Looking for reliable information about travelling to the Philippines in 2024?

This post is for you!

I’m Mel, a British-Filipino travel blogger. I recently got back from a trip to the Philippines in May 2024, and had to fill out the eTravel Portal before landing in the country.

It can all be a little bit confusing, so I thought I’d write a guide to help you out!

The Philippines, known for its beautiful landscapes, lively culture, and friendly people, remains a popular choice for travellers, digital nomads, and anyone seeking a tropical getaway.

Whether you’re planning a quick trip or a longer stay, knowing the latest Philippines travel requirements and how to use the eTravel Portal are the keys for a smooth and enjoyable journey.

So here, I’ve compiled the most up-to-date information and expert advice to guide you through your travel plans to the Philippines in 2024. Keep reading!

Travelling to the Philippines in 2024

Philippines Travel Requirements: What You Need To Prepare

1. Passport and Tickets

Travellers must possess a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond their intended departure from the Philippines. Additionally, a return ticket to the port of origin or onward ticket to the next destination is required.

2. eTravel Portal Registration

The eTravel Portal, which replaces the former One Health Pass, is a mandatory registration platform for all arriving passengers. Registration can be completed within 72 hours before arrival or upon arrival at the latest.

The official website for the eTravel System is https://etravel.gov.ph, and registration is free of charge.

3. Travel Insurance

While not a requirement for entry, travel insurance is strongly recommended for the Philippines.

According to LUMA, “Travel insurance is an absolute necessity when visiting the Philippines,” because of the importance of being covered for medical expenses, emergency medical evacuation, and repatriation if needed. SafetyWing is my top recommendation for digital nomads.

Related Post: 15 Things You Need To Know Before Visiting The Philippines | Essential Travel Tips

Travelling to the Philippines in 2024: Visas & COVID-19 Updates

Travelling to the Philippines: Current Travel Status

As of now, visitors from the United Kingdom and many other countries can enter the Philippines regardless of their vaccination status. This marks a shift towards normalising post-pandemic travel, reflecting the Philippines’ efforts to welcome international visitors while ensuring safety and convenience.

Travelling to the Philippines: Visa Information

For British citizens and travellers from 158 other countries, the Philippines offers a visa-free stay of up to 30 days. It’s advisable to check with your embassy or the Department of Tourism for any specific requirements based on your nationality.

Travelling to the Philippines: COVID-19 Considerations

COVID-19 is no longer considered a major public health threat in the Philippines, and international travellers are not required to show a vaccination certificate for entry.

However, staying informed about any changes to health guidelines and travel advisories is essential for your safety and well-being.

Travelling to the Philippines in 2024: How To Use the eTravel Portal Guide

How to Use the Philippines eTravel Portal

The Philippines eTravel Portal is your gateway to a hassle-free entry into the country. To ensure a smooth process, follow these steps:

1. Visit the Official eTravel Portal: Start by accessing the official eTravel Portal system at https://etravel.gov.ph.
2. Create an Account: If it’s your first time, you’ll need to create an account. Provide the required personal information, and make sure to remember your login details for future use.
3. Fill Out the Registration Form: Within 72 hours before your flight, log in and complete the registration form. This includes entering your travel details, health information, and uploading any necessary documents.
4. Receive Your QR Code: Once the form is submitted, you’ll receive a QR code. This QR code is essential for your entry into the Philippines, so keep it accessible, either printed or on your mobile device. I personally recommend taking a screenshot to save in your phone gallery just in case you don’t have signal or can’t connect to wifi once you land.
5. Present Your QR Code Upon Arrival: Show your QR code to the immigration officers upon landing in the Philippines. This will expedite your entry process and ensure compliance with the country’s health and safety guidelines.

By following these steps, you can enjoy a seamless entry into the Philippines, allowing you to immerse yourself in the beauty and culture of the islands without any unnecessary delays or hold-ups when you’re at passport control – the immigration queues can get long and you’ll be annoyed if you have to queue all over again!

Are you landing at Manila? Check out my guide: 10 Authentic Things To Do in Manila | Philippines Travel Guide

Travelling to the Philippines: What is the eTravel Portal?

The eTravel System is a digital platform for data collection on passengers arriving in and departing from the Philippines. It serves multiple purposes, including border control, health surveillance, and economic data analysis.

Do You Need to Do The eTravel Portal if You Are Travelling To The Philippines?

Yes, you do. According to the official eTravel System, the following people are required to register:

• “Arriving Filipino and foreign crewmembers;”
• “Arriving Filipino and foreign passengers; and”
• “Departing Filipino passengers.”

The only exemptions are “foreign diplomats, and their dependents, foreign dignitaries, and members of their delegation, 9(e) visa holders, and holders of diplomatic and official/service passports.”

In a nutshell, if you’re travelling or backpacking or visiting family, or aren’t a diplomat then yes, you need to!

Do You Need To Pay For The Philippines eTravel Portal?

No, the Philippines eTravel Portal does not require payment to use its services.

