The Complete Relocation Guide for Japanese & Korean Expats in Manila

English is an official language, cost of living is 30–50% below Singapore and Tokyo, and the Philippines has no restrictions on foreign ownership of condominium units (subject to the 40% per-floor quota). For Japanese and Korean executives being posted to Manila — or making individual relocation decisions — the quality-of-life proposition is exceptional: premium condo living at a fraction of first-tier Asian city costs.

Philippine law allows foreigners to own condominium units as long as foreign ownership in any given condominium project does not exceed 40% of the total units. In practice, this means:

• Premium BGC and Makati towers frequently have waitlists for foreign buyers • Buying through a reputable agent with early allocation is critical • Land cannot be owned by foreigners — only the condo unit itself • House and lot ownership is possible through long-term lease (50+25 years) or through a Filipino spouse/corporation

For most Japanese and Korean expats, purchasing a condo unit is the cleanest and most legally straightforward entry point.

Special Resident Retiree's Visa (SRRV): Open to nationals of most countries including Japan and Korea. Requires a time deposit of USD 10,000–50,000 depending on age. Grants unlimited stay and multiple-entry privileges.

9(g) Pre-arranged Employee Visa: For those employed by Philippine-registered companies. Most common for Japanese/Korean executives on corporate postings.

47(a)(2) Special Investor's Resident Visa: For investors putting USD 75,000+ into a Philippine enterprise. Grants permanent residency status.

For most short-to-medium term postings (1–3 years), a series of 9(a) Tourist Visas extended every 59 days is the most practical approach.

BGC (Most Popular): Highest concentration of Japanese and Korean restaurants, convenience stores, and cultural amenities. Easy access to JICA offices and Korean business associations. Premium pricing but unmatched lifestyle infrastructure.

Makati CBD: More established, slightly older building stock, excellent transport links. Popular with finance and banking professionals. Greenbelt and Glorietta malls provide world-class dining and retail.

Rockwell: Ultra-premium, small community, extremely walkable. Power Plant Mall is one of the best in Manila. Very limited inventory makes this a scarcity-value play.

Alabang: For families with school-age children, Alabang offers access to top international schools (Faith Academy, British School Manila) and a calmer, greener environment.

Week 1: SIM card (Globe or Smart), bank account (BPI or BDO for foreigners), registration with your country's embassy.

Week 2: Utility setup — Meralco (electricity) requires unit turnover documents; water is usually handled by building management; internet (PLDT Fiber or Converge — expect 2–4 week installation wait).

Week 3: Tax Identification Number (TIN) from BIR — required for property purchases and employment. Japanese nationals should register with JICA or Japan Club Manila for community support.

Week 4: Alien Certificate of Registration (ACR I-Card) from Bureau of Immigration — required for stays over 59 days.

CONDO MAKATI's concierge service can assist with all of the above, including translation support in Japanese and Korean.