Philippines Tourist Visa — Requirements, Cost, Processing Time
Key highlights
- Visa-free entry available for over 150 nationalities for short stays
- Standard 9(a) tourist visa allows for a 59-day stay
- Simple extension process via the Bureau of Immigration (BI)
- Affordable application fees for single and multiple entries
- Mandatory eTravel registration for all arriving passengers
- Vibrant destination for beaches, diving, and cultural heritage
- Friendly requirements for retired travellers and digital nomads
Processing time
7-10 working days
Processing times are subject to the volume of applications at the specific consulate and may be longer during peak holiday seasons.
Estimated cost
$40 - $140
- Single-entry visa fee (standard)$30 - $40
- Multiple-entry visa fee (6-12 months)$60 - $120
- Notary and administrative fees$10 - $20
Requirements
- Passport with at least six months validity beyond the intended stay
- Completed application form (FA Form No. 2-A)
- Proof of sufficient funds (e.g., bank statements for the last 3 months)
- Confirmed onward or return flight ticket
- Evidence of accommodation (hotel booking or host invitation)
- Passport-sized photos taken within the last 6 months
- No record of exclusion or blacklisting by the Bureau of Immigration
- Payment of the non-refundable visa application fee
- Travel itinerary detailing intended locations and activities
Documents you'll need
- Original passport (valid for at least 6 months)
- Duly accomplished FA Form No. 2-A application form
- Two recent passport-sized photographs (white background)
- Confirmed round-trip or onward flight tickets
- Proof of financial capacity (bank statements or payslips)
- Proof of occupation or student status
- Hotel reservation or invitation letter from a host in the Philippines
- Police Clearance Certificate (if applicable for specific stays)
How to apply, step by step
- 1
Locate your nearest Embassy
Identify the Philippine Embassy or Consulate that has jurisdiction over your place of residence.
- 2
Fill out the application form
Complete the FA Form 2-A accurately. Ensure all information matches your passport exactly.
- 3
Prepare supporting documents
Gather your bank statements, flight itineraries, and hotel bookings as per the specific consulate’s checklist.
- 4
Schedule an appointment
Some consulates require an in-person appointment, while others allow postal applications. Check your local requirements.
- 5
Pay the application fee
Pay the visa fee via the accepted method (usually cash, postal order, or bank transfer). Keep the receipt.
- 6
Submit your application
Submit your documents and passport. You may be interviewed by a consular officer regarding your travel plans.
- 7
Collect your visa
Once processed, collect your passport or wait for it to be returned via secure mail. Check the visa sticker for accuracy.
- 8
Register for eTravel
Within 72 hours of your flight, register your details on the official Philippine eTravel portal.
Tips to avoid refusal
- Ensure your bank statements show a consistent balance; sudden large deposits can look suspicious.
- Don't book non-refundable flights until your visa is approved, unless required by the specific consulate.
- Check your passport for 'empty' pages; you usually need at least two blank pages for the visa and stamps.
- Be honest about your itinerary; inconsistencies between your application and interview can lead to rejection.
- Always carry a physical printout of your eTravel QR code and return ticket for immigration officers.
- Apply at least 3-4 weeks in advance to account for any unexpected administrative delays.
Frequently asked questions
Related visa guides
Visa policies change frequently. Always verify current requirements with the official embassy or consulate before applying. PermitlyHQ provides general guidance and is not a substitute for legal or immigration advice.