Important: Processing times recently changed for both routine and expedited passport applications.

Philippines Entry Requirements

City in rural province on coast.

U.S. citizens do not need a Philippines visa for tourism purposes. A visa-free stay is allowed for 30 days. Travelers whose purpose is not tourism-related must secure a visa from a Philippine embassy or consulate prior to travel. Passports need to have at least 6 months of validity remaining upon entry to the Philippines. Immigration authorities will stamp your passport with an "admit until" date. You must not overstay or else be subject to fines and detention by the Philippine Bureau of Immigration.

Persons who overstay their visas are subject to fines and detention by Philippine immigration authorities. American citizens are urged to remain aware of their visa status while in the Philippines and to strictly follow immigration laws and regulations. Travelers departing the country from international airports must pay a Passenger Service Charge in Philippine Pesos. Visit the Embassy of the Philippines web site for the most current visa information.

Special requirements exist for the entry of unaccompanied minors. In an effort to prevent international child abduction, the Philippine Government requires that a waiver of exclusion be obtained from a Philippine Embassy or Consulate or from the Bureau of Immigration and Detention in Manila for a child under 15 years of age who plans to enter the Philippines unaccompanied by either a parent or legal guardian prior to the child's entry into the Philippines.

U.S. citizens are advised against traveling with potentially prohibited items, such as firearms, on their person or in their checked baggage. While at the airport or traveling in country, possession of prohibited items such as live or spent ammunition or firearms, or anything resembling such items -- whether it be a souvenir, gift, or artefact may subject the traveler to prosecution and stringent penalties by local authorities.

In a hurry? Apply online for expedited visa service

PhilippineTraveler.com Guide to the Philippines

Follow Us!

This website is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no additional cost to you.

Travel Resources

Travel Visas for Any Country 24 to 48 Hour Passport Service 23 International Saving Tips
23 International Saving Tips

The Ultimate Jet Lag Survival Guide
Jet Lag Survival Guide

Top 10 Canadian Travel Tips
Canadian Travel Tips

This website is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no additional cost to you.