italian passport travel to philippines

ITALIAN SCHENGEN VISA Requirements & Application Process (VIA Center)

When we first toured Europe, we visited 16 different countries with a Germany-issued Schengen visa. But to our surprise, there was one destination that totally captivated us — ITALY. This boot-shaped Mediterranean state spoiled us with its delectable cuisine, jaw-dropping architecture, awe-inspiring sights, and enlightening history. We stayed in Italy for two weeks, but we knew from Day 1 that it would not be enough and that a return trip was bound to happen sooner or later.

Sooner, it turned out. Just a couple of years later, we found ourselves collecting all the documents needed to complete another Schengen Visa application. But this time, we were praying to the visa gods of Italy.

This wasn’t the first time we applied for a Schengen visa, but of all our visa applications, this made us the most nervous. Italy is notorious within my travel circles as one of the strictest when it comes to evaluating applications. I can only assume that the main reason is the sheer number of Filipino workers in Italy, around 170,000 documented OFWs plus tens of thousands undocumented. If online sources are to be believed, Italy has one of the highest rejection rates, along with France and Spain. But our plan involved staying in Italy the longest so we had to try.

We’re thankful that we did. As we began preparing, we realized that — yes, it is strict — but the process is also a lot easier and more straightforward. We applied via the PIASI VIA Center (Visa Information and Application Center). No prior appointment needed and no soul-crushing interviews. It was pretty fast too. I was granted a visa after only 4 days!

Anyway, here’s how to apply for an Italian Schengen Visa.

WHAT'S COVERED IN THIS GUIDE?

WHO CAN APPLY FOR AN ITALY-ISSUED SCHENGEN VISA?

Apply for an Italian Schengen Visa only if one of these apply to you.

• You’re going to Italy or Vatican City ONLY and will not visit any other country.
• You will visit two or more Schengen countries but you will stay the longest in Italy.
• You will stay in multiple Schengen countries for exactly the same number of nights, but Italy is your point of entry (first in your itinerary) in the Schengen area.

I noticed that Schengen embassies count the number of nights when determining where the applicant would be staying the longest.

LIST OF ITALIAN SCHENGEN VISA REQUIREMENTS

1. valid passport.

• Current passport and previous passports
• Must have at least 6 months validity (as required by Philippine Immigration)
• Must have at least 3 months validity remaining from the target end of the trip or target visa expiry (as required by Italian Embassy)

2. Accomplished Application Form

You can do it online or by hand.

• If online, you can fill it out here .
• If by hand, you can download from here .

Make sure that you don’t leave blanks. If the field does not apply to you, write NA or N/A.

For minors, the form must be signed by BOTH parents.

3. Recent Photo

• Both passport-size and 2×2″ photos are accepted. I submitted 2×2; Vins submitted passport-size. They accepted both.
• Colored ICAO standard photo with white background
• Ears should be visible. Lips must be closed.
• You must be wearing collared shirt or blouse.

4. Introduction Letter

This is highly encouraged. Because there is no interview with the consul or visa officer, you won’t have a chance to explain your purpose of travel in detail or clarify things you think they might find confusing. Having a cover letter can help your case.

Here’s a sample:

5. Proof of Available Accommodations

• Hotel booking under the name of the applicant. You may book from hotel booking websites and choose properties that allow FREE CANCELLATION so you can cancel easily in case the application is denied.

IF INVITED BY SOMEONE IN ITALY

• Letter of invitation. I think the letter has a standard format, but we don’t have a copy.
• Proof of citizenship or permit of stay of the inviting party
• PSA/NSO documents to prove relationship, if the inviting person is a relative. These may be birth certificates, a marriage certificates, or combination of them.

6. Photocopy of Passport Pages

• Photocopy of the bio page (page 2) and last page (In case of Emergency page) of the valid passport
• Photocopy of previous visas and immigration stamps on current and previous passports

7. Proof of Employment

IF EMPLOYED:

• Certificate of Employment
• Approved Leave of Absence
• Latest Income Tax Return (ITR)
• Approved Travel Authority (For government workers only. Ignore if not applicable.)
• Professional License Card (PRC Card, only if applicable. Ignore otherwise.)

IF SELF-EMPLOYED:

• Business license/permits
• BIR Registration
• SEC Registration (corporation) / DTI Registration (sole proprietor)
• Financial Statement with Company Income Tax Return
• GIS (General Information Sheet of company, if corporation)
• Articles of Incorporation (if corporation)

The copies of GIS, BIR Plate, and Articles of Incorporation are not in the official checklist, but we were told that they are also required. Thankfully, we had a soft copy of the docs they wanted so we just printed them out at a nearby computer shop and submitted the lacking docs that same afternoon.

IF STUDENT:

• Certificate of Enrolment
• Approved Leave of Absence (if traveling within school months)

8. Proof of Financial Means

• Bank certificate supported by corresponding statement of account or passbook, showing 6 months of account history
• International credit card statements
• Land titles or copy of proof of real estate property
• For minors, proof of financial means of parents or legal guardian

9. Travel insurance

• Minimum coverage of €30,000 (with additional 15-day allowance beyond your travel dates).
• Must be valid and accepted throughout the Schengen area.
• Must be purchased from an accredited company.

PGA SOMPO TravelJOY Plus SUPREME plan is specifically designed for Schengen visa applications. It’s perhaps the easiest insurance to get online. The Poor Traveler readers can also enjoy a special rate when you book on the PGA Sompo website and use the promo code: WORTHIT .

10. Identity Documents

• PSA/NSO-issued birth certificate
• If married, PSA/NSO-issued marriage certificate
• If minor or student, notarized Affidavit of Support signed by BOTH parents
• If minor and not traveling with parents, DSWD Clearance

11. Complete Itinerary

Your itinerary must reflect the dates you indicated when you accomplished the application form. Below is a sample. This is the format I followed. You can also download an editable version here .

12. Flight Reservations

Including outward and return flights. We also submitted all the flights we plan to take within the Schengen area. Make sure your document has a Passenger Registration Number (or reservation number).

To avoid wasting money, DO NOT PURCHASE TICKETS until your visa is approved. You just need to reserve .

Find a travel agency that can reserve flights for you. In our case, we got all our flight reservations from Gazelle Travel and Tours. You can reserve flights here: HOW TO GET FLIGHT RESERVATIONS

13. Visa Fee

Here’s the cost of Short Term Visa (Tourism/Visit) when I applied:

12yo or older = 60€ (P3519) 6-11yo = 35€ (P2053) 5yo or younger = FREE

However, there is a report that visa fees across all Schengen embassies have increased to EUR 80 per applicant.

In addition, you also need to pay the P1450 handling fee charged by VIA PIASI. According to their website and the matrices on site, the handling fee is only P1350, but we were charged P1450. I’m not sure if we were charged an additional P100 for something else.

Anyway, that’s a total of P4969 .

You can get FLIGHT RESERVATIONS, HOTEL RESERVATIONS, and TRAVEL INSURANCE online! We got in touch with Gazelle Travel and Tours, a DTI-registered DOT-accredited travel agency so they could easily offer these services to our readers. For the rates and more info, read: FLIGHTS AND HOTEL RESERVATIONS

Read: FLIGHTS AND HOTEL RESERVATIONS

How to apply for an italian schengen visa, 1. complete the required documents..

Gather all the requirements as listed above. You might also want to download this checklist , so you have an easy reference.

For easier processing, arrange your documents according to the order above. We also arranged the photocopies of our stamps and past visas according to how they appear on our passports.

Although there is no specified paper size, we decided to print all our docs on A4-size paper because it is the European standard.

2. Submit the requirements to the VIA Center.

Here are the addresses and business hours of the PIASI VIA Center in Makati and Cebu.

VIA Center Makati 3F Allegro Center, Chino Roces Ave, Makati, 2284 Metro Manila, Philippines Phone: +632-845-9200 / +632-845-9215 Email: [email protected]

VIA Center Cebu 1004 Keppel Bldg, Cardinal Rosales Avenue Cor Samar Loop, Cebu City, 6000 Cebu, Philippines Phone: +63-32-412-7447 Email: [email protected]

You can schedule an appointment or you can simply walk in.

If you wish to book an appointment, you may secure a slot by phone. Here are the details:

Appointment Hotline: (02) 845 9200 Call hours: Monday to Saturday, 8am-6pm Closed: Sundays and public holidays

But an appointment is OPTIONAL. You can simply show up at VIA Center. That’s what we did. We simply walked in! They accept visa applications in the following times:

VISA APPLICATION HOURS Monday to Thursday, 8am to 2:30pm Friday, 8am to 1:30pm Closed: Saturdays, Sundays, Public Holidays

If you’re applying in Makati, go to the second floor. Although the main office is on the third floor of Allegro Center, their receiving area for walk-in applicants is on the second floor. Here’s our experience.

• Approach the first counter right after the door. The staff will briefly check your application form and photo.
• Register on their logbook.
• Get a queue number and information form. This short form will ask you about your application and how you want your passport to be returned: by pickup or by delivery.
• Take a comfortable seat and wait for your turn. Use this idle time to fill out the information sheet.
• Once your number is called, approach the counter and submit your documents. They will check each document meticulously so it will take some time. If you choose to have your passport delivered, you will have to take care of it here too. You will be asked to go back to your seat and wait for the Biometrics collection.
• Once called, approach the Biometrics counter where a staff will take your fingerprints.
• Climb to the third floor and find the cashier.
• Make payment! Cash only. Don’t forget your acknowledgement receipt AND official receipt.

That’s it! You’re done! VIA Center will then forward your application to the Italian Embassy, which will be the one evaluating it.

In my experience, the whole processing took 3 hours. It should have been 2 hours, but they said we were lacking a couple business documents so we had to go out, print out those docs, and wait for our turn again.

3. Claim your passport and visa.

When the results are in, you will receive a call from VIA Center telling you that the passport is already with them and that it’s ready for pick up or delivery.

We were told that we can only pick up our passports at these times.

PASSPORT RELEASING SCHEDULE: Monday to Friday, 3pm-5pm ONLY.

We got a call from VIA only 4 days after we submitted our application. This was the fastest Schengen visa application I have experienced! But according to the VIA staff, the average wait is 15 days.

ITALIAN VISA FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

1. how long does the entire italian visa application process take.

According to the VIA staff we talked to, the average is 15 days.

Some take longer. In some cases, applicants have to wait over a month. Some get theirs much shorter — 10 days, 7 days, 5 days.

In our case, the whole thing took only 4 days! Here’s my timeline:

• July 23 (Monday) – Submitted our application at VIA Center Makati
• July 26 (Friday) – VIA informed us that our passports were ready for pickup
• July 29 (Monday) – We picked up our passport

I was super nervous at first because it was too quick, but according to a friend who used to work as a visa officer at a Schengen embassy, it does happen occasionally. It’s probably because this was my fourth Schengen visa and I had been to Italy before.

2. How early should I apply for an Italian Schengen visa?

The earliest you can lodge your application is 3 months (90 days) before your intended travel date . If you apply earlier than that, they will refuse your application and tell you to return at a later date.

Update: There is a report that you may now apply as early as 6 months before the trip, but I haven’t confirmed this yet.

3. How long is the validity of the Schengen Visa?

Depends on the itinerary you submit. The Embassy will decide based on your itinerary so take it seriously. Don’t make dummy itineraries. Make sure it’s really your plan.

4. Should I apply for a single-, double-, or multiple-entry visa?

Again, it depends on your itinerary and flight reservations. If your itinerary/flight reservations suggest you’re going out of the Schengen zone and then returning after, then apply for a double-entry visa. If you plan to go in and out of the zone many times, then go for the multiple entry visa.

Don’t apply for a multiple-entry visa if you intend to stay in Italy the entire time. There is no need for your visa to be multiple and will probably just raise more questions.

5. How much money should I have in the bank to get approved?

The embassy doesn’t disclose the exact amount they need to see on your financial documents. It also depends on the length of your stay and what you plan to do.

I add the cost of all the flights and hotel reservations I submit and then add 60 euro per day of stay in Europe. Some embassies require USD50 per day, some USD 55 per day. But to be safe, I use EUR60 per day.

Once I have the sum of it all, that’s what I consider the minimum amount that I should have in my bank account. MINIMUM. I make sure I have much more funds that that because the embassy will have a very hard time believing that you are willing to spend all your money on this trip.

