Entry Requirements & Visas
New for 2026: eTravel Registration Mandatory
All travelers must complete the free eTravel online form within 72 hours before arrival, providing health and contact details for seamless entry. This digital system replaces paper forms and helps track potential health risks, taking just 5-10 minutes to submit.
Passport Requirements
Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in the Philippines, with at least two blank pages for entry and exit stamps.
Ensure it's in good condition, as damaged passports may be rejected at immigration checkpoints in major airports like Manila or Cebu.
Children and minors need their own passports, even when traveling with parents.
Visa-Free Countries
Citizens of over 150 countries, including the US, UK, Canada, Australia, EU nations, and most Asian countries, can enter visa-free for up to 30 days for tourism or business.
Proof of onward travel (like a return ticket) and sufficient funds (around $100/day) may be requested at entry points.
Visa-free stays cannot be extended beyond 30 days without applying for a visa extension in advance.
Visa Applications
For nationalities requiring a visa or stays longer than 30 days, apply for a tourist visa (9(a)) through the Philippine embassy or consulate in your home country, with fees starting at $30-50.
Required documents include a completed application form, passport photos, proof of accommodation, financial statements, and an invitation letter if applicable; processing typically takes 7-15 working days.
Online eVisa options are expanding for 2026, allowing applications from select countries with faster approvals under 48 hours.
Border Crossings
Primary entry points are international airports like Ninoy Aquino in Manila, Mactan-Cebu, and Francisco Bangoy in Davao, where biometric scanning and eTravel verification occur upon arrival.
Sea arrivals via ferries from neighboring countries like Indonesia or Malaysia require advance clearance and may involve additional health screenings; land borders are limited due to island geography.
Expect queues during peak seasons, but electronic gates are being introduced in 2026 to speed up processing for pre-registered travelers.
Travel Insurance
While not mandatory, comprehensive travel insurance covering medical emergencies, trip delays, and adventure activities like diving or hiking is highly recommended due to variable healthcare quality.
Policies should include evacuation coverage for remote islands; costs start at $1-2/day from international providers, and proof may be checked at entry.
Ensure coverage for typhoon-related disruptions, as the wet season can impact travel plans significantly.
Extensions Possible
Visa-free stays can be extended up to 36 months total through the Bureau of Immigration, starting with a 29-day extension for 3,000 PHP (about $50), applied for before your initial 30 days expire.
Extensions require photos, a valid passport, and proof of onward travel; overstay fines are 500 PHP/day plus potential deportation risks.
For longer-term plans, consider a Special Resident Retiree's Visa (SRRV) if eligible, offering indefinite stay with minimal requirements for retirees.
Money, Budget & Costs
Smart Money Management
The Philippines uses the Philippine Peso (PHP). For the best exchange rates and lowest fees, use Wise to send money or convert currency - they offer real exchange rates with transparent fees, saving you money compared to traditional banks.
Daily Budget Breakdown
Money-Saving Pro Tips
Book Flights Early
Find the best deals to Manila or Cebu by comparing prices on Trip.com, Expedia, or CheapTickets.
Booking 2-3 months in advance can save you 30-50% on airfare, especially for domestic flights between islands.
Look for promo fares from airlines like Cebu Pacific or AirAsia for budget inter-island hops.
Eat Like a Local
Dine at carinderias (local food stalls) for affordable meals under 200 PHP, skipping touristy beach resorts to save up to 50% on food costs.
Street food markets in Manila or Cebu offer fresh grilled barbecue (inihaw) and tropical fruits at bargain prices, providing authentic flavors without breaking the bank.
Opt for set meals (pansitan) or join homestays for home-cooked Filipino dishes included in your stay.
Public Transport Passes
Get a Beep Card for Manila's MRT/LRT at 100 PHP initial load, offering unlimited rides for daily commutes at reduced fares under 50 PHP/trip.
For island travel, book multi-ride ferry passes or van shares via apps like BookMeBus, cutting inter-island costs by 20-40% compared to private transfers.
Avoid taxis in favor of ride-hailing apps like Grab, which often have promo codes for first-time users.
Free Attractions
Visit public beaches in Boracay or Palawan, hike rice terraces in Banaue, and explore historic Intramuros in Manila, all cost-free and offering authentic experiences.
Many national parks like Chocolate Hills or Mayon Volcano viewpoints have no entry fees, just optional guide tips.
Join free walking tours in cities or community-led eco-tours in rural areas to immerse without spending.
Card vs Cash
Cards are accepted in urban areas and resorts, but carry cash for remote islands, markets, and small vendors where fees can add 3-5%.
Withdraw from bank ATMs like BPI or Landbank for better rates than airport exchanges; notify your bank of travel to avoid card blocks.
Use mobile wallets like GCash for peer-to-peer transfers and small payments, reducing the need for physical cash.
Multi-Attraction Passes
Purchase island-hopping packages or eco-tour bundles for 1,000-2,000 PHP covering multiple sites like El Nido or Coron, which pay off after 3-4 stops.
National park passes like those for Puerto Princesa Underground River offer discounts for combined visits, saving 20-30% on individual entries.
