e travel visa philippines

• Authentication
• General Information
• Application Process
• Report of Birth
• Report of Marriage
• Report of Death
• Report of Birth (For Japanese-Born Applicants)
• Report of Marriage (For Marriages solemnized in Japan / contracted between a Filipino and a Japanese national
• Book an Appointment
• Renewal ePassport
• Renewal non-ePassport
• Valid IDs for Passport Application
• Certification
• Courtesy Lane Eligibility
• Courtesy Lane – Online Appointment System (CL-OAS)
• Online Passport Application System (OPAS)
• Government entities requesting visa assistance for foreign nationals
• Private entities endorsing visa application for foreign nationals
• Foreign government entities requesting visa assistance for foreign nationals
• Accredited International Organization (IO) Entities endorsing visa application for foreign nationals
• APEC Business Travel Card
• Online Verification for 9(a) Endorsements
• Online Verification for 9(e) Endorsements
• Philippine e-Visa Verification Portal
• Directory of Office of Consular Affairs’ Officials (OCA)
• Directory of Consular Offices (CO)
• Directory of Foreign Service Posts (FSP)
• Directory of the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA)
• DFA Citizen’s Charter
• Directory of Temporary Off-site Passport Service (TOPS)
• Directory of Passport Courier Service Providers

Philippine Standard Time

Visa information.

A Philippine Visa is an endorsement made on a travel document by a consular officer at a Philippine Embassy or Consulate abroad denoting that the visa application has been properly examined and that the bearer is permitted to proceed to the Philippines and request permission from the Philippine Immigration authorities at the ports of entries to enter the country.

The visa thus issued is not a guarantee that the holder will be automatically admitted into the country, because the admission of foreign nationals into the Philippines is a function of the immigration authorities at the port of entry.

Definition of a Foreign Tourist (Temporary Visitor)

A “foreign tourist” is defined as a person without distinction as to race, gender, language or religion, who is proceeding o the Philippines for a legitimate, nonimmigrant purpose such as sightseeing, sports, health, family reasons, training or study (excluding enrollment in schools for the purpose of obtaining a title or degree), religious pilgrimage, business, cultural and scientific purposes.

Standard Procedure/Minimum Requirements for applying a Temporary Visitor’s Visa

Application for a temporary visitor’s visa must be made in person. In the case of a minor under eighteen (18) years of age, the application may be made for him by a person who, in the opinion of the consular officer, is responsible for his/her welfare. The minor, not an infant in arms, shall be required to appear at the Consulate for interview, together with the person making the application for him/her.

Applicants for temporary visitor’s visa should normally apply at the Philippine Embassy or Consulate that has jurisdiction over their place of residence. While some visa applicants may apply at any Philippine Embassy or Consulate abroad, others are only allowed to apply his/her visa at the Philippine Embassy or Consulate in his country of origin or legal residence.

The following are the minimum requirements for applying a temporary visitor’s visa:

• Passport/Travel Document Valid for at least six (6) months beyond the intended period of stay in the Philippines;
• Duly Accomplished Visa application forms;
• Passport Photos (2 pieces);
• Proof of bona fide status as tourist or businessman;
• Confirmed tickets for return or onward journey to the next port of destination; and
• Payment of Visa Fees

Other Visa/Entry requirements for Foreign Nationals:

• Affidavit of consent by either parent or legally appointed guardian of the child, naming therein the person who will be accompanying the child to the Philippines and with whom the child will stay while in the country. The said Affidavit must be duly notarized by a local notary public or the consular officer at the Philippine Embassy or Consulate in the applicant’s country or residence;
• Clear photocopy of the data page of the child’s passport;
• Clear photocopy of the data page of the passport of the accompanying adult or guardian; and
• Payment of immigration fees (currently, P3,120 per child).
• Nationality/Citizenship;
• Passport details of the crew;
• Vessel to be used for entry: type, name, registration, call sign, and other particulars;
• Estimated date of entry into the Philippine territory;
• Port/Area of entry (Philippine waters);
• Estimated period of stay in the Philippines;
• Character reference/shipping agent in the Philippines (if any); and
• Purpose of visit
• Curriculum vitae of newsmen/journalists;
• Shortlist of work credits;
• Copy of one (1) sample article written by the applicant;
• Background of media organization, including target market/audience, circulation, format; and
• List of members of the reportorial team, nationality and passport details;
• Planned itinerary and activities, with storyline for any films to be made;
• List of equipment to be brought by each team member, with certification from the media organization that said equipment will be re-exported at the end of the trip to the Philippines;
• Flight details (arrival and departure); and
• For each team member, one (1) photograph, sixe 1″x1″, to be submitted to the International Press Center (IPC) for the issuance of accreditation card.
• Letter request;
• Certificate of Acceptance from the school accredited by the Bureau of Immigration to accept foreign students;
• Photocopy of passport reflecting the applicant’s authorized period of stay;
• Affidavit of Support and Proof of Financial Capacity; and
• Birth Certificate.

Extension of Authorized Period of stay in the Philippines

In case of a temporary visitor’s visa holder whose stay in the Philippines will exceed the authorized period of stay, he/she will have to report to the Bureau of Immigration, secure an extension of stay and pay the corresponding immigration fees. Information on fees for extension of stay and other Immigration fees are available at the Bureau of Immigration website ( www.immigration.gov.ph ).

Guidelines on the entry of Temporary Visitors to the Philippines

The Philippines grants visa-free entry to passport holders of certain countries while requiring a visa to others. Check if your passport will require a visa for entry to the Philippines by selecting the country that issued your passport:

– Please select Country – Afghanistan Albania Algeria Andorra Angola Antigua and Barbuda Argentina Armenia Australia Austria Azerbaijan Bahrain Bangladesh Barbados Belarus Belgium Belize Benin Bhutan Bolivia Bosnia and Herzegovina Botswana Brazil Brunei Bulgaria Burkina Faso Burundi Cambodia Cameroon Canada Cape Verde Central African Republic Chad Chile China Colombia Comoros Costa Rica Croatia Cuba Cyprus Czech Republic Denmark Djibouti Dominica Dominican Republic East Timor Ecuador Egypt El Salvador Equatorial Guinea Eritrea Estonia Ethiopia Fiji Finland France Gabon Georgia Germany Ghana Greece Grenada Guatemala Guinea Guinea-Bissau Guyana Haiti Honduras Hungary Iceland India Indonesia Iran Iraq Ireland Israel Italy Ivory Coast Jamaica Japan Jordan Kazakhstan Kenya Kiribati Kuwait Kyrgyzstan Lao People’s Democratic Republic Latvia Lebanon Lesotho Liberia Libya Liechtenstein Lithuania Luxembourg Macedonia Madagascar Malawi Malaysia Maldives Mali Malta Marshall Islands Mauritania Mauritius Mexico Micronesia Moldova Monaco Mongolia Montenegro Morocco Mozambique Myanmar Namibia Nauru Nepal Netherlands New Zealand Nicaragua Niger Nigeria North Korea Norway Oman Pakistan Palau Panama Papua New Guinea Paraguay Peru Poland Portugal Qatar Romania Russia Rwanda Saint Kitts and Nevis Saint Lucia Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Samoa San Marino Sao Tome and Principe Saudi Arabia Senegal Serbia Seychelles Sierra Leone Singapore Slovakia Slovenia Solomon Islands Somalia South Africa South Korea South Sudan Spain Sri Lanka Sudan Suriname Swaziland Sweden Switzerland Syria Tajikistan Tanzania Thailand The Bahamas The Democratic Republic of the Congo The Gambia The Republic of the Congo Togo Tonga Trinidad and Tobago Tunisia Turkey Turkmenistan Tuvalu Uganda Ukraine United Arab Emirates United Kingdom United States Uruguay Uzbekistan Vanuatu Venezuela Vietnam Yemen Zambia Zimbabwe

• Open Data Portal
• Official Gazette
• Office of the President
• Sandiganbayan
• Senate of the Philippines
• House of Representatives
• Department of Health
• Department of Finance
• Supreme Court
• Court of Appeals
• Court of Tax Appeals
• Judicial Bar and Council
• Bureau of Immigration (BI)
• Bureau of Customs
• Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA)
• National Bureau of Investigation (NBI)

E-TRAVEL REGISTRATION REMINDER

The Philippine Embassy in Washington D.C. reminds the public that all travelers to the Philippines are required to register at https://etravel.gov.ph/ , which is an online portal for the implementation of the electronic passenger registration and Health Declaration Checklist (HDC).

e-Travel registration is FREE OF CHARGE and does not collect or require any form of online payment. Please beware of fake, fraudulent, or scam websites and entities, which require payment upon registration.