Because of this, my personal rule is P10,000 per day of stay + cost of flights + cost of accommodations.

6. What are the reasons why my Schengen visa application would be denied?

This applies not just to the Italian Embassy but also other Schengen embassies:

• You can’t prove that you intend to return to the Philippines . You probably don’t have a stable job at this point, newly employed, or newly resigned, and it’s giving the impression that you plan on staying longer than your declared duration.
• You can’t prove that you can financially afford this trip. You or your sponsor may not be in a good financial standing.
• Your documents are inconsistent. Your application form may be stating one thing, but your supporting documents may be suggesting another.
• Your purpose in Italy or Europe is unclear or dubious . This is why it is best to be specific when you’re detailing the reasons for your visit.

We have more detailed explanations in this post: COMMON REASONS WHY VISA APPLICATIONS ARE DENIED!

7. Do I really need flight tickets before applying?

No, you don’t need to plane tickets. If anything, you are DISCOURAGED from purchasing plane tickets so you won’t waste money in the event that your application is rejected.

Actual tickets are NOT a requirement. What you can submit is a so-called FLIGHT RESERVATION , which is different from actual tickets. “Reservations” are just proof that you have blocked these plane seats. Some airlines can hold the booking for you.

Travel agencies can also issue flight reservations. If you don’t have time to go to a travel agency, you can have it reserved online.

Our go-to travel agency for flight reservations (and travel insurance) for visa application is Gazelle Travel and Tours , a DTI-registered and DOT-accredited agency. We created a form here so you can contact them completely ONLINE:

MORE INFO: Flight and Hotel Reservations

8. do i need to submit the original copies of the documents.

VIA Center urges applicants to bring both the original and a photocopy of all documents. However, not all of the original copies will be kept by them.

Some requirements call for original copies like passports, bank certificates, birth certificate, and certificates of employment.

For others like land titles and business registration docs, they will only get the photocopy. But they will check the original copies for verification that the photocopies are indeed true copies of the original.

9. I’m applying with a group/family. Do I need to provide a copy of every document for each member?

YES. Schengen visa applications are assessed individually . According to the VIA Embassy website, each applicant must have their own set of requirements.

For example, if there are 4 members of the group/family and all of you will be using the same bank account as proof of funds, you can use that one bank account but provide 4 original copies of the bank certificate, one for each member.

10. Is personal appearance required?

Most of the time, YES.

Part of the process is Biometrics collection, in which they need your fingerprints, so the applicant must be there. However, according to the VIA staff that processed my bio, some applicants who have existing biometric records in the Schengen system may not need to show up. But because it’s hard to tell whether the copies are reliable, they still strongly recommend to personally appear to submit biometrics.

I had my biometrics collected when I applied at the Greek Embassy just over a year ago, but I was still asked for fingerprints.

11. I am visiting European countries outside the Schengen Zone and then re-entering the zone after. What should I answer to the “Indicate number of days” field on the application form: the total number of days in Europe or just the number of days within the zone?

I had this same problem. Our plan was to spend 46 days in Europe but only 22 of those would be spent within the Schengen area: 18 days initially then we’ll go out and re-enter the zone again and spend 4 more days inside.

Initially, I entered the total number of days in Europe, 46 days. But the VIA Center staff told us to write the number of days within the Schengen area, 22 days. But because I had already written 46 days, she instructed us to just add (22 DAYS IN SCHENGEN) , enclosed in a parenthesis, by hand. So my final answer was 46 DAYS (22 DAYS IN SCHENGEN) .

I’m not sure if that’s right. I just followed their instructions. We were still granted a suitable visa, so I guess it was okay.

12. On the Schengen Information section (Page 5) of the VIA online application form, what if I have more than one visas?

On Page 5 of the VIA application form, one field asks: “Schengen issued during the past 3 years?” It’s followed fields where you’re supposed to enter the validity dates of the past visas.

The problem is, it seems to be impossible to enter more than one visas.

What I did is, I just entered the validity dates of the latest Schengen visa that I had.

13. On the Fingerprint Information section (Page 6) of the VIA online application form, what am I supposed to answer?

There are only two fields on that page. Here’s what I answered:

• Fingerprints collected previously for the purpose of applying for a Schengen visa for the past 3 years? – If you have applied for a Schengen visa before and the embassy (any Schengen embassy) collected your fingerprints within the past 3 years, answer YES. I answered YES because I remember the Greek Embassy took my biometrics 2 years ago.
• Finger Print Validity. – I don’t know what to answer here exactly, but I just entered the date my fingerprints were last collected by a Schengen Embassy.

14. What to answer to the PERMIT INFORMATION section (Page 7) of the VIA online application form?

I was perplexed by this too because there was no description. I didn’t know what to answer.

Thankfully, I found a Schengen Visa Application Form guide on the website of the French Embassy! The French to the rescue!

According to it, it’s specifically asking for: Entry permits for the final country of destination , where applicable.

“Fill this space only if you do not have the nationality of your country of residence and present your visa or your permit with a photocopy.”

Because I am a Filipino residing in the Philippines, it means it doesn’t apply to me. So I ticked NO .

15. On the Members Information section (Page 9) of the application form, there are tick boxes that read “by a applicant”, “by a sponsor”, and “means of support”. What are these?

The header of that section is missing. You’re supposed to fill in the blank. What it’s actually asking is this: “Cost of travelling and living during the applicant’s stay is covered ______.”

If you will be shouldering your travel expenses, tick “BY APPLICANT.” Then choose the means of support that you will be using. DO NOT tick the “BY A SPONSOR” box. That’s only for sponsored applicants!

16. What does an Italian Schengen Visa look like?

17. i earn this much per month, have this much funds in my bank account, have visited these countries and have these supporting documents. will my application be approved.

I have no idea. No one and nothing can guarantee visa approval beforehand. The only person who can answer this question is the visa officer evaluating your application.

You can be adequately prepared for it, but sometimes, we just don’t know what the eff is going to happen.

Sometimes, no matter how qualified or how adequately prepared you are, you can still end up denied a visa. I have heard about cases wherein I just couldn’t figure out what went wrong. I have a friend who has a great travel history, financial records, rootedness proof. Everything was great, in my opinion. And yet her application was denied. And it’s not exclusive to Schengen visa. I know another who was applying for a Japanese visa for the third time. He meets all the items of someone who would surely be guaranteed approval, but was refused a visa, too.

18. What other countries can I visit using an Italian Schengen visa?

The Schengen Visa is a travel document that allows the holder to enter any of the 26 states that are part of the Schengen agreement. Think of it as an almost all-access pass to many countries in Europe, eliminating the immigration borders within the Schengen zone and the hassle of having to apply for a visa for each individual country. These are the countries who are part of the Schengen Zone:

Some non-Schengen countries like Croatia, Bulgaria, Romania, and Turkey also accept double- or multiple-entry Schengen visas (with certain conditions about the visa types and length of stay, among others).

For more Schengen Visa Frequently Asked Questions, check out this post: Schengen Visa for Filipinos

This article is based on my own Schengen Visa application (Tourist) via PIASI VIA Center, the official service provider of the Embassy of Italy. If you have inquiries about anything outside my personal experience, I’m afraid I won’t be of help. However, feel free to post questions in the comments section below because some of our readers might know better.

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Fell in love with Italy on my first visit. I also have that feeling na kailangan kong bumalik ng Italy. Anyways, congrats on another Schengen Visa and Enjoy! Please italian dish for me❤️

Thanks, Ailea! We’re super excited to return! :D

Very informative and helpful. Thank you!

For the hotel reservations, you said it should be under the applicant’s name, and each applicant must have his/her own set of required documents for submission. But what if we are travelling as a family and booked a family room; can they also use the hotel reservation that is under my name? Thanks, Yoshke!

Hi Laila, I think okay lang. I-explain mo na lang sa letter. Ganun din yung sa amin ni Vins eh. Lahat ng hotels namin ay under my name, pero inexplain ko sa letter. We used just one letter na dalawa kaming signatories but tig-1 copy each kami na sinubmit. :)

Tip: If you are booking via booking.com there is a part “Guest Name” where you can specify the names of the guest, just put comma (, ) in each name, this way your hotel booking will show the names of all guest in a single hotel booking. That’s what i did when i applied visa for my mom.

Oooooooh! Thanks for sharing this!

Didn’t know this! Will try this next time!

hi. thank you for sharing. its very informative. my question is what additional documents are needed if one of the spouses is not employed, but is financially capable of travelling? thanks.

I’m a bit confused. Is it you who will be traveling but your trip will be sponsored by your spouse? Or is it your spouse who will be traveling? If it’s the latter, will you be sponsoring your spouse’s trip?

i got a schengen . visa already through Norway last 2014 i wasnt . able to . use my visa since i got . tied in my . schedule in USA is . that . gonna affect my . new application in Italian Embassy since i will be staying here longer

Hi Luisa, I’m not familiar with the complications of an unused Schengen visa if meron man. :S

Thanks for sharing your wealthy information,this is an useful article for all people

Hi! In your checklist, i saw you listed “Notarized affidavit of support” for means of support for students. Does it really need to be notarized? Thank you so much for this article btw very informative

Hi Andrea, i haven’t tried applying for or as a student, but that’s what the official checklist states, so i guess it has to be notarized.

Ok thank you again!

Hello po! Thank you very much for this very informative blog. I just have a question po on the intro letter. Me and my fiance are travelling this December and will be getting married this December yet too. This trip will be for our honeymoon. Since we have to apply for a visa now, technically we have to put single as status and leave the Philippines as married. Would there be any complication if we put honeymoon as reason in our letter? Thank you in advance.

I submitted my application just yesterday via the VIA center but I forgot that I have a flight on Oct 22 to Singapore.

They are saying that it will take around 15 working days for visa processing. Do you know of many instances where the visa was released around 4-5 days after submission?

Hi Jan Si, is it your first trip to the Schengen area? Did you receive your passport back with your visa yet?

In my case, it only took 4 days.

There are a few members of our Support Group who got theirs in under 5 days too.

Thank you for this blog. This gives me ideas about applying for the VISA.

I just want to ask, Sir if Financial Statement from my bank is still needed even though someone will shoulder all of my expenses in Italy? Does the Sponsor Letter not enough?

Thank you .

Yep, they will look for financial statements ESPECIALLY if you’re sponsored.

We explained the reason for that here: https://www.thepoortraveler.net/2019/07/visa-immigration-boyfriend-girlfriend/

Hi! Do you know any embassy in Cebu which I can apply Schengen Visa? And is it possible to apply for a schengen visa for 30 days even though it will be my first time? I am planning to visit Europe in May 2020 with a planned entry in Paris. Thank you for your information

Hi Melody, naku, wala akong contact na travel agency sa Cebu. :(

Hi sir, ask ko lang po pano po gawin ulit since denied po application sa Italian embassy kahapon.. i need your thoughts lang po to advise me, what po mag apply ako ulit, since yung dating strong ties ko is my business pero hindi kasi yun naka register sa BIR kasi hindi kasi yun sakin na land or place nakiki business lang ako dun, kaya proof ko lang sa business na yun ay Brgy. Business permit lang at DTI, sa next application ko po ilalagay ko parin po ba yun na business ko? Since wala naman ako ibang work kundi yun lang po. Or baka kasi ma dedisapprove na naman ako since hindi kasi yun naka register sa BIR hinanapan kasi ni officer ng BIR sa business na yun . Need your advice lang po. Salamat sa mga sagot..

Hi July, naku, mahirap nga yan kasi pag yung proof of income or employment ang concern, mahigpit talaga sila.

You can try applying at another embassy na mas maluwag, pero baka maging problem pa rin talaga yung business mo since kulang ng documents.

Hi, so d ko masyado na gets to.

Pero if ng apply kame ng France VISA, then gusto namen pmnta ng ibang Schengen state. Should we need to inform the French Embassy? or upon getting the VISA automatic n un n pede kame pmnta kun san san? Thanks po.

If may Schengen visa ka na, pwede ka na pumunta anywhere within the Schengen zone basta within the validity period and allowed length of stay.

