issued license. You can also double-check an agency’s legitimacy, by checking the DMW’s online database on license statuses, which the department updates every two hours.

Next, choose the type of agency that specialises in the field of overseas work you would like to enter. There are two types of recruitment agencies, namely:

• Land-based agencies – These help you find work on foreign soil.
• Manning agencies – These assist seafarers who aim to board ships or are looking for work in other maritime-related fields.

Whichever you choose, make sure the agency can:

• Help you weigh your options by showing you what jobs are available for you
• Match you with the right job that fits your skills and experience
• Carefully and accurately process your documents so can legally enter and work in a new country

And always be on alert for signs of illegal recruitment.

Their offers may sound enticing, but the consequences of engaging with illegal recruiters can be expensive or, worse, dangerous.

Here are some examples of dodgy situations to keep in mind:

• You cannot find the agency in the DMW database.
• You are working with a travel agency or training centre, not a manning or land-based recruitment agency.
• The agency asks you to pay a placement fee even before you sign a work contract.
• The agency does not issue official receipts.
• The agency can only help you with a tourist visa.
• The agency is asking you to pay more than one month’s salary as a placement fee.
• The agency is asking you to pay a placement fee to work in a country that bans this practice.
• Someone approaches you and says they can speed up your job application if you pay for their services.
• Someone claiming to be an agency’s representative cannot show you a job posting for the work they are arranging for you.
• The so-called representative asks you to pass your documents or conduct transactions outside their office.
• You call the agency looking for that representative, but they say no one with that name works there.

If you are in doubt at any time during the OFW process, always consult with the DMW or contact the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration’s (OWWA) 24/7 hotline.

Once you have approached the DMW or found a duly accredited agency, these are the steps you will encounter in your journey as an OFW:

When you visit the DMW or the agency, they will ask you to prepare the following documents:

• 2×2 photos
• A valid passport
• A birth certificate issued by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA)
• A high school or college diploma
• Your transcript of records
• Your curriculum vitae or resumé
• A contract of employment from your previous jobs, if applicable
• Clearance from the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI)
• Your marriage contract, if applicable
• Any professional certifications or licenses required by your employer

At this stage of the OFW process, you will undergo interviews to see if you are the right fit for the job.

If you pass the screening, you will undergo a health check to ensure you are fit to work.

Before you seal the deal with your employer, read and understand your contract so you know your rights and responsibilities as an OFW.

Ensure you have paid the correct placement and government fees, including your mandatory SSS, Pag-IBIG, and PhilHealth contributions.

The required Pre-Departure Orientation Seminar or PDOS prepares OFWs for life abroad by teaching them about the laws and customs of the countries where they will reside. Whether you choose to attend an online or in-person PDOS, remember this is your chance to ask any questions about your host country before you fly out.

You will need either document before your departure. This is how the two differ:

• OEC – Valid for 60 days, the Overseas Employment Certificate exempts OFWs from paying travel tax and airport terminal fees. You must visit the DMW in person and pay a ₱100 processing fee to retrieve this document.
• OFW Pass – Lasting throughout an OFW’s employment contract, the OFW Pass is a free alternative to the OEC and is available for download through the DMW app. Currently, it is only available for OFWs going to the United Kingdom, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Singapore, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Qatar, Oman, and Taiwan.

With your bags packed and your documents in order, it is time to head to the airport. After you have checked in and visited the terminal fee counter, show your OEC or OFW Pass at the Bureau of Immigration (BI) desk and secure your clearance to depart the Philippines.

The OFW process is long and arduous; but with the right people and government agencies, you can land the right job in your target destination.

And while you are hard at work, keep your funds safe from online threats by using a secure money transfer app like Kabayan Remit. With our bank-level security features, you can be sure that your precious savings reach your loved ones in the Philippines.

Sign up for a free account today.

To learn more, you can also talk to our 24/7 bilingual support team here.

In this article, we talk with Harry, a Filipino nurse who chose to work in the United Kingdom (UK) and become the breadwinner for his family. Immigrating to the UK, or any country for that matter, is a challenge some people might not be willing to face. Leaving our loved ones behind to pursue better career opportunities and financial freedom can come with its own price.  Read on to learn the issues Harry faced and how he overcame them.

Harry (not his real name) grew up as the eldest in a middle-class family in Negros Occidental, a province on the western side of the Philippines’ Visayan islands. A seaman’s son, he recalls a peaceful life filled with friendship and youthful memories.

“My whole life living in the Philippines was great, as my sister and I were supported not only financially but also with values that both my mother and father gave to us, even though it was only my mother who was on our side,” said Harry.

During his childhood and adolescence, Harry’s family never struggled financially, but he does acknowledge that his father sacrificed most of his life to earn a thriving wage as an overseas Filipino worker (OFW).

Spending most of his time at sea, Harry’s father was only home for two to three months of the year. Thus, he and his younger sister mostly grew up with their mother, a retired accountant turned full-time homemaker.

But it was because his father worked abroad that Harry was able to graduate from a prestigious high school in his hometown and earn a nursing degree. He could even afford to take a year off after passing the nursing board on his second try.

What he didn’t know upon getting his nursing license was he would soon become his family’s only source of income.

After his gap year, Harry spent the next three years gaining experience as an outpatient nurse and earning a graduate degree in nursing. Then in 2017, his father’s health suffered a debilitating blow.

Diagnosed with a heart blockage and sickle cell anaemia, Harry’s father was forced to stop working and seek treatment.

According to the National Health Service (NHS), sickle cell anaemia is the “most serious type” of sickle cell disease, a chronic genetic illness where red blood cells are deformed. This can cause bouts of pain and can leave one susceptible to fatigue and infections, or they may even have a stroke.

“It was at this time that the family struggled both emotionally and financially because my father was the only source of income we had”, said Harry. “During this event, it changed my life, and a sense of urgency was already developing inside of me to look for a high-paying job during that time.”

Taking on his father’s role as the breadwinner, Harry quit working as a local outpatient nurse and attempted to land a nursing job abroad. Before Immigrating to the UK, he tried and failed to make the cut for Saudi Arabia but ultimately passed the criteria to be a nurse in the United Kingdom.

Thus, Harry started immigrating to the UK in 2019, just days before Christmas. He was forced to live independently for the first time in his life, during the festive holidays too. Harry struggled to adjust to life in South Devon, a coastal community in England popular among retirees.

Not fond of small talk, Harry first found British culture’s penchant for pleasantries disagreeable.

“I know myself as a person who only talks to people who I am comfortable with,” said Harry. “But with British culture, they love to interact and love small talk, even the smallest. One topic can go into another topic and will not end unless someone stops it.”

Because of the culture’s aversion to confrontations, his frank nature also caused some friction in some of his interactions.

It took some time for Harry to assimilate into British culture since immigrating to the UK and he learned to “go with the flow” when dealing with others. But even though he has adjusted to life in the UK, he says his ongoing struggle is dealing with racism.

“Being a worker in another country is different from being a visitor because it is where you can see the true colours of the people”, noted Harry.

He recalled encountering people who still thought his country was a small island, even though the Philippines is an archipelago that is bigger than the UK. He also said some people act as if they are above him simply because he is Filipino.

While he has learned to face casual racism with a stiff upper lip, Harry must still deal with discrimination in the workplace. Almost five years after immigrating to the UK, Harry noted that he is still considered different, and he feels this at work. He also said the amount of work assigned to him and other foreign-trained nurses in the UK could be heavier than their local counterparts.

“The amount of work being put to foreigners like us in the UK is heavy and sometimes abusive,” said Harry.

Among the 40,000 Filipino nurses working in the UK, Harry is not alone in his struggles. And conditions only grew worse for them and other Filipino healthcare workers at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.