The website https://etravel.gov.p h / is the ONLY OFFICIAL registration website for all travelers to the Philippines.

• phembassywdc
• July 21, 2023

Traveling to the Philippines: How to Get eTRAVEL QR CODE Online (Arrival Card)

Are you traveling to the Philippines? ALL incoming international travelers including Filipino citizens and foreigners, adults and children, must secure an eTravel QR code online 72 HOURS or THREE DAYS before your arrival.

Just like the old One Health Pass and eArrival Card, this new eTravel QR system serves as an all-in-one online platform for the arrival card, health declaration, and contact tracing.

But don’t worry, it’s easy to get one. In this article, we’ll walk you through the process one step at a time. Here’s how to do it.

WHAT'S COVERED IN THIS GUIDE?

1. Go to eTravel official website.

The official website is https://etravel.gov.ph .

Make sure it’s the legitimate website. Note that eTravel QR Code is FREE of charge. If you landed on a website requiring you to pay for the service, it’s a scam.

2. Start your registration.

On the home page, you’ll see the registration section. For Filipino citizens, click the PHILIPPINE PASSPORT HOLDER box. Then, start entering the following details:

• Transportation Type
• Date of Arrival
• Email Address

Tick the DATA PRIVACY AND AFFIDAVIT OF UNDERTAKING box. It’s easy to miss because the tick box is quite small, but you’ll find it before the CONTINUE button.

When you check that, a page will pop. Read first, then click the YES, I AGREE button.

Finally, hit the CONTINUE button.

3. Provide your Personal Information.

Enter the following details:

• Passport Number
• Citizenship
• Country of Birth
• Mobile Number

If the system detected that you belong to the (legal) working age group, it will require you to answer the OCCUPATION section. Choose your professional field. If you can’t find it in the choices, select OTHERS . When you are done, click NEXT .

4. Enter your address.

You will be asked to provide your specific address down to house number or unit number.

If you live in Metro Manila, choose National Capital Region or NCR.

5. Submit your travel details.

Enter the following travel information:

• Arrival Date
• Country of Origin
• Purpose of Travel
• Flight Number
• Seat Number (optional)
• Name of Airline
• Airport of Arrival
• Traveller Type (aircraft passenger or flight crew).

When you are done, click NEXT .

6. Accomplish the Health Declaration Form

This includes your Vaccination Details. If you are fully vaccinated, answer NO for the section asking if you have a negative Antigen Test result. After that are the usual ‘Yes or No’ questions about history of exposure and if you’ve been sick in the past 30 days. After answering all the items, click ‘NEXT’.

7. Review the information you encoded.

Read the summary of all the details you provided. If you need to change or correct something, just click the pencil symbol on the upper right portion of the category you want to edit. If you are good and you have nothing to correct, click SUBMIT .

8. Download your QR Code.

Congratulations! You will instantly receive your QR Code.

Don’t forget to download or screenshot it! You’ll be presenting it upon arrival in the Philippines.

• If your QR Code page is GREEN , it means you met the travel requirements and you can directly go to express lane where you will have the BOQ officer scan your QR Code.
• If your QR Code page is RED , you have to let the Quarantine Officer manually verify the required additional documents to determine if you are compliant with the entry protocols set by the Philippine government. Travelers who usually get RED-marked QR Code are the unvaccinated and the partially vaccinated. Again, check the entry guideline set by the Philippine Government first before traveling to the Philippines.

One QR Code is issued per transaction and per entry. You can only use it once and you need to register again and get a new QR Code the next time you travel to the Philippines.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

I want to change something after generating the qr code. how to correct it.

You can still edit your info if you noticed a typo error or you entered wrong data. However, note that you can only do this BEFORE it gets validated or verified by the BOQ officer upon your arrival sa Pilipinas. Ensure that you make your corrections before your flight to the Philippines.

To do this, just go to the main page or home page of eTravel, then click the UPDATE REGISTRATION button. Provide your reference number or transaction number and birth date.

At what point of the airport process should I present the QR code?

From the team’s experience, we were asked to present our QR Codes at these stations:

• Check-in Counter, before departure abroad (at the country of origin)
• Bureau of Quarantine Area, after deplaning and before the Immigration counters in the Philippines. The staff/officers will be scanning the QR code. It’s a very quick and smooth process if you have a green QR code.

The staff may also ask for it at the boarding gate (country of origin/abroad), so just ready your copy during these times.

ATTENTION! Travel requirements change from time to time, so it’s best to check with the government of the country you want to visit the updated travel restrictions and requirements before you travel. For the Philippine’s updated entry requirements, you can check the official eTravel website: https://etravel.gov.ph/entry-guidelines.

Do I still need to accomplish One Health Pass and eArrival Card?

No need. The eTravel has officially replaced the now obsolete One Health Pass and eArrival Card starting 2 December 2022.

To be honest, all these systems are very similar. The changes are not too drastic. Some items were removed such as the Philhealth Number, and then some required items are now optional. The noticeable difference is not really the content but the appearance or the user interface.

Do I have to pay for eTravel QR Code? How much is the charge?

No, you don’t need to pay anything for the eTravel QR Code. It is FREE of charge. If you landed on a website requiring you to pay for the service, it’s a scam.

Is there a Tagalog version of this article?

Yes. Ganito Friend has a Tagalog video version on YouTube. You can find it here .

More Tips on YouTube ⬇️⬇️⬇️

Is this post helpful to you?

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what option should I choose after my vacation in let’s say Japan, and I’m just going back home to the Philippines?

purpose of travel: what option should I choose after my vacation in let’s say Japan, and I’m just going back home to the Philippines?

I’m vaccinated with j&j. do I need to have booster for my etravel application

Hi Mary Grace, ‘yan ung 1 dose lang po ano? Afaik, hindi na required ang booster now.

yes po.color blu3 nging color ng qr code ko then n/a Yung lumabas dun sa health survey.ok lng po b yun?

ohhh.. for departure pala ung Blue QR code.. ung health declaration daw will be edited for Arrival na.

naku blue din ung sa akin.. nagskip siya sa health declaration na part. tapos di naman ma-edit. weird.

hello po ano po update sa color blue na qr code po? color blue rin po sakin

nakaalis naman po kayo ng walang issue sa blue QR code?

Ay. Naku di ko po alam pag blue yung QR code. Green and red lang po ung naeencounter namin. Green is diretso na, tas pag red, need pa ng additional docs to verify. Pero pag blue po, hindi ko po alam. :(

Manila to cebu need pa ba etravel again? If Foreign passport holder

Hi just to clarify, do employees fall under worker/labourer? Ty

Pano ung unvaccinated ..no chance po ba mkatravel po? Salamat po sa sasagot?

Wat if the qr code or reference# can’t save immigetly and the fillup form back again for signing? Please helo

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Philippines eTravel Requirements for US Citizens

Philippines one-stop etravel declaration application from the united states.

Traveling to the Philippines from the United States? To ensure a smooth entry, it's vital to understand the Philippines Electronic Travel Registration (eTravel) Requirements .

Here we clarify the entry requirements for US citizens and the Philippine One-Stop Electronic Travel Declaration System application procedure .

We also break down other essential documents you'll need for a hassle-free visit.

Can US Citizens Travel to the Philippines Right Now?

Yes, US citizens are permitted to travel to the Philippines at the moment.

However, you must first make sure you meet the Philippine entry requirements for US citizens.

Do US Citizens Still Need eTravel for the Philippines?

Yes, US citizens are still required to complete the eTravel Declaration for the Philippines to both enter and leave the country . It’s now officially known as the Philippine One-Stop Electronic Travel Declaration System.