Hi Yoshke, hope you are well. just want to ask if we also need to book train tickets in italy when applying for schengen visa?or we can just indicate in our itinerary that we will buy train tickets when our visa is approved?and can we buy them in the train stations on the same date we travel?

Hi Anna, in our case, we didn’t submit train tickets. We only submitted the flights to and from Europe and flights WITHIN Europe, since may mga legs na lilipad talaga. Pero di kami nagsubmit ng train tickets. Not sure if ganun sa lahat or we just got lucky.

Did you submit confirmed flight details within schengen? Or just reservations lng? Wer po pwede mag avail? We are also planning to take the night train from Rome to Munich. Do we have to purchase the train tickets as well?

I submitted flight reservations to and within Schengen, not confirmed tickets. More info here: https://www.thepoortraveler.net/2017/06/flight-hotel-reservations-visa-application/

I didn’t submit train tickets, though. Only flights.

Hi Yoshke, ok thanks sa reply :) another concern ko is yong husband ko is from myanmar and im here sa singapore ,nsa pilipinas xa (balikbayan visa holder)and dun xa mag aapply ng schengen visa,meron xang small business,talyer sa harap mismo ng bahay namin at nag bubuy and sell din xa,pede na kya un as source of income nia?wala xa BIR or ITR or whatever e,brgy permit lng ang meron siya,(in his name)but meron din xa sarili bank account which have enough funds.pede q nmn din siguro isama sa requirements nia ung funds ko?what do you think?we also owned properties.

I don’t know for sure, pero I think okay lang na isama yung funds mo kasi you’re married naman. If ako nasa position mo, I would probably write a letter explaining everything and that you’re traveling together.

Hindi ko alam how much it would help because the Italian Embassy is known for being very strict. But yun ang gagawin ko. That’s just me.

thanks so much Yoshke..cross fingers we’ll get the visa!merry christmas!

Happy Holidays! And good luck with your application.

Hello! I just want to say thank you because this article helped us in our visa application. My boyfriend & I applied last November 13, and our visa got approved last week of November. Italian embassy is very strict pero ‘pag complete naman requirements, there’s nothing to worry. Thank you!! Keep on helping. :)

hello, tnong ko lng po base sa experience nyo, nkatnggap b kau ng call gling sa italian embassy n ready na ung visa nyo? 2 weeks n kc akong nag aantay wla prin akong nrereceive na notif. thank you

Yes po. We received a call from VIA po na pwede na iclaim.

Congrats, Maria!

Saan kayo sa Italy punta?

Hi, hope you can help me. Would like to apply for a Schengen visa (still deciding which country where we were staying the longest.) My concern is, I am working as a freelance and just registered sa BIR last Oct so no ITR yet. I will be travelling with my ‘fiance’ and our minor daughter who were both US citizen (US passport) and does not need a visa to travel in Italy, Poland or Schengen zone. Of course my ‘fiance’ will be paying for everything. My question is how should I go about my visa application? Since my ‘fiance’ is paying for everything, can I just submit all his financial documents instead of mine?

I’d really appreciate your answer as we planning to travel next year around July. We have traveled together but only in Singapore and Thailand.

Yes, you can submit his financial docs but you will also need to submit yours. Hihingin pa rin nila yung sayo kahit sponsored.

But to be honest with you, I feel like the odds are against you. Schengen Embassies in general are much stricter sa sponsored applicants tapos working as freelance without ITR. If you want to still try, you can naman, but here’s my advice:

– Choose a less strict embassy. Given your situation, I think mahihirapan ka if mag-apply ka sa Italian or Spanish Embassy. – Submit an Affidavit of Support, notarized, and signed by your fiance – Submit proof of relationship. Since you have a child, I think you can submit the child’s birth certificate showing that you two are the parents – Submit more proof of travel history. Aside from the stamps, you can submit your photos together when you traveled to Thailand and Singapore. – Submit a cover letter

If I were in your shoes though, i-build ko pa muna yung travel history ko. I would visit other visa countries first na less strict before ako mag-Schengen. (Yun actually yung ginawa ko.) Thailand and Singapore kasi ay parehong visa-free. Makakatulong kasi if meron kang visas from other countries kahit Japan, Korea, or Australia lang.

It’s going to be an uphill battle. But I hope this helps.

Ito ay sa tingin ko lang po. Best to consult pa rin a travel agency kasi mas alam nila.

Good luck!!! Balitaan mo kami please if mag-apply kayo para makatulong din sa ibang readers. Hope na ma-approve! :)

just want to ask is it better to apply sa VIA center compared if i apply directly sa embassy ng italy? sayang din kasi yung fee na ibabayad sa VIA ehh. Although baka mas helpful ba mag check ng requirements beforesubmitting it sa VIA center?

Thanks in advance!!

Hi James, we haven’t tried applying directly so I can’t compare. But based on what I heard from friends who have, I think it’s less stressful to apply sa VIA. Sa VIA kasi, they will guide you talaga and tell you pag may kulang or need pa for better chances of approval.

Hi, was wondering if you’d know this. If you submitted your application thru VIA, will you be notified of the status by VIA as well? Or the embassy will be the one to inform you? Will it be via a text message, a phone call or email? Thanks in advance! :-)

Hi Satchiko,

In our case, VIA informed us. :)

Hi, do you know if there’s any chance na pwedeng i pull out yung passport ko from the application in case the processing takes too long? I have another scheduled trip next month to South Korea. I’ll submit on Jan 13 and my trip to KR is on Feb 7. Or do you think it’s possible to request for expedited processing? Thank you!

Hi – i followed all your instructions. my flight is on 28 April arriving France on 29 April where I will meet my 2 Canadian Citizen sisters. We will be staying most in Italy in our 12-day stay including our 7-day Italy-Adriatic Western Mediterranean cruise.

I have complete documents already including confirmed cruise booking, hotel accommodation and plane ticket to France.

Do you think i can file my application/complete documents on Monday 27 January 2020 – since I will already be in Makati on this date.

I am a senior citize living and working in Muntinlupa City

thanks – Mrs. Cris

Di ko po alam sa ngayon. There was news that they would be extending the application period to 6 months before the trip, but I don’t know if that has been implemented yet. :S

How did you submit trains/plane reservations within schngen area? Do we really have a confirmed reservation? Or just right the time/date that we are planning to take? Thanks in advance!

Plane reservations, I submitted. (Not confirmed tickets. Just flight reservations.)

But for the trains, I just indicated the ones I wanted to take in the itinerary. I didn’t submit tickets.

I read your article as my guide prior to submitting my requirements to VIA. Once you received a call from them, will they tell you right away if your visa has been approved or denied?

Thank you! :)

Hi CJ, nope. They will only tell you that your passport is ready for pickup. They won’t say if approved or denied. You’ll only find out upon pickup.

Hi! Just for Info. New visa fee is Euro 80 for adult

Thanks for sharing!

Hi Yosh, planing to apply once better situation na. I read in the requirements na they need flight/trains bookings upon application.. ” If travelling across Schengen countries, please submit bookings of all trains, flights and car rentals from one country to another.”

Since we can apply visa 180 days before the expected date of arrival pa Do you know a way to book (not purchase) train reservations?

I will surely use this as a guide hopefully (when miss rona stops being a diva) for my next year’s solo summer trip in Europe. I’ll apply via VIA center in Cebu. I want to stay in Italy the longest. This will be my first time traveling to Europe and a non-visa free country. I’ve been to visa-free countries like Thailand, Indonesia, Taiwan, Malaysia and Cambodia. I just registered as a freelancer last May 2020. Do you think the odds will be in my favour?

Very informative blog!

Hi,we are a family of 6, planning to get a shengen visa. Is it ok to make the same cover letter for each member? I have a business that will support the family’s trip. However, my husband is currently not working anymore. Although we travelled as a family, to the US several times and other asian countries already. Wil it be a problem for him being unemployed?

I think that’s OK. When we apply as a group, we only use 1 cover letter with all our names and signatures. Then each of us submit a copy of that letter.

Regarding your other question, since it’s a family trip and you’re married and you’re traveling with him, I think they would be less strict since the purpose of the trip is very clear (assuming your docs are all good and your own finances can support all of you). But that’s just my take on it.

Thank you so much for the quick reply. I realy liked your blog, very informative.

Hi po! Required po ba sundin yung itinerary na isa-submit? Planning to spend 12 days in Rome, Milan, Assisi, and Sicily po kasi. Praning lang ako baka suspicious sa kanila yung andami kong pupuntahan so I thought of not putting it na lang sa itinerary na ibibigay for VISA.

Hi James! OK lang naman po yung maraming pupuntahan, as long as realistic naman. :)

Pwede namang mag-deviate from the itinerary, lalo na if within Italy lang din naman. Once you’re inside kasi, there is no way din naman to track it.

Even mag-flight po within the country ok lang na hindi i-include?

Sa case namin, we submitted lahat ng flights namin even within Schengen Zone. Wala naman kaming flights within Italy lang since ang dineclare namin dun ay mag-train or bus lang kami. (Pero di kami nagsubmit ng train/bus booking.)

Hi po ulit! Regarding naman sa travel dates, need po ba sundin yung in-indicate during VISA application?

As long as within the allowed period indicated sa actual visa.

Thanks for the awesome article! Is the Certificate of Leave of Absence optional? I will be providing Certificate of Employment and ITR documents.

Sa case namin, if my memory serves me right, hiningi sya talaga. Di ko lang alam if ganun din sa iba.

ma dali lang po ba ang pagkuha ng re entry visa?i almost 15years in italy last year nag bakasyon ako ang malapit nko bumalik uwe pero naaksidente nmn ako…

have you gone into an interview upon submission of requirements?

For Italian Schengen Visa, no. There was just someone from VIA who checked our requirements.

Question lang yung sa Proof of Financial means lahat ba yun kailangan? tas need ba under our name yung sa land titles?and we dont have credit card kasi,

Yung bank cert and bank statements ay required. ‘Yung ibang items under it ay kung meron ka lang.

Hi. Do you have experience in appealing an Italian schengen visa denial? Is it advisable to appeal a denial? Or would it be better to apply to a different schengen country?

Do I need an approved leave of absence during summer break? Usuallu we are free naman to have vacation at this period of time (Public Teacher) Is my profession enough considered as a rootedness proof?

Hello po! I have been previously granted a Schengen visa by the French embassy nung 2015 pero I lost the passport na. Should I mention that po sa cover letter?

If I were in your position po, I would mention it. Do you have a photo or soft copy of that visa?

Hello po! I have a copy but altered siya (read: redacted yung info as I sent a pic of it to a friend). So, yung ginawa ko na lang is in-attach ko yung orig copy nung insurance ko for that previous trip. We submitted our app last May 25 and we have yet to hear from them.

Hello! Just wanted to ask if you were required to present an approved Leave form when you applied for a Germany-issued Schengen visa? I am planning to apply for a Schengen visa and will stay in Germany the longest. Thanks.

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Entry Guidelines

As per IATF Resolution No. 2 (s. 2022) on the ENTRY, QUARANTINE and TESTING Requirements of inbound travelers to the Philippines

A. FULLY VACCINATED (Filipino and Foreign Travelers)

- No pre-departure COVID-19 Test requirement - Must have received the 2nd dose in a 2-dose series or a single dose COVID-19 vaccine more than fourteen (14) days prior to the date and time of departure from the country of origin/port of embarkation.

B. UNVACCINATED or PARTIALLY VACCINATED (Filipino and Foreign Travelers)

1. Travelers 15 years and older shall present a remotely supervised/laboratory-based Rapid Antigen Test administered and certified by a healthcare professional in a healthcare facility, laboratory, clinic, or other similar establishment taken 24 hours prior to the date and time of departure from country of origin/first port of embarkation in a continuous travel to the Philippines, excluding lay-overs; provided that, he/she has not left the airport premises or has not been admitted into another country during such lay-over. 2. Travelers 15 years and older who fail to present a negative pre-departure testing shall be required to undergo a laboratory-based Antigen Test UPON ARRIVAL at the airport. 3. ACCOMPANIED minors below 15 years of age who are NOT VACCINATED for any reason whatsoever shall follow the quarantine protocols of their parent/s or an accompanying adult/guardian traveling with them. 4. UNACCOMPANIED minors below 15 years of age who are NOT VACCINATED for any reason whatsoever shall follow the protocols set forth in Section B (1) and (2) above. NOTE:- Any inbound traveler, whether Filipino or Foreign national, who shall test positive for COVID-19 through rapid antigen test shall be subjected to the latest prevailing quarantine and isolation protocols of the DOH.

