Why the Philippines is Expat Friendly

Moving out of your home country is an exciting experience. This is more true if you plan to wander and spend months to years in no less than a tropical paradise like the Philippines.

A rising expat hub, the country needs no heavy advertising. Foreigners who speak so highly of the Philippines’ beauty are enough to establish its name. Getting around isn’t an issue, nor is getting quality accommodation wherever around the country.

Here are more reasons you’ll find the Philippines among the most ideal countries for expats.

Quality of life

According to the 2019 HSBC annual survey on expatriates, the Philippines ranked ahead of China and was a spot behind the USA in the world’s best places to work and live.

This shows how many foreigners are generally satisfied with their living, career opportunities, and even family life in the country. When you move to the Philippines, you’ll also find vast improvements in infrastructure and services.

The quality of life in the Philippines may not be as superb as in Sweden and Denmark, but the country has been making efforts to make life more convenient for both locals and expats.

Stronger dollar value

Just recently, the conversion rate of the peso to the dollar has reached an all-time low at Php 58.99:$1. Hence, there is no better time to expatriate to the Philippines than now.

When living in the Philippines, you’re still most likely to keep your job at home and work remotely. And because you still earn in dollars, you can take advantage of a stronger dollar and enjoy greater purchasing power.

If you plan to stay permanently in the Philippines, make use of the exchange rate and invest in the country. You can also start your own company and give back to the country by hiring Filipinos.

Inexpensive healthcare

One thing the pandemic has taught everyone was never to overlook health insurance. More so if you’re feeling brave and moving to another country, securing health insurance must be your top priority.

Good thing, the Philippines has quality but inexpensive private healthcare facilities and insurance. Doctors in major cities are well-trained and hospital facilities are up-to-date.

Expats don’t get to avail of free health insurance as locals do, but those available are largely cheaper than in the US.

Competent International Schools

If your expat journey to the Philippines also involves further education, worry not because there are quite a lot of international schools around. These international schools offer American, British, French, German, and Japanese curricula, among others.

Quality is without question. However, the catch lies in the payment. The tuition is relatively higher than most private schools in the Philippines. But, it’s a small price to pay for the benefits of expat living in the Philippines.

Generally expat-friendly

You’ll get the most out of your expat experience if you interact with the locals. Don’t just rely on navigation apps or maps. Approach and talk with the locals yourself. You won’t only get accurate directions, but you’ll also receive recommendations on the best way to get around or the best spots to dine, hike, or swim.

Filipinos generally don’t mind sharing the Philippines’ natural wonders with foreigners. So long as you don’t litter on beaches, deforest, build illegal businesses, or disturb sleeping locals, among others, you’re welcome to stay however and whenever.