Initially introduced as a COVID-19 safety measure and called the eArrivalCard, the eTravel system now serves as a health declaration for the Philippines. It also replaces the paper-based arrival/departure card for the Philippines.

Where Can I Register for the eTravel Philippines as a US Citizen?

US citizens can complete our Philippines eTravel Electronic Traveler Declaration form completely online using any device with an internet connection.

Here's a simplified guide to the application process:

• Access the eTravel Philippines application form
• Choose Your Travel Type : Indicate whether you are arriving (Entering the Philippines) or departing (Exiting the Philippines)
• Select Transportation Type : Choose between Air or Sea transport, and specify if you are disembarking by sea
• Provide Dates : Enter your Date of Arrival (for entry) or Date of Departure (for exit)
• Email Submission : Enter your email address for communication and verification purposes. Sign a declaration confirming the accuracy of your information
• Wait for Approval : Your application will undergo review. If approved, you will receive a PDF of your eTravel QR code via email

Once approved, you can either print the QR code or take a screenshot on your mobile device for presentation upon arrival in the Philippines or when departing the country.

Information US Citizens Need to Declare on the Philippines eTravel

When completing the eTravel Philippines application, you need to provide the following information :

Registration details/Transport Information

• Passport details (Number, Sex, Birth Date, Citizenship, Country of Passport, Occupation)
• Mobile Number (with country code)
• Permanent Country of Residence (Address details)

Travel Details

• Date of Arrival/Departure
• Country of Origin/Destination
• OFW status (if applicable)
• Flight/Vessel details (Name, Number, Airport/Seaport)

Destination Upon Arrival in the Philippines

• Address of accommodation in the Philippines (or select "Transit" if applicable)
• Contact information for the chosen accommodation

Health Declaration

• Information about your current health status and recent exposure to communicable diseases

Additionally, you need to pay the eTravel Application processing fee to submit the form for consideration. Please ensure all details are accurate to prevent processing delays or refusal of your request .

Should I Register for eTravel Philippines before Departing from the US?

You can complete your eTravel form for the Philippines as soon as you know your travel plans . We’ll submit it for official processing at the correct time.

Apply with philippinesetravel.com and your request will be processed in 1 to 2 days . There is also a priority service for delivery in 1 hour.

Benefits of Applying for the Philippine eTravel for Americans with Us

There are several benefits to registering with us over the government Philippine One-Stop Electronic Travel Declaration System application.

What Are the Philippines Entry Requirements for US Citizens?

US citizens can enter the Philippines visa-free for a stay of up to 30 days . To gain entry, they must have the following:

• Passport : Ensure your American passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay. You must have at least one blank page for an entry stamp
• Return or Onward Ticket : You'll need to show proof of a return or onward ticket to another destination
• Approved eTravel Declaration : All international travelers must complete the Philippines eTravel Electronic Traveler Declaration form before arrival and departure by air or sea.

Note : The Philippine Bureau of Immigration (BI) may penalize and detain you if you stay in the country after the "admit until" date that immigration officials have printed on your passport.

Depending on the length of your stay, you may also require an approved visa . Please check Philippine visa requirements in advance to see what you need according to your travel plans.

Entering the Philippines as a US Citizen with eTravel

When planning your trip to the Philippines as a US citizen with an eTravel Declaration, you have the flexibility to select from numerous entry points . These include major international airports and seaports.

The Philippines is well-connected to the United States. Here are some of the main flight routes and their estimated journey times:

• Los Angeles to Manila: Direct flights are available and typically take approximately 13-15 hours
• San Francisco to Manila: Non-stop flights are an option, with an average travel time of around 15-17 hours
• New York to Manila: While flights from the East Coast may have layovers, the total travel time is approximately 18-20 hours

Please note that the journey times mentioned are approximate and can vary based on factors such as flight availability , layovers, and specific flight routes.

It's advisable to check with airlines for the most current schedules and travel durations when planning your trip to the Philippines.

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Philippines To Launch E-Visa For International Travellers Soon

Your travel to the philippines may get easier as the country is launching a new e-visa system for international visitors. more details here..

By: Anushka Goel Published: Jul 10, 2023 01:01 PM IST

Your travel to the Philippines will get easier as the country is launching a new e-visa system for international visitors.

According to the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), the system is expected to be inaugurated before the third quarter of 2023 ends. Talking about this new development, Undersecretary for Civilian Security and Consular Affairs, Jesus Domingo said that the new e-visa will let foreigners, who want to visit the country, apply for the relevant visas online, as reported by Philippines News Agency (PNA) .

More details about the Philippines e-visa

Domingo said, “This will make the visa application process easier, faster, more efficient, and convenient for foreign nationals who wish to visit the Philippines for leisure and business purposes,” states PNA . The e-visa system for the Philippines is being developed by the DFA along with the Department of Information and Communications Technology, adds the report.

According to reports, China was the country with the second-highest number of visitors to the Philippines with 1.7 million tourists in 2019 (before the COVID-19 pandemic), and South Korea was at the top. With the new development, Philippine Ambassador to China, Jaime FlorCruz, says that he hopes it will attract more Chinese tourists and students to the Philippines. He says, “The outbound travel is modest and I think we’re getting a good share of that. But reality is that the Chinese are not yet traveling out of China with full force as they used to.” He adds, “Anecdotally, when I travelled in the airport two days ago, the International Airport of Beijing was probably 20 percent it’s normal traffic (sic).”

However, even though the number of Chinese travellers to the Philippines has not yet reached pre-pandemic numbers, demand for visas is still high, writes PNA . The e-visa facility is expected to boost tourism further as travellers will no longer have to visit embassies to get their visa, letting more travellers plan their trips stress-free.

Check out some more travel experiences here

Hero and Featured Image credit: John Hernandez/Unsplash

Related:  Things You Need To Know About The Philippines Before Visiting

• Philippines
• Philippines travel guide
• travel news

Anushka Goel

Anushka has previously worked with publications such as the Times of India and Being Indian. A graduate from Xavier Institute of Communications, she specialises in entertainment, food and travel. She also likes to write about sustainability and beauty. When not working, you can catch her reading a book, tending to her plants, cooking or playing an instrument. Read Less

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Entry Visas for the Philippines

Entry requirements for the Philippines : All travelers need to obtain the eTravel One-Stop Electronic Travel Declaration System (originally the One Health Pass) to enter the Philippines. This mandatory entry requirement has been introduced by the Government of the Philippines. You can apply here .

Before booking a trip, it is necessary to verify the entry requirements and visa conditions for the Philippines .

Not all travelers must obtain a visa to the Philippines . However, foreign nationals who want to visit the country for short-term stays for tourism, transit, business, study, or employment should apply for a visa in advance.

What Is a Philippines Tourist Visa?

A Philippines tourist visa is a travel permit granted to a foreign passport holder by a consular officer at a Philippine Embassy or Consulate. A traveler visa for the Philippines will be issued after the visa application has been properly examined.

The Philippines visitor visa (a tourist permit) is an entry requirement for citizens of several countries . A tourist visa holder can travel to the Philippines and present their documents at any port of entry.

However, the visa issued is not a guarantee that its holder will be automatically admitted into the country. The final decision is up to the immigration officers at the border.

According to the Philippines Government, a "foreign tourist" is defined as a person reaching the Philippines for a legitimate, non-immigrant purpose such as sightseeing, sports, health, visiting family, training, short-term study (excluding enrollment in a school in the Philippines to pursue a title or degree), religious pilgrimage, business, cultural and scientific activities.

Standard Procedure Requirement for a Philippines Tourist Visa

Foreigners who need a tourist visa for the Philippines must apply in person at an embassy or consulate .

Those who need a tourist visa for the Philippines from an embassy can choose the type of visa depending on the length of validity and number of entries the traveler requires, either:

• Single entry valid for 3 months
• Multiple entry valid for 6 months
• Multiple entry valid for 12 months

However, all of these embassy visitor visas allow a total stay of 59 days in the Philippines , regardless of the number of entries or period of validity.