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Italian Passport

The citizens of Italy can visit 150 countries without a visa.

Italian passport holders also have access to get 39 e-visas or 12 visas on arrival .

Italy has a population of 59.6M people and the capital is Rome 🇮🇹.

Visa-free map

Nearby countries.

The nearest visa free countries to visit for Italian passport holders are Vatican City, San Marino, Croatia, Slovenia, Austria and Bosnia and Herzegovina .

Visa free countries

So, where can Italians travel without a visa? We have listed all the countries where Italy citizens can travel visa-free, eliminating the hassle of visa paperwork.

• 🇦🇱 Albania (90 days)
• 🇦🇩 Andorra (N/A)
• 🇦🇹 Austria (Freedom of movement ID card valid.)
• 🇧🇾 Belarus (30 days)
• 🇧🇪 Belgium (Freedom of movement. ID card valid.)
• 🇧🇦 Bosnia and Herzegovina (90 days)
• 🇧🇬 Bulgaria (Freedom of movement. ID card valid.)
• 🇭🇷 Croatia (Freedom of movement. ID card valid.)
• 🇨🇾 Cyprus (Freedom of movement. ID card valid.)
• 🇩🇰 Denmark (Freedom of movement (DK). ID card valid.)
• 🇪🇪 Estonia (Freedom of movement. ID card valid.)
• 🇫🇮 Finland (Freedom of movement. ID card valid.)
• 🇫🇷 France (Freedom of movement (in Regions of France). ID card valid.)
• 🇩🇪 Germany (Freedom of movement. ID card valid.)
• 🇬🇷 Greece (Freedom of movement. ID card valid.)
• 🇭🇺 Hungary (Freedom of movement. ID card valid.)
• 🇮🇸 Iceland (Freedom of movement. ID card valid.)
• 🇮🇪 Ireland (Freedom of movement. ID card valid.)
• 🇱🇻 Latvia (Freedom of movement. ID card valid.)
• 🇱🇮 Liechtenstein (Freedom of movement. ID card valid.)
• 🇱🇹 Lithuania (Freedom of movement. ID card valid.)
• 🇱🇺 Luxembourg (Freedom of movement. ID card valid.)
• 🇲🇹 Malta (Freedom of movement. ID card valid.)
• 🇲🇩 Moldova (90 days)
• 🇲🇨 Monaco (N/A)
• 🇲🇪 Montenegro (90 days)
• 🇳🇱 Netherlands (Freedom of movement (European Netherlands). ID card valid.)
• 🇲🇰 North Macedonia (90 days)
• 🇳🇴 Norway (Freedom of movement. ID card valid.)
• 🇵🇱 Poland (Freedom of movement. ID card valid.)
• 🇵🇹 Portugal (Freedom of movement. ID card valid.)
• 🇷🇴 Romania (Freedom of movement. ID card valid.)
• 🇸🇲 San Marino (Under bilateral agreements, San Marino has a special treatment and priority that includes simplified procedures for obtaining residence and work permits. ID card valid.)
• 🇷🇸 Serbia (90 days)
• 🇸🇰 Slovakia (Freedom of movement. ID card valid.)
• 🇸🇮 Slovenia (Freedom of movement. ID card valid.)
• 🇪🇸 Spain (Freedom of movement. ID card valid.)
• 🇸🇪 Sweden (Freedom of movement. ID card valid.)
• 🇨🇭 Switzerland (Freedom of movement. ID card valid.)
• 🇺🇦 Ukraine (90 days)
• 🇬🇧 United Kingdom (6 months)
• 🇻🇦 Vatican City (N/A)
• 🇽🇰 Kosovo (90 days)
• 🇬🇮 Gibraltar (Up to 6 months.)
• 🇬🇬 Guernsey (90 days within a 12 month period.)
• 🇮🇲 Isle of Man (Up to 6 months.)
• 🇯🇪 Jersey (Up to 6 months.)
• 🇦🇴 Angola (30 days)
• 🇧🇼 Botswana (90 days)
• 🇨🇻 Cape Verde (30 days)
• 🇸🇿 Eswatini (30 days)
• 🇬🇲 Gambia (90 days)
• 🇱🇸 Lesotho (N/A)
• 🇲🇼 Malawi (30 days)
• 🇲🇺 Mauritius (90 days)
• 🇲🇦 Morocco (90 days)
• 🇲🇿 Mozambique (30 days)
• 🇳🇦 Namibia (3 months)
• 🇸🇹 São Tomé and Príncipe (15 days)
• 🇸🇳 Senegal (90 days)
• 🇸🇨 Seychelles (3 months)
• 🇿🇦 South Africa (90 days)
• 🇹🇳 Tunisia (3 months)
• 🇿🇲 Zambia (30 days)
• 🇦🇬 Antigua and Barbuda (3 months)
• 🇦🇷 Argentina (90 days)
• 🇧🇸 Bahamas (3 months)
• 🇧🇧 Barbados (3 months)
• 🇧🇿 Belize (1 month)
• 🇧🇴 Bolivia (90 days)
• 🇧🇷 Brazil (90 days)
• 🇨🇦 Canada (6 months)
• 🇨🇱 Chile (90 days)
• 🇨🇴 Colombia (90 days)
• 🇨🇷 Costa Rica (90 days)
• 🇩🇲 Dominica (90 days)
• 🇩🇴 Dominican Republic (90 days)
• 🇪🇨 Ecuador (90 days)
• 🇸🇻 El Salvador (3 months)
• 🇬🇩 Grenada (3 months)
• 🇬🇹 Guatemala (90 days)
• 🇬🇾 Guyana (3 months)
• 🇭🇹 Haiti (90 days)
• 🇭🇳 Honduras (3 months)
• 🇯🇲 Jamaica (90 days)
• 🇲🇽 Mexico (180 days)
• 🇳🇮 Nicaragua (90 days)
• 🇵🇦 Panama (90 days)
• 🇵🇾 Paraguay (90 days)
• 🇵🇪 Peru (90 days)
• 🇰🇳 Saint Kitts and Nevis (3 months)
• 🇱🇨 Saint Lucia (90 days)
• 🇻🇨 Saint Vincent and the Grenadines (90 days)
• 🇸🇷 Suriname (90 days)
• 🇹🇹 Trinidad and Tobago (90 days)
• 🇺🇸 United States (90 days)
• 🇺🇾 Uruguay (90 days)
• 🇻🇪 Venezuela (90 days)
• 🇦🇮 Anguilla (3 months)
• 🇧🇲 Bermuda (Up to 6 months; Decided on arrival.)
• 🇻🇬 British Virgin Islands (30 days; Extensions possible.)
• 🇰🇾 Cayman Islands (6 months)
• 🇲🇸 Montserrat (6 months)
• 🇹🇨 Turks and Caicos Islands (90 days)
• 🇵🇷 Puerto Rico (Visa not required under the Visa Waiver Program, for 90 days on arrival from overseas for 2 years. ESTA required.)
• 🇫🇰 Falkland Islands (A visitor permit is normally issued as a stamp in the passport on arrival, The maximum validity period is 1 month.)
• 🇦🇲 Armenia (180 days)
• 🇧🇳 Brunei (90 days)
• 🇨🇳 China (15 days)
• 🇬🇪 Georgia (1 year)
• 🇮🇱 Israel (3 months)
• 🇯🇵 Japan (90 days)
• 🇰🇿 Kazakhstan (30 days)
• 🇰🇬 Kyrgyzstan (60 days)
• 🇲🇾 Malaysia (3 months)
• 🇲🇳 Mongolia (30 days)
• 🇴🇲 Oman (14 days / 30 days)
• 🇵🇭 Philippines (30 days)
• 🇶🇦 Qatar (90 days)
• 🇸🇬 Singapore (90 days)
• 🇹🇼 Taiwan (90 days)
• 🇹🇯 Tajikistan (30 days)
• 🇹🇭 Thailand (30 days)
• 🇹🇱 Timor-Leste (90 days)
• 🇹🇷 Turkey (3 months)
• 🇦🇪 United Arab Emirates (90 days)
• 🇺🇿 Uzbekistan (30 days)
• 🇻🇳 Vietnam (45 days)
• 🇵🇸 Palestine (Arrival by sea to Gaza Strip not allowed.)
• 🇭🇰 Hong Kong (3 months)
• 🇲🇴 Macau (90 days)
• 🇫🇯 Fiji (4 months)
• 🇰🇮 Kiribati (90 days)
• 🇲🇭 Marshall Islands (90 days)
• 🇫🇲 Micronesia (90 days)
• 🇵🇼 Palau (90 days)
• 🇼🇸 Samoa (90 days)
• 🇸🇧 Solomon Islands (90 days)
• 🇹🇴 Tonga (90 days)
• 🇹🇻 Tuvalu (90 days)
• 🇻🇺 Vanuatu (90 days)
• 🇨🇰 Cook Islands (31 days)
• 🇳🇺 Niue (30 days)
• 🇨🇽 Christmas Island (90 days; Passports and visas are not required when travelling from the Australian mainland. However, photographic identification must be produced for clearance through Customs and Immigration. Normal Australian Customs and Immigration procedures apply when entry is made from outside Australia.)
• 🇨🇨 Cocos (Keeling) Islands (90 days; Passports and visas are not required when travelling from the Australian mainland. However, photographic identification must be produced for clearance through Customs and Immigration. Normal Australian Customs and Immigration procedures apply when entry is made from outside Australia.)
• 🇵🇫 French Polynesia (ID card valid. Registration required for a Trite de Sejour after 90 days)
• 🇳🇨 New Caledonia (ID card valid. Registration required for a Trite de Sejour after 90 days)
• 🇵🇳 Pitcairn Islands (14 days visa free and landing fee 35 USD or tax of 5 USD if not going ashore.)
• 🇬🇺 Guam (45 days)
• 🇲🇵 Northern Mariana Islands (45 days)

This data has been sourced from Wikipedia and was last updated on 5/1/2024.

• Vatican City visa free countries
• San Marino visa free countries
• Croatia visa free countries

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Visa Information Checklist:

• Business • Family & Friends/Tourism • Religious  Long Term   /   Religious Short Term • Work • Study Long Term   /   Study Short Term • Seafarer • Mission Long Term   /  Mission Short Term • Sport Event

Application Forms for Visa: • Application Form Schengen Visa  (up to 90 days) • Application Form Long Term (D) (more than 90 days)

Invitation Letters: •  Invitation for Business • Letter of Invitation Tourist -Proof of Sponsorship/Private Accomodation • Family Reunion

• Modulo Domanda Passaporti per Adulti • Modulo Domanda Passaporti per Minori – Atto di Assenso ( Italiani) • Modulo Domanda Passaporti per Minori  – Atto di Assenso (extra-UE)

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Philippines

Travel Advisory July 24, 2023

Philippines - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise increased caution to the Philippines due to  crime, terrorism, civil unrest, and kidnapping.  Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Do Not Travel to:

• The Sulu Archipelago, including the southern Sulu Sea, due to  crime, terrorism, civil unrest,  and  kidnapping .
• Marawi City in Mindanao due to  terrorism  and  civil unrest .

Reconsider Travel to:

• Other areas of Mindanao due to  crime, terrorism, civil unrest,  and  kidnapping .

Country Summary : Terrorist and armed groups continue plotting possible kidnappings, bombings, and other attacks in the Philippines. Terrorist and armed groups may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, markets/shopping malls, and local government facilities. The Philippine government has declared a “State of National Emergency on Account of Lawless Violence in Mindanao.”

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to the Philippines.

If you decide to travel to the Philippines:

• Monitor local media for breaking events and adjust your plans based on new information.
• Avoid demonstrations. 
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.   
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .   
• Review the  Country Security Report  for the Philippines.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

The Sulu Archipelago and Sulu Sea – Level 4: Do Not Travel

Terrorist and armed groups continue to conduct kidnappings on land and at sea for ransom, bombings, and other attacks targeting U.S. citizens, foreigners, civilians, local government institutions, and security forces.