According to Al Jazeera, “The Filipino community has been disproportionately affected by the pandemic. In May 2020, it was reported that 13% of frontline healthcare workers who died had been Filipino, despite making up just 2% of NHS staff.”

Some of these Filipino healthcare workers had no immediate families in the UK and died alone whilst self-isolating, while others were unfairly compensated despite contracting the virus on duty.

The stress of being in a new country while also facing deaths, uncertainty, and inadequate protection and support during the pandemic severely affected some Filipino health workers’ mental health. And when they turned to their supervisors or colleagues for support, they were met with more stress and shame.

Along with this, Asian nurses also had to deal with racist slurs and behaviour as some patients refused to work with them or blamed them for spreading a virus that was first recorded in China.

Despite these stressful working conditions, some healthcare workers were, and still are, afraid to speak out, fearing losing their jobs and remaining in the UK.

“Remember, the way of living here (in the UK) is in pounds, not pesos,” He reminded fellow OFWs. “One must be responsible enough to take care of their finances because most Filipinos here are in debt due to their lack of financial knowledge.”

He noted that Filipinos in the UK should learn how to manage their finances and be mindful of their spending. This will keep them from falling into the trap of “work hard but spend harder,” which will only keep them in a perpetual rat race and “make their lives miserable.”

“My advice to upcoming Filipinos who wish to live or work in the UK is to ask yourself first if you are ready for the challenge,” he said.

While saving up in the UK, Harry dreams of leaving his stressful life as an OFW orthopaedic nurse to open his own business in the Philippines, near his loved ones and in more agreeable weather. He has also been studying how to “increase my investment portfolio and add additional income.”

The low salaries, along with understaffing issues, have already convinced some public nurses to hold the largest nursing strike in NHS history and demand higher pay.

Unlike some of his colleagues choosing to settle in the UK, Harry plans to return to the Philippines in the next 10 years. He has learned to cope with life in the UK, but dealing with its rising inflation rate and “very low” nurses’ pay rate has proven unsustainable for him.

Immigrating to the UK can be challenging; luckily, Kabayan Remit is here to help you on your journey. Visit our blog to learn more about saving, investing, and financial management.

To deal with life in the UK, we have also written guides on dealing with culture shock, manoeuvring the British school system and its exams, and adjusting to British culture.

Just like Harry said, it pays to be financially savvy. Whenever you send money to the Philippines, always look for remittance services that offer competitive exchange rates and have secure money transfer capabilities. It’s even better if these services work with other merchants who can build your investment portfolio.

Kabayan Remit has these qualities and more. To learn more about our services, talk to our 24/7 bilingual customer service team here.

Filipinos leave their homeland for various reasons, but they usually have one thing in common: They want a better life for their loved ones. In this article, we talk about three Kabayans who have travelled out of the Philippines to build a new life in Canada.

The Philippines was in a time of transition when 20-year-old Zeny chose to drop out of college and work as a domestic helper in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in 1984. Having grown up in Manila, she moved to Pampanga, Philippines, to pursue a business degree, but decided to become an overseas Filipino worker (OFW) to help her mother.

Zeny’s mother was a laundrywoman and was already getting older.

Before going abroad, Zeny only spent nine months working in a garment factory in Metro Manila. That was the longest time she’d spent employed in the Philippines. Most of her working years would be spent outside the motherland.

By the time Zeny returned to the Philippines in 1990, the country had a new president and a new constitution. She also had a new husband and her first child, Arvin.

She spent a year in the Philippines taking secretarial courses until her OFW husband sponsored her and Arvin back into the UAE in 1991. She would eventually give birth to two more children and establish a secretarial career in the Middle Eastern country.

As their children grew, Zeny and her husband thought about their future. In search of better opportunities and a permanent home for their family, they followed their close friend’s advice and moved to Manitoba, Canada in 2005.

That same year, Kababayan Issa moved to Alberta, Canada, with her parents and two younger siblings.

Unlike Zeny’s child Arvin, who spent his childhood in the UAE, Issa lived over a decade in Metro Manila. During that time, her parents had solid careers in food processing and veterinary medicine.

“We grew up fairly well-off; we did not struggle financially,” Issa recalled. “We could afford to go on vacations every year. We had lots of families around to visit with, and we also had family in the United States that we would visit every other year.”

But while Issa was growing up in Manila, her maternal grandparents were waiting for her abroad.

“It was actually my grandparents who influenced my parents to move to Canada because they wanted a good life for all of their grandchildren, and my siblings and I were the only ones still in the Philippines,” she said.

As Issa became a teenager in the early 2000s, the Philippines entered uncertain times. The country had ousted another president, faced the anxiety of bombings in Metro Manila and other parts of the country, and dealt with a short-lived mutiny all within the first four years.

It was around this time that Issa’s parents decided to immigrate to Canada.

Learning they were moving, Arvin and Issa experienced opposite reactions.

“We had come to Canada a few years before I was told we were applying to permanently live in Canada,” said Arvin. “So when I was told that moving might soon be a reality, I felt excited for the change!”

Issa, on the other hand, was apprehensive: “I was sad and a little scared when I found out. I did not want to leave the only place and people that I knew my entire life. I knew nothing about Canada.”

After immigrating to Canada, Zeny, Issa, and Arvin, all had to adjust to their new country’s cold weather.

Arvin and Issa also had to get used to the Canadian school system. Though English was not a problem for either of them, catching up to Canadian culture and history was challenging in their first few years.

Arvin even described this as a major challenge and gave “not knowing who Terry Fox was, and how to layer your clothes to survive going to school in -35℃ weather” as examples of what he had to learn as a newbie in Canada.

(Note: Terry Fox was a Canadian athlete, cancer amputee, and activist. He is well-known in Canada for his Marathon of Hope, where he ran 42 km in 1980 to raise funds for cancer research.)

Issa also had to contend with going from being a face in the crowd, to becoming the foreign kid in a school where she was one of the only Filipinos.

“When I was in junior high, I remember hearing a news story about a teacher telling a Filipino student that he was ‘eating like an animal’ for eating his lunch with a fork and spoon, so I was afraid that I would get the same treatment at my own school,” she said. “There were times I would bring Filipino food for lunch, and the other kids would say that my food was ‘weird.’ I had to remind myself that my culture was nothing to be ashamed of.”

Issa also had to deal with going through Canadian immigration and changing her last name, something she was not prepared to do.

“I remember Immigration telling us that they were going to change a letter in my last name because they could not type it in their system,” said Issa, recalling how the change was done by simply typing on a computer. “They changed my name.  My family name. A name that goes back centuries and has a place in my country’s history. The name that connects me to the rest of my family, my roots, my heritage, my culture – changed to make it more convenient for someone who doesn’t speak my language or know where I came from.”

The pain of being disconnected from her roots still stays with Issa today. After marriage, she chose to keep “what was left” of her Filipino surname.

Meanwhile, Issa’s parents and Arvin’s mother Zeny were starting their careers from scratch.

Zeny said, “I was warned by my UAE manager before moving to Canada that I would have a hard time finding the same job I have in the UAE”.

Because she was trained abroad, she could not continue her secretarial career after immigrating to Canada. Instead, Zeny spent her first year in Winnipeg working clerical jobs. A year later, she moved to Calgary, Alberta and worked in fast food.

Her husband, on the other hand, found work in one of the most in-demand jobs in Canada. She would then open their home to foster children from 2008 to 2015.

For Issa’s parents, immigrating to Canada meant her father had to step down from an executive position in his family’s business. In addition, Issa’s mother could no longer be a veterinarian in Calgary because she didn’t have Canadian certifications.

Issa still continues to reflect on her parents’ sacrifices. It was difficult to see her parents underemployed, knowing how hard they had worked to establish their careers in the Philippines. She said it was like “all of their hard work and accomplishments held no weight in this new life.”

