Philippines entry requirements at a glance
Every foreign traveler flying to the Philippines needs to check two separate things: whether they need a visa to enter the country, and whether they've completed the Philippines eTravel declaration. These are independent requirements — meeting one does not exempt you from the other.
| Requirement | Who it applies to |
|---|---|
| Visa / e-visa / visa exemption | Depends on your nationality and length of stay |
| eTravel Philippines | All foreign nationals arriving, and Filipino citizens departing or returning from abroad |
How the eTravel Philippines declaration works
The Philippines eTravel registration is completed online, ideally within the 72 hours before travel, so that flight and accommodation details stay accurate. The Philippines eTravel registration asks for passport details, the flight number, the first address in the Philippines, and a few health and customs answers.
- Before the trip: prepare the passport, the booking confirmation and the accommodation address.
- After submission: the Philippines eTravel QR code arrives by email; saving it on the phone and keeping a printed copy is recommended.
- At the airport: the Philippines eTravel QR code may be requested at immigration on arrival or departure.
Currency and money
The official currency is the Philippine Peso (PHP). Card payments are widely accepted in cities, malls, and hotels, but cash is still preferred at markets, small eateries, and in the provinces. ATMs are widely available in cities and at airports.
Weather and best time to visit
The Philippines has a tropical climate. The dry season runs roughly from November to May (December to February is coolest and most comfortable), while the wet season runs from June to November, with typhoon activity peaking between July and October. Always check the forecast before travel during rainy season.
Health and vaccinations
No vaccinations are mandatory for entry from most countries, though routine vaccinations are commonly recommended. Precautions against mosquito-borne illness (such as dengue) are worth taking, especially during the rainy season. Check with a travel health clinic before departure.
Customs and etiquette
- Shoes are often removed before entering homes.
- Dress modestly when visiting churches and religious sites.
- Tipping (around 10%) is appreciated but not obligatory in restaurants.
- Filipino hospitality is warm — a smile and a respectful greeting go a long way.
Getting around the Philippines
Domestic flights connect the main islands, and ferries serve many shorter routes. In cities, taxis and ride-hailing apps are common, while jeepneys and tricycles cover short local trips. Distances can be long and traffic heavy in Manila, so leaving a comfortable margin between connections is advisable.
Electricity, SIM cards and connectivity
The Philippines uses a 220 V electricity supply with type A, B and C sockets, so a travel adapter may be needed. Local SIM cards and eSIMs are available at airports and in shopping malls, and Wi-Fi is common in hotels and cafés.
What to expect at airport arrival checks
Immigration officers may ask to see the passport, a return or onward ticket, and the address of the first accommodation. Keeping these documents, together with the Philippines eTravel QR code, within easy reach speeds up the process.
Emergency numbers
| Service | Number |
|---|---|
| National Emergency Hotline | 911 |
| Tourist Assistance (Dept. of Tourism) | 1343 |
Before you travel — checklist
- Passport valid for at least 6 months beyond arrival
- Visa or e-visa arranged if required
- Philippines eTravel registration completed within 72 hours of travel
- Travel insurance covering medical evacuation
- Accommodation address ready for your application