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Kumusta, mga kababayan! Are you ready for an adventure? Today, let’s embark on a global journey, exploring the Filipino diaspora around the world. Filipino immigrants, from the icy landscapes of Canada to the sun-soaked shores of Australia, from the bustling streets of Tokyo to the historic landmarks of the United Kingdom, have made their mark, and their homes, in far-flung corners of the globe.
Did you know, mga kaibigan, that you can find Filipinos in almost every corner of the world? Whether we’re in Italy, sharing our delicious sinigang with our new neighbors, or in Germany, serenading the locals with our karaoke skills, we Filipinos bring a touch of the Philippines wherever we go. There’s no stopping the Filipino spirit, ‘di ba? So, put on your traveling shoes (or slippers, as the case may be) and join me as we hop from one country to another, uncovering the vibrant Filipino communities that add color and life to these places. Abangan!
United States: 4.1 Million Filipinos
Ah, the United States, land of the free, home of the brave, and residence of over 4.1 million of our kababayans! We Filipinos are in every corner of this mammoth nation, from the sunny beaches of Hawaii to the bustling streets of New York. We’re the third-largest Asian group there, lagging just a bit behind our Chinese and Indian siblings. Pero hindi bale, we’re known for our spirit of bayanihan and resilience, and we bring our vibrant culture, delicious food, and our infectious Filipino smiles to the American lands.
Canada: 960,000 Filipinos
Then, let’s hop over to our neighbor up north, Canada! Ay nako, if you think the chilly weather is going to stop us, think again! Almost a million Pinoys call Canada home, and why wouldn’t they? Sobrang dami reasons! Canada’s economy is as strong as a carabao and offers a wide array of job opportunities across various sectors. The high quality of life and stable political climate also attract many of our kababayans.
Plus, feeling safe and secure in a country known for its low crime rate? Panalo! And who can forget the welcoming and diverse society Canada is known for? It’s like having a bit of home in a foreign land. The immigration policies are also sobrang bait, giving us several pathways to come and settle. And lastly, with a strong Filipino community already present, it feels just like home, complete with fiestas and adobo! Tara na, bes, Canada na tayo!
Read next: Unlock Your Dream: Ultimate Guide to Hassle-Free, Visa-Free Travel to Canada for Filipinos in 2023
Australia: 310,620 Filipinos
Next stop, Australia! I know, I know. You’re probably thinking of kangaroos and koalas, right? Well, did you know that as of 2021, there were 310,620 Filipino-born people living in Australia? It’s true! We are the third largest source of overseas-born residents in Australia, trailing only behind India and China. Di ba amazing? It’s like we’re on a global tour, and everywhere we go, we find a piece of home.
Japan: 325,502 Filipinos
Say Konnichiwa to our kababayans in Japan! As of 2021, there were 325,502 Filipinos living in Japan, making us the third-largest foreign community in the country. And guess what? The number of Filipinos in Japan has increased by 37% since 2016. Talk about making waves, ‘di ba? Whether it’s sushi or lumpia, we’re showing the world how we roll!
United Kingdom: 53,000 Filipinos
Time for another trip, folks! Our next stop? The United Kingdom, where, as of 2021, around 53,000 of our kababayans reside. The UK has been a popular choice for many Filipinos, particularly those in the healthcare sector. So if you’re a nurse, a therapist, or any healthcare professional, pack your bags because this might just be the place for you!
Read next: Send Money to GCash: Your Ultimate Guide to Fast, Secure, and Affordable Remittance
Italy: 15,700 Filipinos
Now, let’s head over to la dolce vita in Italy. In 2020, there were about 15,700 Filipino nationals living in Italy. But hold on, let’s clear some misconceptions. The number doesn’t just represent our hardworking OFWs, but also includes their children and those who have married Italians. So, if you’ve been dreaming about strolling around the romantic streets of Rome or Venice, or savoring authentic Italian pizza and gelato, you won’t be alone. Filipinos have been contributing to the diverse and vibrant culture of Italy for years now.
Singapore: 200,000 Filipinos
Singapore, known for its cleanliness, orderliness, and hawker food centers, has a vibrant Filipino community. In 2020, there were an estimated 200,000 Filipinos in Singapore, a significant increase from the 44,102 permanent residents in 2013. Filipinos in Singapore are involved in various sectors, from service industries to professional roles. This tiny island nation may be small, but its appeal to Filipinos is huge, considering the opportunities for career growth and the proximity to the Philippines.
