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    Philippines Entry Policy and Arrival Card

    Overview


    The Philippines, a prime tourist destination in Southeast Asia, has a clear entry policy for foreign visitors. Foreigners need a visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA). Notably, it offers the ETA to Taiwanese citizens, replacing traditional paper visas with a more streamlined, digital procedure.  

    The ETA facilitates multiple entries into the Philippines for a stay of up to 30 days each time. Additionally, all travelers must complete a Philippine Arrival Card, providing critical information to immigration authorities.  

    Both the ETA and eArrival Card are vital documents in the Philippines entry policy. It allows smooth, lawful entry into the country.

    Processing Steps


    Online Application

    Form is received and reviewed for approval.

    Receive Document

    Receive the approved document via e-mail.

    Arrive in Philippines

    Present the document upon arrival.

    Philippines Entry Policy


    Passport Requirements to Enter the Philippines 

    For international travelers seeking to enter the Philippines, stringent passport requirements apply, regardless of their home country or visa status. Crucially, all visitors must hold a passport that remains valid for at least six months beyond their intended stay.  

    This rule applies to both visa-requiring and visa-exempt travelers. Additionally, the passport must have sufficient blank pages to accommodate the necessary entry stamps. This is a standard international travel requirement designed to ensure smooth immigration procedures and secure travel. Adherence to these requirements is vital for a trouble-free journey to the Philippines. 

    Philippines Arrival card  

    Before departing, individuals traveling to the Philippines, regardless of their nationality, must complete the Philippines Arrival Card within a 72-hour timeframe.  

    This document, which is valid for 30 days after arrival, is single-entry and must be reapplied if the individual exits and later re-enters the country.  

    The application is done online and is fast. Applicants need a valid foreign passport number and health information. Once completed, the document is sent via email. 

    e-Travel Registration for Philippine 

    The Philippine Government replaced the Health Card Registration with a new and improved e-Travel Registration system on December 1, 2021. This is accessible through a new official portal of the Philippine government.  

    Before entering the Philippines, travelers must complete the e-Travel Registration (also known as Arrival card). This requirement is mandated by the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID). 

    To bypass extensive queues at the airport, it is strongly advised to complete the e-Travel Registration within 72 hours (about 3 days) before leaving the home country. 

    Travelers can also get the card from the Philippine Bureau of Quarantine (BOQ) at Philippine airports.  

    Proof of Onward Travel 

    Traveling to the Philippines often necessitates proof of onward travel, a policy enforced to mitigate illegal immigration and overstay issues. The Philippine government needs proof that travelers have plans to leave the country before their visa expires.  

    The proof usually takes the form of a confirmed flight, bus, or train ticket departing the Philippines. This reservation is sometimes called an "onward ticket." 

    Essential Information

    This must bear the traveler’s name and a departure date falling within the allowed duration of their stay.  

    However, obtaining such proof could be a bit challenging, especially with land and sea travel operators lacking a strong online presence. Nevertheless, presenting this onward travel proof is crucial and can spell the difference between smooth immigration processing or the risk of being denied entry.  

    Therefore, travelers to the Philippines must remember to secure this necessary documentation. 

    Cover Letter for Entering the Philippines  

    Securing a visa for the Philippines often necessitates a detailed cover letter. This is an integral part of the application for some Philippines visas. Applicants must d adhere to the following stipulations for optimal acceptance: 

    • Compliance with Consular-specific requests - Including any additional information requested by the Consular. 
    • Accommodation specifics - Clearly define where the applicant will be residing during the visit. 
    • Expense responsibility - Identification of the individual responsible for the trip expenses. 
    • Relationships clarification - Explanation of the relationship between the applicant and fellow travelers, if applicable. 
    • Purpose of visit - A clear statement indicating the intent of the trip. 
    • Travel timeframe - Reference to travel dates that align with the invitation letter or confirmed flight tickets. 
    • Passport details - Inclusion of pertinent passport information. 

    Each of these requirements serves to give the Embassy a clearer understanding of the applicant’s travel plans and intentions. 

    Restricted Items in the Philippines 

    The Philippines has strict regulations regarding the import and export of certain goods. Items like food, plants, animals, drugs, used vehicles, electronics, tobacco, and minerals are heavily controlled and regulated. 

    Additionally, specific items require legal permission for import or export.

    These include explosives, weapons of war, gambling equipment, lottery tickets, certain narcotics, and opium pipes.  

    Moving these items without permission can have serious legal consequences due to strict restrictions on their import, export, and transit. Therefore, travelers should familiarize themselves with these rules before embarking on their journey to the Philippines.

    Yellow Fever Vaccination Requirements to Enter the Philippines  

    Travelers to the Philippines aged one or above need a Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate in two situations. Firstly, if they are arriving from countries identified as having a risk of yellow fever transmission.  