Applications for minors may be made by a parent or guardian. The minor, with the exception of an infant, will also be required to attend an interview at a Philippines mission along with the person who has presented the application on their behalf.

The following are the minimum requirements for applying for a temporary Philippines visitor visa:

• Passport /travel document (alongside a photocopy of the same) valid for at least 6 months beyond the intended period of stay in the Philippines
• Fully completed visa application forms (incomplete forms will be rejected)
• Passport-size photo of the traveler taken within the previous 6 months , with the applicant’s signature attached to the front of the picture
• Photocopy of a travel itinerary for return or onward journey to the next port of destination.

Applicants will also need a valid payment method to cover the visa fees .

Other document requirements for a visit visa

Additionally, all visa applicants are required to supply proof of sufficient funds to cover the stay in the Philippines. For example:

• Print-out of last credit card/bank account statement
• Deed of ownership of real estate property

Other documents showing the applicant’s ability to financially support themselves while in the Philippines may also be accepted. Please note that it is necessary to supply two or more of these types of documents .

In order to determine whether a visa can be issued, the visa officer can request additional documents at their own discretion.

Do You Need a Visa to Travel to the Philippines?

The visa policy of the Philippines is based on your nationality . Some passport holders can enter the country for a certain period of time without a visa, while others must always have a visa to enter.

Nationalities who can travel to the Philippines without a visa are part of the country’s visa waiver program . These passengers only need their passports to enter.

Countries that do not require a visa for the Philippines for stays of up to 59 days:

Nationalities that do not require a visa for the philippines for stays of up to 30 days:.

All European Union citizens :

• Czech Republic
• Netherlands
• United Kingdom

Other Countries :

• Antigua and Barbuda
• Burkina Faso
• Central African Republic
• Republic of the Congo
• Cote d'Ivoire
• Dominican Republic
• El Salvador
• Equatorial Guinea
• Guinea-Bissau
• Liechtenstein
• Marshall Islands
• New Zealand
• Papua New Guinea
• Saint Kitts and Nevis
• Saint Lucia
• Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
• Sao Tome and Principe
• Saudi Arabia
• Solomon Islands
• South Africa
• South Korea
• Switzerland
• Trinidad and Tobago
• Turkmenistan
• United Arab Emirates
• United States
• Vatican City

Show more >>

Nationalities that do not require a Philippines visa for stays of up to 14 days:

The philippines visa information for short-term stays, the philippines visa on arrival.

The Philippines also offers a visa on arrival (for a fee), that grants a stay of up to 59 days .

The visa on arrival for the Philippines is available to citizens of all countries except the following :

• Afghanistan
• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• North Korea
• Sierra Leone
• South Sudan
• Timor-Leste

The Philippines Online Visa (e-Visa)

The Philippines has soft-launched an online visa (e-Visa) with the intention of streamlining the visa application process. The electronic visa allows eligible travelers to apply for their Filipino travel permit completely online, through a simple digital form.

Currently only citizens of China can use the e-Visa system , however it’s expected that it will become available to more countries in the future.

The Philippines Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)

Citizens of Taiwan may apply for an entry permit by completing a form through the Philippines Electronic Travel Authorization System .

The Philippines eTA is different to a visa . The application process is more straightforward, and it allows the holder to enter the Philippines visa-free.

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Philippines

Travel Advisory July 24, 2023

Philippines - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise increased caution to the Philippines due to  crime, terrorism, civil unrest, and kidnapping.  Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Do Not Travel to:

• The Sulu Archipelago, including the southern Sulu Sea, due to  crime, terrorism, civil unrest,  and  kidnapping .
• Marawi City in Mindanao due to  terrorism  and  civil unrest .

Reconsider Travel to:

• Other areas of Mindanao due to  crime, terrorism, civil unrest,  and  kidnapping .

Country Summary : Terrorist and armed groups continue plotting possible kidnappings, bombings, and other attacks in the Philippines. Terrorist and armed groups may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, markets/shopping malls, and local government facilities. The Philippine government has declared a “State of National Emergency on Account of Lawless Violence in Mindanao.”

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to the Philippines.

If you decide to travel to the Philippines:

• Monitor local media for breaking events and adjust your plans based on new information.
• Avoid demonstrations. 
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.   
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .   
• Review the  Country Security Report  for the Philippines.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

The Sulu Archipelago and Sulu Sea – Level 4: Do Not Travel

Terrorist and armed groups continue to conduct kidnappings on land and at sea for ransom, bombings, and other attacks targeting U.S. citizens, foreigners, civilians, local government institutions, and security forces.

The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in the Sulu Archipelago and Sulu Sea as U.S. government employees must obtain special authorization to travel to those areas.

Visit our website for  Travel to High-Risk Areas .

Marawi City in Mindanao – Level 4: Do Not Travel

Civilians are at risk of death or injury due to conflict between remnants of terrorist groups and Philippine security forces in Marawi.

The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in Mindanao as U.S. government employees must obtain special authorization to travel there.

Mindanao – Level 3: Reconsider Travel

The Philippine government maintains a state of emergency and greater police presence in the Cotabato City area, and in the Maguindanao, North Cotabato, and Sultan Kudarat provinces.

Terrorist and armed groups continue to conduct kidnappings, bombings, and other attacks targeting U.S. citizens, foreigners, civilians, local government institutions, and security forces.

Embassy Messages

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Quick Facts

Sufficient space for an entry visa stamp.

No (for tourist travel under 30 days).

Required for travelers from countries with yellow fever.

50,000 pesos/$10,000.

Embassies and Consulates

U.s. embassy manila.

1201 Roxas Boulevard Manila, Philippines 1000 Telephone: + (63) (2) 5301-2000 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: + (63) (2) 5301-2000  Fax: +  (63) (2) 5301-2017 Email:   [email protected]

U.S. Consular Agency - Cebu City Ground Level, Waterfront Hotel Salinas Drive Lahug, Cebu City Philippines 6000 Telephone:  + (63) (32) 231-1261 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: Please contact the U.S. Embassy in Manila: + (63) (2) 301-2000  Fax: +(63) (32) 231-0174 Email:   [email protected]

Destination Description

See the Department of State’s Fact Sheet on Philippines for information on U.S.-Philippines relations. 

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

Visit the website of the  Embassy of the Republic of the Philippines  in Washington, D.C., for the most current visa information.

If you remain in the Philippines beyond the “admit until” date stamped in your passport by immigration authorities, you may be subject to fines and detention by the  Philippine Bureau of Immigration (BI).

Certain foreigners must apply for an  Emigration Clearance Certificate  (ECC) from BI before they may depart the Philippines.

See the Philippine Bureau of Immigration  (BI)'s website for information about Philippine visas, exit clearances, and Alien Certificate Registration (ACR). 

See the  Philippine Retirement Authority  (PRA)'s website for information about the Special Retiree Resident Visa (SRRV).  

U.S. citizens who intend to work in the Philippines should contact the Philippines Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) for information.

The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors or foreign residents of the Philippines. 

We advise all U.S. citizens against traveling with potentially prohibited items, such as firearms, on their person or in their checked baggage. While at the airport or traveling in country, possession of prohibited items such as live or spent ammunition or firearms, or anything resembling such items -- whether it be a souvenir, gift, or artifact – may subject the traveler to prosecution and stringent penalties by local authorities.  Learn more about how to avoid problems when traveling abroad with firearms.

Check with your airline to determine whether a particular item is allowed for transport, as well as with the appropriate authorities in the Philippines – such as the  Philippine National Police  and  Bureau of Immigration  – as well as the appropriate authorities in any transit countries.

You can find information on  dual nationality ,  prevention of international child abduction , and  customs regulations  on our website.

Safety and Security

Terrorism:  Terrorist groups, and those inspired by such organizations, are intent on attacking U.S. citizens abroad. Terrorists are increasingly using less-sophisticated methods of attack – including knives, firearms, and vehicles – to target crowds more effectively. Frequently, their aim is unprotected or vulnerable targets, such as:

• High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by tourists
• Places of worship
• Shopping malls and markets
• Public transportation systems (including subways, buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights)

U.S. citizens should remain alert to the potential for explosions and bombings as part of pre-planned attacks, as well as the threat of kidnapping.