According to Arvin, getting used to the culture after immigrating to Canada was something one “just learned.” “That’s how you got over it (culture shock),” he said.

Arvin and Issa even met in high school and became friends. Together, they overcame culture shock and grew into the Canadian culture along with their classmates.

Over time, Zeny and Issa’s families adjusted to Canadian life.

Zeny, now a widow, became a nursing aide in 2016. She sees herself maintaining this career until retirement.

Issa’s mother and father now work as a vet assistant and as an inventory manager at a superstore, respectively.

“I think they struggled to come to terms with this new life, but I think they are at a place now where they are content. I think they did what they could with what they had,” said Issa.

As an adult, Issa has also accepted her parents’ decision to move, understanding now that immigrating to Canada was even harder for her mother and father. She also continues to hold on to her Filipino heritage.

“As an adult, I’ve been more open about being Filipino and more willing to share my culture with others (mostly with food). I’ve come to embrace my Filipino-ness more and have made more of an effort to live it,” Issa said.

She plans to visit the Philippines as much as she can. “I don’t know how else to describe it, but every time I visit, I feel whole again,” she said.

While Arvin grew up outside of the Philippines, he is proud of his Filipino roots and is “actively planning” to visit his birthplace with his girlfriend, whom he calls the “love of my life.”

Meanwhile, Zeny is looking forward to becoming a grandmother and spending the harsh Canadian winters in the Philippines once she retires.

To other Filipinos thinking of immigrating to Canada, she had this to say: “Go for it! But be ready for whatever life you will be given here; be ready for the challenges you may face; be very patient. Whatever Canada will offer you, accept; live with it as long as it won’t hurt you and your loved ones. There are so many great opportunities waiting. It’s just up to the individual how to grab and prosper.”

If you’re considering moving to Canada as an OFW, remember to use a secure remittance app when sending money to your loved ones back home.

Kabayan Remit offers a quick, easy, and convenient way of transferring money to the Philippines, with high exchange rates and very low service fees.

Going on a tour around Europe can be a dream for many Filipinos. However, this dream can easily become a reality if you successfully pass your Schengen Visa application.

But before you start your application, you first need to understand what a Schengen Visa is and what it can allow you to do.

A Schengen Visa is a document that allows you to stay in any country in the Schengen zone for up to 90 days within a six month period.

With this visa, you can enter and exit through any of the 26 Schengen countries, allowing you to go on multi-day trips across the borders, sampling the delicacies and visiting historical monuments along the way.

Now that you know what a Schengen Visa is, you need to plan where you’re going. There are 26 Schengen countries that will allow you to easily travel through their borders.

List of Schengen countries

There are also several other countries you can visit whilst holding a valid Schengen Visa.

Non-Schengen countries you can visit with a Schengen Visa

For these non-Schengen countries, the number of days you can stay will depend on where you’re travelling to and your country of citizenship. Make sure to check the travel rules of each location before you finalise your itinerary.

All Filipino citizens who are planning to travel to any of the Schengen countries must complete a Schengen Visa application.

The only people from the Philippines who are exempt from applying for a Schengen Visa are:

• Citizens of Schengen countries who are currently living in the Philippines

• Philippine residents who are citizens of countries that have visa-free agreements with Schengen countries. As an extra layer of security, citizens from countries with visa-free agreements with Schengen countries must input their information in the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), which evaluates their records and determines if they are eligible to enter the Schengen countries

Filipinos with dual citizenship must use their non-Filipino passport when travelling to be exempted from needing a Schengen Visa

Whether you’re a Filipino student or a diplomat, there is a specific Schengen Visa you will need to get depending on what you’ll be doing in the Schengen zone.

These are:

• Business Visa – For travellers who will be visiting a Schengen country to conduct business

• Tourist Visa – For travellers who want to visit the Schengen zone for tourism

• Cultural Visa – For cultural workers, athletes, film crews, or churchgoers looking to visit the Schengen zone to perform, shoot a film, compete, or attend a religious event

• Airport transit Visa – For travellers who only need to catch their connecting flight in a Schengen airport

• Seafarer’s transit Visa – For seafarer’s planning a five-day trip through Schengen countries and to their destination outside the Schengen zone

• Visa for official visits – For travellers who have been invited to the Schengen zone for consultations, negotiations, exchange programs, and other intergovernmental events

• Medical Visa – For travellers who need to stay in a Schengen country for up to 90 days to receive medical treatment

• Student Visa – For travellers who will be studying in the Schengen zone for three months

You must file your Schengen Visa application at least 15 days before your trip, but no earlier than six months before your departure.

If you’re a Filipino already living in Europe and your family are planning to visit you, it may take less time for them to get their visas if:

• You are already a citizen of an EU-member country or a European Economic Area (EEA) country

• You are an EU or EAA citizen living or going to another Schengen state that is different from your country of citizenship

• Your family will be accompanying or meeting you in a Schengen state

However, if you do not meet these criteria, you will need to thoroughly plan and prepare for your whole trip.

Think about the following:

• Which Schengen countries will you visit?

• What’s in your travel itinerary?

• What type of Schengen Visa will you need?

• Do you have enough time and funds to collect all the required documents for a Schengen Visa application?

It’s good to start considering these questions early in your travel planning to help make the process as easy as possible.

To file your Schengen Visa application, you will need to go to the consular office of the country you are planning to visit.

If you’ll be visiting more than one country, you will have to file your application in the consular office of the country where you will be staying the longest.

But what if you’ve divided your travel time equally among different Schengen countries? Don’t worry, all you’ll have to do is submit your visa application in the consular office of the first country you will enter.

Remember, these consulates must already be in the country where you are currently living. If the country you want to visit does not have a consular office in your area, call that country’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs or their Immigration Office.

To find out if your dream travel destination has a consular office in your location, check out this comprehensive list of Schengen countries’ consulates all over the world.

In general, you will need the following documents to complete your Schengen Visa application:

• Your completed Schengen Visa application form – Carefully and accurately fill out and sign this form

• A valid Philippine passport – Ensure that you have a valid passport before applying for a Schengen Visa

• Two copies of a recent photo of yourself – These photos should be from no longer than six months ago; avoid smiling in the photo and look straight at the camera

• Proof that you live in the Philippines – This could be a copy of your national identification card or your permanent resident visa

• A copy of your itinerary – Your itinerary should list your flight numbers to and from the Schengen Zone, your entry and exit dates, and which countries you plan to visit

• Health insurance – You should have coverage for at least €30,000 in case of emergencies. For a list of accredited Schengen insurance companies in the Philippines, click here

• Proof of accommodation – Show that you have booked a hotel, rented an apartment, or been invited to stay at a house in the Schengen zone

• Proof of funds – Prepare your bank statements, credit card statements, payslips, or any other evidence to show that you can pay for your entire trip

• Cover letter – Explain why and how long you are planning to visit the Schengen zone, and list which countries you will be visiting along with other pertinent details about your trip

• Application fee – An adult’s Schengen Visa application costs about €80 or roughly ₱5,200. For children aged 6 to 12 years old, it is €40 or about ₱2,600

Depending on your work in the Philippines, you will also need to prepare the following documents:

• For employees
  • Your employment contract
  • Your bank statement covering the last six months
  • A letter from your boss granting your holiday leave
  • Your latest Income Tax Return

• For business owners
  • Proof of business registration and licenses
  • A recent company bank statement
  • Your latest Income Tax Return

• For students
  • Proof of enrolment
  • A no objection letter from your school stating that you will be coming home to complete your course after your trip away

• For retirees
  • Your pension statement from the last six months

• If you’re unemployed and married to an EU citizen
  • Your spouse’s certificate of employment
  • Your spouse’s valid passport
  • Your marriage certificate

If you’re an overseas Filipino worker already living in the Schengen zone, you may wish to send money to your family back home to help fund their visit to see you. Protect your funds and use a safe money transfer app like Kabayan Remit to ensure your hard-earned cash reaches the right people.