The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in the Sulu Archipelago and Sulu Sea as U.S. government employees must obtain special authorization to travel to those areas.

Visit our website for  Travel to High-Risk Areas .

Marawi City in Mindanao – Level 4: Do Not Travel

Civilians are at risk of death or injury due to conflict between remnants of terrorist groups and Philippine security forces in Marawi.

The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in Mindanao as U.S. government employees must obtain special authorization to travel there.

Mindanao – Level 3: Reconsider Travel

The Philippine government maintains a state of emergency and greater police presence in the Cotabato City area, and in the Maguindanao, North Cotabato, and Sultan Kudarat provinces.

Terrorist and armed groups continue to conduct kidnappings, bombings, and other attacks targeting U.S. citizens, foreigners, civilians, local government institutions, and security forces.

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

Sufficient space for an entry visa stamp.

No (for tourist travel under 30 days).

Required for travelers from countries with yellow fever.

50,000 pesos/$10,000.

Embassies and Consulates

U.s. embassy manila.

1201 Roxas Boulevard Manila, Philippines 1000 Telephone: + (63) (2) 5301-2000 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: + (63) (2) 5301-2000  Fax: +  (63) (2) 5301-2017 Email:   [email protected]

U.S. Consular Agency - Cebu City Ground Level, Waterfront Hotel Salinas Drive Lahug, Cebu City Philippines 6000 Telephone:  + (63) (32) 231-1261 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: Please contact the U.S. Embassy in Manila: + (63) (2) 301-2000  Fax: +(63) (32) 231-0174 Email:   [email protected]

Destination Description

See the Department of State’s Fact Sheet on Philippines for information on U.S.-Philippines relations. 

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

Visit the website of the  Embassy of the Republic of the Philippines  in Washington, D.C., for the most current visa information.

If you remain in the Philippines beyond the “admit until” date stamped in your passport by immigration authorities, you may be subject to fines and detention by the  Philippine Bureau of Immigration (BI).

Certain foreigners must apply for an  Emigration Clearance Certificate  (ECC) from BI before they may depart the Philippines.

See the Philippine Bureau of Immigration  (BI)'s website for information about Philippine visas, exit clearances, and Alien Certificate Registration (ACR). 

See the  Philippine Retirement Authority  (PRA)'s website for information about the Special Retiree Resident Visa (SRRV).  

U.S. citizens who intend to work in the Philippines should contact the Philippines Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) for information.

The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors or foreign residents of the Philippines. 

We advise all U.S. citizens against traveling with potentially prohibited items, such as firearms, on their person or in their checked baggage. While at the airport or traveling in country, possession of prohibited items such as live or spent ammunition or firearms, or anything resembling such items -- whether it be a souvenir, gift, or artifact – may subject the traveler to prosecution and stringent penalties by local authorities.  Learn more about how to avoid problems when traveling abroad with firearms.

Check with your airline to determine whether a particular item is allowed for transport, as well as with the appropriate authorities in the Philippines – such as the  Philippine National Police  and  Bureau of Immigration  – as well as the appropriate authorities in any transit countries.

You can find information on  dual nationality ,  prevention of international child abduction , and  customs regulations  on our website.

Safety and Security

Terrorism:  Terrorist groups, and those inspired by such organizations, are intent on attacking U.S. citizens abroad. Terrorists are increasingly using less-sophisticated methods of attack – including knives, firearms, and vehicles – to target crowds more effectively. Frequently, their aim is unprotected or vulnerable targets, such as:

• High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by tourists
• Places of worship
• Shopping malls and markets
• Public transportation systems (including subways, buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights)

U.S. citizens should remain alert to the potential for explosions and bombings as part of pre-planned attacks, as well as the threat of kidnapping.

Terrorist and armed groups continue plotting possible kidnappings, bombings, and other attacks in the Philippines. Terrorist and armed groups may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, markets/shopping malls, and local government facilities.

The Philippine government has declared a “State of National Emergency on Account of Lawless Violence in Mindanao.” On August 24, 2020, dual suicide bombings in Jolo, Sulu, Mindanao, killed 15 people and injured 77 others.

For more information, please visit our website  here .

Crime:  Confidence games (con games), pickpocketing, Internet scams, and credit/ATM card fraud are common. Be wary of unknown individuals who attempt to befriend you, especially just after you arrive in country. Do not accept food, drinks, or rides in private vehicles from strangers, even if they appear to be legitimate. Solo travelers have been drugged and robbed by strangers after accepting an invitation to visit a tourist destination.

Kidnappings, physical assaults, murder-for-hire, and other violent crimes occur in the Philippines. Philippine government law enforcement agencies are engaged in a nationwide counter-narcotics campaign that has resulted in a sharp increase in violence between police and individuals suspected of involvement in the drug trade. As part of this campaign, law enforcement is engaged in aggressive search and buy-bust operations that could affect foreigners.

Taxis or ride-sharing applications are the recommended form of public transportation. However, taxi drivers and/or individuals using stolen taxi cabs have committed robberies. Ask the hotel, restaurant, and/or business establishment to call a reliable taxi service for you.

• Do not enter a taxi if it has already accepted another passenger.
• Request that the taxi driver use the meter to record your fare.
• Wait for another cab if the driver is unwilling to comply with these requests.
• Make a mental note of the license plate number of your taxi, or text it to someone, should there be a problem.

When driving in the city, make certain that vehicle doors are locked and windows are rolled up.

Travelers have been stopped and robbed shortly after leaving Manila Ninoy Aquino International Airport in a taxi or private vehicle. 

One common form of credit/ATM card fraud involves an illicit electronic device attached to ATM card readers that retrieves and records information, including the PIN, from a card's magnetic strip. Refer to the Overseas Security Advisory Council (OSAC) website for more  information .

International Financial Scams:  See the  Department of State  and the FBI pages for information on scams.

Internet romance and financial scams are prevalent in the Philippines. Scams are often initiated through Internet postings/profiles or by unsolicited emails and letters. Scammers almost always pose as U.S. citizens who have no one else to turn to for help. Common scams include:

• Romance/online dating
• Money transfers
• Lucrative sales
• Gold purchase
• Contracts with promises of large commissions
• Grandparent/relative targeting
• Free trip/luggage
• nheritance notices
• Work permits/job offers
• Bank overpayments

Victims of Crime:   U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy for assistance.

Report crimes to the local police at the 911 hotline and contact the U.S. Embassy at +(63)(2) 5301-2000. Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting the crime.

See our webpage on  help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

• Help you find appropriate medical care.
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police.
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent.
• Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion.
• Provide a list of local attorneys.
• Provide our information on  victim’s compensation programs in the U.S.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution.
• Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home.
• Replace a stolen or lost passport.

Domestic Violence:  U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the Embassy for assistance.

Tourism:   Please check with the  Philippine Department of Tourism  before traveling. The safety standards you might expect of transport and tour operators, including adventure activities such as diving, are not always met. Sufficient safety equipment may not be provided, and recommended maintenance standards and safety precautions may not be observed. Always use available safety equipment, such as lifejackets or seatbelts, even if others do not. If appropriate safety equipment is not available, use another provider. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is widely available throughout the country. Outside of a major metropolitan center, it may take more time for first responders and medical professionals to stabilize a patient and provide life-saving assistance. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance . If you are planning to dive, the  Diver’s Alert Network (DAN)  provides information on diving accident management. 

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties:  You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities, prior to practicing or operating a business.

The judicial process in the Philippines typically is lengthy, extending for years rather than weeks or months, and individuals charged with a crime can be held in indefinite pre-trial detention as their case makes its way through the judicial system. Penalties for possessing, using, or trafficking in illegal drugs in the Philippines are severe.

Convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines.

If a traveler is found to have any amount of drugs on his or her person, or nearby, when arriving or departing from the Philippines, he or she will be charged with trafficking. Trafficking is a non-bailable charge, and the maximum penalty is life imprisonment. If you intend to enter the Philippines with a prescribed controlled substance (e.g., medical marijuana), obtain clearance from the Philippine government first. 

Since June 2016, Philippine authorities have conducted a public campaign against illegal drugs. This has resulted in armed confrontations between authorities and suspected drug dealers and users.

Always carry a copy of your passport in the event that you are asked about your citizenship. You may be questioned by authorities if you take pictures of certain buildings, especially government buildings or military installations. Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs could land you immediately in jail.

The Philippine Bureau of Immigration (BI) may consider the participation of foreigners in demonstrations or political rallies in the Philippines to be a violation of the terms of admission. Foreign nationals who participate in demonstrations, political rallies, or other activity deemed anti-government in nature may be detained and deported for violating Philippine immigration laws.

In the Philippines, any adult in the company of a minor under 12 years old who is not related within the “fourth degree” may be subject to a severe penalty. U.S. citizens should be aware of this law both to avoid unlawful behavior and to protect themselves against potentially frivolous accusations.

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the Department of Justice  website.

Arrest Notification:  If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our  webpage  for further information.

Counterfeit and Pirated Goods:  Although counterfeit and pirated goods are prevalent in many countries, they may still be illegal according to local laws. You may also pay fines or have to give them up if you bring them back to the United States. See the  U.S. Department of Justice website for more information.

Faith-Based Travelers:  See the following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report  – see country reports
• Human Rights Report  – see country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTQI+ Travelers: There is no prohibition on entry into the Philippines by LGBTQI+ individuals. Transgender travelers should be aware that immigration officials may require supporting documents if the gender in the traveler’s passport does not reflect the gender expression of a transgender person. According to Philippine law, an individual’s sex must match that assigned at birth as reflected on the official birth certificate, even in cases of post-operative sex reassignment.

Same-sex relationships are not illegal in the Philippines, but they lack legal recognition. No federal law prohibits discrimination against LGBTQI+ individuals. Several cities, however, have passed local ordinances protecting LGBTQI+ rights. Despite these legislative efforts, LGBTQI+ individuals continue to face discrimination and harassment.

See our  LGBTQI+ Travel Information  page and section 6 of our  Human Rights Report  for further details.

Travelers with Disabilities:  Streets, buildings, and public transportation may lack facilities for persons with disabilities. Most public buildings are inaccessible to persons with physical disabilities or mobility impairments.  Government efforts to improve access to transportation for persons with disabilities are limited due to weak implementing regulations.

There are local stores in the Philippines for durable medical equipment (DME) and some pharmacies also carry limited medical supplies and equipment.

• For information regarding disability laws, please visit the Philippines National Council on Disability Affairs website.

Students:  See our  Students Abroad  page and .

Women Travelers:  See our travel tips for  Women Travelers .

For emergency services in the Philippines, dial 911.

Ambulance services are not widely available, and training and availability of emergency responders may be below U.S. standards. Not all ambulances are equipped with state-of-the-art medical equipment.

We do not pay medical bills.  Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.  For more information about TRICARE medical services overseas (a health care program for uniformed service members, retirees, and their families), including possible vaccinations, please visit their Tricare-overseas website . 

Medical Insurance:  Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See  our webpage  for more information on insurance overseas. Visit the  U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. Check with the Philippine Bureau of Customs to ensure the medication is legal in the Philippines.

Vaccinations:  Be up-to-date on all  vaccinations  recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  (CDC)

Air Quality: Visit AirNow Department of State for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates.

The U.S. Embassy maintains a  list of doctors and hospitals  in the Philippines. We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

Health facilities in general:

• Adequate health facilities are available throughout the country but health care in rural areas may be below U.S. standards.
• Public medical clinics lack basic resources and supplies.
• Hospitals and doctors often require payment “up front” prior to service or admission.
• Patients bear all costs for transfer to or between hospitals.
• Psychological and psychiatric services are limited, even in the larger cities, with hospital-based care only available through government institutions.
• Hospitals usually require advance payment or proof of adequate insurance before admitting a patient.  
• U.S. citizens have lodged a large number of complaints about unethical business practices, prices, and collection measures against some of the  hospitals in the Philippines. Travelers should make efforts to obtain complete information on billing, pricing, and proposed medical procedures before agreeing to any medical care.  
• Be aware that some hotels or resorts may have exclusive agreements with medical providers, which may limit your choices in seeking emergency medical attention. 
• Medical staff may speak little or no English. 
• Generally, in public hospitals only minimal staff is available overnight in non-emergency wards. Consider hiring a private nurse or having family spend the night with the patient, especially a minor child.

