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
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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.