The eTravel registration is absolutely free, and any website or entity requesting payment for registration should be reported.

It is a free tool that streamlines the entry process for visitors to the Philippines, ensuring that all necessary health documentation and personal details are submitted in advance. It helps to facilitate a smoother arrival experience by allowing you to comply with the country’s health and safety guidelines at no additional cost.

The official eTravel website FAQ says that the registration is “absolutely free of charge” and that you should beware of fake or scam websites that require payment.

You can report any fake websites to the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC).

Help! My Philippines eTravel Portal isn’t working!

Did your eTravel Portal application freeze or get stuck on the ID submission page? Wondering how to fix your frozen eTravel Portal app?

If you encounter a situation where the Philippines eTravel Portal freezes or becomes unresponsive, you’re not alone. I faced this exact issue when trying to submit my application. My attempts to upload ID images from my iPhone were met with the portal freezing and showing a “file too big” warning sign, even after three tries. Despite switching from WiFi to data in hopes of resolving the issue, the problem persisted.

The solution that finally worked for me was starting the entire process afresh, but this time on my laptop. Not only did this save me from further frustration, but it also saved precious time and energy that would have been wasted trying to make it work on my mobile phone.

If you find yourself in a similar predicament, consider switching to a desktop or laptop to complete your application.

Philippines Travel Requirements: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What do you need to travel to the Philippines?

To travel to the Philippines, travellers must have a valid passport with at least six months’ validity beyond the expected date of departure from the country.

Though a visa is not required for stays of less than 30 days for British citizens and travellers from 158 other countries, it is important to check with the embassy or the Department of Tourism for any recent changes or additional requirements.

Are you planning to go island hopping? Check out my guide: What To Bring Island Hopping In The Philippines: What To Wear & Essentials

Do I still need a COVID-19 test to fly to the Philippines?

As of the latest update, international travellers are not required to present a COVID-19 test result for entry into the Philippines. However, it is crucial to stay updated with travel advisories as health guidelines may change.

Can British citizens travel to the Philippines?

Yes, British citizens can travel to the Philippines visa-free for up to 30 days. For longer stays, it is advisable to seek information on obtaining the appropriate visa or extensions.

Can tourists travel to the Philippines now?

Tourists can currently travel to the Philippines, considering they comply with the entry requirements set by the Philippine government. Since COVID-19 restrictions have been eased, there is no requirement for vaccination certificates for entry, but travellers should remain informed about any potential changes in travel advisories or entry requirements.

Is COVID-19 still an issue in the Philippines?

I recently came back from the Philippines and although many people in Manila and on commuter transport tended to wear masks in public, COVID-19 isn’t an issue. As LUMA put it, “COVID-19 is no longer considered a major threat to public health in the Philippines… This means that anyone can now travel to the Philippines, regardless of whether they are vaccinated.”

Do you need travel insurance for the Philippines?

Despite the easing of restrictions, the unpredictability of travel, especially in regions known for adventure and exploration, underscores just how important it is to have travel insurance.

While travel insurance isn’t essential in the Philippines, you might experience anything from motorbike accidents to unexpected illness to laptop theft or breakage. Having insurance can provide peace of mind and financial protection, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the beauty and excitement of the Philippines!

What’s the best travel insurance for the Philippines?

When choosing travel insurance for your Philippines trip, it’s important to consider your visit’s nature and planned activities. For digital nomads and long-term travellers, SafetyWing is one of my top recommendations.

SafetyWing offers flexible and comprehensive coverage suited for remote workers and those living abroad, covering medical issues, travel delays, lost luggage, and other mishaps.

With SafetyWing you’ll get peace of mind while exploring the Philippines, from its cities and beaches to rugged terrains. Plus with 24/7 support and an easy website, SafetyWing lets you enjoy the Philippines worry-free, knowing you’re protected.

Philippines Travel Requirements: From The UK and Beyond

Traveling to the Philippines in 2024 is going to be an amazing experience!

Just make sure you follow the latest Philippines travel requirements to ensure a smooth journey. This means you can fully enjoy the Philippines’ stunning landscapes, rich culture, and endless adventures without worrying about travel logistics and regulations.

Whether you’re sipping on a coconut on the white sands of Boracay, exploring the historic streets of Vigan, or diving into the crystal-clear waters of Palawan, the Philippines has something for everyone.

I hope you found this guide to Philippines travel requirements in 2024 and eTravel Portal information useful! I’ll keep it updated as new information comes up.

Travelling to the Philippines in 2024: Travel Guides

Ready to explore the Philippines like a pro? Check out my Philippines guides and start planning your trip:

10 Authentic Things To Do in Manila | Philippines Travel Guide

5 Best Islands To Visit in The Philippines

15 Things You Need To Know Before Visiting The Philippines Travel Tips

5 Best Weekend Escapes near Manila | Philippines 2024 Travel Guide

12 Epic Things to Do in Boracay Island 2024

What To Bring Island Hopping In The Philippines: What To Wear & Essentials

All Philippines Posts

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