Philippines Arrival Card for British. Visa and Entry Details

The Philippines, with its beautiful archipelago, diverse history, and friendly people, is a coveted destination for tourists from around the world.

A large number of British nationals visit the country each year, contributing significantly to the Philippines’ thriving tourism sector.

In 2022, Britain had a big presence in the Philippines’ tourism market, contributing to the increase in foreign visitors. Citizens of the UK can enter the Philippines visa-free for 30 days. However, they need to get a Philippines arrival card.

What Do British Nationals Need to Enter the Philippines?

For British tourists considering a trip to the Philippines, the entry process is fairly simple. British travelers can visit the Philippines for up to 30 days without needing a visa. However, certain stipulations must be met.

Firstly, they need a passport that’s valid for at least six months beyond the intended stay. They also need to possess a return or onward ticket. One key prerequisite is completing an online application for the Philippines Arrival Card for British nationals.

Deciphering the Philippines Arrival Card for UK Citizens

All travelers, including British nationals, must obtain the Philippines Arrival Card, also known as the eArrival Card. This requirement applies even if they do not require a visa.

The Arrival Card, a mandatory document, needs to be obtained before entering the Philippines.

It replaced the older Health Pass but did not act as a substitute for a visa. If British travelers plan to stay beyond 30 days, they need to apply for a visa separately, either prior to their trip or while in the Philippines.

Features of the Philippines Arrival Card for UK Citizens

The eArrival Card is an online form that needs to be filled out before traveling to the Philippines. 

It is designed to simplify the process of entering the country and enhance border security. Some key points include:

• Validity of 30 days post-arrival
• Single-entry document
• The quick online application process

UK citizens need to complete a new Philippines Arrival Card application for each entry into the country. The eArrival Card does not determine the duration of stay in the Philippines. The status of the visa holds that discretion.

 It’s recommended that travelers cross-check the visa requirements or contact the nearest Philippine embassy for any queries.

Applying for the Philippines Arrival Card

The process to secure the Arrival Card is simple and can be completed online in a few minutes. UK citizens will need:

• A passport that’s valid for at least six months beyond the planned stay in the Philippines.
• A functioning email address for receiving the digital eArrival Card upon approval.
• A debit or credit card to pay the processing fees.

Who Needs the Philippines Arrival Card?

Regardless of their age, including infants and children, every individual traveler needs an Arrival Card. This also applies to transit passengers who intend to leave the airport.

British travelers who did not fill out the eArrival Card before leaving can do so upon arrival at the airport.

Philippines e-Travel Registration for British Travelers

The Philippines’ Government launched a new e-Travel Registration system on December 1, 2022, to replace the old eArrival Card Registration.

This new system can be accessed via a new official portal. The older Arrival Card Registration portal will remain operational for a brief transitional phase.

Every traveler, including UK citizens, must complete the e-Travel Registration before entering the Philippines.

To avoid long lines at the airport, it’s recommended that British travelers complete their e-Travel Registration at least 72 hours before their departure.

British travelers can get the e-Travel Registration card from the Philippine Bureau of Quarantine at Philippine airports.

Visa Regulations for UK Citizens

UK passport holders are granted the privilege of entering the Philippines without a visa for an initial time span of 30 days. To stay in the country for more than 30 days, they need a Philippines visa apart from their Arrival Card.

It’s advisable for them to reach out to the Philippine Embassy prior to their travel to learn more. 

Extending Visa Validity of British Nationals

To stay longer than their visa validity and prolong their visit, they can submit an application at the Bureau of Immigration offices.

Staying too long without permission is a big crime. Staying without permission for an extended period is a serious offense. If authorities catch a traveler, they may detain him/her until he/she pays all the fees and fines. Additionally, British travelers will be responsible for covering the costs of their own deportation.

The British Embassy has reported cases involving UK visitors in the Philippines. These visitors have faced challenges from Philippine immigration officials when trying to extend their stay through repeated tourist visa renewals. They should be aware that the Philippines Arrival Card is valid for only 30 days. They need to renew them as well. 

For long-term stays in the Philippines, they must ensure full compliance with Philippine immigration regulations. 

Emigration Clearance Certificate (ECC)

UK citizens in the Philippines for six months or longer need an Emigration Clearance Certificate (ECC) with their Temporary Visitor Visa. 

The same applies to holders of Immigrant and Non-Immigrant visas with valid ACR I-Cards leaving temporarily. They need the ECC at least 72 hours before departure. Without it, they may be denied departure. The Bureau of Immigration website has instructions. 

ACR 1 (Alien Certificate of Registration Identity) Card

An Alien Certificate of Registration Identity Card, or ACR I-Card, is a foreigner’s ID card. The Bureau of Immigration in the Philippines issues it. 

Generally, ACR I cardholders must pay for the ECC when they depart. Those who have approved visas but haven’t received their ACR I cards yet can display their receipt at the airport. 

Foreigners with approved visas can present their passports or certification from the approving office. They should also provide the receipt if their visa has not been issued yet. A Philippines Arrival Card, too, is a must.

Yearly Check-In for Registered UK Nationals

UK nationals, once registered, must report in person to the Bureau of Immigration during the first sixty days of each year. They should visit the Bureau of Immigration for additional details to know more about the yearly check-ins.

Requirement of Return or Onward Journey Proof

UK citizens need to show proof of return or onward travel, like an air ticket, to enter the Philippines.

