business travel visa philippines

Philippines Business Visa: Everything You Need to Know

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A Philippines business visa is a legal requirement for foreign entrepreneurs and business owners who wish to engage in commercial activities within the country. It allows you to explore business opportunities, establish partnerships, attend conferences and seminars, negotiate contracts, and conduct market research. Having a business visa ensures that you comply with Philippine immigration regulations, safeguards your business interests, and enhances your professional reputation.

When and Where to Apply for a Philippines Business Visa

Step 1: determine the appropriate visa type, step 2: gather the required documents, step 3: submit your application, step 4: attend the visa interview, step 5: wait for the visa decision, key takeaways.

To apply for a Philippines business visa, it is recommended to initiate the process well in advance of your intended travel date. Ideally, you should start preparing your application three to six months before your planned arrival. The visa application must be submitted to the Philippine Embassy or Consulate in your home country or the country where you hold legal residence. Ensure you have all the necessary documents ready before applying to avoid delays and complications.

How to Apply for a Philippines Business Visa

The Philippines offers different types of visas for business purposes , including the 9(a) Temporary Visitor Visa and the Special Resident Retiree’s Visa (SRRV). The 9(a) visa is suitable for short-term business activities, while the SRRV is more applicable for those planning to retire and establish long-term business ventures in the Philippines.

Prepare the following documents to support your visa application:

Valid passport with at least six months of validity beyond your intended stay
Duly accomplished visa application form
Two recent passport-size photos with a white background
Invitation letter from a Philippine company or organization, detailing the purpose and duration of your visit
Proof of financial capacity to cover your travel expenses
Flight itinerary or reservation
Accommodation details in the Philippines
Itinerary of your planned business activities
Proof of ties to your home country or country of legal residence

Submit your completed application form and supporting documents to the Philippine Embassy or Consulate in person or via authorized representatives. Pay the required visa application fee, which may vary depending on your nationality and the type of visa you are applying for.

In some cases, you may be required to attend a visa interview. This is an opportunity for the consular officer to assess the genuineness of your visit and ask additional questions about your business plans in the Philippines. Be prepared to provide clear, concise answers demonstrating your commitment and intention to engage in legitimate business activities.

After the submission of your application and completion of the interview (if required), you will need to wait for the visa decision. The processing time varies, but it typically takes several weeks. During this period, it’s advisable to refrain from making any non-refundable travel arrangements.

Examples and Tips for a Successful Philippines Business Visa Application

John, an entrepreneur from the United States, plans to attend a business conference in Manila. To support his visa application, he includes an invitation letter from the conference organizer, his flight itinerary, and proof of financial capacity. John highlights the potential business collaborations he intends to explore during his visit.

Provide Comprehensive Supporting Documents To strengthen your visa application, ensure that your supporting documents are complete, accurate, and relevant. This includes all the required forms, letters, itineraries, and proof of financial capability. Providing comprehensive documentation increases your chances of a successful visa application.

Maria, a business owner from Spain, plans to establish a subsidiary of her company in the Philippines. In her visa application, Maria includes a detailed business plan outlining her investment, local job creation, and long-term objectives. She also demonstrates ties to her home country by highlighting her existing business operations in Spain.

Demonstrate Genuine Business Intentions: Philippine authorities are keen on ensuring that business visa applicants genuinely want to contribute to the local economy. Clearly articulate your business plans, investments, job creation, and other relevant details to convey your commitment to the development and success of your business in the Philippines.

A Philippines business visa is essential for foreign entrepreneurs and business owners engaging in commercial activities in the country.
Start the visa application process three to six months in advance to avoid delays.
Gather all the required documents, including an invitation letter, proof of financial capacity, and a detailed itinerary of your business activities.
Submit your application to the Philippine Embassy or Consulate and pay the necessary fees.
Be prepared for a visa interview to demonstrate the genuineness of your visit.
Provide comprehensive supporting documents and clearly articulate your genuine business intentions.
Obtaining a Philippines business visa is crucial for foreign entrepreneurs and business owners to engage in commercial activities.
Start the application process well in advance and gather all necessary documents.
Submit your application to the Philippine Embassy or Consulate and be prepared for a visa interview.
Provide comprehensive supporting documents and demonstrate your genuine business intentions.
Plan your visit carefully and make the most of your business opportunities in the Philippines.

If you’re considering expanding your business to the Philippines, don’t overlook the importance of obtaining a business visa. Follow the step-by-step guide outlined in this article and ensure you have all the necessary documents to set yourself up for success. Embrace the opportunities that await you in the vibrant business landscape of the Philippines.

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Philippine Consulate General

The Republic of the Philippines

PHILIPPINE CONSULATE GENERAL

New york, usa.

A citizen of a foreign country who seeks to enter the Philippines generally must first obtain a Philippine visa, which is placed in the traveler’s passport, a travel document issued by the traveler’s country of citizenship. Certain international travelers may be eligible to travel to the Philippines without a visa if they meet the requirements for visa-free travel.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Visa Reminder

Philippine Visa Policy per Country

Balikbayan Visa-Free Privilege

Extension of Stay

How to Apply for a Visa to the Philippines

Non-Immigrant Visa Requirements

Non-quota immigrant visa requirements.

Downloadable Forms

A visa does not guarantee that the holder will be automatically admitted to the country. The admission of foreign nationals to the Philippines is a function of the immigration officials at the port of entry. Philippine immigration authorities will not allow entry into Philippine airports and seaports for the following foreign nationals:

Those holding non-machine-readable passports (e.g. hand scripted passports); or
Those previously deported from the Philippines or included in the “blacklist order” of the Department of Foreign Affairs or Bureau of Immigration; or
Those with incomplete documentation; or
Those with circumstances that would render them inadmissible for entry, even with a valid passport and visa issued by a Philippine Consulate.

PLEASE DO NOT PURCHASE YOUR AIRLINE TICKET UNLESS AND UNTIL YOUR PHILIPPINE VISA HAS BEEN APPROVED.

The Consulate cannot guarantee the approval, and issuance, of the visa before the applicant’s flight schedule. Applicants, however, may submit a temporary flight booking/reservation to comply with the requirements.

THE CONSULATE WILL NOT:

-Expedite the visa processing to accommodate the visa applicant’s flight schedule; -Refund the visa application fee if the visa is issued later than your flight departure date or if the visa application is denied or cancelled.

PHILIPPINE VISA POLICY

Check if your passport will require a visa for entry to the philippines by searching the table below for the country that issued your passport., balikbayan visa-free privilege.

The following categories of person can avail of Balikbayan privilege: (a) a Filipino citizen who has been continuously out of the Philippines for a period of at least one (1) year from the date of last departure; (b) a Filipino overseas worker (OFW); (c) a former Filipino citizen who was naturalized in a foreign country and holds a foreign passport.

Nationals of countries who fall under Executive Order 408 and are family members (spouse and children holding foreign passports) of a Balikbayan (returning Filipino citizen or former Filipino citizen) are entitled to a visa-free entry to the Philippines for a maximum stay of one (1) year from the date of their arrival in the country. They shall be admitted as Balikbayans on condition that they (i) travel with a Balikbayan and (ii) observe and comply with immigration rules and regulations.

Returning Balikbayans or former Filipinos should present the following to immigration officials at the port of entry:

Passport valid for six (6) months beyond the intended stay in the Philippines;
Proof of former Philippine citizenship (e.g. old Philippine passport or PSA-issued birth certificate). Please note that a foreign passport indicating “Philippines” as your place of birth is not sufficient proof of your previous Filipino citizenship.

Family members of Balikbayans are advised to bring with them proof of relationship or affiliation with the Balikbayan such as marriage certificate, birth certificate, etc.

However, a former Filipino citizen who acquired the citizenship of a country that falls under the visa-required nationals category per Philippine visa regulations, or his/her family member whose nationality also falls under the cited category, is not entitled to a Balikbayan privilege and is required to obtain an entry visa to the Philippines.

For more information on the Balikbayan Privilege, click here: https://immigration.gov.ph/faqs/ scroll down to Visa Inquiry – Balikbayan Privilege

EXTENSION OF STAY

If you wish to stay in the Philippines beyond the authorized period, the foreign national will have to apply for an extension of stay with the Philippine Bureau of Immigration at least one week prior to the expiration of the valid stay. For more information on securing an extension of stay, please visit the following link: https://immigration.gov.ph/faqs/ scroll down to the section on Extension of Stay

The Bureau of Immigration’s eServices platform at https://e-services.immigration.gov.ph/ allows foreign nationals to submit online applications for visa waivers, visa extensions, and other visa-related matters.

HOW TO APPLY FOR A VISA TO THE PHILIPPINES

Under the new Philippine visa regulations, all applications for 9(A) temporary visitor’s visas to the Philippines should be done online at https://www.visa.gov.ph. F or other visa categories , please check the visa requirements being applied for. All visa applications are subject to the approval of the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) in Manila.

Multiple-entry visas may be granted only to business travelers with endorsement from their employer/Philippine counterpart, foreign nationals with proof of filiation with a Filipino citizen or has family in the Philippines. Requests for multiple entry visas are also subject to evaluation and approval from the DFA and will take a much longer processing time. Those not qualified for multiple entry visas are requested to lodge only a SINGLE ENTRY visa on the online visa application system (OVAS) to prevent delays in their visa application.

Submit application via email for pre-evaluation

For applicants travelling to the Philippines temporarily for 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 (9-A visa), visit https://www.visa.gov.ph and complete the online visa application. You should receive an email confirming the submission of your online visa application if you successfully completed the application process. Applicants who lodged their applications online for 9A visas, as well as applicants for other visa categories, need to send one copy each of the documentary requirements for the visa category they are applying for to [email protected] for pre-assessment. The scanned documents must be clear and legible (not blurry or cropped) and in the upright position (not rotated sideways or upside down.

The Consulate assesses the completeness of the emailed documents and endorses the same to the DFA

The Consulate will process the application only upon the submission of complete documentary requirements. The Consulate reserves the right to require the submission of additional documents. Once documents are found to be complete and in order, the Consulate endorses the application to the DFA, which will then decided whether or not to approve the applications and to authorize the Consulate to issue the visa. Any incorrect information in the application form and/or documents submitted may result in the delay or rejection of your application. Misrepresentation is a ground for the refusal or cancellation of your application. Depending on the visa category applied, visa processing time takes 7 to 14 business days (for single entry) and 1-2 months (for multiple entries). Some visa category may require a longer period of evaluation and require prior authorization or approval from the DFA.

Mail the visa application packet

Once emailed documents are determined to be complete and in order AND authority is received from the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs, the applicant will be requested to mail to the Consulate the documents indicated in the Consulate’s email/website relative to the visa category being applied for, taking note of the envelope’s tracking number. Address the mail to: Philippine Consulate General Attention: Visa Unit 556 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10036

Complete Documentary Requirements

Refer to the Consulate’s email or the list of requirements for the type of visa corresponding to the purpose of travel to the Philippines. Include the original passport in the packet as this is where the visa will be stamped. Incomplete submission will not be processed and will be returned at the expense of the applicant.

Please see the section on Visa Fee for the appropriate visa processing fee. Payment should be in the form of money order or cashier’s check payable to the Philippine Consulate General. Do not send cash by mail. Personal checks are not accepted.