Check for seasonal promo cards from tourism boards that include transport and entry to popular spots.
Smart Packing for Philippines
Essential Items for Any Season
Clothing Essentials
Pack lightweight, quick-dry clothing like breathable shirts, shorts, and swimsuits for the tropical humidity and frequent swims in crystal-clear waters.
Include modest cover-ups for temples and churches in areas like Vigan, plus a light rain jacket or poncho for sudden showers year-round.
Layer with long sleeves for sun protection during boat trips, and pack versatile pieces that mix for urban Manila or beach hopping in Siargao.
Electronics
Bring a universal adapter for Type A/B/C plugs (220V), a waterproof phone case for beach use, and a solar charger for remote islands with spotty power.
Download offline maps via apps like Maps.me, translation tools for Tagalog, and a VPN for secure Wi-Fi in cafes or resorts.
Pack a GoPro or action camera for underwater adventures, plus extra memory cards for capturing rice terraces and sunsets.
Health & Safety
Carry comprehensive travel insurance docs, a basic first-aid kit with motion sickness meds for ferries, and prescriptions for any ongoing conditions.
Include reef-safe sunscreen (SPF 50+), DEET insect repellent for dengue-prone areas, and water purification tablets for rural hydration.
Pack anti-diarrheal meds, antihistamines for allergies to tropical fruits, and a small COVID test kit if required for domestic travel.
Travel Gear
Opt for a waterproof daypack for island excursions, a reusable water bottle to refill at resorts, and a dry bag for protecting valuables on boats.
Bring copies of passport, visa, and eTravel confirmation, plus a money belt or neck pouch for cash in crowded markets like Divisoria.
Include a sarong for versatile use as a towel, beach mat, or privacy screen in shared accommodations.
Footwear Strategy
Choose flip-flops or water shoes for beach access and boat rides, paired with sturdy sandals for hiking volcanic trails like Taal or Mayon.
Pack lightweight hiking sneakers for urban exploration in Cebu or rice terrace treks, ensuring they're breathable to combat humidity.
Avoid heavy boots; focus on versatile, quick-dry options that handle mud from wet season paths and coral reefs for snorkeling.
Personal Care
Include travel-sized biodegradable toiletries, aloe vera gel for sunburn relief, and a compact umbrella or hat for intense tropical sun.
Pack wet wipes and hand sanitizer for hygiene on long bus rides or ferries, plus lip balm with SPF to protect against dehydration.
Opt for eco-friendly products to respect marine environments, and include a small laundry kit for washing clothes in sinks at guesthouses.
When to Visit Philippines
Dry Season - Cool (December-February)
Peak tourist time with comfortable temperatures of 25-30°C, low humidity, and minimal rain, ideal for exploring Manila's historic sites or Boracay's white sands.
Festivals like Sinulog in Cebu draw crowds for street parades and cultural dances; book accommodations early as prices rise 20-30%.
Perfect for island-hopping without typhoon worries, though cooler evenings call for light layers.
Dry Season - Hot (March-May)
Hot and sunny weather around 30-35°C suits beach lovers in Palawan or diving in Apo Reef, with clear skies for outdoor adventures.
Summer festivals like Ati-Atihan in Kalibo feature vibrant costumes and music; expect higher ferry demand but fewer rains.
Stay hydrated and visit early mornings to avoid peak heat, with evenings cooling to 25°C for relaxed dinners.
Wet Season - Early (June-August)
Warmer waters at 28-32°C enhance snorkeling in Coron, but afternoon showers are common; lush greenery makes hikes in Bohol stunning.
Fewer crowds mean 30-50% lower hotel rates; whale shark watching in Donsol peaks with calmer seas.
Pack rain gear for short downpours that often clear quickly, allowing for full-day explorations.
Wet Season - Late (September-November)
Typhoon season brings heavier rains and winds (25-30°C), but shoulder months offer deals on Siargao surfing or Sagada cave tours.
Harvest festivals celebrate rice and seafood with local feasts; monitor weather apps for safe travel windows.
Budget travelers thrive with off-peak pricing, though some remote areas may have disrupted ferries—opt for flexible itineraries.
Important Travel Information
- Currency: Philippine Peso (PHP). ATMs are widespread in cities; exchange rates fluctuate around 55-58 PHP per USD. Cards accepted in tourist areas but cash rules in rural spots.
- Language: Filipino (Tagalog-based) and English are official. English is fluent in tourism, business, and urban centers for easy communication.
- Time Zone: Philippine Standard Time (PHT), UTC+8 (no daylight saving)
- Electricity: 220V, 60Hz. Type A (two-flat), B (two-flat with ground), and C (two-round) plugs; dual-voltage devices recommended
- Emergency Number: 911 for police, medical, or fire assistance (dial 117 for tourism police)
- Tipping: Not customary but appreciated; add 10-20 PHP for porters, 50-100 PHP for guides, or 5-10% at restaurants for good service
- Water: Tap water is not safe; drink bottled or purified water (available everywhere for 20-50 PHP). Avoid ice in rural areas.
- Pharmacies: Abundant in cities (look for Mercury Drug or Watsons chains); basic meds available without prescription, but bring specifics for allergies.