We will soon be launching our operations in Europe, meaning OFW’s working in the relevant countries can enjoy very low fees and competitive exchange rates when sending money to the Philippines.

To learn more about the benefits you can enjoy when you send money with Kabayan Remit, click here.

Interested in moving to France as a Filipino citizen? With its breathtaking sceneries, rich history, exquisite culture and top-notch cuisine, it’s not a surprise that France has become an increasingly popular destination for Filipino tourists and expats.

In fact, France is the most popular tourist destination for foreign nationals across the world. It’s been ranked as the most visited country in the world, with 89.4 million tourists visiting the country in 2019. 

If you’re one of the many Filipinos dreaming of moving to France, you might wonder where to even begin. We’ve put together this guide to run you through the different essentials to relocate to France, including the following:

• Information about France
• French visa requirements for Philippine passport holders
• Cost of living in France
• Opening a French bank account
• Finding accommodation in France
• Understanding the French healthcare system
• Sending money from France to the Philippines

Located in Northwestern Europe, France is one of the world’s oldest nations rich in history. The country played a significant role in historical global affairs, forming colonies across different parts of the world.

With a landmass of 547,030 sq km, France is the second-largest country on the continent and is the largest country in Western Europe. Given its size, it borders several countries, including Belgium, Luxembourg, Switzerland, Italy, Monaco, Spain and Andorra, making it an even more attractive country to move to.

As you plan your relocation to France, it’s good to know key facts about the country, including the following:

Official Name: French Republic or République Française

Capital: Paris

Population: 65.4 million (Worldometer, 2021)

Official Language: French 

Climate: Generally, France enjoys mild summers with temperatures averaging from 16°C to 23.8°C, as well as cold winters with temperatures from 0°C to 7°C. However, the climate is different along the Mediterranean, which experiences hot summers and mild winters.

If you’re looking to go to France with a Philippine passport, you will be required to obtain a visa regardless of the purpose or length of your visit. There are three different types of French visas Filipinos can apply for, which include:

• Short-stay visa or Schengen visa – for short visits of up to 90 days
• Temporary long-stay visa or Visa de long séjour valant titre de séjour – VLS-TS – for visits of up to one year
• Long-stay visa or Visa de long séjour – for long-term stays in France (e.g. if you’re moving to France permanently)

To apply for a Schengen visa as a Filipino citizen, you would normally need the following documents:

• Duly completed application form
• Cover letter 
• Valid passport
• Two photos that follow the visa photo requirements
• Evidence of legal residence in the Philippines
• Round-trip flight itinerary
• Travel health insurance
• Proof of accommodation
• Financial proof (e.g. bank statement for 6 months)
• Proof of employment/enrolment (e.g. contract, ITR, no objection letter)

If you’re moving to France and plan to live in the country between 3 to 12 months, then you would need to apply for the VLS-TS. With this visa, holders are allowed to live in France for up to one year without having to apply for a residence permit.

To apply for the VLS-TS, you would need the following:

• Passport valid for at least 3 months after the planned departure from France or its territories
• Two standardised photos
• Duly completed long-stay visa application form (Cerfa no. 14571*05)
• OFII form

If you applied for a long-stay visa and your passport has been marked carte de séjour à solliciter à l’arrivée en France (residence permit to be applied for upon arrival in France), then you will need to apply for a French residence permit within 2 months of entry to France or its territories. 

With a residence permit, you will be allowed to reside in France long-term and travel in and out of the country.

If you’re applying for a French visa in the Philippines, take note that the Embassy of France has outsourced its visa submission to VFS Global. This means that you must submit your visa application at the visa application centre, and not at the French embassy. 

For more information on French visas, visit the official France-Visas website.

You might be surprised that the cost of living in France is significantly higher than that of the Philippines. In fact, the living cost in France is relatively high compared to other western European countries. However, these average costs are largely driven up by Paris.

In Paris, the cost of living is much higher than in other cities, particularly in the countryside or the southern region. Thus, before moving to France, research the city and its living costs to set better expectations.

Here’s a breakdown from Numbeo to give you a better understanding of the average costs in France:

Accommodation (Monthly Rent)

City Centre

1 bedroom apartment: €774.01

3 bedroom apartment: €1,603.45

Outside the City Centre

1 bedroom apartment: €600.66

3 bedroom apartment: €1,121.74

Utilities (Monthly Bills)

Apartment Electricity, Water, Heating/Cooling (85 sqm apartment): €152.46

Internet: €29.18

Groceries

Rice (1kg): €1.89

Loaf of Bread (500g): €1.52

Chicken (1kg): €10.25

Beef (1kg): €17.98

Milk (1 litre): €1.01

Eggs (1 dozen): €3.07

Water (1.5 litres): €0.71

Transportation

One-way Transport Ticket: €1.62

Monthly Pass: €65.00

Gasoline (1 lire): €1.99

Taxi (1km): €1.80

If you’re moving to France long-term or permanently, then it’s advisable to open a local French bank account. Having one would make it easier for you to pay for rent and bills, and receive your salary.

There are three different types of bank accounts you can choose from:

• Current account (Compte courant)
• General savings account (Livret) 
• Long-term savings account (Compte à Terme or Compte d’Epargne Logement)

To open a French bank account, you would typically need to submit the following documents:

• Proof of identification (e.g. passport)
• Proof of address (e.g. tenancy agreement, utility bill)
• Residence status (e.g. valid French visa)
• Proof of employment or student status (e.g. employment contract, letter of enrolment)

Some banks may also ask you to translate these documents into French.

To have a smoother application process, make sure to take some time to research the different banks as they may request a different list of documents.

You should also keep an eye on the different fees they charge, as the fees may vary from bank to bank.

One of the hoops you need to jump when moving to France is finding a new place to live. House-hunting is quite a lengthy and laborious process, so you can start looking for new accommodation even if you’re still in the Philippines.

You can start checking different websites to understand better what the houses or apartments are like, as well as the prices of the properties. Like in other countries, it’s more expensive to live in bigger cities like Paris than in smaller suburban towns and villages.

If you aren’t sure where you would like to settle down in France yet, it would be better to rent a place first. This would also give you more time to settle in a new country and city, and get to know people in a new community.

Once you’ve found a place to rent, you would usually need the following:

• Proof of identification
• Proof of French residence status
• Proof of income (e.g. bank statements from the last three months or income over the last 3 years)
• References from previous landlords (if you’ve previously lived in France)

The French law states that all residents of the country must have health insurance. However, there’s nothing to worry about since France is well-known for its excellent healthcare system.

According to the CEOWORLD Magazine Health Care Index, France ranked 7th amongst the world’s best health care systems in 2021. 

Over the years, French health insurance was only accessible to foreigners who met certain criteria. However, in 2016, the French government introduced the Protection Maladie Universelle (PUMA), which is the country’s new universal public healthcare system. 

In this new scheme, most migrants are now eligible for public health insurance. Those who aren’t covered or wish to upgrade their coverage may opt for private health insurance.

Once you’ve lived in France for at least 3 months, you can register for French healthcare through your local Caisse Primaire Assurance Maladie (CPAM) office, which you can find on the Ameli website. 

Then, you will need to prepare the following:

• Proof of identification (e.g. passport)
• Proof of French residence status
• Proof of address (e.g. utility bill)
• If you’re with family, marriage and birth certificates
• Proof of income

You will then have to submit a declaration (Declaration de Médecin Traitant) to your insurance provider before accessing healthcare in the country. 

Once registered, you will receive a health card (carte vitale) that you need to present to access free healthcare. 