Germany: 76,000 Filipinos
Germany, the land of beer, bratwurst, and BMWs, has become a favored destination for many Filipinos. From 2008’s recorded 65,000, the Filipino community in Germany grew to approximately 76,000 in 2020. The steady growth of Filipino immigrants in Germany is likely due to the country’s strong economy, high quality of life, and the need for skilled workers in various industries, particularly in healthcare. So whether it’s the historic charm of Berlin or the Bavarian beauty of Munich, it’s clear that Germany has found a special place in the hearts of Filipinos.
Read next: The Ultimate Guide to Becoming an Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW): Step-by-Step Process
Spain: 274,000 Filipinos
Hola, kababayans! It’s time to explore the world through the lens of our fellow Filipinos scattered across the globe, making their marks one country at a time. Let’s jet set to the land of flamenco and fiesta, Spain. Did you know that Spain is home to one of the largest Filipino communities in Europe? As of 2023, there are a whopping 274,000 Filipinos residing in Spain. And they’re not just there for the paella and siestas; our kababayans are making significant contributions to the Spanish economy and society. Spain recognizes the hard work, skills, and knowledge of our Filipino brothers and sisters, as they play an integral part in the country’s workforce.
New Zealand: 72,612 Filipinos
Next, let’s take a quick hop over to the land of the long white cloud – New Zealand. Known for its stunning landscapes and friendly locals, it’s no wonder that a number of our kababayans have made it their home. As of 2023, there are around 72,612 Filipinos residing in New Zealand. It’s like we’re slowly turning this scenic country into another beautiful island of the Philippines. But instead of jeepneys and tricycles, we have kiwis and the All Blacks.
Conclusion
Whether it’s the dazzling lights of Times Square, the wide open spaces of the Outback, or the rich cultural heritage of our former colonizers in Spain, it’s clear that Filipinos have found a home in every corner of the globe. Our adaptability, resilience, and love for family – traits that we carry wherever we go – have allowed us to flourish in these foreign lands. And while we may be far from our native shores, our hearts remain Filipino, forever carrying the warmth of our tropical home. So here’s to all the Filipinos making waves abroad – you’re truly making the Pearl of the Orient shine even brighter!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Where are the most Filipino immigrants?
As of the latest data, the country with the most Filipino immigrants is the United States, with an estimated 4.1 million Filipinos living there as of 2022.
Why did so many Filipinos immigrate to the US?
The large scale Filipino immigration to the U.S. is largely due to historical ties between the two countries, as the Philippines was once a U.S. territory. Over the years, the U.S. has become a favored destination due to its robust economy, educational opportunities, and the chance to reunite with family members who had previously emigrated.
How hard is it for a Filipino to get a U.S. visa?
The difficulty of obtaining a U.S. visa depends on the type of visa being applied for. For tourist visas, it often involves an interview at the U.S. Embassy in Manila and the applicant must demonstrate they have strong ties to the Philippines that would ensure their return. For immigrant visas, the process is more complex and often requires a U.S. sponsor, such as a family member or employer, and can take many months or even years.
How to apply for U.S. immigrant visa from Philippines?
To apply for a U.S. immigrant visa from the Philippines, you need to be sponsored by a U.S. citizen relative, U.S. lawful permanent resident, or a prospective employer. The sponsor begins the process by filing a petition on your behalf with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Once the petition is approved, and a visa is available in your category, you apply for an immigrant visa.
How much money do you need to immigrate to Canada from Philippines?
The amount of money you need to immigrate to Canada from the Philippines can vary depending on your situation. However, as a general rule, Canada requires proof of funds to show that new immigrants can establish themselves and their families. As of 2022, a single applicant would need to show they have at least CAD 13,213, and the amount increases with each additional family member.
How to apply for Canadian immigration from Philippines?
Applying for Canadian immigration from the Philippines can be done through various programs, such as the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Canadian Experience Class, or the Provincial Nominee Program. The process usually involves creating an Express Entry profile online and meeting certain criteria like language proficiency, education, work experience, and more. Once you are in the Express Entry pool, you may receive an invitation to apply for permanent residence.
Can I go to Canada without a job?
Yes, you can immigrate to Canada without a job offer. While having a job offer can improve your chances of being invited to apply for permanent residency, it’s not a requirement. Canada has several immigration programs like the Federal Skilled Worker Program that do not require a job offer.