Medical Tourism and Elective Surgery:

• U.S. citizens have suffered serious complications or died during or after having cosmetic or other elective surgery.
• Medical tourism is a rapidly growing industry. People seeking health care overseas should understand that medical systems operate differently from those in the United States and are not subject to the same rules and regulations. Anyone interested in traveling for medical purposes should consult with their local physician before traveling and visit the  U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  website for more information on medical tourism.
• We strongly recommend  supplemental insurance  to cover medical evacuation in the event of unforeseen medical complications.
• Your legal options in case of malpractice are very limited in the Philippines.
• Although the Philippines has many elective/cosmetic surgery facilities that are on par with those found in the United States, the quality of care varies widely. If you plan to undergo surgery in the Philippines, make sure that emergency medical facilities are available and professionals are accredited and qualified. 

Pharmaceuticals:

• Exercise caution when purchasing medication overseas. Pharmaceuticals, both over the counter and requiring prescription in the United States, are often readily available for purchase with few controls. Counterfeit medication is common and may prove to be ineffective, the wrong strength, or contain dangerous ingredients. Medication should be purchased in consultation with a medical professional and from reputable establishments.
• U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration are responsible for rules governing the transport of medication to the United States. Medication purchased abroad must meet their requirements to be legally brought back into the United States. Medication should be for personal use and must be approved for usage in the United States. Please visit the  U.S. Customs and Border Protection  and the  Food and Drug Administration  websites for more information.

Water Quality:

In many areas, tap water is not potable. Bottled water and beverages are generally safe, although you should be aware that many restaurants and hotels serve tap water unless bottled water is specifically requested. Be aware that ice for drinks may be made using tap water.

Adventure Travel:

• Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about  Adventure Travel .

The following diseases are prevalent:

• Tuberculosis
• Chikungunya
• Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about  Resources for Travelers  regarding specific issues in the Philippines.

Air Quality:

• Air pollution is a significant problem in several major cities in the Philippines. Consider the impact seasonal smog and heavy particulate pollution may have on you and consult your doctor before traveling if necessary.

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety:  Vehicle traffic is dense and unpredictable. The road system is frequently congested, and drivers are often undisciplined. Consider the risks of driving your own vehicle if you are not used to Philippine road conditions. Avoid driving off the national highways and other paved roads, especially at night. Be extra vigilant when crossing the street. Do not expect vehicles to stop.

Traffic Laws:  If you are involved in an accident, contact the local police, and attempt to stay inside your car until the police arrive before engaging with the other driver. Do not attempt to negotiate with drivers until police arrive. Drivers often ignore or do not yield to emergency vehicles, which may delay their arrival to the scene of an accident.

Always have a valid driver’s license and relevant documents with you when driving. Please review the following notices circulated by the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) to avoid scams and requests for bribes from apprehending officers:  List of Traffic Violations and Penalties,  No Contact Traffic Apprehension Policy,   and Procedure in Settling Traffic Violations  The MMDA also publishes guidelines on  what to do during vehicular accidents . 

Public Transportation:  Exercise caution while traveling by inter-island ferryboats or other public transportation. Avoid overcrowded or unsafe transport. There have been 19 major inter-island ferryboat accidents since 2012, two with significant loss of life. U.S. government employees are advised not to use inter-island ferry boat services unless they are the only means of transportation available. There have also been a series of bus accidents due to poor bus maintenance or driver error. While taxis are the recommended form of public transportation, there have been safety issues using taxis. Please refer to our Safety and Security section for more information.

See our  Road Safety page  for more information. Visit the  Philippine Department of Tourism website , the national authority responsible for road safety.

Aviation Safety Oversight:  The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government of the Philippine’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of the Philippine’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the  FAA’s safety assessment page.

Maritime Travel:  Mariners planning travel to the Philippines should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts . Information may also be posted to the  U.S. Coast Guard homeport website  and the  NGA broadcast warnings .

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Philippines . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA ) report.

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Check passport expiration dates carefully for all travelers! Children’s passports are issued for 5 years, adult passports for 10 years.

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How To Apply For Schengen Italy Visa For Filipinos [Italy Schengen Visa Guide For Filipinos]

lPlan your next Italy trip ! Here’s our guide for Filipinos about applying for Schengen Italy visa with your Philippines passport .

Are you thinking of going to one of the most visited European countries ? Aside from France, Italy has proved to people that it is worth exploring over and over again. Who wouldn’t want to experience that gondola ride in the canals in Venice? Travel back in time at the ruins of Pompeii? Take a picture with the popular leaning tower of Pisa? Plus the Italian cuisines that are mouthwatering.

Everything about Italy is just wonderful and irresistible. So if you’re now ready to explore this country, this guide can help you with applying for Schengen Italy Visa with your Philippines Passport. No worries as even we, Filipinos, can get the chance to have a glimpse of this lovely country.

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Table of Contents

Who Should Apply for Schengen Italy Visa in the Italian Embassy in Manila

1. Tourists who will only visit Italy/Vatican in the Schengen Area;

2. Those who plan to travel around the Schengen Area but will be staying in Italy for the longest duration; or

3. Those whose point of entry is in Italy, if traveling to other Schengen Countries in equal duration.

Main Requirements in Applying for Schengen Italy Visa

1. Completed Visa Application Form

2. One recent passport photo with a white background

3. Old and Current Valid Passport

4. Photocopy of Bio-page and last page of the valid passport, previous visa, and immigration stamps in all countries

5. Daily itinerary and confirmed round trip ticket

6. Proof of Financial Capability (it can be your Copy of Real Estate Title, Car Registration, Condominium Title (if applicable); bank certificate supported by Passbook or Statement of Account for the last 6 months, International Credit Card Statements (if applicable), For minors: Proof of Economic Means of Parents or Legal Guardian.

7. Proof of Employment like COE and approved leave of absence if you’re employed, travel authority for government employees, Certificate of Employment and Approved Leave if applicable for students, Business Certificate and Income Tax Return for self-employed, and PRC ID if you have any.

8. Schengen Travel Health Insurance

9. Proof of Accommodation like your hotel booking or invitation letter ;

Supporting Documents in Applying for Schengen Italy Visa

• PSA Birth Certificates
• PSA Marriage Certificate
• Letter of invitation
• Proof of Sponsorship / Private Accommodation called Dichiarazione Garanzia Eo Alloggio (in Italian)
• Document of identity, proof of citizenship/permit of stay from the inviting person
• If invited by relatives, PSA documents to prove your relationship
• Bank Statement and Proof of Income
• Proof of Relationship

Step-by-Step Guide on How to Apply for Schengen Italy Visa

STEP 1: Complete all the documents stated above and photocopy them.

STEP 2: Lodge your application at VIA PH Center at the application center. They are the ones assigned by the Italian Embassy to collect the documents and biometrics. You can go there Monday to Thursday from 8:00 AM to 2:30 PM and Friday from 8:00 AM to 1:30 PM. No appointments needed.

STEP 3: Pay the Visa as well as the Processing Fee and just wait for the results!

STEP 4: Get your passport via the application center or courier.

Visa Processing Fee for Schengen Italy Visa

PHP 1,350 per application and this is paid on top of the Visa Fee.

Visa Fee:  PHP 4,528.00 (EURO 80) For 6-12 years: PHP 2,264.00 (EURO 40)

Processing time:  It is usually 15 days. However, the Embassy may take up to 45 days to process your application and may ask for additional documentation and further verifications.

Embassy in the Philippines

Embassy of Italy in the Philippines Address: 5/F, Tower B, One Campus Place, McKinley Hill, Taguig City, Metro Manila, Philippines Contact number: (02) 8892 4531 Office Hours:  Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday: 09:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Remember that you should submit all your documents to the VIA PH center. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Schengen Italy Visa

1.  How long can I travel with my Short Stay Visa?

You can stay in Italy for a maximum of 90 days for a 180 day period.

2. Is an interview mandatory?

It is not necessary. However, you may be called for an interview at the Embassy if they see something wrong with your documents or they want some clarification with the purpose of your stay.

3. Should I submit a cover letter?

It is not a requirement but it’s highly recommended. A Cover Letter can help you avoid an interview from the embassy which is obviously more difficult.

4. Do I need to buy a plane ticket prior to my application?

No. You only need a confirmed booking. Renting a flight is highly recommended.

5.   What is the best insurance to use?

AXA Schengen is the best one to use. They will completely refund your payment in case your visa doesn’t get approved. No risk at all.

6. What if my visa gets rejected? What should I do?

You can file a Remonstrance Letter or file another application from another EU Embassy.

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Written by Kach Umandap

Founder of Two Monkeys Travel Group. Since 2013, Kach has visited all the 7 continents (including Antarctica) and 151 countries using her Philippines Passport. In 2016, she bought a sailboat and went on sailing adventures with her two cats - Captain Ahab & Little Zissou in the Caribbean for 2 years. She now lives in Herceg Novi, Montenegro where she's enjoying her expat life and living on a gorgeous Stonehouse. She writes about her experiences traveling as a Filipina traveler with a PHL Passport. Also tips on backpacking trips, luxury hotel experiences, product reviews, sailing & adventure travel.

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Consolato Generale d'Italia a New York

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How do i apply for a passport.

In order to apply for a passport, it is mandatory to schedule an appointment through the Prenot@mi system, which must be confirmed by the user directly on the portal ten to three days prior to the scheduled date.

People over 75 years of age can also schedule appointments via email at [email protected] .

Please note that passport applications sent by mail will not be processed and will be mailed back to the sender. Passports applications can only be processed in person at the Consulate , provided that applicant has a scheduled appointment.

For passport issuance, you must:

• Be an Italian citizen
• Be registered in the AIRE with updated residential address in this consular district, which consists of: State of New York, State of Connecticut, State of New Jersey (limited to the following counties: Bergen, Essex, Hudson, Hunterdon, Mercer, Middlesex, Monmouth, Morris, Passaic, Somerset, Sussex, Union, Warren) and Bermuda Islands. To learn how to submit your AIRE registration or update your address, click here .

What you need to apply for your Italian passport:

• form for applicants over 18 years of age duly filled out ( Application Form );
• 2 passport photos (recent, identical, size 3.5 x 4.0 cm, white background, face front and centered, neutral expression);
• Your previous Italian passport , unless it is your first passport, or in the event of loss/theft. In that case, you must show another valid identification document;
• for applicants with Italian citizenship only, copy of United States Permanent Resident Card or entry visa (for Bermuda residents, copy of Bermuda Work Permit Card, Permanent Resident Certificate, Bermudian Status Certificate or Spouse of Bermudian Letter) ;
• copy of U.S. passport (all dual citizens) and copy of Certificate of Naturalization (only for dual citizens born in Italy); for Bermuda residents, copy of British Overseas Territories Citizens passport and copy of Certificate of Naturalization;
• a pre-paid Priority Mail envelope with “ tracking number ” (available only at U.S. Post Office) for the mailing of your new passport, completed with your address. The Consulate cannot be held responsible for the non-arrival or delayed arrival of your passport due to postal services;
• money order to be made out to Consulate General of Italy in New York. The cost for a passport is $126.10 . For the updated cost of all the consular services please consult CONSULAR FEES . We do not accept cash, credit/debit cards or personal checks.

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ITALY TOURIST VISA FOR PHILIPPINE PASSPORT HOLDERS

Table of contents.

Ciao!  A common greeting in Italy, the country of romance and history. So, what is Italy known for? Foods like pasta and pizza, artwork like Michelangelo’s Statue of David, landmarks like the Colosseum are amongst the most famous things Italy is known for. But Italy’s culture has also worked its way into an abundance of modern movies, art and fashion, too.

In order for Filipinos to travel to this gorgeous country, one must need a Schengen Visa for Italy to make it possible. In this article, I will guide you on how to apply for a Italian Schengen Visa with your Philippine Passport.

Who is eligible to apply for an Italian short-term visa?

• Your main destination  –  Sa Italy lang kayo pupunta and will not visit any other country.
• The country with a maximum period of stay –  you will visit multiple Schengen countries, but you will stay the longest in Italy.
• Your country related to the main purpose of travel – you will visit multiple Schengen countries, but the main purpose of your journey is in Italy. (Example: you will attend a wedding or a conference in Italy, but you plan on going out to other Schengen countries while you’re there.)
• The State of first entry – you will stay in multiple Schengen countries for the same number of days, but Italy is your first point of entry, meaning, Italy will be your first entry. 

