The Philippines visa is a mandatory visa that must be obtained by nationals of non-visa-exempt countries. As of 24, 2023, the Philippine government introduced the pilot eVisa scheme for Chinese citizens. By the end of 2023, the country plans to allow for applications from India, while in the future, the list of eligible countries will be expanded by new nationalities.
The Philippine eVisa is issued as a single-entry visa for a stay not exceeding 30 days. The visa remains valid for 90 days from the date of issue. Its holder can use it to travel to the Philippines for the purposes of tourism or transit.
Some time ago, the Philippines also introduced the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system, but it is dedicated only to nationals of Taiwan.
The Philippine eVisa system, once fully operational, is supposed to work like other eVisa systems implemented by other countries. Applicants will be able to get a Philippino eVisa without visiting the embassy or consulate, as the process will be entirely online. After filling out an online form, uploading supporting documents, and paying the visa fees, the approved visa will be sent to the applicant's email inbox. The entire visa application process should not take more than a few days.
Get In TouchCurrently, there are around 40 countries whose nationals must hold a visa to enter the Philippines.
The following list includes all non-visa-exempt countries:
*As of August 24, 2023, Chinese citizens can apply for an eVisa to the Philippines. China is the first pilot country that can benefit from the online visa application.
The Philippines visa online application process does not differ from other countries that decided to introduce the eVisa system. Eligible applicants simply have to gather all the necessary documents, grab any electronic device connected to the Internet, and follow three steps, including:
It is recommended to print out the approved Philippine visa. Border officials may want to verify your entry documents, including a valid Philippine visa and passport.
Documents that are necessary to successfully apply for a visa for the Philippines online include:
Note: Depedning on your nationality and future regulations of the Philippine immigration authorities, some other documents may be required to complete the Philippines visa application.
The introduction of the eVisa system has plenty of benefits, such as: