Do I need a visa to travel to the Philippines?
French, Belgian, and Swiss citizens don't need a visa for a tourist stay of less than 30 days in the Philippines. An eTravel registration is mandatory within 72 hours before departure, along with a valid passport 6 months after return and a proof of onward travel.
Visa Exemption for Short Stays
For a tourist trip of less than 30 days, no visa is required for French, Belgian and Swiss nationals. This exemption significantly facilitates entry formalities to the Philippines.
Mandatory Formalities to Observe
- eTravel Registration: mandatory within 72 hours before departure on the official eTravel website
- Valid passport: must be valid 6 months after the planned return date
- Return ticket: proof of exit from Philippine territory required upon arrival
Cases Requiring a Visa
A visa becomes mandatory for:
- Stays of more than 30 days
- Other nationalities not exempted
- Business or study trips
In these cases, the application must be made to the Philippine consulate before departure.