Terrorist and armed groups continue plotting possible kidnappings, bombings, and other attacks in the Philippines. Terrorist and armed groups may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, markets/shopping malls, and local government facilities.

The Philippine government has declared a “State of National Emergency on Account of Lawless Violence in Mindanao.” On August 24, 2020, dual suicide bombings in Jolo, Sulu, Mindanao, killed 15 people and injured 77 others.

For more information, please visit our website  here .

Crime:  Confidence games (con games), pickpocketing, Internet scams, and credit/ATM card fraud are common. Be wary of unknown individuals who attempt to befriend you, especially just after you arrive in country. Do not accept food, drinks, or rides in private vehicles from strangers, even if they appear to be legitimate. Solo travelers have been drugged and robbed by strangers after accepting an invitation to visit a tourist destination.

Kidnappings, physical assaults, murder-for-hire, and other violent crimes occur in the Philippines. Philippine government law enforcement agencies are engaged in a nationwide counter-narcotics campaign that has resulted in a sharp increase in violence between police and individuals suspected of involvement in the drug trade. As part of this campaign, law enforcement is engaged in aggressive search and buy-bust operations that could affect foreigners.

Taxis or ride-sharing applications are the recommended form of public transportation. However, taxi drivers and/or individuals using stolen taxi cabs have committed robberies. Ask the hotel, restaurant, and/or business establishment to call a reliable taxi service for you.

• Do not enter a taxi if it has already accepted another passenger.
• Request that the taxi driver use the meter to record your fare.
• Wait for another cab if the driver is unwilling to comply with these requests.
• Make a mental note of the license plate number of your taxi, or text it to someone, should there be a problem.

When driving in the city, make certain that vehicle doors are locked and windows are rolled up.

Travelers have been stopped and robbed shortly after leaving Manila Ninoy Aquino International Airport in a taxi or private vehicle. 

One common form of credit/ATM card fraud involves an illicit electronic device attached to ATM card readers that retrieves and records information, including the PIN, from a card's magnetic strip. Refer to the Overseas Security Advisory Council (OSAC) website for more  information .

International Financial Scams:  See the  Department of State  and the FBI pages for information on scams.

Internet romance and financial scams are prevalent in the Philippines. Scams are often initiated through Internet postings/profiles or by unsolicited emails and letters. Scammers almost always pose as U.S. citizens who have no one else to turn to for help. Common scams include:

• Romance/online dating
• Money transfers
• Lucrative sales
• Gold purchase
• Contracts with promises of large commissions
• Grandparent/relative targeting
• Free trip/luggage
• nheritance notices
• Work permits/job offers
• Bank overpayments

Victims of Crime:   U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy for assistance.

Report crimes to the local police at the 911 hotline and contact the U.S. Embassy at +(63)(2) 5301-2000. Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting the crime.

See our webpage on  help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

• Help you find appropriate medical care.
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police.
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent.
• Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion.
• Provide a list of local attorneys.
• Provide our information on  victim’s compensation programs in the U.S.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution.
• Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home.
• Replace a stolen or lost passport.

Domestic Violence:  U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the Embassy for assistance.

Tourism:   Please check with the  Philippine Department of Tourism  before traveling. The safety standards you might expect of transport and tour operators, including adventure activities such as diving, are not always met. Sufficient safety equipment may not be provided, and recommended maintenance standards and safety precautions may not be observed. Always use available safety equipment, such as lifejackets or seatbelts, even if others do not. If appropriate safety equipment is not available, use another provider. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is widely available throughout the country. Outside of a major metropolitan center, it may take more time for first responders and medical professionals to stabilize a patient and provide life-saving assistance. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance . If you are planning to dive, the  Diver’s Alert Network (DAN)  provides information on diving accident management. 

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties:  You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities, prior to practicing or operating a business.

The judicial process in the Philippines typically is lengthy, extending for years rather than weeks or months, and individuals charged with a crime can be held in indefinite pre-trial detention as their case makes its way through the judicial system. Penalties for possessing, using, or trafficking in illegal drugs in the Philippines are severe.

Convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines.

If a traveler is found to have any amount of drugs on his or her person, or nearby, when arriving or departing from the Philippines, he or she will be charged with trafficking. Trafficking is a non-bailable charge, and the maximum penalty is life imprisonment. If you intend to enter the Philippines with a prescribed controlled substance (e.g., medical marijuana), obtain clearance from the Philippine government first. 

Since June 2016, Philippine authorities have conducted a public campaign against illegal drugs. This has resulted in armed confrontations between authorities and suspected drug dealers and users.

Always carry a copy of your passport in the event that you are asked about your citizenship. You may be questioned by authorities if you take pictures of certain buildings, especially government buildings or military installations. Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs could land you immediately in jail.

The Philippine Bureau of Immigration (BI) may consider the participation of foreigners in demonstrations or political rallies in the Philippines to be a violation of the terms of admission. Foreign nationals who participate in demonstrations, political rallies, or other activity deemed anti-government in nature may be detained and deported for violating Philippine immigration laws.

In the Philippines, any adult in the company of a minor under 12 years old who is not related within the “fourth degree” may be subject to a severe penalty. U.S. citizens should be aware of this law both to avoid unlawful behavior and to protect themselves against potentially frivolous accusations.

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the Department of Justice  website.

Arrest Notification:  If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our  webpage  for further information.

Counterfeit and Pirated Goods:  Although counterfeit and pirated goods are prevalent in many countries, they may still be illegal according to local laws. You may also pay fines or have to give them up if you bring them back to the United States. See the  U.S. Department of Justice website for more information.

Faith-Based Travelers:  See the following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report  – see country reports
• Human Rights Report  – see country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTQI+ Travelers: There is no prohibition on entry into the Philippines by LGBTQI+ individuals. Transgender travelers should be aware that immigration officials may require supporting documents if the gender in the traveler’s passport does not reflect the gender expression of a transgender person. According to Philippine law, an individual’s sex must match that assigned at birth as reflected on the official birth certificate, even in cases of post-operative sex reassignment.

Same-sex relationships are not illegal in the Philippines, but they lack legal recognition. No federal law prohibits discrimination against LGBTQI+ individuals. Several cities, however, have passed local ordinances protecting LGBTQI+ rights. Despite these legislative efforts, LGBTQI+ individuals continue to face discrimination and harassment.

See our  LGBTQI+ Travel Information  page and section 6 of our  Human Rights Report  for further details.

Travelers with Disabilities:  Streets, buildings, and public transportation may lack facilities for persons with disabilities. Most public buildings are inaccessible to persons with physical disabilities or mobility impairments.  Government efforts to improve access to transportation for persons with disabilities are limited due to weak implementing regulations.

There are local stores in the Philippines for durable medical equipment (DME) and some pharmacies also carry limited medical supplies and equipment.

• For information regarding disability laws, please visit the Philippines National Council on Disability Affairs website.

Students:  See our  Students Abroad  page and .

Women Travelers:  See our travel tips for  Women Travelers .

For emergency services in the Philippines, dial 911.

Ambulance services are not widely available, and training and availability of emergency responders may be below U.S. standards. Not all ambulances are equipped with state-of-the-art medical equipment.

We do not pay medical bills.  Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.  For more information about TRICARE medical services overseas (a health care program for uniformed service members, retirees, and their families), including possible vaccinations, please visit their Tricare-overseas website . 

Medical Insurance:  Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See  our webpage  for more information on insurance overseas. Visit the  U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. Check with the Philippine Bureau of Customs to ensure the medication is legal in the Philippines.

Vaccinations:  Be up-to-date on all  vaccinations  recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  (CDC)

Air Quality: Visit AirNow Department of State for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates.

