FAQ

Some nationalities are required to apply for a visa before traveling to the Philippines. Detailed information on visa requirements for citizens of various countries can be found in the “Visas” section.

It is important that whether you need a visa or not, all travelers must complete an eTravel declaration before traveling to the Philippines.

The eTravel electronic declaration is a mandatory online form that must be filled out before entering the Philippines.

The eTravel must be completed no earlier than 72 hours prior to arrival in the Philippines.

It is necessary to contact the local immigration office to extend your visa.

Yes, a special work visa is required to work.

Documents for a visa to the Philippines: valid passport, application form, photo, airline ticket reservation, work certificate (if necessary), proof of residence. For visa-free entry, a valid passport is sufficient. All travelers, regardless of the need for a visa, are required to fill out an eTravel declaration.

To obtain a tourist visa for more than 30 days, you must apply at the Philippine Embassy or Consulate. You will need to submit a completed application form, passport, photos, hotel booking confirmation, return tickets and proof of financial solvency.

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Yes, you can extend your visa-free stay by contacting your local immigration office. The initial visa-free stay can be extended once. The maximum total period of stay of a tourist in the Philippines for visa-free entry, including extensions, is 59 days.

No, the tourist visa is valid throughout the Philippines. However, visits to some remote or environmentally protected areas may require additional authorization from local authorities.

A business visa is required for foreigners who plan to conduct business activities in the Philippines, including attending conferences, negotiating, attending trade shows, or meeting with business partners.

To obtain a business visa, you must submit a completed visa application form, valid passport, photo, invitation from a Philippine company, proof of financial solvency, hotel and airline reservations, and documents confirming the purpose of travel.

A standard business visa is issued for up to 59 days. For longer stays, a special permit or a long-term visa may be required. The visa can be single-entry or multiple-entry.

Yes, you can extend your business visa while in the Philippines. To do so, contact your local immigration office at least one week before your visa expires. Extensions are usually possible for up to 59 days.

No, a visa on arrival is not issued. Either visa-free entry or visa application in advance.

Passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry.

If you do not leave the transit area of the airport, no visa is needed.

Yes, a student visa is required to study.

No, the Philippines does not grant citizenship for investment.

The Philippines has a tropical climate with two main seasons: dry (December to May) and rainy (June to November). The average temperature all year round is 26-28°C. The best time to visit is from December to February, when the weather is dry and relatively cool.

Popular vacation destinations include:

• Boracay Island: known for its white-sand beaches and nightlife.
• Palawan: famous for its beautiful lagoons and underwater world.
• Cebu: offers both city breaks and beach vacations on neighboring islands.
• Bohol: Famous for its Chocolate Hills and longhouses.
• Siargao: a paradise for surfers and lovers of unspoiled nature.

Key attractions include:

• Banaue Rice Terraces
• Puerto Princesa Underground River in Palawan
• Chocolate Hills in Bohol
• Intramuros Historic District in Manila
• Mayon Volcano on Luzon Island

In general, popular tourist destinations in the Philippines are safe. However, normal precautions should be observed as in any other country. It is recommended to avoid the southern areas of Mindanao Island due to political instability.

Filipino cuisine is a blend of Malay, Spanish, Chinese and American influences. Popular dishes include adobo (meat marinated in vinegar and soy sauce), sisig (a spicy dish of pig's head and liver), lechon (baked suckling pig), and halo-halo (a dessert made of ice and various toppings).

The official languages are Filipino (based on Tagalog) and English. Most Filipinos speak English, which makes the country convenient for English-speaking tourists.

The official currency is the Philippine peso (PHP). Credit cards are widely accepted in cities and tourist areas, but it is recommended to carry cash for small purchases and travel to remote areas.

Major modes of transportation include:

• Airplanes for inter-island travel
• Ferries for short inter-island crossings
• Jeepneys (colorful converted jeeps) for city trips
• Tricycles (motorcycles with sidecars) for short trips
• Cabs and cab apps (Grab) in major cities

The Philippines is famous for its biodiversity. Unique species include:

• Longfin whales in Bohol
• Whale sharks off Cebu Island
• Philippine Eagle in Mindanao
• Tarsiers in Bohol and Samar.
• Dwarf buffalo (tammaro) in Mindoro

Popular festivals include:

• Sinulog in Cebu (January) - a colorful religious festival
• Ati-Atihan in Kalibo (January) - “Philippine Mardi Gras”
• Lantern Festival in San Fernando (December) - an impressive light show
• Pinagbenga in Baguio (February-March) - Flower Festival
• MassKara in Bacolod (October) - Smiling Mask Festival