Return Envelope

A self-addressed USPS envelope, with the corresponding amount of stamps and tracking number must be included when sending the application. Do not use metered stamps or P.O. Box Return Address. Do not use Fedex. The Philippine Consulate General assumes no responsibility for any delay or loss in the mail, or while the documents are in the custody of the courier service. The applicant should note the tracking numbers of all envelopes used and submitted.

How to Apply for Visa to the Philippines

The consulate reserves the right to request additional documents..

Duly accomplished non-immigrant visa application FA Form No. 2-A , typed or printed legibly in black or blue ink, and signed and notarized;
Electronic or machine-readable passport valid for at least six (6) months beyond authorized period of stay in the Philippines [for email submission, the data page of the passport];
One (1) colored photo 1.77″ x 1.37″ (3.5 cm x 4.5 cm), taken within six months before the date of application, showing a clear front view of the applicant’s face, with a white background; no eyeglasses or sleeveless attire. Digital photographs are not accepted;
Proof of financial capability (such as but not limited to previous three months’ bank statement, income tax return, previous three month’s pay stub, employment certificate from the employer indicating position and salary);
Round trip flight itinerary to country of origin or next country of destination. Please do not purchase an airline ticket unless and until the Philippine visa has been approved. Applicants may submit a temporary flight itinerary by booking a reservation with an airline;
(For non-US citizens) Proof of legal status/residency in the US, e.g. valid US permanent residence permit (green card) or employment authorization card;
Previously issued Philippine visa, if any;
A notarized letter of invitation from the sponsor/reference in the Philippines, indicating the length of stay (inclusive dates), proof of lodging or residence address where the applicant will be staying, and copy of the sponsor’s valid ID; and/or
Hotel accommodation/proof of lodging indicating the length of stay (inclusive dates);
Payment of visa fee (See Visa Fees Section) in money order payable to the “Philippine Consulate General”. Cash, personal checks, credit cards are not accepted
One (1) self-addressed prepaid return envelope, preferably USPS Priority Mail, with tracking number. Do not use metered stamps or P.O. Box Return Address. Do Not use FedEx.

Visa and an approved media accreditation are required for visiting foreign journalists and filming groups. Upon receipt of the complete application documents, the Consulate can make the endorsement to the International Press Center (IPC) through the Department of Foreign Affairs.

Proof of ticket reservation (applicant must be a holder of a roundtrip/onward flight ticket out of the Philippines with departure date not later than 59 days from the date of arrival in the country). Visa processing may take up to 3-4 weeks upon receipt of complete documents and DFA authorization.
Letter from media outfit or news company;
Employment certificate or contract from media company;
List of equipment with certification from the media organization that said equipment will be re-exported at the end of the trip in the Philippines;
Hotel accommodation/proof of lodging;
one (1) self-addressed prepaid return envelope, preferably USPS Priority Mail, with tracking number. Do not use metered stamps or P.O. Box Return Address. Do Not use FedEx.

IPC Accreditation Requirements for Media and Documentary/Filming Group:

List of Requirements
IPC Accreditation Form
Health Declaration Form
Consolidated Crew List

Completed requirements are to be sent to [email protected]

A visa-required foreign national traveling to another country and transiting via the Philippines is required to secure a 9(b) transit visa. Transit period is limited to seventy-two (72) hours or three (3) days in the Philippines.

Round trip flight itinerary to country of origin or next country of destination;
Payment of visa fee (See Visa Fees Section) in money order payable to the “Philippine Consulate General”. Cash, personal checks, credit cards are not accepted;

Visa for seafarers traveling to the Philippines to join a vessel docked at a port in the country.

Signed and notarized letter from employer or manning agency stating the vessel where the applicant will work and the Philippine port where the applicant will board the vessel. (Seamen are allowed to present a one-way plane ticket.). If applicable, also a signed and notarized letter from the counterpart manning agency in the Philippines;
Round trip flight itinerary to country of origin or next country of destination, if applicable;

The Crew List Visa is issued for the entire crew of a registered vessel or aircraft landing in the Philippines. Personnel on the aircraft or vessel whose names are not included in the crew list visa or not possessing a valid individual Philippine entry visa will not be allowed to enter the Philippines.

Copy of Vessel Register showing vessel’s name, official number (IMO) and specification particulars;
Copy of the passport of the Vessel Master / Captain who will be commanding the vessel when it enters the Philippines. The passport must be valid for at least six (6) months from the date of departure from the Philippines. The copy must be printed on A4-size paper.
Copy of the seaman’s record book of the Vessel Master / Captain who will be commanding the vessel when it enters the Philippines. The copy of the seaman’s record book / maritime credentials record must show the page with the latest log entry. The copy must be printed on A4-size paper.
Copy of the crew members’ national passport valid for at least six (6) months beyond intended stay in the Philippines or completion of trip;
Signed letter from the vessel owner, naming the Vessel Master / Captain, identifying the authorized ship agent, requesting multiple entry crew list visa for the vessel’s foreign crew members. The letter must be supported with attachments showing relevant information on the vessel’s multiple port calls.
Three (3) printed copies of the accomplished Crew List Visa Application Form .(refer to instructions below on how to fill up the application form). The digital file of the accomplished application must be emailed to [email protected]
Accomplished Supplemental Form for Crew List Visa ;

Guidelines on Filling Out the Crew List Visa Application Form

The Crew List Visa Application form, downloadable from the Consulate’s website, in MS-Excel has 2 tabs:

(a) the details of the vessel and the journey to the Philippines, and (b) complete list of names and details of crew members and passengers.

Accomplish the Crew List Visa Application Form . The local agent may accomplish the form;
The entries must be entered directly into the MS-Excel file (not written on the printed copy of the file);
The passport of the Vessel Master / Captain must be used for the crew list visa application, even if the Vessel Master / Captain already possesses a valid Philippine visa;
Three (3) copies of the completely accomplished file must be printed on A4-size paper;
The Vessel Master / Captain must review the printed copies and affix his live signature on Section F (Declaration of Captain / Master) of the 3 printed copies;
Email the accomplished digital file of the crew list visa application (the actual MS-EXCEL file, not PDF) to [email protected] with subject line: “Crew Visa Application”;
The local agent must bring the three (3) printed copies of the accomplished form to the Philippine Consulate General and sign Section G (Attestation of Agent) on the printed applications in front of the consular official receiving the application. The local agent pays the required visa fee to the Consulate cashier;
The local agent collects the visaed crew list, which is given to the Vessel Master / Captain for presentation to the Philippine immigration authorities upon arrival in the Philippines.

Please contact the Philippine Trade and Investment Center (PTIC) New York at [email protected]

Holders of diplomatic and official US passports and/or UN Laissez Passer accredited in the United States who will be traveling to the Philippines on official business will need to apply for a visa.

9(e) visas are divided into three types:

9(e-1) – for persons enjoying diplomatic immunities and privileges, including their immediate family members
9(e-2) – for other FGOs who will go to the Philippines in connection with official business for his government; official students or participants in programs under the auspices of the Philippine Government or recognized international organizations, including their immediate family members
9(e-3) – for members of the household to whom 9(e-1) and 9(e-2) visas have been granted
Duly accomplished non-immigrant visa application FA Form No. 2-A , typed or printed legibly in black or blue ink, and signed and notarized. Disregard the notarization requirement if the applicant is personally appearing at the Consulate;
Note Verbale or letter from the mission / international organization.
For Spouse/Child of an FGO: submit legal proof of relationship to principal, i.e. marriage certificate, birth certificate
For Household member: submit photocopy of principal’s data page and visa stamp
Visa Fee: Gratis

Note: In some cases, prior authorization from the Department of Foreign Affairs in Manila is required before the visa is issued.

For inquiries regarding this visa category, send email to [email protected]

The SIRV entitles the holder to reside indefinitely in the Philippines, permitting multiple entry privileges, so long as his investments remain in the Philippines. The SIRV is issued by the Bureau of Immigration upon endorsement of the Board of Investments (BOI).

Please directly coordinate with the BOI at https://boi.gov.ph

The SRRV is a special non-immigrant visa for foreign nationals who would like to make the Philippines their second home or investment destination. The Philippine Retirement Authority (PRA) offers different SRRV options depending on the background and needs of the retiree applicant.

Please directly coordinate with the PRA at https://pra.gov.ph

The 13(a) n on-quota visa is issued to foreign nationals who have contracted a valid marriage with a Filipino citizen, as recognized by Philippine laws. The Filipino spouse should be the petitioner of the visa. The applicant can stay in the Philippines under a tourist visa and apply the status as applicable with the Philippine Bureau of Immigration .

Legal proof of relationship, i.e. marriage contract issued by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) between the Philippine citizen and foreign national or PSA issued Report of Marriage Contracted Abroad;
PSA birth certificate of the Philippine citizen;
Duly notarized petition letter of the Filipino spouse;
US Passport valid for at least six (6) months beyond authorized period of stay in the Philippines. If not a US Citizen, applicant must show proof of legal residence in the US, in addition to the valid Foreign Passport;
Duly-accomplished application form FA Form No. 3 . ( Duly notarized by a notary public );
Six (6) photographs (2″ x 2″) with white plain background, signed on the front left side;
Medical Certification (DFA Form No. 11) duly accomplished by any physician whose signature must be notarized by a notary public. Must be submitted together with chest x-ray in digital image (CD format) and laboratory reports (original and two copies). Medical report must be valid for at least six (6) months prior to date of filing of application;
Police Clearance Certificate taken not more than six (6) months prior to date of filing of visa application;
Proof of the applicant’s financial capacity (e.g. title of real estate property, investment certificate, bank certificate of existing checking or savings account, or notarized Affidavit of Support from a relative in the Philippines);

Please submit above documents in triplicate, arranged in the following order/sequence:

– First Set – All original documents.

– Second Set – Original FA Form No. 3 and copies of all other documents.

– Third Set – same as second set.

The Visa officer will email the applicant on the schedule for personal appearance and interview of both husband and wife once the application has been evaluated.

Temporary Visitor Visa (9A)

For nationals of visa-free countries:

Valid for three (3) months. Regular Processing takes 7-14 working days upon receipt of application.

Visa Valid for three (3) months. Expedite Processing Fee takes 3-5 working days upon receipt of Application).

Valid for six (6) months

Valid for one (1) year

For nationals of Non visa-free countries:

Valid for three (3) months

For Chinese nationals:

Seaman Visa 9(C)

Crew List Visa of Vessels

up to forty (40) crew members 100.00
from 41 to 100 crew members 150.00
from 101 to 200 crew members 200.00
in excess of 200 crew members 250.00
Transit Visa 9(B) $20.00
Treaty Trader/Investor Visa 9(D) $400.00
Student Visa 9(F) $250.00
Pre-Arranged Employment Visa 9(G) 400.00
Non-Quota Immigrant Visas (13A-13G) 150.00

DOWNLOADABLE FORMS

Non-Immigrant-Visa-Application-FA-Form-2
Immigrant Visa Application FA Form 3
9(C) Crew List Visa Application Form
9(C) – Crewlist Visa Supplemental Form
IPC Accreditation Form (for Media)
Medical Certificate Form of Visa Applicant-Dec 2018
Personal History Statement (for visa application)
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Philippines Visa Requirements

Entry requirements for the philippines.

