Entry Requirements for the Philippines

Understand the entry policies for international travel to the Philippines

eTravel Application

All passengers entering the Philippines must meet the Philippines Bureau of Immigration travel requirements. These include travel documents, health policies, and customs regulations.

To ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience, here's a guide to help you prepare for your trip to the Philippines.

Documents Required for Immigration Control in the Philippines

Immigration officials at Philippines border control will check you have the following:

Passport ✅
Visa (if required) ✅
Return ticket ✅
One-Stop Travel Declaration ✅

Here’s a breakdown of each entry document and the requirements:

Passport validity

Your passport should be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay in the Philippines. This is a standard requirement to avoid any issues at immigration control.

Visa requirements

Depending on your nationality, you may need to secure a visa before arriving.

If you’re from a visa-required country, you’ll be asked to present your approved authorization at the Philippines border.

Return ticket

Travelers must have a return ticket to their country of origin or an onward ticket to another destination outside the Philippines. This is to ensure that visitors do not overstay their visa-free or visa-limited duration.

Philippines One-Stop Electronic Travel Declaration

The Philippines travel declaration is mandatory for all passengers entering the Philippines. This includes Filipino citizens and residents, and all foreign travelers visiting for any reason.

Find out more about this entry requirement in the sections below.

eTravel Philippines Requirement

The eTravel Declaration system ensures a smoother, more efficient entry and exit at immigration points.

It's essential to understand the requirements and submission process to successfully submit an eTravel application.

What do I need to submit a Philippines eTravel application?

The Philippines Electronic Travel Declaration application requires you to have the following documentation at hand before starting your application:

  • icon-passport

    Valid Passport

    Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months after your date of arrival in the Philippines.

  • icon-bookings

    Flight/sea transport bookings

    You need to provide details of your arriving carrier on the form.

  • icon-accomodation

    Proof of accommodation

    You also need to fill out the address/contact details of where you’ll be staying in the Philippines.

Note: You also need a credit or debit card authorized for online payments. This is required to pay the eTravel processing fee to submit your request.

Passport Requirements for the Philippines eTravel

Your passport plays a crucial role in the eTravel Declaration application process. It serves as your primary identification, and you need to supply your passport number when completing the online form.

The passport number you provide on your eTravel declaration must match the document you use to travel to the Philippines. If you give the wrong passport number, you may be denied entry on arrival or face problems on departure.

Dual nationals with multiple passports must make their declaration and travel to the Philippines using the same passport.

Information to register with eTravel for the Philippines

This is the information you need to provide when registering with the Philippines One-Stop Electronic Travel Declaration System.

Personal details:

  • Name, date and place of birth, etc.
  • Contact details
  • Passport data

Travel details:

  • Arrival or departure
  • Date of arrival/departure
  • Flight details
  • Destination in the Philippines

Health requirements and declaration

If you’re entering the Philippines, you will need to make a health declaration as part of your Electronic Travel Declaration request:

You must state whether you have been exposed to someone who is sick, or have been ill yourself, in the last 30 days. Information about your symptoms is required if you select ‘Yes’.

Entering the Philippines with your eTravel

Show your green QR code to quickly pass border inspections. You can show your QR code to Philippines immigration officials on your phone or another mobile device. The officer may ask to hold your phone to verify your code.

Health Restrictions for the Philippines

The Philippines enforces certain health restrictions to manage risks and help protect residents and visitors.

Show your green QR code to quickly pass border inspections. You can show your QR code to Philippines immigration officials on your phone or another mobile device. The officer may ask to hold your phone to verify your code.

Does the Philippines have vaccine requirements?

For most travelers, there are no mandatory vaccine requirements to enter the Philippines. However, if you're coming from or have transited through countries with a risk of yellow fever, you'll need to show proof of yellow fever vaccination.

It's always a good idea to be up-to-date with routine vaccinations when traveling to any destination.

Health declaration for the Philippines

The One Stop Declaration (eTravel requirement) includes a health declaration (explained above) which all travelers must complete. This is not a separate document, but part of the travel declaration system.

Customs Regulations for the Philippines

Understanding the customs regulations of the Philippines is crucial for a smooth travel experience. The country has specific rules about what can and cannot be brought across its borders.

Restricted items in the Philippines

Restricted items are those that you can bring into the country under certain conditions or with specific permissions. These typically include:

  • Agricultural products: Most agricultural products require a quarantine permit to prevent the spread of pests and diseases. This includes live animals, seeds, and certain plants
  • Medications: Prescription drugs are allowed but must be accompanied by a prescription from a licensed physician. Narcotics and certain substances are tightly controlled
  • Firearms and ammunition: These items are heavily regulated and require a special permit from the Philippine National Police (PNP)
  • Currency: Over US$10,000 in currency (or the equivalent in another currency) must be declared

Prohibited goods in the Philippines

Prohibited goods are items that are not allowed to enter the country under any circumstances. These include:

  • Illegal drugs: The Philippines has strict laws against the importation, use, and possession of illegal drugs. Penalties for drug-related offenses are severe
  • Pornography: Materials deemed to be obscene or offensive are not allowed
  • Counterfeit goods: The importation of counterfeit or pirated goods is prohibited. This includes fake brand-name clothing, accessories, and electronics
  • Certain chemicals: Chemicals that can be used in the manufacture of explosives or illegal drugs are banned from import without specific government authorization
  • Wildlife and endangered species: The import of endangered species and their by-products is strictly regulated and usually prohibited without clearance from the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES)

General Travel Advice for Visitors to the Philippines

To ensure a hassle-free experience during your visit to the Philippines, consider the following tips:

  • Stay informed about the latest travel advice and entry requirements, as these can change
  • Make digital and physical copies of important travel documents, including your passport, visa (if required), and travel insurance
  • Be respectful of local customs, traditions, and laws to enjoy a harmonious visit
  • Consider purchasing comprehensive travel insurance that covers health emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage

Remember, this information serves as a general guide. Always verify the latest entry and departure requirements through official channels like the Philippine Embassy or consulate websites before your trip.

Departing the Philippines: What do you need to do?

To get your eTravel QR code for departure, complete the online form in the same way as for your arrival.

You can make both your arrival and departure eTravel applications before you travel with Philippinesetravel.com.

For security reasons, all data you input in the eTravel system is erased once you have passed through security clearance. The QR code you used on arrival will not be valid for your departure.