The U.S. Embassy maintains a  list of doctors and hospitals  in the Philippines. We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

Health facilities in general:

• Adequate health facilities are available throughout the country but health care in rural areas may be below U.S. standards.
• Public medical clinics lack basic resources and supplies.
• Hospitals and doctors often require payment “up front” prior to service or admission.
• Patients bear all costs for transfer to or between hospitals.
• Psychological and psychiatric services are limited, even in the larger cities, with hospital-based care only available through government institutions.
• Hospitals usually require advance payment or proof of adequate insurance before admitting a patient.  
• U.S. citizens have lodged a large number of complaints about unethical business practices, prices, and collection measures against some of the  hospitals in the Philippines. Travelers should make efforts to obtain complete information on billing, pricing, and proposed medical procedures before agreeing to any medical care.  
• Be aware that some hotels or resorts may have exclusive agreements with medical providers, which may limit your choices in seeking emergency medical attention. 
• Medical staff may speak little or no English. 
• Generally, in public hospitals only minimal staff is available overnight in non-emergency wards. Consider hiring a private nurse or having family spend the night with the patient, especially a minor child.

Medical Tourism and Elective Surgery:

• U.S. citizens have suffered serious complications or died during or after having cosmetic or other elective surgery.
• Medical tourism is a rapidly growing industry. People seeking health care overseas should understand that medical systems operate differently from those in the United States and are not subject to the same rules and regulations. Anyone interested in traveling for medical purposes should consult with their local physician before traveling and visit the  U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  website for more information on medical tourism.
• We strongly recommend  supplemental insurance  to cover medical evacuation in the event of unforeseen medical complications.
• Your legal options in case of malpractice are very limited in the Philippines.
• Although the Philippines has many elective/cosmetic surgery facilities that are on par with those found in the United States, the quality of care varies widely. If you plan to undergo surgery in the Philippines, make sure that emergency medical facilities are available and professionals are accredited and qualified. 

Pharmaceuticals:

• Exercise caution when purchasing medication overseas. Pharmaceuticals, both over the counter and requiring prescription in the United States, are often readily available for purchase with few controls. Counterfeit medication is common and may prove to be ineffective, the wrong strength, or contain dangerous ingredients. Medication should be purchased in consultation with a medical professional and from reputable establishments.
• U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration are responsible for rules governing the transport of medication to the United States. Medication purchased abroad must meet their requirements to be legally brought back into the United States. Medication should be for personal use and must be approved for usage in the United States. Please visit the  U.S. Customs and Border Protection  and the  Food and Drug Administration  websites for more information.

Water Quality:

In many areas, tap water is not potable. Bottled water and beverages are generally safe, although you should be aware that many restaurants and hotels serve tap water unless bottled water is specifically requested. Be aware that ice for drinks may be made using tap water.

Adventure Travel:

• Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about  Adventure Travel .

The following diseases are prevalent:

• Tuberculosis
• Chikungunya
• Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about  Resources for Travelers  regarding specific issues in the Philippines.

Air Quality:

• Air pollution is a significant problem in several major cities in the Philippines. Consider the impact seasonal smog and heavy particulate pollution may have on you and consult your doctor before traveling if necessary.

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety:  Vehicle traffic is dense and unpredictable. The road system is frequently congested, and drivers are often undisciplined. Consider the risks of driving your own vehicle if you are not used to Philippine road conditions. Avoid driving off the national highways and other paved roads, especially at night. Be extra vigilant when crossing the street. Do not expect vehicles to stop.

Traffic Laws:  If you are involved in an accident, contact the local police, and attempt to stay inside your car until the police arrive before engaging with the other driver. Do not attempt to negotiate with drivers until police arrive. Drivers often ignore or do not yield to emergency vehicles, which may delay their arrival to the scene of an accident.

Always have a valid driver’s license and relevant documents with you when driving. Please review the following notices circulated by the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) to avoid scams and requests for bribes from apprehending officers:  List of Traffic Violations and Penalties,  No Contact Traffic Apprehension Policy,   and Procedure in Settling Traffic Violations  The MMDA also publishes guidelines on  what to do during vehicular accidents . 

Public Transportation:  Exercise caution while traveling by inter-island ferryboats or other public transportation. Avoid overcrowded or unsafe transport. There have been 19 major inter-island ferryboat accidents since 2012, two with significant loss of life. U.S. government employees are advised not to use inter-island ferry boat services unless they are the only means of transportation available. There have also been a series of bus accidents due to poor bus maintenance or driver error. While taxis are the recommended form of public transportation, there have been safety issues using taxis. Please refer to our Safety and Security section for more information.

See our  Road Safety page  for more information. Visit the  Philippine Department of Tourism website , the national authority responsible for road safety.

Aviation Safety Oversight:  The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government of the Philippine’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of the Philippine’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the  FAA’s safety assessment page.

Maritime Travel:  Mariners planning travel to the Philippines should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts . Information may also be posted to the  U.S. Coast Guard homeport website  and the  NGA broadcast warnings .

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Philippines . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA ) report.

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• Passports, travel and living abroad
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• Foreign travel advice

Philippines

Entry requirements.

This advice reflects the UK government’s understanding of current rules for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK, for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in the Philippines set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Embassy of the Philippines in the UK .

To enter the Philippines as a visitor, you must have a ticket for your departure. Most airlines will not carry you if you cannot produce your departure ticket.  

You must also register with the ‘e-travel’ system 72 hours or less prior to your arrival.

COVID-19 rules

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering the Philippines.

Passport validity requirements

Your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the date you arrive.

Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Visa requirements

UK passport holders do not need a visa to visit the Philippines for 30 days.

If you overstay your visa-free 30 days without getting an extension , or if you overstay any visa without authority, it is a serious matter. You could face fees and fines, and detention if you cannot pay them, or you could be deported at your own expense.

If you want a visa to live, work, or study in the Philippines, you’ll need to meet the requirements of the Philippine immigration regulations . This includes having certain UK documents (birth certificates, marriage certificates, UK police certificates, school documents) legalised by the Legalisation Office (not by the Philippine Embassy in London).   

Children travelling without their parents

If your non-Filipino children aged 14 or under are travelling without either parent, you must apply for a waiver of exclusion ground for entry into the Philippines .     

Vaccination requirements

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need in TravelHealthPro’s Philippines guide .

Depending on your circumstances this may include:

• a yellow fever vaccination certificate
• a polio vaccination certificate

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of the Philippines . You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Taking money into the Philippines 

You cannot bring in more than 50,000 Philippine pesos. If you are bringing in foreign currency (cash or cheques) worth more than 10,000 US dollars, you must complete a foreign currency declaration form on arrival.

Exit requirements

If you have stayed in the Philippines for 6 months or more on a tourist visa, you must get an emigration clearance certificate ( ECC ) during the 72 hours before you leave the country.    

If you were in the Philippines on a visa issued by the Department of Justice ( DoJ ), the Board of Investments ( BoI ), the Philippine Retirement Authority ( PRA ) or the Philippine Economic Zone Authority ( PEZA ), you will need a travel pass from the department that issued your visa to leave the Philippines. If you have  an ECC , you do not need a travel pass.

Airport tax

If you’re leaving the country from Cebu Mactan airport you must pay a departure tax of 850 Philippine pesos in local currency or the equivalent in US dollars. There’s no longer a departure tax at Manila airport. This information can change and you should check with local authorities before you travel.  

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Philippine Travel Information System

Announcement

You may only register within 72 hours prior to your arrival or departure in the Philippines. Travelers are enjoined to present their eTravel QR code to flight boarding.

Frequently Asked Questions

In response to the IATF directive eArrivalCard will be officially replaced by eTravel which incorporates the health declaration checklist.

What is IATF?

The Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID) is a task force organized by the Government of the Philippines to respond to affairs concerning emerging infectious diseases in the country. The IATF-EID convened in January 2020 to address the growing viral outbreak in Wuhan, China which was eventually called COVID-19. On March 9, 2020, President Duterte called the IATF-EID amidst the rising cases of COVID-19 in the Philippines. The IATF-EID is composed of the following executive departments and agencies: Chair: Department of Health Co-Chair: Department of National Defense Members: Department of Agriculture; Department of Budget and Management; Department of Education; Department of Finance; Department of Foreign Affairs; Department of Information and Communications Technology; Department of the Interior and Local Government; Department of Justice; Department of Labor and Employment; Department of Migrant Workers; Department of Public Works and Highways; Department of Science and Technology; Department of Social Welfare and Development; Department of the Interior and Local Government; Department of Tourism; Department of Trade and Industry; Department of Transportation; Office of the Executive Secretary; Office of the Press Secretary; Presidential Management Staff; Office of the Special Assistant to the President; Commission on Higher Education; Technical Education and Skills Development Authority; National Economic and Development Authority; Office of the Chief Presidential Legal Counsel; and Civil Service Commission.