New entry requirements for the Philippines : All travelers need to complete the eTravel One-Stop Electronic Travel Declaration System (originally the One Health Pass) to enter the Philippines. You can apply here .

When visiting the Philippines, it is essential to meet the country’s visa requirements .

Whether or not a foreign citizen needs a visa for the Philippines depends on a variety of factors , the main ones being:

The country that issued the visitor’s passport
The traveler’s reason(s) to visit the Philippines
The intended length of stay

A number of nationalities can enter the Philippines visa-free for short-term stays that do not involve carrying out remunerated activities. Others can obtain a travel permit online , while some may have to request a traditional visa through an embassy or travel agency.

Entry Requirements for Travel to the Philippines

When traveling to the Philippines, it is extremely important to meet all the entry requirements established by the government.

Depending on the traveler’s nationality, they may need one of the following travel permits :

Philippines eTA

This entry permit can only be applied for by Taiwan citizens by filling out a form

Philippines visa

Citizens of many countries are required to apply for a visa to travel to the Philippines

New : All travelers need to complete the One-Stop electronic Travel Declaration system

All foreigners must make sure to check the policies and requirements relevant to the visa of their choice before applying for a permit and departing for the Philippines.

A visitor visa to the country can be obtained through an Embassy or Consulate. Citizens of Taiwan need to complete an online form with a valid passport in order to obtain their eTA for the Philippines .

Travel visa and documents required to enter the Philippines

The Philippines has visa exemption agreements with several countries around the world.

Therefore, a great number of nationals are not required to apply for a visa. However, all foreigners who wish to enter the Philippines must meet the following requirements :

Passport valid for 6 months past the expected stay
Roundtrip flight itinerary
Hotel or accommodation reservations
Cash, debit or credit card

Upon arrival in the Philippines, incoming passengers must go through border control.

All travelers should keep the following in mind regarding Philippine customs regulations :

Firearms are forbidden
Certain items like alcohol and tobacco can be imported duty-free in small amounts only
Foreign currency of more than US$10,000 and local currency of more than P10,000 must be declared upon entry or exit

Before heading to the country, non-Philippine nationals should be prepared to show the airline at the point of departure to the Philippines a ticket for onward travel . Otherwise, most airlines will make them buy one on the spot or refuse them entry into the aircraft.

These are some of the visa requirements for the Philippines:

Valid passport or equivalent travel document — this must continue to be valid for a minimum of six (6) months after leaving the Philippines
Completed visa application form with the required information
Photos of the applicant (passport style, 2 copies)
Proof of traveling for tourism or business
Return or onward tickets as proof of intention to leave the Philippines
Method of payment for the visa fees

Another important entry requirement for the Philippines to keep in mind is that all travelers must bring proof of financial means . This can be provided by showing a sufficient amount of cash or a debit or credit card.

Do I Need a Philippines eTA or a Visa?

Citizens of Taiwan will need to have a printed copy of their electronic visa waiver (eTA) , as well as all the other entry requirements.

For some travelers, the Philippines visitor visa is necessary in order to enter the country. In this case, specific supporting documentation requirements apply.

Applications for a temporary visitor’s visa must be made in person at an embassy or consulate. Philippines visa requirements for tourist permits include , among others, having a valid passport.

In the case of a minor (under 18 years of age) , the application must be made by their parent or guardian.

Who does not need a Philippines visa?

The following nationals can enter the Philippines visa-free for up to 59 days :

The below list includes countries whose citizens can enjoy a trip to the Philippines for up to 30 days without a visa :

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

And the European Union citizens:

Czech Republic
Netherlands
United Kingdom

Travelers from the below nations can remain in the Philippines for up to 14 days without a visa :

Visitors from all of the above countries who plan to stay longer than indicated or travel for reasons that are not covered by the visa-free agreement must obtain a valid visa or travel permit before entering the Philippines.

Those who are not on the aforementioned lists must also hold a visa in order to cross the border.

Regardless of their nationality, all foreign visitors must make sure to abide by the visa requirements and conditions not only when applying but also during the entirety of their stay in the Philippines.

Philippines eTA requirements

At this time, only citizens of Taiwan are eligible to obtain an online visa waiver for the Philippines. Visa requirements for the Philippines electronic authorizations include:

A valid Taiwanese passport
A current email address to receive important notifications about the eTA application
A debit or credit card to pay for the visa fee.

All fields in the online form must be accurately filled out in English unless otherwise stated.

The information provided on the online application must match the details on the applicant’s passport.

An approved travel authorization should be printed on a clean A4 sheet . The Philippine electronic visa waiver is granted to individuals, not groups, therefore each applicant’s authorization must be printed on a separate sheet of paper.

The approved travel authorization will include information regarding its validity and the amount of time that the eTA holder is allowed to stay in the country.

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Business Customs

The Philippine business environment is highly personalized. Business matters are customarily held face-to-face, and Filipinos often prefer an atmosphere of calm and restraint, avoid confrontation, and typically offer a polite reply coupled with a smile rather than outright negative feedback to the other party’s ideas. A “yes” may mean several things, but not always affirmative.

As a show of respect and acknowledgment of certain social hierarchies, Filipinos customarily address individuals by their professional titles (Attorney, Doctor, Engineer). After initial introductions, most business contacts insist on using a more informal approach including the use of nicknames. When dealing with high-ranking government and military officials, it is best to address them by their formal titles.

Meetings do not necessarily start promptly, so allow for delays due to traffic, inclement weather, prior engagements, or last-minute changes. If a Filipino client runs late for an appointment, their assistant or the individual will typically personally call or advise if they are on their way.

Handing out business cards (preferably bearing your position or title) is a standard practice. However, the way the cards are exchanged tends to be relatively informal compared to other Asian cultures. It is common for government contacts/government agencies to use Gmail or Yahoo accounts as their primary or alternate business email address.

English is the official business language, including correspondence, contracts, and other documents. However, Filipinos commonly hear “Taglish” (a combination of Tagalog, a regional dialect from which the Filipino language is primarily based, and English, or shifting back and forth between the two languages) during informal conversations.

Body language and hand gestures (a raised eyebrow, a faint smile, or a scratch on the head) are integral to how Filipinos express themselves. Social media messaging apps such as WhatsApp and Viber are now popular for communicating and reaching out to business contacts and clients. Texting or sending short, often abbreviated messages through mobile phones is another method of business communication. Do not be surprised if, in the middle of a meeting, an individual suddenly takes out their mobile phones to answer a call or send a message.

Business lunches and dinners are commonly arranged over the phone and confirmed by a secretary or assistant. The person extending the invitation customarily pays. Filipinos tend to be lax in replying to RSVPs and telephone follow-up calls are often required.

As a predominantly Catholic country, the Philippines observes the Lenten season, and all commercial and business establishments are closed on Holy Thursday and Good Friday. The Philippines celebrates one of, if not the longest Christmas seasons in the world and beginning on or around the week of December 15 through the end of the year. During this period, office-related activities tend to wind down to give way to holiday parties.

Common business attire is a two-piece suit or the native “Barong Tagalog” (a lightweight, short- or long-sleeved shirt, usually linen, worn without a tie). Light pantsuits or dresses are appropriate for women. Dinner invitations can either be formal or business casual, so it is best to confirm with the host.

Travel Advisory

The Department of State’s travel advisory for the Philippines can be found in this link: Philippines

Visa requirements

U.S. citizens who are traveling to the Philippines for business and tourism purposes can enter the Philippines without visas for a stay not exceeding thirty (30) days, provided they hold valid tickets for their return journey to port of origin or next port of destination and their passports are valid for a period of at least six (6) months beyond the contemplated period of stay. The allotted thirty (30) days cannot be extended immediately at the port of entry.

U.S. citizens who wish to stay for more than thirty (30) days should apply to the Bureau of Immigration offices or Satellite offices . The applicant must pay the corresponding immigration fees after securing their extension.

Information on fees for extension of stay and other Immigration fees are available at the Bureau of Immigration website.

U.S. Companies that require travel of foreign businesspersons to the United States are advised that security evaluations are handled via an interagency process. Visa applicants should visit the following link: State Department Visa website .

Philippine Peso is the local currency in the Philippines. The currency code for Pesos is PHP.

Currency exchange centers/money changers can be found in commercial centers across the country. Major credit cards and debit cards are widely accepted in most establishments. Banks are generally open from 9am to 4pm, Monday to Friday. Some banks with branches located inside malls are open on weekends. 24-hour ATMs can be easily found in metropolitan areas.

Telecommunications/Electronics

There are three mobile operators in the Philippines. Mobile phone services in the Philippines are affordable at $0.15 average per minute call, while an SMS or text message costs $0.02. With the affordable rates, Filipinos prefer texting over phone calls as mobile signals can be weak due to a lack of cell sites. Broadband services are available at home and for office use and subscribers should expect rates similar to that in the U.S.

Electrical outlets in the Philippines use 220 volts. This is compatible with most electronic gadgets that allow 110-220 volts.

Transportation

Many major international airlines fly between Manila and the United States on a regular basis. Typically, these flights are indirect with layovers or stopovers before they reach their destination (e.g., Delta Airlines flies from Manila to the U.S. via Incheon; United flies from Manila to U.S. via Guam). Philippine Airlines has direct flights to the U.S. United Airlines will have direct flights to the U.S. starting October 29, 2023.

For first-time visitors to major urban cities such as Metro Manila, the use of accredited hotel taxis with the assistance of the hotel staff is more dependable than metered taxis hailed on the street. When using a metered cab, ask the driver to turn on the meter as you enter to avoid being overcharged. Hotel taxis charge a flat rate for travel to specified locations. It is best to ask the hotel staff or a local business contact how long it would take to reach one’s destination, considering such factors as traffic conditions during peak driving hours and alternate routes. When taking a regular cab, it would help to know the typical cab fare to avoid being overcharged. Many taxi fleets now offer services.

Car rentals are also available with or without a driver/chauffeur, and costs will vary depending on the length of use, the type of car, and the itinerary. U.S. franchises such as Avis and Hertz operate in the Philippines and accept an international driver’s license for up to 60-90 days.

Grab, a transport network vehicle services app is widely used in major cities like Metro Manila, Metro Cebu, and Davao.

Buses, elevated rail transport such as the Light Railway Transit (LRT) and the Metro Rail Transit (MRT), and “jeepneys” transit major and minor routes within Metro Manila and serve the general commuting public. They are not recommended for business travelers in Manila. UV Express, a type of share taxi service, is also an alternative mode of public transportation. In most provinces and major cities outside Manila, buses, jeepneys, and tricycles are the more typical modes of land transport. Overcrowding is common.

The Philippines has over 70 airports, with four major international airports: Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) in Manila, Clark International Airport in Pampanga, Mactan Cebu International Airport (MCIA), and Davao International Airport. The country’s primary international gateway, NAIA, currently operates four terminals in Manila. Passengers are required to be at the airport at least two hours before departure for domestic flights and three hours for international flights (particularly on U.S. - bound flights). Terminal fees are charged for departing passengers on some domestic and international airports. Delays are common due to airport congestion or weather.

