Last Updated: Feb 2026

South Korea Visa vs Philippines

Side-by-side comparison of tax rules, income requirements, and visa difficulty.

CriteriaSouth KoreaPhilippines
Income$5,500/mo$2,000/mo
Savings OptionN/AN/A
Visa Fee$60$150
Processing2 weeks3 weeks
Validity1 year (renewable)1 year (renewable)
Cost TierHighLow
Nomad Cost (est.)~$3,100/mo~$1,600/mo
1BR Rent~$900~$650
Internet280 Mbps60 Mbps
Pet Friendliness4/105/10
Tax trigger183 days183 days
Insurance requiredYesYes
Pet Catch (2026)Strict quarantine unless you have a rabies titer test from an approved lab.Requires an import permit from the Bureau of Animal Industry.

Travel Insurance Required

South Korea deep-divePhilippines deep-dive