Departure Levy

 When UK citizens leave Cebu Mactan Airport, they need to pay a departure tax. The tax amount is 850 pesos in local currency or the equivalent in US dollars. Manila Airport no longer imposes a departure tax. However, these conditions may vary, so checking with local authorities prior to travel is advisable. 

Trip to Boracay Island

A trip to Boracay Island necessitates proof of a confirmed booking at an approved hotel. Advice from local sources regarding necessary documents and the island’s entry point is suggested. 

Living, Working or Studying in the Philippines

To live, work, or study in the Philippines, foreigners must have specific UK documents legalized by the Philippine government’s Legalization Office. These documents include birth certificates, marriage certificates, UK police certificates, and school documents.

These papers don’t need verification by the Philippine Embassy in London. However, the local authority might opt to verify the Apostille certificate issued by the Legalization Office.

Protocols for Minors

Children under 15 years of age, when accompanied, must follow the same protocols as their parent(s) or guardian. All minors, including infants, need an Arrival Card for the Philippines. 

Transiting through the Philippines

International transit journeys, including ones that need immigration clearance in the Philippines, are permissible. This may include transferring to a different airline, baggage collection, or terminal changes. However, they must meet the entry requirements defined in the Philippines’ Government Resolution 168.

Flying to the Philippines for UK Citizens

UK citizens can embark on a direct flight to the Philippines from London Heathrow, landing in Manila courtesy of Philippine Airlines.

Travel duration from the UK to Manila typically lasts up to 13 hours. From Manila, accessing other parts of the Philippines is straightforward.

Airlines such as Qatar Airways, Etihad, Emirates, Turkish Airlines, Singapore Airlines, Thai Airways, and Cathay Pacific provide transit options. These options are available in cities such as Doha, Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Istanbul, Singapore, Hong Kong, and Thailand.

A gateway to the Philippines can be identified using the provided map. Note that all foreigners, including UK citizens, need a Philippines Arrival Card to enter the country for tourism. 

Airport Transfer for UK Citizens

At any airport, one can find hotel transport and car rental service counters just past the arrival gates.

Metered taxis, rent-a-cars, and even van rentals are readily available for transport to the city or further. UK travelers can organize hotel transport with hotel representatives stationed in the airport’s arrival lobby.

Post-Arrival Procedures for British Travelers

After successfully completing and submitting the Philippines arrival card, there are certain procedures that British travelers need to undertake. They will have to face immigration checks. Following are the steps they need to take to be able to go through successful immigration checks: 

• Passport Inspection: UK citizens should check their passport for any damage, such as marks or tears, particularly on the barcode.
• Validity of Passport: The passport should be valid for at least six months from the flight date. 
• Web Check-in: Those without checked luggage should opt for online check-in 48 hours. This will help them to evade long queues.
• Emergency Contacts: Create a list of important individuals such as family members, coworkers, or HR personnel. Travelers can reach them in case immigration officers require additional information.
• Keep Calm: UK citizens should stay relaxed. Remember, immigration officers are just performing their duties.
• Dress Code: Wear comfortable, smart-casual clothing. A jacket might be needed due to cold airport temperatures.
• Genuine Documents: Make sure all documents are original to avoid any issues or additional inspections.
• Respectful Behavior: Always treat immigration officers with respect. A simple greeting can go a long way.

Things To Avoid Scrutiny in the Philippines

UK travelers to the Philippines should be aware of circumstances that may lead to automatic secondary inspection. 

If passengers are with a non-relative foreigner and seem to have no money, they might face additional checks.

Minors traveling alone without appropriate clearance from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) may also face scrutiny. 

First-time departures to join a foreign spouse can trigger a secondary inspection. The same applies to partners planning to meet or marry a fiancé/fiancée abroad without a CFO Guidance and Counseling Certificate.

Authorities may choose to inspect individuals holding visas to countries with high alert levels, travel advisories, or bans further.

This also applies to individuals who have spent over six months abroad as tourists or temporary visitors. These individuals must also intend to leave again. They must also have a Philippines Arrival Card. 

Leaving the Philippines

UK citizens planning to depart the Philippines must adhere to the new regulation of completing the online departure form. This form is commonly known as the Philippines Arrival Card.

This requirement applies to all outbound travelers. UK citizens need to fill out this form within a specific time frame. The form should be completed no earlier than 72 hours before their scheduled departure from the Philippines. 

However, it must be submitted at least 3 hours before their departure. 

The establishment of this process streamlines travel procedures, ensuring a smooth and efficient airport experience. 

It’s advisable to keep track of departure timings to meet this requirement. 

Why the Philippines Draws British Visitors

UK citizens visit the Philippines because of its beautiful scenery, including beaches, greenery, and clear waters.

The country’s unique cultural heritage, intriguing historical ties with the West, and welcoming community significantly contribute to its charm.

British travelers, in particular, find an intriguing mix of familiar and novel in the Philippines. British tourists are attracted to this place for several reasons.

One reason is the combination of Asian and European cultures. Another reason is the presence of English-speaking locals. Additionally, the Western-influenced urban structures also appeal to British tourists.

Conclusion

The allure of the Philippines continues to attract British travelers. Understanding the entry requirements, including the Philippines eArrival Card for UK citizens, ensures a seamless travel experience.

Thus, it’s vital for UK citizens to complete their Arrival Card for the Philippines before their journey to this enchanting destination.