Maritime transport is a major conduit for moving goods and people. Inter-island vessels or ferries service major island routes. Being an archipelago, the Philippines has more than a thousand ports, about a dozen of which are major international ports that serve as cargo and/or passenger terminals. Travel by boat or ferry tends to take longer and is less convenient than air travel, but there are areas in the Philippines that can only be reached through this mode of transport. Roll-on, roll-off vessels (RO-RO) carrying passengers and cargo are also available to service inter-island travel and commerce. Ferry transport in recent years has experienced serious accidents with significant fatalities.

It is common to hear Filipinos use a mixture of English and Filipino/Tagalog words or phrases, known as “Taglish” in their everyday conversations. In provinces where Filipino is not the lingua franca, primary educational instruction is conducted in vernacular languages.

Hospitals located in major cities are modern and well-equipped to address the general healthcare needs of business travelers. Five hospitals, all located in the National Capital Region, are accredited by the Joint Commission International (JCI). These hospitals employ excellent medical staff and are equipped with the latest medical technology.

Most local pharmacies carry standard medicines, including vitamins, over-the-counter medicines, and first-aid supplies, readily available at prices equivalent to the U.S.

Sanitation in the Philippines is lower than in the U.S., as overpopulation causes a strain on water supply, sewage, garbage disposal, street cleaning, and utilities.

Americans are advised not to drink untreated water. Bottled beverages are inexpensive, plentiful, and safe. Ice is suspect. It is not advisable to buy food from street peddlers.

The Philippines continues to be susceptible to infectious diseases such as leptospirosis, dengue, meningococcemia, and tuberculosis. The coronavirus situation emphasized the risks and highlighted the need to improve preparedness at local, national, and international levels against future pandemics. New pathogens will continue to emerge and spread across regions and challenge public health, signifying grim repercussions and health burdens. These already cause countless morbidities and mortalities, disrupting trade and negatively affecting the economy. Several social determinants contribute to the emergence of novel infectious diseases and the resurgence of controlled or eradicated infectious diseases in our country. These contributing factors are namely:

Demographic factors like population distribution and density,
International travel/tourism and increased OFWs,
Socioeconomic factors,
Environmental factors.

The latter includes the Philippines’ vulnerability to disasters, man-made ecological changes, and urbanization, which creeps and destroys animal habitats.

Health updates and disease alerts are available on the Philippine Department of Health website (https://doh.gov.ph/).

A list of recommended vaccinations when traveling to the Philippines can be found on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) website.

Local time, business hours, and holidays

Philippine Standard Time is 8 hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time/Greenwich Mean Time (UTC/GMT), and 12 hours ahead of U.S. Eastern Standard Time (EST). The Philippines does not observe daylight saving time.

All offices observe the following public holidays: January 1: New Year’s Day; Easter Holidays: March to April Maundy Thursday and Good Friday; April 9: Bataan & Corregidor Day and Heroism Day; May 1: Labor Day; June 12: Philippine Independence Day; August 21: Ninoy Aquino Day; August 27: National Heroes Day Holiday; November 1: All Saints’ Day; November 30: Bonifacio Day; December 25: Christmas Day; December 30: Rizal Day; Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha; and Chinese New Year. June 24, Manila Day, is observed only in the City of Manila, while August 19, Quezon Day, is observed only in Quezon City. Special public holidays such as Election Day and EDSA Revolution Day may be declared by the President and are observed nationwide.

The U.S. Embassy in the Philippines observes the following U.S. public holidays: New Year’s Day, Martin Luther King Day, Presidents Day, Memorial Day, Juneteenth Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Columbus Day, Veterans Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day.

A complete list of Philippine Holidays for 2023 can be found in the government website: Holidays | Official Gazette of the Republic of the Philippines .

Temporary Entry of Materials and Personal Belongings

All arriving travelers must fill out a Customs Baggage Declaration Form (CBDF) which will be submitted to the Customs Officer at the customs arrival area for clearance. Arriving passengers are required to declare all goods carried or brought, indicating the quantity and value.

A businessperson hand-carrying a personal laptop computer does not have to post a cash bond after demonstrating that the item is a personal effect and is not new. Laptops, considered tools of the trade, may be cleared without the required documentation such as a Certificate of Identification. Only one laptop per traveler is allowed under current regulations.

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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

View Alerts and Messages Archive

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

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General inquiry.

Go to the top of the Visa webpage and select the country that issued your passport in the drop-down menu to determine if you are required to apply for a Philippine temporary visitor’s visa.

The online visa application system is currently available for foreign nationals applying for a temporary visitor’s visa. Visit https://www.visa.gov.ph to lodge your application. For other visa types, you may wish to visit the nearest Philippine Embassy or Consulate for details.

You may inquire at the Philippine Foreign Service Post nearest to your place of residence here .

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

Passport/travel document valid for a least six (6) months beyond the intended period of stay in the Philippines;
Duly accomplished visa application forms;
2 pieces of passport-sized photos;
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 documentary requirements may be requested based on your purpose of visit or visa subtype to be applied for, which can be found in the Visa webpage and https://www.visa.gov.ph/ .

Foreign nationals exceeding their authorized stay in the Philippines should proceed to the Bureau of Immigration ( https://immigration.gov.ph/ ) to apply for an extension.

Visit the following pages if your visa application is endorsed by any of the following:

Philippine government entity
Private entity
Foreign government entity
Accredited international organization

Foreign nationals allowed to enter the Philippines without a visa for a maximum period of stay of thirty (30) days should meet all of the following requirements:

The applicant is travelling to the Philippines for business or tourism;
Valid tickets for return to port of origin or next port of destination;
Passport valid for at least six (6) months beyond the contemplated period of stay; and
The applicant is not subject of deportation/blacklist order of the Department and the Bureau of Immigration.

Visit the Visa webpage and select the country that issued your passport in the drop-down menu to determine if you are required to apply for a Philippine visa.

If the foreign national will pass through Philippine immigration during transit in the Philippines, a transit visa will be required. Please proceed to the Philippine Foreign Service Post nearest to your place of residence for inquiries on applying for a transit visa. You may check the Philippine Foreign Service Post nearest to your place of residence here .

Foreign nationals entering the Philippines for employment may secure a pre-arranged employment visa through the following options:

File a petition through a Philippine-based employer in the Bureau of Immigration for the issuance of pre-arranged employment visa, after which the visa will be issued at the Philippine Foreign Service Post located in the applicant’s country of origin or place of legal residence; or
Apply for a temporary visitor’s visa abroad and convert it into a pre-arranged employment visa at the Bureau of Immigration upon arrival in the Philippines.

You may check the Philippine Foreign Service Post nearest to your place of residence here .

Foreign students may secure a student visa through the following options:

The Philippine-based university shall submit the application for a student visa of the applicant together with the requirement at the Visa Division of the Office of Consular Affairs, Department of Foreign Affairs in Manila, after which the visa shall be issued at the Philippine Foreign Service Post located in the applicant’s country of origin or place of legal residence; or
Apply for a temporary visitor’s visa abroad and convert it into a student visa at the Bureau of Immigration upon arrival in the Philippines.

You may check the Philippine Foreign Service Post nearest to your place of residence here.

Visa-free nationals who are family members (spouse and children holding foreign passports) of a Filipino citizen may enter the Philippines without a visa for a period of one (1) year under the Balikbayan Program, provided that they should be travelling with the Filipino national.

Visa-required nationals should still apply for a temporary visitor’s visa prior to entering the Philippines. Visit the Visa webpage and select the country that issued your passport in the drop-down menu to determine if you are required to apply for a visa.

Qualified business persons may apply for an ABTC by visit this link: https://dfa-oca.ph/visa/visa-guidelines/apec-business-travel-card/

Holders of valid ABTCs may enter the Philippines without a visa with streamlined privileges, provided that the purpose of their visit is business.

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Philippines- Business Travel Philippines- Business Travel

Business customs.

The Philippine business environment is highly personalized. Business matters are always best dealt with on a face-to-face basis in a warm, polite, and pleasant atmosphere. Filipinos often prefer an atmosphere of calm and restraint, avoid direct confrontation, and typically offer a polite reply coupled with a smile rather than outright negative feedback to the other party’s ideas. A “yes” may mean several things, not always affirmative. As a show of respect and acknowledgement of certain social hierarchies, Filipinos usually address people by their titles (for example, Architect Cruz, Attorney Jose, Dr. Romero), although most contacts will quickly insist on using a more informal approach (such as addressing them by their nicknames) after the initial introductions. When dealing with high-ranking government and military officials, it is best to address them by their formal titles (e.g., Secretary Flores, General Alfonso, Director Santos, Admiral Lopez, etc.). Meetings do not necessarily start promptly, so allow for delays due to traffic, inclement weather, prior engagements or last-minute changes in the schedule or itinerary, especially when meeting with VIPs or high-ranking officials. If a Filipino client is running late for an appointment, their assistant or the individual will typically personally call or advise if he or she is on their way. Handing out business cards (preferably bearing your position or title) is standard practice, although the manner in which the cards are exchanged tends to be rather informal as compared with other Asian cultures. If a Filipino contact gives you a personal number (home or mobile phone) aside from what is indicated on the business card, it is usually an invitation to call, and is a good sign for establishing cordial relations. It is not uncommon for business associates to make personal inquiries about family, marital status, ethnicity, hobbies and after-hours activities or other similar questions typically considered by Americans as rather personal. Be prepared to discuss generalities of family hobbies, sports and American customs, as Filipinos see this as a way to become better acquainted. The U.S. businessperson should avoid, as much as possible, personally grappling with Philippine bureaucracy. The Bureau of Customs, for instance, requires dozens of signatures in order to clear air cargo, which can be expedited with the use of local customs brokers. The Filipino approach is to delegate to staff or a business associate capable of navigating the bureaucracy. Observing office etiquette is also important. When reprimanding local employees, take them aside and do it privately. Be as gentle as possible and always make it a point to end the meeting with some show of personal concern for the family to make the employee feel still part of the team. English is the official business language, including for most correspondence, contracts, and other documents. Among Filipinos, however, it is common to hear “Taglish” (a combination of Tagalog, a regional dialect from which the Filipino language is largely based, and English, or shifting back and forth between the two languages) during informal conversations. Body language and hand gestures (for example, a raised eyebrow, a faint smile, a scratch in the head) are integral to how Filipinos express themselves. Texting, or sending short, oftentimes abbreviated messages through mobile phones, has now become a preferred method for business communication. Do not be surprised if, in the middle of a meeting, people suddenly take out their mobile phones to read or send messages or to answer a call. Business lunches and dinners are usually arranged personally over the phone and thereafter confirmed by a secretary or assistant. The person extending the invitation customarily pays. A guest does not order the most expensive items on the menu, unless the host insists otherwise. Lunch or dinner buffets have also become commonplace, thereby allowing guests more choices. It is also customary to have a drink or a cocktail before a formal sit-down dinner. A relatively informal tone is the norm. Business is not usually discussed until after establishing a convivial ambience, usually after soup or appetizers. Attire is according to the location of the meeting. Filipinos tend to be lax in replying to RSVPs. Telephone follow-ups are best, at least one or two days before the event (any prior confirmation may still need following up later on). In hosting events, private or professional, the staff are usually asked to track down guests for a confirmation reply. In a formal occasion, seating is arranged, where the head table is usually reserved for VIPs. A guest speaker is often the highlight of a dinner or formal gathering. Light entertainment is not unusual. In most instances, important guests accept requests to sing. The holiday season (the Philippines celebrates one of, if not the longest, Christmas seasons in the world) is also a time to show appreciation to people with whom you have regular dealings, for example, the security guard, doorman, messenger, the secretary or assistant, as well as regular and valued clients, through small tokens. Gifts could range from baskets of goodies to company giveaways to plain calendars or office items with your company logo. It is best to attempt to accomplish business objectives in mid-morning or early afternoon. Many business deals are completed informally during a lunch or dinner appointment, an intimate social gathering, or over a round of golf. Never attempt to do business on a weekend or a holiday, unless the Filipino contact has specifically indicated his or her availability on such days. As a predominantly Catholic country, the Philippines observes the Lenten season and all commercial and business establishments are closed on Holy Thursday and Good Friday. Likewise, beginning on or around the week of December 15 through the end of the year, office-related activities tend to wind down to give way to holiday parties. Important meetings should be scheduled prior to those dates. Summer-wear clothing normally worn in temperate zones is suitable for the Philippines, where the weather tends to be very humid. It is acceptable for businessmen to conduct calls in short or long-sleeved shirt and ties with or without a coat. Either a two-piece suit or the native "Barong Tagalog" (a lightweight, short- or long-sleeved shirt, usually linen, worn without a tie) are acceptable, ordinary business attire. Light pantsuits or dresses are appropriate for women. Dinner invitations can either be casual or formal, so it is best to check with the host regarding the proper attire. An umbrella may come in handy, especially during the wet season (between June and September).

