Philippines visas
Whether you need a visa for the Philippines depends on your nationality and the purpose and length of your stay: many nationalities may enter visa-free for a short tourist visit under Executive Order No. 408, while work, study, business, family and long-term residence all require a specific visa. Visas for entry are issued by Philippine embassies and consulates and through the government e-Visa portal, while stays, extensions and most in-country immigrant and non-immigrant visas are administered by the Bureau of Immigration (BI). Always confirm current rules, fees and requirements with the BU, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) or the official e-Visa portal before you travel or apply.
Filipino visa categories
Explore visa categories by the purpose of your trip.
- Visitor & short-stay visasShort stays in Philippines — tourism, visiting family or friends, business visits and transit, plus any visa-free or e-visa options.4 visas
- Work visasComing to Philippines to work — the employment and skilled-worker routes and the permits they require.1 visa
- Study visasStudying in Philippines — student visas and permits for accepted students.1 visa
- Family visasJoining or sponsoring a partner, child or other relative in Philippines.1 visa
- Business & investor visasInvesting, doing business or coming to Philippines as a highly skilled individual.2 visas
- Residence & citizenshipLiving in Philippines long term — residence routes and, where available, the path to citizenship.3 visas
Filipino visa application at a glance
From start to finish in five simple steps.
- 01Choose the right visa
- 02Check eligibility & documents
- 03Apply online
- 04Provide biometrics
- 05Wait for a decision
Philippines — key facts
- Visa authority
- Bureau of Immigration (BI)
- Application
- Online (in most cases)
- Biometrics
- Usually required
- Currency
- Philippine peso (PHP)
- Time zone
- Philippine Standard Time (PST, UTC+8)
Official sources
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.
Verified against official sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.