What is an SSP (Special Study Permit)?【Philippine Study Visa Guide】

✅ What is an SSP?

The SSP (Special Study Permit) is a mandatory permit required for all foreign nationals who wish to study at English language schools in the Philippines. It is separate from a tourist visa and is issued by the Bureau of Immigration (BI) to legalize study activities while residing in the country under a tourist visa. All international students enrolling in a language program are required to obtain this permit.

✅ Why is it required?

Although most students enter the Philippines on a tourist visa, attending a language school without an SSP is considered unauthorized. The SSP serves to officially authorize study-related activities. Unlike long-term student visas used for universities or high schools (which are typically for 1–2 years), the SSP is specifically designed for short-term language education and replaces the need for a traditional student visa in this context.

✅ Application process

Most language schools in the Philippines apply for the SSP on behalf of the student during the first week of enrollment. Students are typically required to submit their passport and other relevant documents, and the school handles the process directly with the Bureau of Immigration. Once issued (usually within a few days), students receive a copy of the permit. It is important to keep this copy safely, as it may be requested upon departure from the Philippines.

✅ Validity and Renewal

The SSP is valid for 90 days (approximately 3 months). If your study duration exceeds this period, renewal is required. For a 6-month (24-week) stay, students will typically need to apply for the SSP twice—once at the beginning and once before the 90-day mark.

✅ Fees

SSP application fees vary by school, but as of 2025, the typical cost ranges around PHP 10,500 for the first application. This may include the SSP-I Card, introduced in 2024, which contains biometric data and is valid for one year. For renewals, a lower fee is often charged (e.g., PHP 6,800), as the SSP-I Card is not required again within its valid period.

✅ Important Notes

  • The SSP is issued per school, so students must reapply if transferring to another institution.

  • The SSP is only valid for study purposes and cannot be used for internships, employment, or other non-academic activities.

  • It is distinct from the ACR-I Card, which is required for stays longer than 59 days.

  • Students holding long-term visas such as SRRV (Special Resident Retiree’s Visa) or an official Student Visa may not be required to obtain an SSP.