Travel Advisory

The Department of State’s travel advisory for the Philippines .

Visa Requirements

General Provisions

Special Provisions

The Philippine Peso is the local currency in the Philippines. The currency code for Pesos is PHP.

Telecommunications/Electronics

The P h ili pp i ne Long -Distance T e l ephone C o m p a ny ( P L D T ) and G l obe T e l ecom a r e t he two t e l ec o m m un i ca t i on ca r r i e r s i n t he c ou n t y .

U . S . t r a v e l e r s w i l l f i nd m ob il e phone s e r v i ce a f f o r dab l e i n t he P h ili pp i nes. A v e r a g e cost per c a l l m i nu t e i s US $0 . 15, w h il e one S M S or t e x t m ess a g e cos t s US $ 0 . 0 2 . A s a r esu lt , m ost F ili p i n os p r e f er t o t e x t r a t her t h an t a l k on t he i r m ob il e phones. Unfortunately, due to a lack of cell sites, mobile signal is poor and the service needs to be improved. B r oadband s e r v i ces a r e a v a i l ab l e f o r h o m e and o ff i ce u se. U se r s shou l d e x pect t o pay p r i ces s i m il ar t o t h o se i n t he U . S . Almost all five-star hotels in the Philippines offer free Wi-Fi service. Free Wi-Fi is also prevalent in shopping malls, dining establishments, and coffee shops. However, average internet speed in the Philippines considered among the slowest and most expensive in Asia Pacific. A ccording to OOKLA’s Speedtest Global Index, the Philippines fixed broadband internet speed is 19.28 Mbps on February 2019. Mobile broadband speed also improved by 94.35 percent to 14.46 Mbps in February 2019 from 7.44 Mbps in July 2016. Electrical outlets in the Philippines use 220 volts. This is compatible with most electronic gadgets that allow 110-220 volts.

Transportation

Ma n y m a j or i n t e r n a t i onal a i r li nes f l y be t w een M a n il a and t he U n i t ed S t a t es on a r e g u l ar bas i s. T y p i ca l l y , t hese f l i g h t s a r e i nd i r e c t w i t h l a y o v e r s or s t opo v e r s b e f o r e t hey r each t he i r f i nal des t i na t i on ( e . g . , D e l t a Ai r li nes f li es fr o m M an il a t o t he U . S . v i a Narita; U n i t ed f li es fr o m M an il a t o M a i n l and U . S . v i a G u a m). New direct flights are available to the U.S. on non-U.S. carriers.

W i t h i n t he P h il ipp i nes, o ne can tr a v el t o m o st pa r t s o f t he coun t r y by l and, a i r , or sea wi t h r e l a t i v e ease. For l and tr a v e l , t he q ua lit y of t he r oad ne t w o r k i s q u i t e v a r i ed. Di s t anc e s t hat m ay be co v e r ed q u i c k l y i n t he U n i t ed S t a t es t y p i ca l l y t a ke l on g e r i n t he P h ili pp i n e s, due t o i nsu ff i c i ent r oad q u a li t y and co n g es t i o n . A n e x t ens i v e r oad ne t w o r k li n k s m ost o f t h e a r ch i pe l a g o . For f i r s t -t i m e v i s i t o r s t o m a j o r u r ban c i t i es such a s M e tr o M an il a, t he use o f ac c r ed i t ed ho t el t a x i s w i t h t he a ss i s t ance o f t he ho t el s t a f f i s m o r e dependab l e t han m e t e r ed t a x i s ha il ed on t he s t r ee t . W he n us i ng a m e t e r ed cab, a sk t he d r i v er t o t u r n on t h e m e t er as y ou en t er t o a v o i d be i ng o v e r cha r g e d . H o t el t a x i s cha r g e a f l at r a t e f o r tr a v el t o sp e c i f i ed l oca t i ons. I t i s be s t t o a s k t he ho t el s t a f f or a l ocal bus i ness co n t a c t how l ong i t w ou l d t a k e t o r each one ’ s de s t i na t i on, t a k i n g i n t o acco u nt such f ac t o r s a s tr a ff i c cond i t i ons du r i ng pe a k d r i v i ng hou r s and a l t e r na t e r ou t e s . W he n t a k i ng a r e g u l ar c a b, i t w ou l d he l p t o k now t he t y p i cal cab f a r e t o a v o i d be i ng o v e r c ha r g ed. M a n y t a x i f l e e t s now o f f e r se r v i ces. C ar r e n t a l s a r e a l so a v a i l ab l e w i t h or w i t hout a d r i v e r/ cha u f f e u r , and cos t s wil l v a r y depend i ng on t he l e n g t h o f us e , t he t y pe o f ca r , a nd t he i t i ne r a r y . U . S . fr a n ch i ses such as A v i s, H e rt z, and B u d get op e r a t e i n t he P h ili pp i nes and a c cept an i n t e r n a t i onal d r i v e r' s li cense f or up t o 6 0 - 90 d a y s. Transport network vehicle services, such as Grab, are also available in major cities like Metro Manila, Metro Cebu, and Davao. B uses, e l e v a t ed r a i l t r a n spo r t such as t he L i g h t R a i l w a y T r ans i t ( L R T) and t he M e tr o R a i l T r a ns i t ( M R T ) , and “j e e p ne y s” tr a n s i t m a j or and m i nor r ou t e s w i t h i n M e tr o M an i l a and se r v e t he g e n e r al c o mm u t i ng pub li c. T hey a r e n o t r eco m m ended f o r bus i n ess t r a v e l e r s i n M a n il a. UV Express (formerly known as FX taxis) a type of share taxi service, is also an alternative mode of public transportation. I n m o st p r o v i nces a nd m a j or c i t i es ou t s i de M an il a, buses, j eepne y s, and t r i c y c l es a r e t he m o r e t y p i cal m od e s o f l and tr ansp o r t . O v e r c r o w d i ng i s not unc o m m on. T he P h ili pp i nes has o v er 80 a i r p o rt s , w i t h f our m a j or i n t e r n a t i onal a i r po r t s : Ni noy A q u i no I n t e r na t i o n al Ai r po r t ( NA I A ) i n M an i l a, Cl a r k I n t e r n a t i onal Ai r po r t i n P a m pa n g a, M ac t an C ebu I n t e r n a t i onal Ai r po r t ( M C I A ) , and D a v ao I n t e r n a ti onal Ai r po rt . T he coun t r y ’ s p r i m a r y i n t e r na t i onal g a t e w a y , NAIA , c u rr e n t l y ope r a t es f o u r t e r m i na l s i n M a n il a, one o f w h i ch i s used e x c l us i v e l y by f l a g c a rr i er P h ili pp i ne Ai r li nes f or i t s d o m es t i c and i n t e r n a t i onal r o u t es. P assen g e r s a r e r e q u i r ed t o be a t t he a i r p o r t a t l e a st two hours b e f o r e de p a r t u r e f o r do m es t i c f l i g h t s and t h r ee hou r s f o r i n t e r n a t i onal f li g h t s ( pa r t i cu l a r l y on U . S . - bound f li g h t s ) . Terminal fees are charged for departing passengers on domestic and international airports. Delays are common due to airport congestion or weather. M a r i t i m e tr ansp o r t i s a m a j or condu i t f o r m o v i ng goods and peop l e . I n t e r - i s l and v esse l s or f e r r i es se r v i ce m a j o r i s l and r ou t e s. B e i ng an a r ch i pe l a g o, t he P h ili pp i n e s has m o r e t han 1 , 000 p o rt s , a bout a do z en o f w h i ch a r e m a j o r i n t e r na t i onal p o rt s t h a t se r v e as ca r g o an d / or passe n g e r t e rm i na l s. T r a v el by boat or f e r r y t ends t o t a k e l on g e r and i s l ess con v en i ent t han a i r t r a v e l , but t he r e a r e a r e a s i n t he P h ili pp i nes t hat c an on l y be r eached t h r o u g h t h i s m o de o f t r anspo r t . R o l l - on, r o ll - o f f v esse l s ( RO - RO ) c a rr y i ng passen g e r s and c a r g o a r e a l so a v a il ab l e t o se r v i ce i n t er - i s l and t r a v el and co mm e r c e . Fe rr y t r anspo r t i n r ece n t y ea r s has e x pe r i enced s e r i ous acc i den t s w i t h s i gn i f i ca n t f a t a li t i es.

Filipino/Tagalog is the official national language, although over 100 languages and dialects are spoken throughout the Philippines. English is widely spoken and is the primary language in business communication. It is common to hear Filipinos use a mixture of English and Filipino/Tagalog words or phrases, known as "Taglish", in their everyday conversations. A steadily dwindling minority still speak Spanish, which had at one time been an official language. In provinces where Filipino is not the lingua franca, primary educational instruction is conducted in vernacular languages.

Major cities in the Philippines have modern and well-equipped hospitals and medical facilities that meet the general healthcare needs of business travelers. Many of them are Joint Commission International (JCI)-approved (medical facilities) or are in the process of obtaining JCI approval. These hospitals employ excellent medical staff, some of whom are U.S. Board Certified. The number of nurses and other medical staff are sometimes inadequate as the Philippines loses healthcare professionals who leave the country to seek better employment opportunities abroad.

