How the Philippine digital nomad visa can boost the startup scene

President Marcos just signed Executive Order No. 86, approving the Digital Nomad Visa for visitors who want to be part of the country’s innovation ecosystem.

This new visa opens an important opportunity for the Philippine startup ecosystem. It allows remote workers from other countries to live in the Philippines for up to one year while working for companies abroad. To qualify, applicants must show proof of employment, a stable income, valid health insurance, and a clean record.

Looking at the visa details, there are elements that can support the startup ecosystem. It allows remote workers to stay in the Philippines for up to one year, giving them enough time to connect with the local community and share their knowledge and skills. It also targets skilled individuals who are already working for companies abroad, bringing professional experience into the country.

However, the overall focus still leans towards attracting more tourism. The messaging and setup seem designed more for lifestyle remote workers than for startup founders or ecosystem builders.

Still, we choose to see the bigger picture. This visa may not be a full Startup Visa yet, but it is a good start. It shows there is now real interest in bringing skilled people into the country. If we build on this, it could open the way for even better solutions to support startups, founders, and innovators in the future.

Strong startup ecosystems are built by bringing different talents and perspectives together. Cities like Amsterdam, Singapore, and Lisbon grew faster by welcoming founders, technologists, and innovators from abroad. New people bring fresh ideas, new skills, and wider networks. They help local startups think bigger, move faster, and reach global markets.

By opening the door to digital nomads, the Philippines can attract more of this energy. It creates a chance to build stronger partnerships, launch more collaborations, and inspire more Filipino startups to go international.

Of course, this Digital Nomad Visa is not the final solution. It still focuses on remote workers who already have stable jobs and income abroad. For many early-stage founders and freelancers, this requirement can be difficult to meet.

At StellarPH, we see this as a positive start. We are already working on programmes to help European digital workers explore opportunities in the Philippines. We are also looking for ways to make it easier for startup founders, freelancers, and creatives who do not always fit into traditional employment models.

It is still early days, but the direction is right. More global talent means more chances to grow. And we believe the best is yet to come.

About StellarPH

StellarPH is a startup enabler based in Cebu City, Philippines. We believe entrepreneurship is for everyone, not just a few. Through our programmes, events, and international partnerships, we help founders take their first steps, build real startups, and connect with global opportunities. Our mission is to grow the next generation of Filipino innovators by creating a strong, open, and inspiring startup community.