After moving to France and settling in your new home, getting in touch with your family in the Philippines is something to keep in mind. One way to do so is by sending remittances.

If you wish to send money to the Philippines for whatever reason, it’s important to evaluate the different options you may have, which include:

• International wire transfer – send money via online banking
• Traditional remittance centres – physically visit a remittance outlet to send money
• Online money transfer – sending money through trusted websites or mobile app

You’ll find that online money transfer platforms like Kabayan Remit are the best option as they are faster, cheaper and more straightforward. 

Kabayan Remit will soon launch its operations in Europe, so Filipinos in France will be able to enjoy faster and cheaper money transfers to the Philippines.

Here’s why Filipinos across the UK and Canada trust Kabayan Remit:

• Affordable – offers high exchange rates and competitive fees
• Fast – your beneficiary can receive the money within an hour
• Reliable – a 24/7 bilingual customer support team ready to attend to enquiries any time of the day

For more information, visit kabayanremit.com.

Every year, thousands of people gamble to get a USA green card and hope to immigrate to the USA. With a multitude of opportunities to offer for people of different backgrounds, the USA has become a top choice for migrants to fulfil the American dream.

If you’re a Filipino who wants to immigrate to the USA, then you’re not the only one. Filipinos are some of the most prominent groups of immigrants in the USA. Filipino migration to the USA goes way back to the late 19th century due to the longstanding ties between the two nations.

As of 2019, over 4.2 million Filipinos were living in America, significantly making up 18% of the total Asian population in the country. They are the third-largest Asian immigrant group, following the Chinese and Indians. 

If you wish to move to the USA as a Filipino citizen, the process might seem overwhelming. To help you get started, here is some crucial information about America that you might find helpful:

• Information about the USA
• US visa requirements for Filipino citizens
• Cost of living in the USA
• Opening an American bank account
• Finding housing in the USA
• Understanding the American healthcare system
• Sending money to the Philippines from the USA

A nation consisting of 50 states, the United States of America is a big and powerful country with a melting pot of different cultures. It is, in fact, the third-largest country in the world in terms of area size and is more than double the size of the whole European Union.

Many people wish to immigrate to the USA because America is at the forefront of global economic and military power and because people believe they can find a better life in the country.

Here are some other facts about the USA:

Official Name: United States of America

Capital: Washington, DC

Population: 333.5 million (Worldometer, 2021)

Official Language: English

Weather: The weather in America varies greatly depending on the location. Given the country’s massive size, the climate is significantly different depending on the area, regardless of what time of the year it is. Alaska, for instance, has an Arctic tundra climate, while Hawaii has a tropical climate. Other states and regions would also have varying temperatures depending on their location.

Time zones: The USA is divided into six time zones, including Alaska time, Hawaii-Aleutian time, Central time, Eastern time, Mountain time and Pacific time. Interestingly, some states even have more than one time zone. 

Because the USA is such a massive country, make sure to do intensive research to find out the best place where you can see yourself living.

There are two different types of visas Filipinos can apply for to go to the USA:

• Nonimmigrant visa – If you’re temporarily travelling to the USA (e.g. tourism, business, education or exchange).
• Immigrant visa – If you’re moving to the USA permanently. 

Depending on the purpose of your travel, you have to make sure you’re applying for the correct visa to prepare the correct list of requirements.

Visit the US Visa Information Service for more information on the requirements and step-by-step process to apply for a nonimmigrant US visa. 

If you plan to immigrate to the USA for good, you must apply for an immigrant visa. To obtain this type of visa, you must receive sponsorship from a US citizen, a lawful permanent resident family member or an employer and have an approved petition.

The different US immigrant visas include:

• Family-based immigration
• Fiancee visa
• Employment-based immigration
• Diversity visa
• Returning resident visa

Applying for an immigrant visa begins with the sponsor filing a petition on the applicant’s behalf with the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). 

For a complete step-by-step process on the immigrant visa application, click here. 

The cost of living in America varies significantly depending on the state. According to World Population Review, Hawaii is the state that has the highest cost of living, while Mississippi has the lowest.  

Comparing the two states, you’ll see a massive difference between the costs of housing, as well as the products and services offered in each state.

However, to give you an idea of the average cost of living in the USA, here’s a breakdown we’ve put together from Numbeo:

Accommodation (Monthly Rent)

City Centre

1 bedroom apartment: $1,664.88

3 bedroom apartment: 2,729.54

Outside the City Centre

1 bedroom apartment: 1,237.36

3 bedroom apartment: 2,156.13

Utilities (Monthly Bills)

Apartment Electricity, Water, Heating/Cooling (85 sqm apartment): $171.75

Internet: $67.67

Groceries

Rice (1kg): $4.01

Loaf of Bread (500g): $2.87

Chicken (1kg): $10.49

Beef (1kg): $13.49

Milk (1 litre): $0.90

Eggs (1 dozen): $2.82

Water (1.5 litres): $1.85

Transportation

One-way Transport Ticket: $2.50

Monthly Pass: $70.00

Gasoline (1 lire): $1.21

Taxi (1km): $1.62

Opening a US bank account is something you need to take care of when you immigrate to the USA. Unfortunately, the American banking system is still somewhat old-school, so opening a new account can be quite tricky, especially if you’re new to the country.

Though account opening is more straightforward and smoother for American citizens, you can still open a bank account as a non-resident as long as you have a Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).

In general, here’s a complete list of documents you might be asked for when opening a bank account as a non-US resident:

• Proof of identification (e.g. passport or ID)
• Proof of address (e.g. utility bill)
• SSN or ITIN
• Minimum deposit

Some banks may also ask for a US mobile number to provide access to online banking.

It is also important to note that some banks prefer face-to-face applications. However, do your research before walking into a bank to make an application.

It is advisable to open an account with bigger banks that are more familiar with non-resident account opening applications. This helps ensure that the person processing your application understands the requirements and processes, and does not deny your application.

Finding accommodation is one of the things you need to prioritise when migrating to another country. If you’re moving to the USA, renting out a property first before purchasing one is advisable. Doing so would allow you to have a better feel of the place you will be living in, as almost every state in the USA has its own character and culture.

Also, given the size of America, there are plenty of accommodations to choose from – from big country houses to luxurious city condominiums. Depending on the state you’re going to move to, the sizes and prices of properties may vary significantly.

When looking for a property to rent, you must first determine your budget to narrow down your search. Make sure that the budget you’ve set is reasonable and realistic against the list of requirements you’re looking for in a property.

When you’ve found a property you would like to rent out, prepare the following documents for a smoother process:

• Proof of identification (e.g. passport)
• Proof of employment (e.g. employment contract, letter of employment, etc.)
• Proof of finances (e.g. bank statements)
• Landlord references
• Social Security Number (once obtained)

You should also be prepared to pay a deposit. Landlords tend to charge higher deposit fees to new migrants as they don’t have an established credit history for being new in the country.

One of the most important things to take note of when you immigrate to the USA is that the country does not have universal healthcare. This means that the residents and citizens do not receive public health benefits, so they would have to pay for their medical treatment.

Healthcare in America is very expensive, so make sure to obtain health insurance to avoid paying thousands of dollars on hospital bills. However, the good news is that some companies provide health insurance and offer to pay some or all of their employees’ medical bills.

If you’re getting your own private health insurance, you will have to pay regular payments, also known as “premiums”. If you don’t have health insurance, but urgently need medical treatment, you will have to pay for your hospital bills. However, some hospitals and doctors accept instalments, depending on the patient’s financial circumstances.

There are different ways on how you can get health coverage, including the following:

• Your employer or your spouse’s group coverage plan
• Your parents’ insurance plan (if you’re under 26 years old)
• Your own purchased health insurance
• Government programs (e.g. Medicare, Medicaid)
• State insurance plan (if your state provides it)
• The Veterans Health Administration or TRICARE (for military personnel)
• Continuing coverage from your former employer on a temporary basis under the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (COBRA)

For more information on how to find health insurance in the USA, visit the USA gov page. 