Note : You can’t apply at the Italian Embassy when the only country you’re visiting is France. You can’t apply at the Italian Embassy if you’ll be staying in France for one week and in Italy for two days.

Important Documents to Prepare

1. A duly filled out and signed Italian Visa application form  through this  link.

2.  Two current biometrical passport photos (35-45 mm width) –  have your passport photo taken. The embassy is very strict on their photo specifications. Fortunately, they have a  page  on their official website dedicated to explaining this. Bring at least two copies or more, just in case. One photo should be glued to the application form. The second photo will be returned to you.

• Taken with nothing covering the face, without sunglasses or contact lenses, or a head covering unless worn for religious or medical reasons.
• The subject should have their mouth closed  (no grinning, frowning or raised eyebrows).  

After which, paste your photo on each of the electronic visa form that you completed online  (1 original and 1 photocopy of the form).

3.  Original Passport and a Photocopy of it  as well as the Bio Page– The embassy requires that your passport is valid for at least another three months on the date the visa application is submitted. It also must have two empty pages for them to stamp your passport. If you have renewed your passport, bring your old one/s with you. These are needed especially if you have previous overseas trips.

4. Proof of travel/ Travel plan (travel destination, route, proof of accommodation, and itinerary) –  a copy of the roundtrip airline booking with dates and flight numbers specifying entry and exit from Italy. With the necessary documents needed, this should clearly state the purpose of your travel. You just need to show a flight itinerary from the Philippines that should cover your entry and exit to and from Italy and to all Schengen countries of destinations, including your exit and entry from MANILA TO MANILA (EX. MANILA-ITALY-FRANCE-ITALY-MANILA). 

• A  cover letter addressed to the Italian Embassy Consul. If you are a first-time traveler to Italy, please submit an informal declaration through a cover letter explaining your willingness to return to the Philippines before the expiration of your visa: What exactly will be an incentive for you to return to the Philippines, and can you submit proofs for these circumstances?
• Your day-to-day itinerary  – be specific in indicating the place you will visit and the tours you will join or take. A good convincing itinerary requires planning and time to create. If you need help how to create one, watch my video:  https://youtu.be/kME1VdZdRiw 
• Flight reservation  – Reservation ONLY . Do not pay for your flight reservations until your visa is approved. You can avail of my services for a dummy ticket so that I can assist you with your flight reservations.  Get a flight reservation here .

5.   Proof of accommodation or Hotel reservations  – you would need to show hotel bookings, but this does not mean that you must pay for your hotel reservations this early. 

• For  Tourist , you would need to show Hotel Bookings, Hostels, Airbnb or apartment.

➜ Document of identity, proof of citizenship/permit of stay from the inviting person: either a photocopy of the sponsor’s passport/  residence card/  registration of residency ➜ your host/ relative/ partner who is based in Italy– the content should include the host’s exact address of residence, the purpose of your travel, and the full duration of your travel and stay at your host’s country.

6. Travel Insurance  –  the coverage must be applied during the entire duration of the trip in Italy and must be valid for all Schengen countries. Coverage sum must be AT LEAST EUR 30,000 (Php 2.5 million or USD 50,000). I highly recommend Pioneer Insurance which you can avail yourself through me. Feel free to directly inquire through JASTravel  on Facebook and I would be very glad to assist you. 

For the list of recommended Schengen insurance companies in the Philippines, you can also check it through  https://www.vfsglobal.com/Italy/Philippines/pdf/New-Insurance-Visit-Family.pdf  .  And it is also great to know that Pioneer Insurance is one them!

7. Proof of vaccination – As most European countries have decided to welcome vaccinated travelers during the COVID-19 pandemic.

This means that the following vaccines are accepted in Italy:

8.  Proof of Funds or Financial Capacity  –  these documents are necessary to prove that you can either support yourself or your sponsor can cover your expenses financially during the whole duration of your travel.

• Bank statements  – must show records of the past six months. A bank statement shows your transactions in your account at a specific period. It will show debits (withdrawals, payments, taxes, service fees) and credits (deposits, interest earned.) Bank Statements can also be seen online especially if you have a registered account. There is no signature for the manager or a bank officer.
• Bank Certificate  – it is  a confirmation by the branch manager  or a bank officer that you have an existing account in their bank. It shows the account number, the type, and other details such as the opening date of your account, your account balance as of the date of request, and your average daily balance. 
• Other proof of income (supporting documents)  – although it is not really required, you can submit invoices and pay slip equivalent to prove that you earn enough to support this trip financially. 
• If applying as a Tourist or as a Visitor with a Sponsor  – this means that your host and/or sponsor (family, friend, partner, or fiancé) pledges to take full responsibility to cover all the expenses that you will incur during the whole duration of your travel.

If you maintain a bank account for a long time, better maintain it . Kahit na may sponsor ka, of course, plus points pa din sa visa application mo if idadagdag mo din bank statements mo, payslips from our employer, and other proof na financially capable ka din and most importantly, it proves deep rootedness as well.

Sponsorship Letter which should state the fact that he/ she is inviting you to come   over, your relationship with each other, and that he/ she is willing to sponsor you during your trip. Of course, it needs to have documentary proof. 

Original Affidavit of Support , legalized by the Italian municipality where the sponsor is registered 

The sponsor’s copies of: passport including the biodata page and travel history   (passport stamps) and Resident ID card

Recent proof of income of the sponsor   (3 last months’ salary slips, etc.)

If your sponsor is from Italy, make sure to request: Proof of Sponsorship called Dichiarazione Garanzia Eo Alloggio (in Italian) you can download it here- https://vistoperitalia.esteri.it/Moduli/it/DICHIARAZIONEALLOGGIOGARANZIA.PDF

To know more about additional requirements that you would need from your sponsor, check out my YouTube video:   https://youtu.be/SEad8VHVkLk

9.  Proof of Civil Status  – Birth Certificate, Marriage Certificate, Death Certificate of the spouse, etc. These documents must be issued on security paper (SECPA) by the Philippine Statistics Authority, see   http://www.psaserbilis.com.ph . 

Note:  The birth certificate does not need to be authenticated by the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs.

10.  Evidence of your rootedness in the Philippines  – Evidence of deep-rootedness a.k.a. strong family and social ties to your home country, is  one of the most critical requirements when applying for a Schengen Visa . It is what the Consul will look for in your visa application. So how do you prove that you are firmly established in the Philippines and that you will go back to your home country?

• Employment or Work contract and bank account statements or payslips showing the transfer of your last six-monthly salaries 
• Certificate of Employment which should include the employer’s full name, complete address, telephone number with area code, details regarding the position, income, and employment duration
• Approved letter of approved leave signed by your employer (Leave of Absence letter)
• Optional: Signed No Objection Certificate which states that your employer has no objection for you to travel to Italy and that they have approved your leave request
• Most recent Income Tax Return 2316 (ITR) 
• Optional Supporting Documents: › Government Mandated Contributions – SSS, Pag-ibig, Philhealth Contributions › If with existing loan – SSS Loan or Pag-ibig Salary loan
• DTI Business Name Registration Certificate
• Barangay Business Clearance
• Mayor’s Business Permit from your Municipality where the business address has been registered
• Business activity of your company for the last 6 months – invoices and bank transactions
• Most recent Income Tax Return 2316 (ITR)
• Pension statement for the last 6 months
• Retirement Certification
• For Solo parents: › A copy of your birth certificate- PSA Authenticated › A copy of your child/children’s birth certificate- PSA Authenticated › Solo parent ID › Barangay Certification as Solo parent › Notarized Affidavit of Solo Parent with Undertaking › Money remittances to support your dependents
• For those who are supporting or watching over the health/well-being of the family: › A copy of my parent’s birth certificates- PSA Authenticated › If parents are already Senior Citizens: a copy of their Senior Citizen ID and Barangay Certification as Senior Citizens › If parents have sickness/ illness: Medical history of parents (diabetes, hypertension, etc.)
• Affidavit of Support by parents or Legal Guardian with their proof of means
• Proof of Enrollment and certificate of leave of absence

DSWD Travel Clearance

Helpful tips: Additional document requirements for a minor :  https://youtu.be/aVUq5nbmQig

Step-by-Step Guide on How to Apply for a Italian Schengen Visa

STEP 1:  Determine whether you will apply for a TOURIST VISA or a VISIT VISA by going to this link   and have a look at the checklist of requirements to gather all the documents that you need to submit. Each application must comply with the guidelines applicable for your visa category. 

Note : Once you have completed all your documents based on the checklist, make sure to secure another copy for each document. 

• VIA Center Makati Address: 3rd Flr Allegro Center, Chino Roces Ave, Makati, 2284 Metro Manila, Philippines
• VIA Center Cebu Address: 1004, Keppel Bldg, Cardinal Rosales Avenue Cor Samar Loop, Cebu City, 6000 Cebu

STEP 4:   Show up on your appointment date at and bring all your documents as well as a photocopy of each . They will then collect your documents as well as your Passport, get your biometrics, and collect the Visa Fee.

STEP 5:  Wait for the result and collect your passport.  You will be notified when your passport is ready for collection from the visa center where you applied.

Quick Facts

• Validity of Visa : Short-stay Schengen visas allow people to stay in the Schengen area for up to 90 days every six-month period
• Processing time: The average processing time is 2 weeks, but due to the Covid-19 pandemic, where visa staff work on a skeletal schedule, it may take between 2 to 4 weeks.
• Where to lodge your application:
• VIA Center Makati Address 3rd Flr Allegro Center, Chino Roces Ave, Makati, 2284 Metro Manila, Philippines 
• VIA Center Cebu Address 1004, Keppel Bldg, Cardinal Rosales Avenue Cor Samar Loop, Cebu City, 6000 Cebu
• Address: 5/F Tower B, One Campus Place, McKinley Hill, Taguig City
• Contact Number: 0063 (0)2 8892 4531-4
• E-mail Address: [email protected]
• Website: ambmanila.esteri.it
• Above 12 years old:  PHP 4,510 (80 Euro)
• 6 to 11 years:  PHP 2,260 (40 Euro)
• Children under 6 years: Free of charge
• Additional Visa processing and biometric fee: Php 1,350  per applicant (inclusive of return courier & all applicable taxes)

Recap and Tips

So, just  a quick recap and a reminder , please don’t forget these TIPS: 

Helpful tips: You can also watch my Vlog about how to apply for Italy Tourist Visa on this link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0Go3oXCI6Bw

So, that’s it! I hope that I was able to guide you on how to apply for an Italy Schengen Visa with your Philippine Passport. If you ever need help, you can avail my   visa application bundle ,  and I will be glad to help you through the process!

One thought on “ ITALY TOURIST VISA FOR PHILIPPINE PASSPORT HOLDERS ”

I have been watching you vlogs on youtube. In fact I only referenced your videos when I applied for my first Schengen Visa for Italy. Unfortunately, it was denied as I had no sufficient means of subsistence and proof of ties here in the Philippines. I was invited by my Italian partner (we are gays – unmarried) in December 2022 and he promised to cover all of my travel expenses which the documents I submitted from him were enough. I did not file for an appeal as I know I still have to improve my situation.

These the are the plans that I have for this year before I will apply for another short-term visa in June or July 2023.

1. I am saving money with a targeted amount of Php 177,000.00. 2. I acquired an apartment unit. Someone pawned it to me for 2 years. I have the contract that I am the owner of this unit for a period of 2 years. Currently, this apartment is rented by somebody. 3. I will acquire another property in March 2023. It’s a farm land over a hectare. This property will be pawned to me for 5 years. 4. I have a job and I will try to get an approved leaves 5. I will travel to Thailand in April just to get a passport stamp.

Please let me know if with the plans I have, will I have a higher chance to get a Schengen Visa approved? I just want to be reunited with my partner.

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Philippines travel requirements 2024: What travelers need to know

We aim to keep this post updated about Philippines travel in 2024 with official Philippines travel restrictions, requirements, and health and safety guidance. Our goal is to help you make informed decisions so you can travel confidently, safely, and responsibly in this new post-pandemic world of ours.