What does Fully Vaccinated mean?

F“Fully Vaccinated” against COVID-19 is defined as a traveler who has second (2nd) dose in a 2 dose series or a single dose COVID-19 vaccine MORE THAN Fourteen (14) days prior to the date and time of departure from the country of origin/port of embarkation (“Primary Series COVID-19 Vaccination”).

What does Booster mean?

“Booster” shot shall refer to doses administered to a vaccinated population that has completed a primary vaccination series.

Why do I need to register to the eTravel?

Starting 01 September 2021, all incoming travelers to the Philippines are advised to use the eTravel registration system as mandated by IATF Resolution No. 135 dated 26 August 2021.

What is the official website of the eTravel?

The https://etravel.gov.ph/ is the ONLY OFFICIAL registration website for all international inbound travelers to the Philippines.

Do I need to pay for the registration of eTravel?

eTravel registration is FREE OF CHARGE and does not collect or require any form of online payment. BEWARE of fake, fraudulent, or scam websites and entities which require payment upon registration.

Do I need to download an application to use the eTravel?

No. eTravel is an information system that is mobile responsive, and a web based online platform. To use the eTravel, all you need is a smartphone or tablet or laptop or personal computer. You can open the eTravel using a mobile or computer internet browser.

Do I need an internet connection to use the eTravel?

Yes. eTravel is an online platform and therefore can only be used when you have an internet access. It is highly recommended to use eTravel while you have good and stable internet connection.

Can I register few days before the flight (before I travel)?

Yes. You may only register within 3 days (or 72 hours) prior to your arrival in the Philippines. Travelers are enjoined to present their proof of valid eTravel registration prior to flight boarding. It is important that your recent declaration of health condition is within 72 hours before arrival.

Is all information asked in the eTravel relevant to Health Declaration Checklist requirement?

Yes. Although some questions were added so that the system can determine your category based on the IATF requirements such as age, traveler classification, itinerary, etc. so you can be categorized and easily assisted/guided by the health border authorities when you arrive at the airport or seaport.

What is eHDC?

It stands for "electronic Health Declaration Card". This is the same yellow paper form which was previously used to be filled out manually by all arriving travelers in the Philippines and submitted to BOQ upon arrival. Instead of this, the eTravel replaces it digitally and your proof of registration and submission is the QR Code form that you receive upon successful registration with the eTravel.

What is the difference between the Green QR Code and Red QR Code of eTravel?

The GREEN QR Code is issued by the eTravel system when your submission of the required information and attachments are complete and complies with the IATF latest entry protocols ( IATF Resolution No. 2, s. 2022 ) . On the other hand, you will be issued a Reg QR Code in case you have missing requirements and you will be interviewed upon arrival at the airport by a BOQ personnel to manually verify and determine if you will be required to undergo facility-based quarantine and RT-PCR Testing.

What do I need to do after I register?

Take a screenshot or Download of your personal QR Code before closing or exiting the eTravel webiste or application. You will be required to show this QR code to an airline representative before being allowed to board your flight. Upon arrival in the Philippines, you must present this QR code to the BOQ Quarantine officers for verification.

What happens if I have a QR Code issued upon successful registration with eTravel?

If you received a QR Code upon registration with eTravel, you are pre-qualified for the express lane upon your arrival at the airport/seaport. This means that there’s no need to show the other documents to the Quarantine Officer. However, the data are still reviewed and verified by the BOQ before your actual arrival at the airport in case you have submitted wrongful information and/or the supporting documents you have submitted or uploaded, such as the vaccination or COVID-19 test, is incomplete or incorrect, you will be flagged by the BOQ and may still be required to undergo manual verification upon arrival. Therefore, ensure that you have properly filled out your information and submitted the correct document.

What happens if I have a Red QR Code issued upon successful registration with eTravel?

You will be manually verified by the Quarantine Officers and determine if you are compliant with the entry protocol set by the Philippine Government. It is necessary to show the specific documents which will be asked from you by the officer.

What is “Express Lane”?

Express lane has been included in the eTravel process to provide further convenience to the health protocol compliant international inbound travelers. When you are issued a Green QR Code and the information and supporting documents you have submitted during online registration has been approved, you are qualified in the express lane where your Green QR Code will be scanned and tagged for your arrival date and time. There may be no further interview or need for submission of any documents.

What is Manual Process?

Manual process is required for travelers issued with a Red QR Code. This is to verify and determine if you are compliant with the health protocol requirements of entering the Philippines. This also happens when your submitted information or uploaded documents needed evaluation upon arrival.

Does it automatically mean that I will be quarantined if I am manually processed upon arrival by BOQ?

No. If BOQ is able to verify your information and found you to be compliant based on the entry requirements, you will be advised to proceed to Immigration without the need for facility-based quarantine.

Can I print my eTravel personal QR code instead of screenshot?

Yes. You can print this for presentation at airport/seaport of origin and upon arrival in the Philippines. Yet again, for your convenience, you may as well take a screenshot or click download to save your eTravel personal QR code in your smartphone for presentation at the airport/seaport and upon arrival in the Philippines.

I lost the screenshot of my personal QR Code, what do I do?

If you registered within 72 hours prior to your arrival to the Philippines, you may retrieve your personal QR Code and view some of your details using the "Edit Registration” tab in the eTravel website. To open my profile, go to the eTravel etravel.gov.ph/search and enter your reference number and date of birth then press the CONTINUE button as shown in the blue box below.

I made a mistake. Can I still edit my information after I have successfully registered?

For as long as you have not been processed, verified, and tagged as arrived by the border health authorities (BOQ) in the eTravel you may still change some of your information in the eTravel through the “Edit Registration” tab in the eTravel website. You will not be able to edit your data once you have arrived, verified and tagged as arrived by the Quarantine Officer. The editable information are mainly the data that is needed during the issuance of your quarantine certificate (i.e. arrival date, address, other personal info).

I have registered more than once in the eTravel for my travel, which QR code should I use?

You may use either of the QR Code but you should only choose one to present upon your arrival. Only the verified QR Code by BOQ upon your arrival at the airport/seaport is valid for your travel. Presenting different QR code during the process may cause delay or inconvenience for you.

Why can I not use the same QR Code next flight?

In compliance with the Republic Act No. 10173 (otherwise known as the “Data Privacy Act”), all sensitive personal information is immediately deleted from the eTravel database after you have been completely processed based on the quarantine and health protocol set by the Government in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and for disease surveillance and response. Your personal eTravel QR Code is therefore issued per transaction in the system and new registration is required for each travel.

How many days is the quarantine period?

1. FULLY VACCINATED- 7 days 2. PARTIALLY/UNVACCINATED- 10 days

What if the result of my COVID-19 RT-PCR is positive?

You will receive a call from the BOQ Operation Center to give instructions on your isolation procedure.

Which COVID-19 laboratory will test me?

There are twelve (12) accredited laboratories for testing of international inbound traveler to ensure service level agreement. These laboratories are required to visit and conduct testing at your quarantine hotels and are mandated to release the result within 24 hours from the time of testing. Here are the list of laboratories: 1. AL MOLECULAR DIAGNOSTIC LABORATORY 2. CHINESE GENERAL HOSPITAL AND MEDICAL CENTER 3. DETOXICARE MOLECULAR DIAGNOSTICS LABORATORY 4. FIRSTAIDE DIAGNOSTIC CENTER 5. INTRAMUROS MOLECULAR LABORATORY 6. JT CENICA MEDICAL HEALTH SYSTEM 7. KAIROS DIAGNOSTIC LABORATORY 8. PHILIPPINE AIRPORT DIAGNOSTIC LABORATORY 9. PHILIPPINE RED CROSS 10. SAFEGUARD DNA DIAGNOSTICS LABORATORY 11. THE LORDS GRACE MEDICAL AND INDUSTRIAL CLINIC

Can I select which laboratory I will be tested?