Once you’ve settled down when you immigrate to the USA, you may need to send money to the Philippines once in a while for a variety of reasons. Whether it’s to support your family back home, for emergencies or to simply send gifts on special occasions.

Sending money overseas can be quite difficult in America because as mentioned above, banking in America is quite traditional. Some banks would even require remitters to physically visit the branch to create a transaction.

Money transfer services like Kabayan Remit are a better alternative to banks when making overseas remittances. Kabayan Remit will soon launch its operations in America to make money transfers to the Philippines easier for residents in the USA.

Here’s why you should join thousands of Filipinos who are already using Kabayan Remit:

• Easy online remittance through the website or mobile app
• 24/7 bilingual customer support (Filipino and English)
• Easy to contact customer service team over the phone or through social media 
• Flexible payment and delivery options

For more information, visit kabayanremit.com.

Are you thinking of moving to Portugal? Make sure to follow this checklist if you plan to migrate to this beautiful Iberian country as a Filipino citizen. 

Situated along the Atlantic coast of the Iberian Peninsula neighbouring Spain, Portugal is a fascinating European country rich in history. It is, in fact, one of the oldest states in Europe that have gone through several historical events and was once continental Europe’s powerhouse.

Though often overlooked by foreign travellers, the country has plenty to offer. From its awe-inspiring beauty to delightful food, and warm and welcoming locals, Portugal is an excellent choice of country to relocate to.

If you’re considering moving to Portugal, you might have a few questions on what you need to get done for a smoother relocation. Although the process is relatively straightforward, we covered a few topics to address a few questions you might have, including the following:

• Information about Portugal
• Portuguese visa requirements for Philippine passport holders
• Cost of living in Portugal
• Opening a Portuguese bank account
• Finding accommodation in Portugal
• Understanding the Portuguese healthcare system
• Sending money from Portugal to the Philippines

From ancient castles and cobblestone villages to vibrant cities and pristine beaches, Portugal has a multitude to offer. Given its location, it shares geographic and cultural similarities to Northern Europe and Mediterranean countries.

The latest migration data shows that Portugal is becoming a popular destination amongst migrants and has been voted as the best place to live in 2022 for expats, according to the latest Expats Exchange survey. If this excites you, then you should consider moving to Portugal.

Here are some other key facts about Portugal to give you a clearer picture of the country:

Official Name: Portuguese Republic, Portuguese Republica Portuguesa

Capital: Lisbon

Population: 10.1 million (Worldometer, 2021)

Official Language: Portuguese

Climate: Portugal generally has a warm temperate climate. Though the country’s northern region is typically colder and experiences more rainfalls, the southern area is sunnier and warmer. If you’re moving to Portugal from the Philippines, expect more frigid weather and seasonal changes.

Whatever your reason is for moving to Portugal or visiting the country, you would need a visa to enter the country if you hold a Philippine passport.

There are three different types of Portuguese visas Filipino citizens can apply for, depending on the intended length of stay:

• For up to 90 days: Short Stay visa or Schengen visa
• For up to one year: Temporary Stay National visa
• For over a year: Long Stay National visa or Residency visa

If you plan to reside in Portugal, you would need either the Temporary Stay National visa or Long Stay National visa. The Schengen visa is only valid for 90 days and is only applicable to those travelling for tourism, business, temporary work and family visit purposes.

To apply for the Temporary Stay visa or Long Stay visa, you will need the following documents:

• Valid identification or passport
• Two passport photos
• Valid health insurance
• Proof of accommodation
• Details of return travel (for Temporary Stay visa only)
• Financial evidence that you can support yourself
• Access to criminal records

You also need to be aware that Residency visas are only valid for 4 months and only allow 2 entries. You would need to request a residency permit to stay in Portugal longer.

On the other hand, Temporary Stay visas are valid throughout your stay in the country and allow multiple entries.

For more information on Temporary Stay and Residency visas, click here. 

The prices of goods and services in Portugal are reasonably different than those of the Philippines’. However, the living costs are generally cheaper in Portugal compared to other European countries.

Here’s a breakdown from Numbeo to give you an idea of what the prices are like of products and services in the country:

City Centre

1 bedroom apartment: €581.08

3 bedroom apartment: €1,014.25

Outside the City Centre

1 bedroom apartment: €454.92

3 bedroom apartment: €742.70

Apartment Electricity, Water, Heating/Cooling (85 sqm apartment): €102.42
Internet: €33.64

Rice (1kg): €0.92
Loaf of Bread (500g): €1.10
Chicken (1kg): €4.96
Beef (1kg): €9.00
Milk (1 litre): €0.63
Eggs (1 dozen): €1.73
Water (1.5 litres): €0.54

One-way Transport Ticket: €1.65
Monthly Pass: €40.00
Gasoline (1 lire): €1.56
Taxi (1km): €0.68

One of the things you need to get done when relocating to a different country is opening a bank account. If you’re moving to Portugal for long-term residency, opening a Portuguese bank account will make it much easier to manage your finances.

Though it’s quite tricky to open a bank account in certain countries, the great news is that it’s relatively easy to open one in Portugal. However, it’s important to note that not all Portuguese banks accept online applications. Most Portuguese banks would still require you to visit a local branch to make an application in person.

To open a Portuguese bank account, make sure to have the following required documents ready for a faster and smoother application process:

• Portuguese Tax Number or NIF (Número de Identificação Fiscal) – you can get one through a representative, either a lawyer or financial representative
• Proof of identification (e.g. passport)
• Proof of address (e.g. recent utility bill)
• Proof of employment (e.g. employment contract or payslip)
• Portuguese mobile number (to activate through SMS)

Some Portuguese banks also require a cash deposit of at least €250 when opening a new account.

Once you have your documents ready, you will need to find the best bank to accommodate your needs. There are several local Portuguese banks you can choose from, including Banco BPI, Banco Santander Totta, Caixa Geral de Depositos, Millenium BCP and Novo Banco.

It is best to do your research beforehand to find out which bank is the most suitable for you.

However, you may also opt in for big international banks, such as Barclays, Citibank, Deutsche Bank, ING Bank and many more.

Migrants planning on moving to Portugal need to start researching accommodation before flying to the country. With plenty of options to choose from, from deluxe condominiums to luxury villas and rustic houses, it can be quite overwhelming to find the best home for you.

The prices of properties in Portugal are typically reasonable relative to the salary individuals receive. However, it’s essential to know that prices tend to vary depending on the property’s location. For instance, properties in Lisbon and Porto are generally more expensive than those located in smaller towns and suburbs.

You also need to take into consideration whether you’ll purchase or rent a property. For newcomers, it’s usually advisable to rent first to have a better understanding of the country and city you’ll live in. However, you can consider purchasing property in Portugal as an investment, as prices are continually rising in the country.

You can start looking for accommodation online or find a real estate agent, especially if you don’t speak much Portuguese. If you’re renting, you will then need to prepare the following:

• Portuguese Tax Identification Number or NIF (Número de Identificação Fiscal)
• Identification documents
• Contract (Contrato de Arrandamento)
• Security deposit

Portugal offers both public and private healthcare services. However, to give you a better understanding of Portuguese healthcare, the country’s three different systems include:

• Servico Nacional de Saude or SNS (National Health Service)
• Private healthcare
• Special social health insurance schemes (health subsystems) are based on public sector jobs (e.g. military, police, etc.)

Legal foreign residents in Portugal can usually access the country’s public healthcare. It is managed by the Ministry of Health (Ministério de Saúde), and it covers a range of healthcare services, including consultation, childbirth, specialist care and some dental care.

