Philippines Beach Holidays

You can visit the Philippines without a visa for tourism for up to 30 days.

Your passport must have an expiry date at least 6 months after the date you arrive.

You must have a QR code from the free e-travel system registration completed within the 72 hours before your arrival.

You must be prepared to show proof of return or onward travel as immigration officials and airlines may ask for it.

To stay more than 30 days, you must apply for an extension while in the Philippines, as overstaying can lead to fines, detention, or deportation.

If your non-Filipino children aged 14 or under are travelling without either parent, you must apply for a waiver of exclusion ground for entry into the Philippines.

You cannot take in more than 50,000 Philippine pesos and must declare foreign currency worth more than 10,000 US dollars on arrival.

Only use taxis from reputable companies, as some drivers and accomplices have robbed and harmed passengers.

Be alert to street crime and armed hold-ups on public transport, especially in Manila and other large cities, and avoid displaying cash or jewellery.

Drinking alcohol may pose a risk of methanol poisoning, which is deadly and impossible to identify by taste or smell.

British nationals have reported sexual assaults in popular backpacker spots, including Siargao.

Lifeguards or warning signs are unlikely on swimming and surfing beaches, so get safety advice from your hotel or locals before entering the water.

Carry a printed copy of your passport photo page as identification if you keep the original in a hotel safe.

Check a dive operator's credentials and ensure safety equipment, including oxygen, is available before scuba diving.