Yes, but you may only choose from the list of accredited laboratories. You can select the laboratory when you are processed by the BOQ at the airport/seaport of your arrival. You will be asked by BOQ to choose from the list your preferred laboratory.

What will I present as proof that I have completed the quarantine requirement?

You will need the BOQ Quarantine Certificate as proof of your quarantine completion. You will not be allowed by the Hotel to check out unless you are able to show valid Quarantine Certificate from BOQ.

How do I get the BOQ Quarantine Certificate?

You are only able to get the BOQ Quarantine Certificate if you have been tested by an accredited COVID-19 laboratory and you are found NEGATIVE from COVID-19. BOQ Quarantine Certificate will be issued by the BOQ Medical Team in charge at the isolation facility. Your Quarantine Certificate will only be available if your test is NEGATIVE.

Philippine One-Stop Electronic Travel Declaration System

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From Bangkok in Thailand, to Bali in Indonesia, to Boracay in the Philippines on a single visa? Unified ASEAN visa similar to Schengen in the works

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‘One Destination Visa’ for the ASEAN, unified travel document akin to Schengen pushed

Manila: A single-visa for the 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), similar to Schengen?

It's  the most ambitious project yet for the region, home to 670 million people. It’s much talked about, yet achieved not much headway, so far.

This may change soon.

The ASEAN Unified Visa Scheme is a bold idea. Though not new, the joint-visa programme akin to the Schengen visa model (which covers 29 countries in Europe), is the ultimate goal of the Asian neighbours.

Here’s the lowdown on the unified ASEAN, Schengen-type visa proposal:

What is the name of the visa scheme?

Various names have been proposed at different times:

• “One Destination” ASEAN Visa
• Unified ASEAN Tourist Visa
• ASEAN Single Visa Scheme
• Common ASEAN Visa
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What’s the big idea behind it?

The aim is to bolster the bloc’s travel trade – by attracting more long-haul and high-spending travellers to the region. What’s unclear, given the years the idea has been discussed, is how the states would like to get there.

The ultimate goal: facilitate the movement of non-ASEAN nationals across the region, turning the wide and diverse area into a premier tourist spot. The concept has been under consideration for sometime, deliberated upon at summits and various ministerial meetings.

When did the idea start?

The idea has been on for decades. It gained momentum during the 2016 ASEAN Tourism Forum in the Philippines, where ASEAN member-states officially launched the ASEAN Tourism Strategic Plan (ATSP) 2016-2025.

What’s changed since then?

Recently, Thailand’s Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin reignited the initiative. The Thai leader’s proposal has garnered broad regional support.

The region's tourism sector has welcomed the proposal. If approved by member-economies, it would create a seamless Schengen-like mobility experience.

Which ASEAN members will be covered initially?

Under the current proposal, it would initially cover the six geographically contiguous mainland Asian countries: Cambodia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Thailand and Vietnam (CLMMTV).

Last year, these six countries collectively welcomed 70 million tourists, with Thailand and Malaysia leading, generating approximately $48 billion in tourism dollars.

Thailand's tourism industry plays a crucial role, employing 20 per cent of its workforce and contributing 12 per cent to its $500 billion economy. With aspirations to welcome 80 million tourists by 2027, Thailand has streamlined entry for visitors from diverse nations and diversified its tourism offerings with events.

While it won’t directly rival Europe’s Schengen visa, the ASEAN visa could create the world’s second-biggest area of free movement, and represent one of the most culturally diverse regions on the planet.

Which ASEAN countries are not included in the proposed joint visa programme?

As it stands, the proposal does not include other non-mainland member economies:

• The Philippines,
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How likely is a “unified” ASEAN visa to happen?

It remains under discussion with no set timelines. So it probably won't happen tomorrow. One major challenge: harmonising different immigration apparatuses, and databases. This is the biggest hurdle so far.

Here's why: unlike business or tax regime harmonisation, for example, harmonising immigration policies would be virtually impossible — without creating something akin to the European Union (EU), where countries are almost like one country in all but name. It’s currently hard to imagine how ASEAN could get to that point.

There are other challenges – such as coordinating approvals and establishing standard tourist criteria among participating nations.

Additionally, unlike continental Europe, the fragmented nature of ASEAN and its immigration database pose further hurdles.

Moreover, factors hindering the scheme's realisation include security concerns, internal sharing mechanisms, border control support, visa issuance synchronisation, human resource development, and infrastructure upgrades.

The success of the ASEAN joint-visa programme depends on how fast the states overcome bureaucratic hurdles and garner sufficient support from all participating nations.

Why should the Philippines sign up to the Unified ASEAN Visa scheme?

For one, the Philippines is a prime mover of this drive and is a founding member of the group. More broadly, it will strengthen institutional cooperation within the region. Windfall tourism from neighbouring countries would give other members net benefits.

The scheme also promises to enhance ASEAN security governance by fostering closer inter-agency and regional cooperation, thereby improving border management capabilities, fostering greater ASEAN security governance.

And despite the challenges, the Philippines’s Bureau of Immigration (BI), Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), and embassy officials anticipate the scheme’s overall benefits for the Philippines and the ASEAN region, according to a 2018 study.

The full-member economies of APEC include Australia, Brunei Darussalam, Chile, mainland China, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Peru, the Philippines, Russia, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam.

Why is a ‘scaled-down’ unified ASEAN visa more possible?

A scaled-down “unified ASEAN tourist visa” scenario involving initially the mainland Asian countries – say, for a limited period of 90 days – is more likely to be adopted, observed Ben Hart, Managing Director of Integrity Legal based in Bangkok.

This is because of the initiatives already in place. All member economies are pushing tourism Thailand has been pursuing various tourism drives, including reciprocal visa waiver deals and temporary visa waivers for travellers from key markets such as China and India.

Moreover ,Thailand has set lofty goals for itself – to elevate its status as a tourism hotspot as well as an aviation and logistics hub.

As a group, the 63-year-old ASEAN group aims to move forward with multiple areas of economic cooperation, technical and human resources, among others.

Still, the task is not easy given the challenges of having different foreign policies and disparate rules.

What happens next?

If countries in the region do embark on a common visa, it will mark heightened institutional collaborations within the region, help build greater integration towards a common ecosystem for their citizens and the wider world.

By allowing tourists to travel to any country in the region on one travel document, it will likely add more economic value and spur tourism.

Though it may not come very soon, ultimately, we may see a sort of pan-ASEAN visa coming to fruition at some point in the future.

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Brazil again extends visa exemptions for US, Canada and Australia, this time until 2025

RIO DE JANEIRO — Brazil’s government extended exemptions to tourist visa requirements for citizens of the U.S., Australia and Canada until April 2025, extending a program aimed at boosting tourism that had been scheduled to end Wednesday.

The decision, issued by Brazilian presidency and the Ministry of Foreign Relations late Tuesday, marks the third time Brazil has delayed the visa requirement since President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva took office in 2023.

His predecessor, Jair Bolsonaro, exempted the countries from visas as a means to boost tourism — although all three countries continued to demand visas from Brazilians.

That went against the South American country’s tradition of requiring visas from travelers based on the principle of reciprocity and equal treatment, and prompted Lula’s Foreign Ministry to say it would scrap the exemptions.

“Brazil does not grant unilateral exemption from visiting visas, without reciprocity, to other countries,” the ministry said at the time, while noting that the government stood ready to negotiate visa waiver agreements on a reciprocal basis. It did reach a deal with Japan to ease travel provisions.

The decision to maintain exemptions for the three countries is important for boosting tourism in Brazil, notably from the U.S., Brazil’s official tourism board Embratur said in a statement Tuesday.

Official data shows that nearly 670,000 Americans visited Brazil in 2023, making the U.S. the second largest country of origin after neighboring Argentina.

The government initially postponed the reinstatement of the visa requirement in October, then again in January. At the time, the government said it was still finalizing a new visa system and wanted to avoid implementing it close to the high season, mainly during the New Year’s celebrations and Carnival festivities in February, which attract tens of thousands of tourists.