Visa Requirements for the Philippines
The Philippines offers various visa categories for foreign nationals. Many nationalities enjoy visa-free entry for stays of 30 days, while others require a visa from a Philippine embassy or consulate before travel.
Visa-Free Entry
Citizens of over 150 countries can enter the Philippines without a visa for stays of up to 30 days. This includes nationals of most ASEAN member states, EU countries, the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, Japan, and South Korea. You need:
- Passport valid for at least 6 months beyond the intended stay
- Return or onward ticket
- Proof of sufficient funds
Visa Categories
| Visa Type | Purpose | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| 9(a) Tourist Visa | Tourism, visiting family | 59 days (extendable) |
| 9(d) Treaty Trader/Investor | Business activities | 1 year (renewable) |
| 9(g) Pre-arranged Employment | Working in the Philippines | Per contract |
| 9(f) Student Visa | Studying at Philippine institution | Per course duration |
| 13(a) Non-Quota Immigrant | Spouses of Filipino citizens | Permanent |
| SRRV | Special Resident Retiree's Visa | Indefinite |
| 47(a)(2) | Special non-immigrant (PEZA, BOI) | Per assignment |
General Requirements
- Completed visa application form
- Passport with at least 6 months validity and 2 blank pages
- Recent passport-size photo (white background)
- Proof of financial capacity (bank statements, employment letter)
- Confirmed travel itinerary
- Invitation letter (for business visa) or enrollment letter (for student visa)
- Visa fee payment
Visa Extension
Visitors who entered visa-free can extend their stay at the Bureau of Immigration (BI) in the Philippines. Extensions are granted in increments and can total up to 36 months. See our visa extension guide for details.
Electronic Visa (eVisa)
The Philippines has introduced an eVisa system for certain nationalities. The eVisa can be applied for online and is delivered electronically, eliminating the need to visit an embassy.
- Visa-free: 150+ nationalities
- Visa-free stay: 30 days
- Max extension: 36 months
- Passport validity: 6 months