Requirements for entry to the Philippines

The Philippines offer travelers an amazing world of tropical islands, rich culture, and friendly people. Located in Southeast Asia, the country entices tourists from around the world with its pristine beaches, unique landscapes, and rich underwater world. However, before traveling, you should familiarize yourself with the current requirements and entry regulations for the Philippines.

All passengers traveling to the Philippines must complete an electronic travel declaration before both entry and exit. This is an important requirement for safety and control within the country's immigration policy.

In recent years, Philippine authorities have made a number of changes to the visa policy to make the country more accessible to foreign visitors. For nationals of many countries, including Germany, entry to the Philippines has been facilitated by the introduction of visa-free entry for short stays. However, all travelers should carefully inform themselves about the current requirements, which depending on the purpose and duration of the visit, may include the need for a visa or entry permit.

It is important to note that entry requirements may change depending on the epidemiological situation in the world. Therefore, it is advisable to inform yourself about the necessary documents, medical requirements, and possible restrictions before planning your trip. This will help ensure a smooth entry and allow you to fully enjoy the beauty and hospitality of the Philippines.

For citizens of many countries, including Germany, entry into the Philippines has become much easier in recent years due to the liberalization of visa policies.

Currently, citizens of Germany and several other countries do not need to apply for a visa for a short-term tourist visit to the Philippines. Tourists can enter without a visa and stay in the country for up to 30 days. This visa-free arrangement simplifies travel planning significantly and makes the Philippines a more accessible destination for spontaneous travelers.

However, all travelers, including foreigners and Filipino citizens, must complete an eTravel form. This is mandatory for all incoming and outgoing travelers. Registration must be completed 72 hours before departure or arrival in the Philippines. After successful registration, you will receive a QR code that you must present at the check-in counter before boarding your flight, as well as at customs upon arrival.

At passport control, you must present the following:

• A valid passport with at least 6 months validity beyond the date of entry
• Return flight ticket or ticket to a third country
• Confirmation of hotel reservation or invitation from the host country
• Proof of sufficient financial means for the duration of the stay

Those planning to stay in the Philippines for more than 30 days or visiting the country for purposes other than tourism may need a visa.

Travelers who wish to extend their stay in the Philippines have the option to extend their visa-free period directly in the country. To do this, they must contact the local immigration authority before the initial 30 days expire. The extension is usually granted for an additional 29 days, with further extensions possible up to a maximum duration of 6 months.

Compliance with all visa regulations ensures smooth entry into the country and allows you to fully enjoy the beauty and hospitality of the Philippines.

Before traveling to the Philippines, it is important for tourists and travelers to take care of their health and protect themselves from infectious diseases. Vaccinations play a key role in ensuring safety while traveling. Although vaccinations are not required for obtaining a visa or entering the country, medical experts strongly recommend a series of vaccinations to protect your health.

Recommended vaccinations for travel to the Philippines include:

Although yellow fever is not endemic in the Philippines, travelers entering from countries at risk of yellow fever may need to present a vaccination certificate.

It is strongly recommended to consult a doctor before traveling. A medical professional can assess your individual risks considering your travel itinerary, duration of stay, and health condition. This will help you create an optimal vaccination plan and ensure maximum protection during your stay in the Philippines.

Don't forget to take other precautions in addition to vaccinations, such as protecting yourself from insect bites, practicing good hygiene, and being cautious with food and water. These measures, combined with the right vaccinations, significantly reduce the risk of illness and allow you to explore the beautiful islands of the Philippines without unnecessary health concerns.

Traveling to tropical islands with children can be an unforgettable adventure if you are properly prepared and consider all the peculiarities. When planning a trip, special attention should be paid to visa regulations and the necessary documents. Children traveling with their parents can enter the Philippines with their parents' passport. However, if the child is traveling with or without a parent, a notarized and signed entry permit in English from either parent is required.