Larger pharmacies in the Philippines stock most standard medicines at prices equivalent to those in the U.S. Vitamins, over-the-counter medicines, and first aid supplies are available locally. Medical fees are reasonable and pharmaceuticals are widely accessible. The general level of sanitation in the Philippines is lower than in the United States. Overpopulation has strained water supply, sewage, garbage disposal, street cleaning, and utilities. Americans are advised not to drink untreated water. Bottled beverages are inexpensive, plentiful and safe. Ice is suspect. It is not advisable to buy food from street peddlers. Occasional gastrointestinal upsets caused by poor sanitary conditions, colds, and other respiratory ailments are unavoidable due to the high level of air pollution, if staying in Manila for an extended period. Overexertion and excessive fatigue should be avoided, as the tropical environment makes for rapid dehydration. Among the diseases in the Philippine Department of Health (DOH)’s Health Advisories are Measles, Dehydration, Heat Stroke, Conjunctivitis, Leptospirosis (during rainy season), and cases of Chicken Pox, Chikungunya, Cholera, Dengue, Diarrhea, Ebola Virus, Hepatitis, Encephalitis, Malaria, and Zika. Updates on diseases and health alerts are available from the Philippine Department of Health website: www.doh.gov.ph . A list of recommended vaccinations when traveling to the Philippines can be found on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) website: https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/traveler/none/philippines https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/clinician/none/philippines

Local Time, Business Hours and Holidays

U.S. Government offices in the Philippines are open from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Most private and GPH offices are open from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. or from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Monday - Friday. Some private companies hold office on Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Eight hours per day or 48 hours per week is the maximum period an employee may be required to work at a regular pay rate. Most shopping centers are open seven days a week with variable opening hours, which may be extended during major holidays. All offices close during the following public holidays*: January 1: New Year's Day; Easter Holidays: March to April Maundy Thursday and Good Friday; April 9: Bataan & Corregidor Day and Heroism Day; May 1: Labor Day; June 12: Philippine Independence Day; August 21: Ninoy Aquino Day; August 27: National Heroes Day Holiday; November 1: All Saints' Day; November 30: Bonifacio Day; December 25: Christmas Day; December 30: Rizal Day. and December 31: Last Day of the Year. Eid-ul-Fitr and Chinese New Year, November 2, and December 24 have been declared as additional special non-working holidays. June 24, Manila Day, is observed only in the City of Manila, while August 19, Quezon Day, is observed only in Quezon City. In addition, special public holidays such as Election Day and EDSA Revolution Day may be declared by the President and are observed nationwide. The U.S. Embassy in the Philippines observes the following U.S. public holidays: New Year's Day, Martin Luther King Day, Presidents' Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Columbus Day, Veterans' Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day. A complete list of Philippine Holidays* for 2019 can be found in the government website: https://www.gov.ph/events-and-holidays A complete list of U.S. Embassy Holidays can be found on the embassy website: https://ph.usembassy.gov/holiday-calendar/ Note: *Official Holidays confirmed via Philippine Government official website.

Temporary Entry of Materials or Personal Belongings

A businessperson hand-carrying a personal laptop computer does not have to post a cash bond after demonstrating that the item is a personal effect and is not new. Laptops, considered tools of the trade, may be cleared without the necessary documentations such as a Certificate of Identification upon the businessperson’s arrival. Only one laptop per businessman is allowed under existing regulations.

Department of Health Philippine Holidays for 2019 State Department Visa Website Travel Advisory U.S. Embassy Holidays for 2019 U n i t ed S t a t e s E m bassy M a n il a Vaccinations Visas: 21 day Visa Visa guidelines and requirements Non-immigrant visa for temporary stay over 59 days Forms Treaty Trader or Treaty Investor Permament Resident

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Get a Philippines Visa

When is the best time to apply for my Philippines visa? The best time to apply for your Philippines visa is 1-2 months before your travel date.
Do I have to send you my passport to get a Philippines visa? Is it safe to send a passport? You will need to send your actual passport, not a copy of it. The Philippines visa is stamped on your passport and will become one of your passport pages. Visa requests cannot be processed without your original passport. Because of the importance of your passport, we strongly suggest that you send your application and passport to CIBTvisas in a secure way, using a traceable courier such as FedEx, UPS, Express Mail or Certified Mail.

Business Visa Application Requirements for a Philippines Visa

Visa May Not Be Required

Hold a valid passport on arrival with one blank visa page
Hold proof of sufficient funds
Hold proof of onward/return flights
Hold all documents required for the next destination
Confirm with your airline that boarding will be permitted without a visa

You must provide your actual signed passport, including one copy of the personal information page of your passport. Your passport must: Be valid for the next six months Have at least one blank visa page (amendments and endorsement pages cannot be used to fulfill this requirement) Not be frayed, torn, separating, or altered in any other way If your passport does not meet these requirements, please contact CIBTvisas at 800-929-2428 for further details.

Photographs

You must provide two color, passport-type photographs. The photographs must: Be taken within the last six months and against an all-white background Be two inches by two inches and printed on photo-paper

Business Cover Letter

You are required to provide a Business Cover Letter from your U.S.-based company. All letters must be printed on company letterhead that displays a U.S. mailing address. Use the included sample Business Cover Letter to complete your letter.

Visa Application Form

The Consulate of the Philippines requires that the visa application be completed online. The form can be found at https://www.visa.gov.ph/ and is best accessed using any browser other than Internet Explorer. Be patient as load times can be protracted.

Your completed application must:

Include answers for all fields
Display your full name as it appears in your passport
Be signed and notarized before submitting to CIBTvisas with the rest of your documents

Proof of Travel Arrangements

You must provide proof of travel arrangements for the duration of your trip. Details of your intended arrangements must: Include a copy of an itinerary or e-ticket that displays your round trip travel and entry and exit dates for your destination Show the traveler's full name (as printed in his or her passport)

CIBTvisas Order Form

Provide the CIBTvisas Order Form included in this kit.

Multiple Entry Visa Applicants

You must provide copies of all previous Philippines visas if you are applying for a multiple entry visa.

Former Filipino Nationals and Immediate Family

Former Filipino nationals can travel to the Philippines without a visa for a stay of up to one year. Their immediate family (spouse and children) also benefit from this visa waiver when travelling together.

Former Filipino nationals will be required to provide either a former Philippine passport or a copy of birth certificate on entry. Each accompanying family member will be required to carry documents showing proof of relationship:

A copy of marriage certificate for the spouse
A copy of birth certificate or adoption certificate for each child

Urgent Applications

If you have an urgent visa application that carries a tight deadline, CIBTvisas can help you to save valuable time and avoid expensive delays. A CIBTvisas expert will review all of your documents to certify your application is accurate, complete and ready for submission. We will contact you personally to quickly handle any mistakes ensuring your application is submitted correctly. Visit https://cibtvisas.com/visa-pre-check-service to learn more about this service.

Tourist Application Requirements for a Philippines Visa

Be valid for the next six months You must provide your actual signed passport, including one copy of the personal information page of your passport. Your passport must: Have at least one blank visa page (amendments and endorsement pages cannot be used to fulfill this requirement) Not be frayed, torn, separating, or altered in any other way If your passport does not meet these requirements, please contact CIBTvisas at 800-929-2428 for further details.

Proof of Sufficient Funds

You must provide proof that you possess sufficient funds. Your financial details must: Include a copy of your most recent bank statement Display your full name

Hotel Confirmation

You must provide a confirmation of your hotel accommodation during your trip.

Visa Pre-Check

Have an urgent visa application that carries a tight deadline? CIBTvisas can help you to save valuable time and avoid expensive delays. A CIBTvisas expert will review all of your documents to confirm your application is accurate, complete and ready for submission. We will contact you personally to quickly handle any mistakes ensuring your application is submitted correctly.

Fast Track Your Visa

Need your visa processed quickly? CIBTvisas can fast track your order and process it in the fewest days possible.

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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.

Please note that issuance of a visa is not a guarantee that the holder will be automatically admitted to the country. The admission of foreign nationals into the Philippines is a function of the immigration authorities at the the port of entry. Philippine immigration authorities will not allow entry into Philippine airports and seaports of the following foreign nationals:

Those holding non-machine readable passports (e.g. hand scripted passports); or
Those previously deported from the Philippines or included in the “blacklist order” of the Department of Foreign Affairs or Bureau of Immigration; or
Those with incomplete documentation; or
Those with circumstances that would render them inadmissible for entry, even with a valid passport and visa issued by a Philippine Embassy or Consulate.

VISIT : http://philippine-embassy.de/visa-application-and-requirements for more information on the application process .

IMPORTANT REMINDERS

Submission of visa application is strongly advised at least a month before the expected date of travel to the Philippines.
Processing of the visa takes five (5) to ten (10) working days , depending on the visa applied for and the applicant ‘s nationality. Some applications may require a longer period for evaluation and must wait for approval from the Department of Foreign Affairs in Manila.
Visa applicants are strongly advised to finalize their flight booking only after the visa is granted . The Embassy will not expedite the visa processing to accommodate the applicant’s flight schedule.
Please note that NO REFUND of the visa application fee can be made for whatever reason.

For further information on entry visas, you may visit the Philippine Bureau of Immigration’s website immigration.gov.ph or its Official Facebook Page.

All travellers to the Philippines are required to register at https://etravel.gov.ph at least 72 hours before their arrival. Travelers need to present their eTravel QR code prior to flight boarding. Registration is FREE OF CHARGE.

For the latest information on entry, testing and quarantine protocols please check the IATF website or the eTravel website .

As of 22 July 2023, no COVID-19 test or vaccination requirement when traveling to the Philippines.

REQUIREMENTS AND APPLICATION PROCESS

Documentary requirements vary depending on the type of visa. Check which visa type applies to your travel. Note that the Visa Officer has the right to ask for any additional documents that may be deemed necessary.

NON-IMMIGRANT

9(A) – Temporary Visitors – According to Visa Types
9(C) – Seafarers and Crew List
9(E) – Foreign Government Officials

SPECIAL NON-IMMIGRANT

47(A)(2) with Authority from Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) by Virtue of Endorsement from DOJ or PNVSCA
13(A) – For spouses of Filipino national
13(G) – For natural-born Filipino who has been naturalized in a foreign country
SRRV – Special Resident Retiree Visa

VISIT : http://philippine-embassy.de/visa-categories for more information on each Visa category .

Downloadable Forms

FA Form No. 2 – Application Form for Non-Immigrant Visa (except 9(a) visa)
FA form No. 3 – Application for Immigrant Visa
FA form No. 11 – Medical Examination form
FA form No. 61 – Crew List Visa Form
IPC Press Accreditation Form
Affidavit of Support and Consent for WEG
Affidavit of Support and Guarantee

VISA-FREE ENTRY

Citizens of 157 countries can enter the Philippines visa-free for tourism/business purposes. Check the full list of visa-free-countries and a maximum length of stay for your nationality. All travelers to the Philippines, including those who may enter visa-free, must comply with applicable entry protocols.

If you are a German passport-holder and wish to travel to the Philippines for tourism/business, you are eligible for the visa-free privilege provided that your stay in the Philippines does not exceed thirty (30) days .

Citizens of countries not mentioned in the list must apply for a visa.

If you are eligible for visa-free entry, you must still be able to present, at the Philippine borders, the following documents:

Your passport valid for at least six (6) months after the applicant’s date of departure from the Philippines; and
An outbound flight ticket within the thirty (30) day period from date of arrival.

If you are eligible for visa-free entry into the Philippines but wish to stay longer than 30 days, you must apply for a Temporary Visitors’ Visa from the Embassy prior to your flight.

Minors under fifteen (15) years old traveling without his/her parent must secure a Waiver of Exclusion Ground . Please visit http://philippine-embassy.de/unaccompanied-travel-of-children for more information.

VISIT : http://philippine-embassy.de/visa-free-entry for more information on Visa-Free entry .

BALIKBAYAN PRIVILEGE

The Balikbayan Program as instituted by Republic Act 6768 (amended by Republic Act 9174) was launched by the Philippine Government to attract and encourage overseas Filipinos to come and visit their motherland. The following are considered balikbayans :

Filipino citizens who have been continuously out of the Philippines for a period of at least one (1) year;
Filipino overseas workers;
Former Filipino citizens who had been naturalized in one of the listed countries , and who comes or returns to the Philippines. If the country of citizenship is not listed, the balikbayan must apply for a Philippine visa.

Accompanying foreign spouse and children may avail of the Balikbayan Program, provided they are citizens of the listed countries and traveling with the former-Filipino balikbayan. If the country of citizenship is not listed, the foreign spouse and children must apply for a Philippine visa.

VISIT : http://philippine-embassy.de/balikbayan-privilege for more information on the Balikabayan Program .

Other Visa Categories and Extension of Stay

Special investor’s resident visa (sirv).

The Special Investor’s Resident Visa (SIRV) entitles the holder to reside in the Philippines for an indefinite period as long as the required qualifications and investments are maintained.

Interested parties can seek the assistance of the Philippine Trade and Investment Office in Germany or read the FAQs available on the website of the Philippine Board of Investments.

Special Retiree Resident Visa (SRRV)

The Special Resident Retiree’s Visa (SRRV) is issued by the Bureau of Immigration (BI) of the Republic of the Philippines under the Retirement Program of the Philippine Retirement Authority (PRA). It entitles the holder to multiple-entry privileges with the right to stay permanently/indefinitely in the Philippines.

Interested parties can read more details from the website of the Philippine Retirement Authority .

Extension of Authorized Period of Stay in the Philippines

In case a temporary visitor visa holder’s stay in the Philippines will exceed the authorized period of stay, he/she must secure an extension of stay from the Bureau of Immigration and pay the corresponding immigration fees.

As of 10 June 2013, the Bureau of Immigration (BI) launched the Long-Stay Visitor Visa Extension (LSVVE) program . Tourists may now avail of visa extensions for a maximum of six months under a single transaction with the BI. The LSVVE allows temporary visitors to prolong their stay in the Philippines without the need to frequently visit the Bureau of Immigration to process their documents.

No LSVVE shall be issued to non-visa foreign nationals whose stay exceeds 36 months, and visa-required nationals whose stay exceeds 24 months. Conversion to other visa category is also allowed. The implementation of the Long-Stay Visitor Visa Extension program is limited to the BI Main Office in Intramuros, Manila until further notice.

Please request details on the procedure and fees from the BI through their contact details .

CONNECT WITH US

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Emergencies: +49 (0) 173 521 57 03 (Please help us keep the line free for those with real emergencies. Do not call this number for regular inquiries.)

O pening Hours Consular Section Mon – Fri – Fri 09:00H – 16:00H (Except on Philippine and German holidays)

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Visa Requirements
Philippines

Philippines Business Visa Requirements - Documents, Eligibility & Fees

Indian passport holders who are willing to apply for a Philippines Business visa can find the necessary visa information on this page. In the following, you can find Philippines Business visa requirements which mainly include the visa documents and eligibility criteria. General guidelines to be followed at the time of submission of Philippines Business visa documents are mentioned on the page. For further visa consultation, you can contact BTW Visa Executives.

Tourist Visa
Business Visa

Following is the list of documents required for Philippines Business visa for Indians.

A passport is a document that is required at the time of international travels. It is issued by the government of the country to verify the identity and nationality of the candidate.

The submitted passport must meet the parameters given below

It must be original and genuine.
It must be valid for 6 months ahead of the span of stay.
It must have minimun two blank pages for the visa stamp.
It must not be torn, ripped, split, or damaged in any kind of way.

One cannot cross international boundries without the passport. It is considered a criminal offense otherwise.

An old passport is a passport that has expired or is completely stamped. In the visa processing, it is required to track the travel history of the applicant.

If available, the old passport must also be provided meeting the given criteria

If any of the traveler has old passport, it must be submitted along with latest passport.
It must be original and in a good condition to access the required information.

Without the old passport, you cannot get the visa stamp. Professional visa consultation is recommended.

The photo is provided to the authority so that you can be identified based on the same.

The photographs must be provided as per the given photo specifications

It must be clicked on an all white background.
Two copies to be submitted with general photo guidelines.
It must be of proper size with dimensions of 35x45 mm (length - 45mm, breadth - 35mm).
It must have a matte finish.
It must cover face 80% of the frame.
It must be a recent photograph.
The expressions on the face must be neutral, there must not be any kind of smiling of frowning in the photograph.
Any kind of glasses must not be worn in the photograph.
The hair must be tied back so that the face is clearly visible.
The ears must be visible clearly.
It must not have any headgear worn apart from religious reasons.
It is to be taken care that your teeth do not show in the photograph.

Recent pictures are mandatory as old pictures can cause the authorities to reject your application.

An air ticket is a ticket or pass that is possessed by the traveller who is taking a flight for travelling from one location to another.

It is an important document and it should be submitted for the given reason

The air ticket has to be booked for the complete round trip.
It must be confirmed for the complete round trip.

An air ticket shows your course of travel and confirms your return to the native country.

A credit card is provided by the bank to the account holder allowing them to make purchases on credit and pay it after a particular period of time.

The Credit Card proof that is submitted must match the requiremensts mentioned below

It must be provided with a copy.
It must be provided as a financial proof.

A Credit card is provided as a proof of financial means.

A credit card statement is a document that contains the summary of the transactions made by the holder in a particular period of time.

It must follow the required criteria

It must be provided with the credit card statement for the last 3 months.
It must be issued for the last three months and should be submitted with a photocopy of the credit card.

Without a proper Credit Card statement, your visa may get rejected on the basis of financial means. Professional visa consultation is recommended.

A covering letter from the company is provided in the name of the employee if they are travelling to another country on behalf of the company for business.

The covering letter provided by the company should be acceptable based on the following conditions

It must also mention the details of the traveller's stay in the country.
It must contain the traveller's as well as the company's information and should be issued on the company's letterhead along with official seal and signature.

Covering letter is the first document that is seen by the consular. If the covering letter is not appropriate, it may cause your visa to get rejected as well. Professional visa consultation is recommended.

Bank statement is a document that issued from the bank. This is obtained for the savings bank account to show ratify if you will be able to support your stay in the country.

The Bank statement is a mandatory document and it should meet the following criteria

It must be provided with authentic seal and signature from the bank.
It must be original and obtained from the savings bank account.
It must be evident of healthy balance amount in the account.
It must be original and should have the bank's stamp and signature on every page.

If the Bank Statement doesn't show enough funds or shows irrelevant expenditure, it could lead to visa rejection on financial means. Professional visa consultation is recommended.

A forex receipt is a bill that is given after the foreign currency has been exchanged.

It must reflect an amount of about 500 USD.
It must be submitted as financial proof.

Without a proper Forex Receipt, your visa may get rejected on the basis of financial means. Professional visa consultation is recommended.

An income tax return is a document that is a record of the tax that is paid to the government by the concerned tax paying citizen.

The proof of income tax returns must match the provided parameters

The Income tax returns should be specified with an ITR-V for last 3 years.
It must be provided with a legitimate documentary proof of the payment of income tax.

One cannot leave the country if they do not provide appropriate proof of tax payment. Professional visa consultation is recommended.

An invitation letter from company is provided at the time when a particular employee is being invited to the company or even at the times when the company is setting up a business conference or meeting inviting companies from different countries for the benefit.

The letter of invitation from the company submitted should match the following criteria

It must contain the signature of the authority along with the designation, name of the company and the stamp.
It must mention the contact details, the purpose of travel, sponsorship details and other important documents.
It must be addressed to the respective diplomatic mission.

An invitation letter from a company to which are visiting is essential to provide proof of your purpose of visit.

A Company Registration or a Shop Act License is a document that is provided to the shop holders which is a proof that the shop is certified.

A Company registration or Shop Act License is an crucial commercial document that must meet the given requirements

It must be provided to prove that the company is legitimate and is lawfully registered to the government.
It must mention the name of the applicant.
It must be issued in the English language.

If the Company Registration is not genuine, there may be issues with the business visa acceptance. Professional visa consultation is recommended.

For detailed information, Please go through Philippines Business Visa - Definitive Guide

Eligibility for getting Philippines Business Visa:

In order to be eligible to travel to the country on a visa, you will have to meet the following eligibility criteria.

Be a genuine traveller- You must have a valid and good intention behind travelling to the country.

Eligible to bear all expenses - You must possess sufficient funds to support yourself and any dependents throughout the stay.

Reasons to return - You must have strong ties in your home country that will ensure that you will return after your stay.

Be of good character - You must have a clean criminal track record and be of good character. You may have to provide PCC (Police Clearance Certificate) for the same.

Be in good health - You must at least meet the minimum health requirements required by the authorities.

You must possess a valid invitation from a genuine company located in the country with whom you are/will be doing business.

Visa Fees for Philippines Business Visa:

*Important Note:

Embassy/Consulate reserves the right to ask for additional documents or personal appearance for an interview in special cases. Submission of the above-mentioned documents does not guarantee that a visa is granted, so It's recommonded to get the professional visa consultation. Submission of incomplete documentation or refusal to appear for a special visa interview may result in the rejection of your visa application .

Although the information on this website has been prepared with utmost care. However, regulations and requirements are subject to change.

To know all details like process, eligibility, fees etc. Please refer Philippines Business Visa

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Philippine Consulate General Los Angeles California

Tourist visa (pleasure or business) — 9(a) visa.

The following requirements must be submitted when applying for this type of visa:

Completely filled up application form . Application forms that are incompletely filled-out will be returned to the applicant klausur schreiben lassen kosten . ( For People’s Republic of China (P.R.O.C) passport holders, use this form )
ORIGINAL and PHOTOCOPY of the passport with a validity that must extend at least six (6) months beyond the length of proposed stay in the Philippines.
One 2″ x 2″ size photograph taken within the last six (6) months akademische ghostwriter . The applicant’s signature must be affixed on the front side of the picture.
A photocopy of the applicant’s round trip flight itinerary to his/her country of origin or flight itinerary to his/her next country of destination.
Proof of financial capacity (e.g.latest print-out of credit card account(s), latest print-out of bank statements, ownership of real estate properties ghostwriter deutschland , and other documents showing the applicant’s capacity to financially support himself/herself during his/her stay in the Philippines. You will need more than type of proof of financial capacity )
If the applicant is not a restricted national under the Philippine Visa Policy and wishes to get out of a Holiday Inn timeshare, then the applicant may choose instead to submit a duly signed application, notarized by a local notary public, along with the other requirements mentioned above. This provides flexibility for individuals seeking to disengage from their get out of holiday inn timeshare agreements.

The Visa officer can request additional documents to determine whether or not the applicant can be issued a visa.