    Secondly, if they have transited for over 12 hours through an airport located in a country associated with yellow fever risk. This measure protects both the traveler and the local population from potential outbreaks and the spread of this serious disease. 

    Proof of Sufficient Funds 

    Travelers to the Philippines must show they have enough money to support themselves while they are there.  

    This precaution helps prevent tourists from seeking unlawful employment to fund their visit. Financial documents such as bank statements or pay slips can serve as this proof. 

    This illustrates the traveler’s financial capacity to afford lodging, meals, travel expenses, and other potential costs throughout their stay. 

    Photocopies of Important Documents 

    Although not compulsory, carrying photocopies of crucial documents is highly recommended when traveling to the Philippines. This might include copies of the passport, visa, flight tickets, or other relevant documents.  

    Keeping these duplicates can act as a safeguard in case of unexpected loss or theft of the originals, ensuring that travelers still have access to vital information. They can also expedite the process of replacing any lost documents, minimizing potential disruption to the travel plans. 

    Entering the Philippines: Modes of Travel 

    Foreigners can enter the Philippines by air, road, or water. There are many airports, seaports, and land crossings for travelers. 

    Traveling Via Air

    The main airport in Manila, called NAIA, is the main way to enter the Philippines by air. It handles a lot of the country’s international flights. Other key airports include Mactan-Cebu International Airport in Cebu, Clark International Airport in Pampanga, and Davao International Airport in Davao. 

    Entering Via Sea  

    For maritime entry, the Philippines boasts numerous seaports due to its archipelagic nature. The Port of Manila is the largest, servicing both commercial and passenger vessels, including cruise ships. Cruise ships also frequent Subic Bay and the ports of Cebu and Davao. 

    Land Entry 

    Land entry is a bit limited due to the Philippines’ geographic location, with the majority of its borders surrounded by water. However, the southern backdoor route, particularly the Zamboanga-Borneo route, is an option for those arriving from Malaysia by road. 

    No matter how a foreigner enter, he/she must follow visa, immigration, health, and safety rules, especially due to current global health issues. Understanding these various options for entering the Philippines can help travelers plan their journey effectively and efficiently. 

    Entering the Philippines as a Tourist  

    Citizens of certain countries, including most Southeastern Asian countries, can enter the Philippines without a visa for tourism purposes. Visa-free stay duration ranges from 14 to 59 days, based on agreements between the Philippines and the traveler’s home country. 

    Visa On Arrival 

    Visa on Arrival service is available for citizens of a few specific countries who are traveling for business or tourism purposes. They can obtain a visa upon their arrival in the Philippines, typically valid for 30 days. 

    Electronic Travel Authorization for Taiwan Citizens 

    Taiwanese tourists must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) to enter the Philippines. The ETA can be easily obtained online, making it a convenient option for Taiwanese travelers planning a visit to the Philippines. 

    Embassy Visa 

    Citizens of countries not eligible for visa-free entry, visa on arrival, or ETA must obtain a visa. They can get it from a Philippine Embassy or Consulate before their travel. 

    To apply, foreigners must submit an application with the required documents. These documents include a valid passport, proof of onward travel, and proof of sufficient funds. One should start this process well ahead of their intended travel date to ensure ample time for processing.

    Frequently Asked Questions


    Do US citizens need a visa to enter the Philippines?

    Yes, US citizens need a visa for stays longer than 30 days. For stays under 30 days, US citizens can enter the Philippines visa-free, provided they have a return or onward ticket.

    What is the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) for Taiwan citizens?

    The ETA is a travel requirement for Taiwanese citizens to enter the Philippines. It can be easily obtained online prior to travel.

    What is the Philippines’ Arrival Card?

    The Arrival Card is a form that foreign travelers must complete upon entry into the Philippines. It requires personal details, flight information, and accommodation details in the Philippines.

    Which countries are eligible for visa-free entry into the Philippines?

    Many countries, including most ASEAN nations, the USA, and several European countries, are eligible for visa-free entry for tourism purposes for stays up to 30 days.

    Can I extend my visa-free stay in the Philippines?

    Yes, visitors can apply for a visa extension at the Bureau of Immigration. The extension period and fees depend on the nationality and current visa type.

    What proof of onward travel is required for entry into the Philippines?

    Proof can be a return flight ticket or a flight ticket to another destination outside the Philippines, dated within the visa or visa-free stay period.

    What are the requirements for proof of sufficient funds to enter the Philippines?

    Travelers must provide evidence such as bank statements or pay slips indicating they can financially support themselves during their stay.

    What happens if I overstay my visa in the Philippines?

    Overstaying a visa is considered illegal. Penalties can include fines and potential detention or deportation.

    Do I need any vaccinations to enter the Philippines?

    A Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate is required for travelers coming from countries with a risk of yellow fever transmission.

    What restricted items should I be aware of when entering the Philippines?

    Items such as firearms, narcotics, certain gambling equipment, and lottery tickets are restricted. Ensure to check the full list before traveling.

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