COVID-19 and Vaccination: When traveling to the Philippines, an eTravel form must be filled out. This is mandatory for all incoming and outgoing travelers, including foreigners and Filipino citizens. Registration must be completed 72 hours before departure or arrival. Upon successful registration, you will receive a QR code that you must present at the check-in counter before boarding and at customs.

Regarding COVID-19, travelers should note the following requirements:

• A COVID-19 test is not required before departure if you are fully vaccinated.
• Vaccination must be completed: The second dose of the two-dose vaccine or a single dose must be administered more than 14 days before departure.
• Unvaccinated or partially vaccinated travelers over 15 years old must present a negative result from an antigen test conducted in a medical facility 24 hours before departure. This applies to non-stop flights.
• Test upon arrival: If the test was not presented before departure, travelers over 15 years old must undergo an antigen test upon arrival at the airport.
• Minors: For children under 15 traveling with adults, the same quarantine protocols apply as for their co-travelers. Unaccompanied minors must also undergo the above-mentioned tests.
• Quarantine: All travelers who test positive for COVID-19 must undergo quarantine according to the protocols of the Philippine Department of Health.

Travel Preparation: Obtaining health insurance is an important aspect of preparation. Choose insurance with comprehensive coverage that also includes medical assistance and evacuation in case of emergency. This way, you can travel with peace of mind and safety.

The tropical climate of the Philippines makes the islands an ideal destination for a beach holiday all year round. It is best to choose the dry season (November to May) for a pleasant vacation with children. Be aware of the rainy season (June to October).

When choosing a hotel, make sure it has family rooms and facilities for children. On popular islands like Boracay or Cebu, many hotels offer programs and activities for children.

Transport and Food: Transportation between islands is done by ferries or small planes. Consider the age of your children and choose the most comfortable means of transportation.

Meals may be unfamiliar to children, so choose reputable restaurants and pay attention to good hygiene. Always carry bottled water with you.

Entertainment and Culture: The Philippines offer many activities for children: amusement parks, zoos, snorkeling. When engaging in water sports, prioritize safety - children need life jackets.

Visiting cultural events, festivals, and local craft shops can be a fun experience for the whole family, helping them better understand and appreciate the culture of the Philippines.

Necessary Items: Be sure to pack sunscreen, insect repellent, and a basic supply of medications. Proper preparation and attention to detail will help make your family trip safe and enjoyable.

Germany maintains diplomatic relations with the Philippines through its embassy in Manila and its honorary consulate in Cebu. These representations support German citizens in the Philippines and promote bilateral relations between the two countries.

The German Embassy in Manila is the most important diplomatic representation of the country in the Philippines. It is located in the financial district of Makati and offers a wide range of services for German citizens and Filipinos planning a trip to Germany.

Contact information for the embassy in Manila:

Address: 25/F Tower 2, RCBC Plaza, 6819 Ayala Avenue, Makati City 1200, Metro Manila, Philippines

Phone: +63 2 8702 3000

Email: info@mani.diplo.de

Opening hours: Monday-Thursday 7:30-16:00, Friday 7:30-13:30

It is important to know that there is a special hotline for emergencies outside office hours: +63 2 8702 3000. This number is only intended for emergencies requiring immediate action.

The embassy offers the following basic services:

• Issuance and renewal of passports
• Consular registration
• Notarial services
• Visa support
• Assistance in emergencies

For citizens living or traveling in central Philippines, there is a German honorary consulate in Cebu City. It can provide basic consular support and information, although contact with the embassy in Manila may be required for many official procedures.

Contact information for the honorary consulate in Cebu:

Address: 3/F DECO Building, 64 Osmena Boulevard, 6000 Cebu City, Philippines

Phone: +63 32 2531871

Fax: +63 32 2531860

Travelers are recommended to register with the Elefand system (Electronic Registration of Germans Abroad) before their trip so that the embassy can quickly contact them in case of emergency.

The Philippines is a Southeast Asian paradise where tropical exoticism meets rich culture and incredible hospitality of the locals. This archipelago with more than 7,000 islands offers travelers a unique combination of natural beauty, exciting adventures, and relaxing beach vacations.