As Portugal’s healthcare standards are high, most residents choose to utilise subsidised state health services and pay a small fee towards contribution costs. Nonetheless, you still have the option to opt for private healthcare.

To register for public healthcare in Portugal as a foreign resident, you will need the following:

• Valid identification (e.g. passport or national ID card)
• Residence permit
• Social security card

For more information on Portuguese healthcare, visit the SNS website.

After moving to Portugal, you may want to stay connected to your family in the Philippines. Sending money is the best way to show your love for them despite being thousands of miles away from home.

Kabayan Remit will soon resume its operations in Europe, so you will be able to send money to your loved ones from Portugal with high exchange rates, low service fees and instant payout. 

With a great understanding of the needs of overseas Filipino workers, Kabayan Remit provides a fast, affordable, reliable and convenient way to send money to the Philippines.

You can sign up with Kabayan Remit by clicking here.

If you need help with your remittance, you can also contact Kabayan Remit’s bilingual customer team at any time of the day.

Have you ever dreamed of moving to Italy? Many foreigners fall in love with the country just after visiting for the first time. Italy is undoubtedly a beautiful nation with rich history, opulent architecture, delicious delicacies, and a lot more. So it’s not a surprise that many foreigners, including Filipinos, aspire to move to this stunning southern European country.

If you’re a Filipino national considering moving to Italy, you might find the process quite daunting. That’s why we’ve put together some helpful information to give you an idea of what the relocation would entail, including the following:

• Information about Italy
• Italian visa requirements for Filipino citizens
• Cost of living in Italy
• Opening an Italian bank account
• Finding accommodation in Italy
• Understanding the Italian healthcare system
• Sending money to the Philippines from Italy

Often characterised as a country that resembles the shape of a boot, Italy is one of the most popular tourist destinations worldwide. As it sits in Southern Europe and the Mediterranean, the country boasts some of the world’s most diverse yet spectacular landscapes, delectable food, and rich culture.

If you plan on moving to Italy, it’s helpful to know the following information about the country:

Official Name: Italy

Capital: Rome

Population: 60.35 million (Worldometer, 2021) 

Official Language: Italian

Weather: The weather in Italy varies depending on the location and time of the year. Northern Italy comprises some of the highest mountain peaks in Europe, so the region is generally quite cold. The south is typically hotter and dryer, characterised by mountain ranges, volcanoes and dry sierras. Though Italy has seasonal changes, it is a great country to visit any time of the year.  

Philippine passport holders must obtain a visa to travel to Italy. Whether you wish to visit the country for tourism purposes or you plan on moving to Italy, you would have to acquire the correct visa to enter the country. 

If you go to Italy for less than 90 days, you should apply for a short-term visa or Schengen visa. However, if you’re interested in moving to Italy or staying there for over 90 days, you will have to apply for a long-stay visa. Bear in mind that the application is different for EU and non-EU citizens, so make sure that the documents you prepare are the non-EU requirements.

The Italian long-stay visa, also referred to as the National Visa or D-Visa, is mandatory to enter Italy. Afterwards, you need to obtain an Italian residence permit, which would allow you to stay in the country for over 90 days.

Depending on your reason for staying in Italy, you must apply for the correct long-stay visa, which could be one of the following:

• Student visa
• Work visa
• Self-employed visa
• Family visa
• Working holiday visa
• Retirement visa

For more information on different Italian visas, click here.

For more information on Schengen visa requirements for Philippine passport holders, click here. 

Although Italy is a fantastic place to live, it has a relatively high cost of living. It is a much more expensive place to live compared to its neighbouring countries in Southern Europe. However, the cost of living would vary significantly on the area you’ll live in, as well as your lifestyle. Cities that are more popular with tourists, such as Milan, Rome and Florence, tend to be more expensive than smaller towns.

To give you an idea of the cost of living if you decide on moving to Italy, here’s a breakdown of how much products generally cost in the country from Numbeo:

Accommodation (Monthly Rent)

City Centre

1 bedroom apartment: €692.06

3 bedroom apartment: €1,312.19

Outside the City Centre

1 bedroom apartment: €530.37

3 bedroom apartment: €932.38

Utilities (Monthly Bills)

Apartment Electricity, Water, Heating/Cooling (85 sqm apartment): €169.01

Internet: €28.41

Groceries

Rice (1kg): €1.96

Loaf of Bread (500g): €1.61

Chicken (1kg): €8.69

Beef (1kg): €14.86

Milk (1 litre): €1.17

Eggs (1 dozen): €2.83

Water (1.5 litres): €0.41

Transportation

One-way Transport Ticket: €1.50

Monthly Pass: €35.00

Gasoline (1 lire): €2.13

Taxi (1km): €1.28

Regardless of where you’re from and what type of visa you hold, you should be able to open an Italian bank account. Opening an Italian bank account is particularly useful, especially if you’re planning on moving to Italy and residing in the country long term.

You will typically need to visit the bank in person to apply for a new account unless the bank accepts an online application. To open a personal account, you would need the following documents:

• Valid identification (e.g. passport)
• Proof of address
• Italian tax number or codice fiscale
• Proof of employment or residence permit

The application process is straightforward as long as you have the necessary documents. It is free to open an Italian bank account, but some may charge additional fees for maintenance, transfers or withdrawals.

Although you can use your international bank to begin with, the fees are much lower with a local bank account than an international bank account. International banks tend to charge hefty transaction fees and high exchange rate markups.

Whatever your reason is for moving to Italy, one of the hurdles you need to jump before settling in the country is finding a place to live.

As Italy is a lovely country with stunning old buildings and architecture, you might feel tempted to go for an old Italian building for its charming beauty. However, you have to be careful with these apartments as they can be quite problematic. They tend to have old fittings and windows, old plumbing, faulty electricity, and no lifts. However, if you still prefer to live in a beautiful old building, make sure that the apartment has been renovated to avoid encountering these issues.

You should also bear in mind that rental accommodations in Italy come either furnished (arredato) or unfurnished (non arredato). Unlike most countries, unfurnished properties in Italy are entirely bare, with no fitted white goods or worse, not even a sink or lighting fixtures. You need to take this into consideration and see what works within your budget and if you have the time to purchase furniture when you arrive in the country. 

In Italy, it is still common to find accommodations being rented out by the owner themselves. Though it may turn out cheaper to rent a property directly from the landlord, it is advisable to seek help from a real estate agent. If you’re new to the country and are not comfortable speaking Italian, the agent can help you out with the process and paperwork.

Italy boasts one of the world’s best healthcare systems. The Italian healthcare, also known as Servizio Sanitario Nazionale (SSN), is a regionally based national health service. It provides universal coverage to citizens and residents of the country, and they are often free of charge. However, there is co-payment for some prescriptions, tests and other procedures. 

If you are moving to Italy for the first time, you may not be eligible for Italy’s public health care straight away. To apply for the tessera sanitaria or the Italian health insurance card, you will need to have residency status and an Italian identity card. 

You must also only register with one general practitioner within your Local Health Authority.

In the event of an emergency, you can call 118. However, if you struggle to converse in Italian, you can contact the general EU emergency hotline, 112.

When you’re finally settled in your new home in Italy, you may want to send money back to your loved ones in the Philippines from time to time.

Although using a bank may be your first choice to send money overseas, it usually turns out to be a costly option. This is because banks charge excessive fees and offer lower exchange rates.

Kabayan Remit, an online money transfer service, is a better alternative to banks for international transfers and here’s why:

• It offers high exchange rates with very low fees.
• It has a much quicker payout, so the money is usually delivered within an hour.
• It has a 24/7 bilingual customer support team who are available to assist any time of the day.

Kabayan Remit will be resuming its operations in Europe, so Filipinos in Italy will soon be able to send money to the Philippines using their services.

