Philippines Visa Guide — Every Visa Type Explained
Key highlights
- Visa-free entry for up to 30 days for many nationalities
- Flexible visa extensions available for long-term travellers
- Dedicated retirement visa (SRRV) with attractive benefits
- Multiple-entry options for business and frequent visitors
- eTravel registration required for all arriving passengers
- Specific Balikbayan privileges for former citizens and family
- Special economic zone visas (PEZA) for foreign investors
- Streamlined processing for group tours and student permits
Processing time
3-10 working days
Processing times depend heavily on the specific consulate and the applicant's nationality. Some visas can be extended locally in person in as little as 1-3 days.
Estimated cost
$40 - $250+ depending on stay duration
- Single-entry Tourist Visa fee (varies by embassy)$30 - $100
- Bureau of Immigration Express Fee (for extensions)$10 - $20
- ACR I-Card fee (for stays over 59 days)$50 - $100
Requirements
- Passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of arrival
- Applicants must not be on the Philippine Bureau of Immigration's 'Blacklist' or 'Watchlist'
- Confirmed return or onward ticket to a country of origin or next destination
- Proof of sufficient funds to support the stay in the Philippines
- Registered eTravel QR code (must be completed within 72 hours of arrival)
- No history of overstaying or violating previous Philippine visa conditions
- Evidence of accommodation or a local contact address
- For work visas, a notarised employment contract and AEP from the Department of Labor
- For retirement visas, a minimum deposit in a designated Philippine bank account
- Medical clearance for certain long-term visa categories
Documents you'll need
- Valid Passport (minimum 6 months validity beyond stay)
- Completed Visa Application Form (FA Form No. 2)
- Two recent passport-sized photographs (white background)
- Proof of financial capacity (bank statements or payslips)
- Confirmed return or onward flight ticket
- Hotel reservation or letter of invitation from a host
- Proof of occupation or student status
- Travel insurance (highly recommended though not always mandatory)
How to apply, step by step
- 1
Determine Visa Category
Identify whether you need a 9(a) Tourist Visa, a 9(g) Work Visa, or fall under the Visa Waiver Program based on your nationality and purpose of stay.
- 2
Register for eTravel
Register your travel details on the official Philippine eTravel website within 72 hours before your scheduled arrival.
- 3
Gather Documentation
Collate necessary documents including your passport, photographs, bank statements, and flight itineraries.
- 4
Submit Application
Complete the visa application form via the Online Visa System or through your local Philippine Embassy/Consulate.
- 5
Pay Fees
Pay the relevant processing fees at the embassy, consulate, or designated payment centre.
- 6
Attend Interview (if required)
For certain long-term or work visas, attend a scheduled interview or biometric capturing session if requested.
- 7
Receive Visa Decision
Wait for the processing period to conclude and collect your visa or passport from the embassy.
- 8
Arrival and Extension
Upon arrival, ensure your passport is stamped correctly and monitor your expiry date to apply for extensions if needed.
Tips to avoid refusal
- Always ensure your return ticket is within the allowed period of stay to avoid boarding denials.
- Complete the eTravel registration early; you will need the QR code to pass through immigration.
- If staying longer than 59 days, apply for your ACR I-Card early to avoid last-minute stress.
- Keep digital and physical copies of your passport and visa stamps at all times.
- Dress smartly and be polite when visiting Bureau of Immigration offices for extensions.
- Double-check that your passport has at least two blank pages for entry and exit stamps.
Frequently asked questions
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PermitlyHQ provides informational software tools only and does not offer legal, immigration, or consulting services. Visa policies change frequently — always verify current requirements with the official embassy or consulate before applying.