Philippine Entry Requirements for Tourists and Foreign Nationals (2025 Guide)

The Philippines is a dream destination for many, known for its pristine beaches, friendly locals, and rich cultural heritage. Whether you’re traveling for leisure, business, or to reunite with family, understanding the Philippine entry requirements is crucial for a smooth and stress-free journey.

In this comprehensive 2025 guide, we’ll walk you through the most updated travel requirements for entering the Philippines, including visa rules, passport validity, COVID-19 protocols, and customs regulations.

To help you navigate this guide, we’ve outlined all the major sections below. Click on any topic to jump directly to the information you need.

Who Can Enter the Philippines in 2025

As of 2025, the Philippines is open to international travelers, including tourists, balikbayans (former Filipino citizens), overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), and foreign nationals. Entry is allowed provided that all immigration and health requirements are met.

The country allows visa-free entry for many nationalities under the Executive Order No. 408, while others need to apply for a visa before arrival.

Philippine Entry Requirements (2025)

1. Valid Passport

Your passport must be valid for at least six (6) months beyond your intended stay. This is a standard rule regardless of your country of origin.

✈️ Tip: Always check your passport’s expiration date and renew it if necessary before booking flights.

2. Return or Onward Ticket

Tourists and short-term visitors must show proof of a return or onward travel ticket upon arrival. Immigration officers may deny entry if this is not provided.

3. Proof of Accommodation

Foreign travelers may be asked to show proof of accommodation for the duration of their stay in the Philippines. This helps immigration verify that you have a clear travel plan and sufficient arrangements.

Accepted proof includes:

• Hotel or resort booking confirmation (email or printed copy)
• Airbnb or short-term rental receipt
• Letter of invitation from a resident host (if staying with a friend or family)
• Barangay certificate (if staying in a local residence)

🏨 Tip: If you’re a backpacker or don’t have all accommodations booked yet, at least secure your first few nights with a reservation and be prepared to explain your travel itinerary.

4. Visa Requirements

Visa-Free Countries

Over 150 countries can enter the Philippines without a visa for a stay of 14 to 59 days, depending on nationality. Some examples:

• USA, Canada, UK, Australia, EU countries – 30 days visa-free
• Brazil and Israel – 59 days visa-free
• Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia – 30 days visa-free

Related Post: List of Countries with Visa-Free Entry in The Philippines

You can extend your stay at the Bureau of Immigration (BI) for up to 36 months (non-visa required) or 24 months (visa-required nationals).

Visa-Required Countries

Travelers from countries not on the visa-free list must secure a visa from a Philippine embassy or consulate prior to arrival.

You may apply for:

• Tourist Visa (9A)
• Business Visa
• Transit Visa

5. COVID-19 Entry Protocols (As of 2025)

The Philippine government has lifted most pandemic-era travel restrictions, but basic health protocols are still in place.

Fully Vaccinated Travelers:

• No quarantine required
• No pre-departure RT-PCR test
• Proof of full vaccination using WHO-approved vaccines must be presented (digital or printed)

Unvaccinated/Partially Vaccinated Travelers:

• Must present a negative antigen test taken within 24 hours before departure
• May be subject to quarantine protocols based on symptoms

Children below 15 years old follow the protocols of accompanying parents/guardians.

6. eTravel Registration (Mandatory)

All travelers must complete the eTravel registration form online before arriving in the Philippines.

• Submit via: https://etravel.gov.ph
• Fill up 72 hours before your flight
• Receive a QR code (screenshot or printout)

⚠️ eTravel replaces the former One Health Pass and serves as your digital arrival card.

7. Travel Insurance (Recommended)

While not mandatory for all, travel health insurance with COVID-19 coverage is required for unvaccinated travelers and strongly recommended for everyone.

Entry Requirements Based on Purpose of Visit

Type of Visitor	Entry Requirements
Tourist	Passport (6+ months), return ticket, eTravel, visa (if needed)
Business Traveler	Business Visa, invitation letter, eTravel
OFWs	Valid OEC or e-Travel QR code
Foreign Spouse/Family	Marriage certificate, passport, eTravel
Students	Student visa (9F), acceptance from school, DFA-authenticated docs

Special Entry Rules for Balikbayans & Former Filipinos

The Balikbayan Program allows former Filipino citizens and their immediate family to enter the Philippines visa-free for up to one (1) year, provided they travel together.

Eligible family members:

• Foreign spouse
• Children (below 21)
• Parents (if dependent)

Required documents:

• Old Philippine passport or birth certificate (for former Filipino)
• Marriage or birth certificates (for accompanying family)

Immigration Process at the Airport

Upon arrival, expect the following steps:

1. Present passport and eTravel QR code
2. Answer basic questions (length of stay, purpose of visit)
3. Show return ticket and/or visa
4. Biometric scan and photo (for some travelers)
5. Baggage claim and customs clearance

⚠️ eTravel replaces the former One Health Pass and serves as your digital arrival card.

Customs and Import Rules

Philippine customs has strict rules about what you can bring into the country. Key points:

• Duty-Free Allowance: USD 350 (goods); USD 1,500 for returning OFWs
• Cash Limit: Up to PHP 50,000 and USD 10,000 (or equivalent foreign currency)
• Prohibited Items: Illegal drugs, pirated goods, explosives, firearms without clearance
• Declare any food, plant, animal, or medication products

⚠️ eTravel replaces the former One Health Pass and serves as your digital arrival card.

Useful Links for Travelers

• Philippine Bureau of Immigration: https://immigration.gov.ph
• eTravel Registration Portal: https://etravel.gov.ph
• Philippine Department of Tourism: https://www.tourism.gov.ph

Travel Tips for Entering the Philippines

• Double-check entry rules before your flight, especially visa requirements.
• Print copies of your documents: passport, eTravel QR code, insurance, return ticket.
• Plan ahead for extensions if you wish to stay longer than your visa allows.
• Be respectful and honest with immigration officers during interviews.
• Don’t forget local customs laws — the Philippines has strict import restrictions.

Final Thoughts

Traveling to the Philippines in 2025 is easier than ever, but staying updated on Philippine entry requirements is essential. Whether you’re a tourist, balikbayan, or first-time visitor, proper documentation and preparedness ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.

From crystal-clear beaches in Palawan to vibrant city life in Manila, the Philippines is ready to welcome you — just make sure you meet all the requirements before you fly!