Have you ever considered moving to Spain?

Many Filipinos aspire to move overseas for greener pastures. However, English-speaking countries, such as the USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and the UK, are often the most popular destinations they immigrate to.

Filipinos often overlook non-English-speaking countries, such as Spain, due to fear of communication barriers and difficulty settling in. But did you know that Spain is an ideal country for Filipinos wishing to migrate abroad?

Here’s a comprehensive guide on why moving to Spain might be a better option if you’re a Filipino citizen wishing to move overseas. We’ve included helpful information in this article, including the following:

• Information about Spain
• Spanish visa requirements for Filipino citizens
• Cost of living in Spain
• Opening a Spanish bank account
• Finding accommodation in Spain
• Understanding the Spanish healthcare system
• Why move to Spain?
• Sending money to the Philippines from Spain

Located in Southwestern Europe, Spain occupies 85% of the Iberian Peninsula, whilst Portugal occupies 15%. Spain is a beautiful country with incredible weather, lush sceneries and a very diverse culture. Here is some more essential information about the country if you plan on moving to Spain:

Official name: Kingdom of Spain / Reino de España

Capital: Madrid

Population: 46.7 million (Worldometer, 2021)

Official language: Spanish

Weather: Spain has incredible sunny weather with mild temperatures. Though the country experiences varying temperatures depending on the season and area, it’s great to travel to Spain any time of the year. If you’re coming from the Philippines, Spain might feel a bit colder, but it has excellent weather compared to other European countries. 

Philippine passport holders who plan on moving to Spain need to acquire a visa to enter the country for any reason. This includes both short-term and long-term stays in the country.

Depending on the type of visa you’re applying for, make sure to prepare and submit the required documents to avoid any delay with the visa application process.

Here are the different types of Spanish visas you can apply for as a Filipino citizen:

Moving to Spain: Short-term visa

• Visa for tourism, academic, business or workshop purposes (less than 90 days)
• Visas for family members of European Union citizens (for tourism or to reside in Spain)
• Transit visa (General)
• Transit visa for seafarers
• Transit visa to Andorra

Long term visa

• Work visa (employed)
• Work visa (self-employed)
• Visas processed under Act 14/2013 (for investors, entrepreneurs, researchers, investors, high-qualified professionals and intra-company transfers)
• Residence visa (no lucrative)
• Residence visa with work permit exception
• Service transnational visa
• Student visa
• Student visa – internship
• Student visa – au pair
• Accreditation visa (diplomatic service)
• Recovery of long-stay residence

Once you’ve secured your visa, you’re all set to move to Spain!

One great thing about Spain is the relatively low cost of living that comes with excellent living standards. According to Numbeo, the living costs in Spain are about 19.86% lower than that of the UK, whilst the rent prices are approximately 30.10% lower than the UK’s. Despite this, Spain ranked 5th on HSBC’s Expat Explorer league table based on an expat destination survey, whilst the UK ranked 28th. 

To give you an idea of how much it would cost you when moving to Spain, here’s a detailed breakdown from Numbeo:

Accommodation (Monthly Rent)

City Centre

1 bedroom apartment: €747.25

3 bedroom apartment: €1,284.70

Outside the City Centre

1 bedroom apartment: €597.26

3 bedroom apartment: €925.37

Utilities (Monthly Bills)

Apartment Electricity, Water, Heating/Cooling (85 sqm apartment): €118.37 

Internet: €37.51

Groceries

Rice (1kg): €1.15

Loaf of Bread (500g): €1.00

Chicken (1kg): €6.03

Beef (1kg): €10.41

Milk (1 litre): €0.79

Eggs (1 dozen): €1.93

Water (1.5 litres): €0.64

Transportation

One-way Transport Ticket: €1.40

Monthly Pass: €40.00

Gasoline (1 lire): €1.51

Taxi (1km): €1.06

If you’re planning on moving to Spain or staying in the country long-term, it is advisable to open a local bank account. Although you can use an overseas bank account as long as they are Mastercard, Visa or American Express, this option can end up quite costly. You’ll have to pay additional charges for bank fees and exchange rate markup.

To avoid paying these unnecessary charges, open a Spanish bank account. There are plenty of banks you can choose from, from local Spanish financial institutions (e.g. BBVA, Banco Sabadell, Santander) to renowned international banks (e.g. Barclays, Citibank, Deutsche Bank, HSBC).

To open a bank account in Spain, you’ll normally need the following:

• Proof of identification
• Proof of address
• Proof of employment or student status (e.g. student ID, employment contract, etc)
• Número de identificación de extranjeros (Spanish foreigner identification number (NIE) and certificate) 

The NIE will prove your legal status to stay in Spain for over 6 months. You will get this when you receive your Spanish Foreigner Identity Card.

You also have to keep in mind that all documents that you need to submit must be officially translated into Spanish.

If you’re moving to Spain long-term, finding accommodation is one of the few things you need to tick off your checklist first. As a newcomer to the country, it would be better to rent out a place first before purchasing a property. Doing so would allow you to test the waters and help you find the best place to call your new home.

There are different ways to find properties in Spain. The most common way is still through an estate agent. However, you can also look online or through newspaper adverts.

Even if you’re still in the Philippines, you can start looking for properties online to understand better how much they cost, what they look like, and where they are located.

To rent a property, you would typically need to provide the following

• Proof of identification (e.g. passport)
• Evidence of employment (e.g. contract of employment)
• Tax identification number 
• Personal references

However, do not rush reserving a property. Don’t send any payment if you haven’t viewed a property or spoken to the listing poster. It is always advisable to see the property in person (or at least online via video call) and to do your research on the advertiser beforehand to avoid getting scammed.

Healthcare is another essential thing to consider if you’re moving to Spain long-term. The great news is that healthcare is free of charge to residents of Spain, including foreign residents, as long as you fall under one of the following categories:

• An employed or self-employed resident paying social security contributions
• Students under 26 years old
• Living in Spain and receiving state benefits
• A resident of Spain and a recent divorcee registered with social security
• State pensioner
• Temporarily residing in Spain with an EHIC card

It’s also important to note that the Spanish healthcare system is not centralised, which means that you’ll have to check your local area’s system before availing of their services.

For more information on the Spanish National Healthcare System (Instituto Nacional de Salud), click here. 

There are different reasons why Filipinos should consider moving to Spain. Not only does the country boast beautiful sceneries and magnificent architecture, but it also offers an attractive citizenship route for Filipinos.

The acquisition of Spanish citizenship is generally quite lengthy for non-Filipinos. They would need to have valid residency for at least 5 years before they can apply for permanent residency. Then, they need to have permanent residence status for another 5 years before they can apply for citizenship.

However, this isn’t the case for Filipinos. Under the Spanish civil code, nationals from former Spanish colonies, including Filipinos, only need 2 years of legal residency, provided they’ve achieved the following:

1. Apply for citizenship immediately after 2 years of legal residence.
2. The 2-year residency is legal and continuous.
3. Pass the following tests:
   • Spanish language tests that cover writing, reading and speaking at the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) level A2
   • Written General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) test on Spanish laws, society and history

Though foreign nationals would generally need to renounce their former nationality to obtain Spanish citizenship, Filipinos and nationals from former Spanish colonies can have dual citizenship.

For more information on Spanish immigration, click here. 

Once you’ve successfully relocated to Spain, you may need to send money to your loved ones back home from time to time. Though there are plenty of money transfer services to choose from, you have to consider their exchange rates, transfer fees and delivery time.

Kabayan Remit understands what overseas Filipinos need and look for from a remittance provider. That’s why it offers a fast, convenient and reliable service to provide overseas Filipinos peace of mind when sending money back home.

Kabayan Remit will soon resume its operations in Europe, so you will soon be able to send money from Spain to the Philippines.

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