The applicable fees for a tourist visa are as follows:

Single entry valid for three (3) months: US$30.00

Multiple entry valid for (6) months US$60.00

Multiple entry valid for twelve (12) months $90.00

NOTE: The authorized maximum period of stay granted by the Philippine Consulate to all temporary visitor’s visa applicants is fifty-nine (59) days. If the applicant will stay beyond 59 days in the Philippines, an application for extension of stay must ghostwriter wien be filed at the Bureau of Immigration in Manila, or the Immigration office nearest to the place where the applicant is temporarily residing.

LONG-STAY VISITOR VISA EXTENSION ( click here )

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Common Nonimmigrant Visas

Business/tourist visa.

Student Visa
Exchange Visitor Visa
Transit/Ship Crew Visa
Religious Worker Visa
Domestic Employee Visa
Journalist and Media Visa
Treaty Investors and Traders
CNMI-Saipan Visa
A List of NIV Types

On this page:

Qualifications

Application items, how to apply, supporting documents, supporting documents for applicants seeking medical care, electronic visa update system (evus), more information.

The B-1/B-2 visitor visa is for people traveling to the United States temporarily for business (B-1) or for pleasure or medical treatment (B-2). Generally, the B-1 visa is for travelers consulting with business associates, attending scientific, educational, professional or business conventions/conferences, settling an estate or negotiating contracts. The B-2 visa is for travel that is recreational in nature, including tourism, visits with friends or relatives, medical treatment and activities of a fraternal, social or service nature. Often, the B-1 and B-2 visas are combined and issued as one visa: the B-1/B-2.

If you apply for a B-1/B-2 visa, you must demonstrate to a consular officer that you qualify for a U.S. visa in accordance with the U.S. Immigration and Nationality Act (INA). Section 214(b) of the INA presumes that every B-1/B-2 applicant is an intending immigrant. You must overcome this legal presumption by showing:

That the purpose of your trip to the U.S. is for a temporary visit, such as business, pleasure, or medical treatment
That you plan to remain in the U.S. for a specific, limited period of time
Evidence of funds to cover your expenses while in the United States
That you have a residence outside the U.S., as well as other binding social or economic ties, that will ensure your return abroad at the end of your visit

Personal or domestic employees and crew members working aboard vessels within the Outer Continental Shelf may qualify for B-1 visas under certain circumstances.

Some foreign nationals may be ineligible for visas according to The Immigration and Nationality Act. You can read more about The Immigration and Nationality Act and visa ineligibility here .

If you apply for a business/tourist visa, you must submit the following:

A Nonimmigrant Visa Electronic Application (DS-160) Form. Visit the DS-160 webpage for more information about the DS-160.
A passport valid for travel to the United States with a validity date at least six months beyond your intended period of stay in the United States (unless country-specific agreements provide exemptions). If more than one person is included in your passport, each person desiring a visa must submit an application.
One (1) 2"x2" (5cmx5cm) photograph. This page has information about the required photo format.
A receipt showing payment of your non-refundable nonimmigrant visa application processing fee, paid in local currency. This page has more information about paying this fee. If a visa is issued, there may be an additional visa issuance reciprocity fee, depending on your nationality. The Department of State's website can help you find out if you must pay a visa issuance reciprocity fee and what the fee amount is.

In addition to these items, you must present an interview appointment letter confirming that you booked an appointment through this service . You may also bring whatever supporting documents you believe support the information provided to the consular officer.

Step 1 Pay the visa application fee .

Step 2 Complete the Nonimmigrant Visa Electronic Application (DS-160) form .

Step 3 Schedule your appointment on this web page . You will need three pieces of information in order to schedule your appointment:

Your passport number
Your MRV fee payment receipt number
The ten (10) digit barcode number from your DS-160 confirmation page

Step 4 Visit the U.S. Embassy/Consulate on the date and time of your visa interview. You will need to bring a printed copy of your appointment letter, your DS-160 confirmation page, one recent photograph, your current passport and all old passports. Applications without all of these items will not be accepted.

Supporting documents are only one of many factors a consular officer will consider in your interview. Consular officers look at each application individually and consider professional, social, cultural and other factors during adjudication. Consular officers may look at your specific intentions, family situation, and your long-range plans and prospects within your country of residence. Each case is examined individually and is accorded every consideration under the law.

Caution: Do not present false documents. Fraud or misrepresentation can result in permanent visa ineligibility. If confidentiality is of concern, the applicant should bring the documents to the Embassy in a sealed envelope. The Embassy will not make this information available to anyone and will respect the confidentiality of the information.

You should bring the following documents to your interview. Original documents are always preferred over photocopies and you must bring these documents with you to the interview. Do not fax, email or mail any supporting documents to the Embassy.

Current proof of income, tax payments, property or business ownership, or assets.
Your travel itinerary and/or other explanation about your planned trip.
A letter from you employer detailing your position, salary, how long you have been employed, any authorized vacation, and the business purpose, if any, of your U.S. trip.
Criminal/court records pertaining to any arrest or conviction anywhere, even if you completed your sentence or were later pardoned.

Additionally, based on your purpose of travel, you should consider bringing the following:

Bring your latest school results, transcripts and degrees/diplomas. Also bring evidence of financial support such as monthly bank statements, fixed deposit slips, or other evidence.

Working adults

Bring an employment letter from your employer and pay slips from the most recent three months.

Business visitors and company directors

Bring evidence of your position in the company and remuneration.

Visiting a relative

Bring photocopies of your relative's proof of status (e.g. Green Card, naturalization certificate, valid visa, etc).

Previous visitors to the U.S.

If you were previously in the United States, any documents attesting to your immigration or visa status.

If you wish to travel to the U.S. for medical treatment, then you should be prepared to present the following documentation in addition to the documents listed above and those the consular officer may require:

A medical diagnosis from a local physician explaining the nature of your ailment and the reason you require treatment in the United States.
A letter from a physician or medical facility in the United States expressing a willingness to treat this specific ailment and detailing the projected length and cost of treatment (including doctors' fees, hospitalization fees, and all medical-related expenses).
A statement of financial responsibility from the individuals or organization paying for your transportation, medical and living expenses. The individuals guaranteeing payment of these expenses must provide proof of their ability to do so, often in the form of bank or other statements of income/savings or certified copies of income tax returns.

In accordance with the agreement signed between the United States and China to extend visa validity, beginning on November 29, 2016, Chinese citizens with 10-year B1, B2 or B1/B2 visas in Peoples’ Republic of China passports will be required to update their biographical and other information from their visa application via a website every two years, or upon getting a new passport or B1, B2, or B1/B2 visa, whichever occurs first. This mechanism is called EVUS - Electronic Visa Update System.

The EVUS website is now open to the public for enrollments at www.EVUS.gov . CBP will not collect a fee for EVUS enrollment at this time. CBP anticipates the eventual implementation of an EVUS enrollment fee, but does not have a time frame. Until the implementation of a fee, travelers can enroll in EVUS without charge. The Department of Homeland Security, Customs and Border Protection (CBP) will keep visa holders informed of new information throughout the year. For further information, please visit www.cbp.gov/EVUS .‎

根据美中双方签署的延长签证有效期的协议，自2016年11月29日起，凡持有10 年期B1，B2 或 B1/B2签证的中华人民共和国护照持有人需要每两年或在获取新护照或最长有效期的B1、B2或B1/B2签证时时（以先到者为准），通过网站更新他们签证申请上的个人资料及其它信息。这个机制我们称之为EVUS –签证更新电子系统。

EVUS的登记网站 www.EVUS.gov 现已开放接受登记。美国海关和边境保护局（CBP）目前不会收取登记费用。美国海关和边境保护局预期EVUS登记收费最终会实施，但目前尚未落实执行时间。在收费实施前，旅客可以免费完成EVUS登记。美国国土安全部海关和边境保护局将在今年及时向签证持有人公布最新的信息。获取更多的信息，请访问 www.cbp.gov/EVUS 。

For more information about business and tourist visas, visit the Department of State's website .

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Passports, travel and living abroad
Travel abroad
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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Canada Visa Services Opens Doors for Hassle-Free Travel from Costa Rica, Morocco, Panama, and Philippines

Ottawa, Canada, 27th April 2024, As the world eagerly anticipates the return to normalcy in travel, Canada Visa Services emerges as the beacon of hope for travelers from Costa Rica, Morocco, Panama, and the Philippines. With its streamlined online visa application process, Canada Visa Services ensures a seamless journey for those seeking to explore the wonders of the Great White North.

In a bid to cater to the diverse needs of global travelers, Canada Visa Services has unveiled a user-friendly online platform to facilitate visa applications from Costa Rica, Morocco, Panama, and the Philippines. This initiative marks a significant milestone in the company’s commitment to providing accessible and efficient visa services to travelers worldwide.

CANADA VISA FROM COSTA RICA

CANADA VISA FROM MOROCCO

CANADA VISA FROM PANAMA

CANADA VISA FROM PHILIPPINES

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“Travel should be a joyous experience, free from the burdens of bureaucracy and paperwork,” says John Smith, Head of Operations at Canada Visa Services. “With our online visa application system, travelers from Costa Rica, Morocco, Panama, and the Philippines can now embark on their Canadian adventure with ease and peace of mind.”

The convenience of applying for a Canada visa online cannot be overstated. By simply visiting the Canada Visa Services website and following the intuitive application process, travelers can submit their visa applications from the comfort of their homes or offices. This eliminates the need for time-consuming visits to embassies or consulates, allowing travelers to focus on planning their Canadian getaway.

Furthermore, Canada Visa Services offers dedicated customer support to assist applicants at every step of the visa application process. Whether it’s clarifying visa requirements, providing guidance on completing the application form, or addressing any concerns or queries, the company’s team of experienced professionals is readily available to ensure a smooth and stress-free experience for travelers.

With Canada Visa Services, the dream of exploring Canada’s breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cities, and rich cultural heritage is now within reach for travelers from Costa Rica, Morocco, Panama, and the Philippines. Whether it’s the stunning natural beauty of Banff National Park, the bustling streets of Toronto, or the historic charm of Quebec City, Canada beckons with open arms.

For travelers from Costa Rica, Morocco, Panama, and the Philippines, Canada Visa Services is the gateway to unforgettable experiences and cherished memories in the Great White North. Apply for your Canada visa today and embark on the adventure of a lifetime!

Media Contact

Richard Taylor

+49 30 901723172

[email protected]

https://www.canada-visas.org

COMMENTS

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PHILIPPINE CONSULATE GENERAL

Visa Reminder

Non-Immigrant Visa Requirements

PLEASE DO NOT PURCHASE YOUR AIRLINE TICKET UNLESS AND UNTIL YOUR PHILIPPINE VISA HAS BEEN APPROVED.

THE CONSULATE WILL NOT:

PHILIPPINE VISA POLICY

EXTENSION OF STAY

HOW TO APPLY FOR A VISA TO THE PHILIPPINES

Submit application via email for pre-evaluation

The Consulate assesses the completeness of the emailed documents and endorses the same to the DFA

Mail the visa application packet

Complete Documentary Requirements

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How to Apply for Visa to the Philippines

Temporary Visitor Visa (9A)

Seaman Visa 9(C)

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