Practical Information

Nationals from 151 countries can enter the Philippines visa-free for up to 30 days if their passport is valid for at least six months beyond their stay.

For visa requirements, visit the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs or Bureau of Immigration websites. Travelers can also check with the Philippine embassy or consulate in their home country for the latest information and visa assistance.

To enter and exit the Philippines, travelers must complete the e-Travel form online, available on the official government website.

The form must be filled out one to two days before arrival in the country or departure for outgoing travelers. After registration, a QR code will be issued, which must be presented upon arrival at the airport.

Yes, you must present either a return ticket to your home country or an onward ticket to another destination.

The World Health Organization recommends vaccinations against diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, chickenpox, measles, mumps, rubella, and polio.

Additionally, for the Philippines, vaccinations against hepatitis A and typhoid are advised, as these diseases can be contracted through contaminated food or water.

For stays longer than one month, consider vaccinations against  Japanese encephalitis, rabies, and hepatitis B.

There is a risk of malaria in the Philippines, particularly during the rainy season (June–August) in rural areas below 600 meters in altitude. However, in tourist and urban areas, the risk is very low.

Dengue fever is also widespread, especially between June and August. Symptoms include high fever, muscle and joint pain, severe headache, and nausea.

Other mosquito-borne diseases, such as chikungunya, Japanese encephalitis, and filariasis, are more common during the rainy season.

 Recommended precautions:
– Use mosquito repellents with a high concentration of DEET
– Stay in air-conditioned accommodations
– Consider antimalarial prophylaxis if traveling to remote areas with limited medical access

Some beaches are home to sandflies (nik-nik), small insects whose bites cause severe itching. Insect repellents with DEET are effective against them.

Box jellyfish and stonefis, among the most venomous marine creatures, can be found in coastal waters.

It is advisable to:
– Wear water shoes
– Use protective clothing, such as a rash guard, to reduce skin exposure while swimming

While not mandatory, travel insurance is highly recommended.

Private hospitals can be expensive, and in case of an emergency, an air evacuation may be necessary if you travel in remote places.

Medical expenses may need to be paid upfront, but receipts will be issued for reimbursement from your insurance provider. Always carry your  insurance policy details with you.

It is advisable to bring:

– Antibacterial cream
– Antibiotics for skin and intestinal infections
– Antifungal cream
– Antihistamines
– Anti-inflammatory medication
– Antiseptic
– Antispasmodic for stomach cramps
– Paracetamol and painkiller
– Steroid creamfor skin rashes

National emergency telephone number: 911

The climate in the Philippines is tropical, with warm and humid temperatures year-round.

Average temperatures generally range from 25°C to 32°C, but they can be higher during the dry season.

Seasons:
– Dry season (December–June): Higher temperatures, slightly lower humidity, and hotter days.
– Rainy season (July–November): Frequent rains and increased humidity, especially from **July to September**.

The combination of heat and humidity can make the days feel even warmer, so it’s best to wear light and breathable clothing.

– Shorts and cotton T-shirts
– Flip-flops, sandals, sneakers
– A few warmer clothes for protection against air conditioning at the airport
– Beach bag, sunscreen, sarong, hat, sunglasses, and swimsuit
– GoPro for underwater photography
– Universal adapter

The most common payment methods are cash and GCASH (mobile payments).

Major credit cards are accepted in hotels, but many small shops and restaurants prefer cash.

It is advisable to withdraw cash from ATMs in tourist areas, keeping in mind a **3–4% withdrawal fee

Here are some indicative prices:

Meal in a local restaurant PHP  300–600
Seafood restaurant meal PHP 500–800 
Hotel meal PHP  500–1500 
Large pizza PHP 300–1000 
McDonald’s meal PHP 200–500 
Can of Coca-Cola PHP 50–100 
Cappuccino PHP 120–150 
San Miguel beer PHP 60–100 
Prices vary by location— cities are generally more expensive than rural areas, and El Nido and Boracay tend to have higher prices.

The voltage is 220V / 60H. Travelers with 110V devices will need a transformer.

It is advisable to bring a universal adapter, as electrical outlets may differ from those in your country

Internet connections can be unstable, especially in remote areas. However, fiber-optic internet is available in major cities and tourist areas.

Most hotels, restaurants, and cafés offer free Wi-Fi, though speeds may be limited.

Local SIM cards for calls and data are provided by Smart and Globe (Globe has the best coverage). However, in some areas, the signal may be weak or nonexistent.

If you have Starlink you can also use it in the Philippines.

The most popular messaging apps in the Philippines are Facebook Messenger and Viber. WhatsApp and Telegram are less commonly used.