As restrictions can vary based on the traveler’s citizenship, we will focus primarily on rules affecting U.S. citizens.

Last update: February 21, 2024. Originally published: October 2020.

Disclosure: This post contains some affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of our links, we may receive a small commission, at no additional cost to you.

* Get our free Post-Pandemic Travel Checklist *

February 2024:  “Our main requirement for travel to the Philippines was completing an online form within 72 hours of arriving. Our airline reminded us to do the same process before departing the Philippines as well. The form asks for flight info, countries visited in the last 30 days, and whether you have been sick or exposed to someone ‘known to have communicable/infectious disease’ in the past 30 days. We then received a QR code to show at the airport. We did not need to show the QR code upon arrival or departure (airline staff told me it’s actually for Philippine passport holders only). At immigration they had no questions for us on arrival or departure.” – Michelle & Jedd, Intentional Travelers, American digital nomads

Photo credit: Anwar Y January 2024: “I visited the Philippines for 3 weeks in January with visits to places on 4 major islands across the country [Luzon, Bohol, Cebu, and Palawan]. Overall tourism was open and accessible within the country, flights between islands were the easiest, with long overland travel times (due to local-roads / lack of highways). We did not experience any travel restrictions while within the country. There is a pre-arrival form that must be filled out that is used for tracing but really we didn’t find it used much beyond immigration. There were requirements for providing hotels for contact tracing but it was haphazardly enforced, such as only 1 bus company asked for this information. Access to all services is open, we did notice that for many services employees were masked but there was no requirement for tourists to mask. We found covid tests readily accessible and often in vending machines such as in the airport. One thing of note is that people did appear to be sick. My entire group ended up sick (non-covid) but the sinus cold did impede our ability to do some activities (scuba diving).” – Anwar Y of Beyond My Door , American traveler

At the end of the post, we share on-the-ground perspectives from local residents and travelers to the Philippines so you can get a true sense of what to expect. We’re thankful to one of our team members from the Philippines for co-creating this post with us!

Table of Contents

Is the Philippines open for travel? Can I travel to the Philippines right now?

Effective July 2023 , all travelers are allowed entry in the Philippines without restrictions. The following are no longer required to enter the Philippines:

• Proof of Vaccination
• Proof of negative Covid test (for unvaccinated or partially vaccinated travelers)
• Travel insurance

However, travelers must still meet the following requirements:

• As of April 2023, all travelers, including children. are required to register via the Electronic Travel Declaration System no earlier than 72 hours from the intended arrival.
• Passport must be valid for at least six months at the time of arrival.
• Have booked a return or outbound ticket (affiliate link).

U.S. citizens are allowed visa-free entry into the Philippines for 30 days.

See the list of visa exempt countries here.

Philippines travel restrictions  have changed over time, please check back for updates.

Quarantine rules in the Philippines: What happens if I get Covid?

All travelers arriving in the Philippines are not required to quarantine.

Foreign tourists who  test positive for Covid while in the Philippines must continue to isolate and undergo quarantine.

For cases with moderate to severe symptoms or belonging to the immunocompromised category, isolation of 10 days from onset of signs and symptoms is required. Patient may be required to be admitted to a health care facility based on the advice of the attending physician.

For severe cases and immunocompromised cases , isolation is required and may end only upon the advice of their health care provider.

Patients with mild symptoms or asymptomatic are advised to isolate at home for five days or until fever-free for at least 24 hours without using antipyretics such as paracetamol, whichever is earlier.

Foreign tourists may be required to cover the costs of quarantine accommodations or hospitalization.

Recommended Quarantine Hotels in the Philippines:

Bayview Park Hotel Manila – Located at the heart of Manila, near the Ninoy Aquino International Airport and US Embassy, Bayview Park Hotel has modern and cozy rooms with air conditioning, cable TV, personal safe, and free Wi-Fi. The hotel also features an outdoor swimming pool and coffee shop with local and international dishes. Estimated cost for a 14-day stay is $748-$997. Book this hotel >

Hotel Durban – Hotel Durban is located in Makati, Manila. The hotel features air conditioned rooms, restaurant, bar, and free Wifi. Estimated cost for a 14-day stay is $471-$871. Book this hotel >

Somerset Millennium Makati – Somerset Millennium is a high-end hotel conveniently located in the vibrant business district of Makati City, 30 minutes from the Ninoy Aquino International Airport. The hotel offers elegant rooms with free Wifi, air conditioning, and flat screen TVs. There’s also an on-site restaurant, fitness center, spa, and swimming pool. Estimated cost for a 14-day stay is $1657-$1888. Book this hotel >

Radissan Blu Cebu – The Radissan Blue is one of Cebu’s top rated five star hotels. It has swimming pool, spa, fitness center, on-site restaurant, and airport transfers. Rooms come with air conditioning, Wifi, and a fantastic breakfast. Estimated cost for a 14-day stay is $1022-$1498. Book this hotel >

Can I travel to the Philippines in May 2024? Can I travel to Philippines this Summer?

The Philippines is open to tourists in May. Read on for details and check back for updates.

What is it like to fly to Manila MNL Ninoy Aquino International Airport right now? Philippine Airlines reports p assengers are no longer required to wear face masks, though it is still recommended.

Do I have to quarantine when traveling to the Philippines? No. Only travelers who test positive will need to quarantine. See details above.

Does Philippines check COVID-19 symptoms of incoming travelers? Travelers undergo a passive thermal scan upon arrival in the airport. Hats must be removed, otherwise just walk through.

Does Philippines require a negative Covid 19 test for travelers? No. As of July 2023, a negative test is no longer required for travelers to enter the Philippines.

Do I have to undergo a Covid test upon arrival in the Philippines? No. Covid test upon arrival is no longer required.

Does Philippines require a proof of Coronavirus vaccine for travelers? No. A proof of Coronavirus vaccine is no longer required.

Do I still need to provide a negative Covid test or quarantine if I have been vaccinated? Quarantine and negative Covid test is no longer required for travelers.

Is a booster shot required for travel to the Philippines? At this time, booster shots are not required in the Philippines. There is currently no expiration period set for the validity of vaccinations.

Do I need to provide proof of vaccination or test for domestic flights in the Philippines? Most destinations within the Philippines no longer require a proof of vaccination or test for domestic flights.

However, local authorities may have specific requirements. It is recommended to check with the destination’s local government unit (LGU) through their official website or Facebook page for the latest rules and guidelines.

What healthcare options are available to travelers in the Philippines who get the virus?   Philippine hospitals and clinics are open. Foreign visitors can get PCR or antigen test at  the Philippines Department Of Health accredited testing centers .

Foreign visitors who get the virus would pay out of pocket for medical services. The medical expenses for the treatment will vary depending on the severity of the condition, the hospital where the patient is admitted, confinement duration, and other factors.

For travel insurance that covers Covid, check out Nomad Insurance by Safety Wing >

What service businesses and restaurants are open in the Philippines? Markets and groceries, which are considered essential businesses, remained open throughout the duration of the community quarantine in the Philippines.

Restaurants are permitted to accept dine-ins. Malls, personal care services, and entertainment establishments are also back in business following health and safety protocols.

More hotels, resorts, and other accommodation establishments are allowed to operate under different community quarantine classifications and cater to local travelers.

Do I need to provide proof of vaccination or a negative test to enter or stay at hotels, resorts, and other accommodation establishments in the Philippines? Most accommodation establishments in the Philippines no longer require a proof of vaccination or a negative Covid test.

It is advisable to visit the hotel website or official social media pages to know their latest guidelines. Additionally, contacting the establishment directly is recommended for any clarifications.

What public gatherings are allowed in Philippines? Public gatherings are allowed but must follow health and safety protocols.

Are face masks required in the Philippines? As of July 2023 , wearing of face masks is no longer required in the Philippines.

Are buses running in the Philippines? Yes. Public transportation is available in the Philippines, including buses, jeepneys, trains, tricycles, and vans.

Will the Philippines impose new Covid restrictions? What’s next is difficult to predict. Historically, the Philippines has imposed nationwide as well as localized COVID-19 restrictions when strains on the health care system might become unsustainable.

How has the Coronavirus impacted the Philippines?

The first case of the Coronavirus was confirmed in the Philippines January 30, 2020 and the country was placed under a State of Public Health Emergency on March 8, 2020.

As a measure to limit the spread of the virus, lockdowns or community quarantines have been imposed since March 15, 2020. Despite implementing strict lockdowns, the country still experienced surges in cases, reporting more confirmed cases and deaths than any other Southeast Asian country.

The onslaught of the virus put the country into recession with mass unemployment. The restriction on travel also affected tourism, which is a large industry in the country. 

Over two thirds of the population has been vaccinated in the Philippines.

In July 2023, the State of Public Health Emergency has been lifted throughout the Philippines. All restrictions due to Covid 19 are no longer in effect.

For the current situation in the Philippines, including: total COVID-19 positive cases; total cases in the Philippines; and COVID-19 testing in the Philippines, please see the Philippines Department of Health site .

What should you pack for safely traveling in the Philippines?

😷 Face Masks – Face coverings are optional but recommended in crowded areas. Find N95 masks at Bona Fide > or designer options at Vida >

💊 Medicine – Bring enough prescription and over-the-counter medication for your entire trip to avoid trips to the clinic.

💳 Vaccine Card Holder – Protect that paper CDC card when traveling abroad (if your country doesn’t offer a digital version). Get a simple plastic protector > or Vegan leather clippable > or Leather passport + card combo holder >

👃 Covid self-test – The most studied rapid antigen self-test with FDA emergency authorization.  NOT valid to enter countries. Use for your own peace of mind. Order from CVS > or Walmart >

💧 Sealed water bottle – Make sure your reusable water bottle has a lid that’s not exposed to the air. We use one of each of the following: Shop insulated water bottles with protective lid > Shop water bottles with purification filter and protective lid >

✈️ Travel insurance that covers Covid – We’ve started using Nomad Insurance by Safety Wing for affordable evacuation, international medical, and trip coverage.

What do Philippine locals and recent travelers say about visiting the Philippines now?

What is it like to visit the Philippines right now? It’s our goal to provide regular updates here from real people on the ground, to help potential visitors know what to expect. The following are subjective opinions only. Official travel guidance can be found above.

November 2023 – Gladis of Happiness on the Way , Filipina citizen:  “I flew from Frankfurt to Clark International Airport (Philippines) in September and was surprised by the low number of tourists. I’ve traveled around Clark and Manila for a month and most of the businesses like cafes, restaurants and even tours are all back – I love how I was able to see famous spots with less tourists!

Healthcare, testing, and local attractions are fully operational in most cities and touristy towns. Hotels and restaurants provide sanitizers, and staff are vaccinated with open-air setups. Airports in the Philippines have synchronized e-travel for smoother lines. Most popular destinations have maximum tourists now, so booking ahead is advisable to secure your spot.”

June 2023 – Liza of Always in Spain : “I’m in the Philippines for one month (May to June 2023) to visit family and travel around the country.

Tourism in the Philippines is thriving again! Tourist attractions are open without restrictions, tour operators are offering services again, and transportation (air & land) look fully open for domestic travel so it’s easy to get around the country.

Aside from having to complete a declaration upon arrival, things are back to normal in the Philippines. Some people still prefer to mask up (especially indoors) but it’s not obligatory.

Pharmacies are plentiful in the large cities so you have easy access to home testing kits and over-the-counter medication if you need it. If you’re traveling to more remote areas, it’s a good idea to have your own emergency medical kit just in case.”

February 2023 – Kieren of Wales Guidebook , UK traveler:  “My girlfriend and I visited the Philippines for 10 days in February 2023 with a return trip from Bali. Tourism in the Philippines is mostly back to normal. Aside from being asked to wear masks at airports and onboard with some airlines, there were no other Covid requirements or restrictions and I can highly recommend visiting at this time.

Although signage regarding Covid restrictions (such as mask wearing) are still on display across the country, these are rarely enforced. You may still see staff wearing masks in supermarkets and shopping malls. Pharmacies are readily available in most areas frequented by tourists and the level of English is usually enough to get any medicine you need. Chain pharmacies, such as Watsons, are more likely to speak a good level of English.”

October 2022 – Jennifer Terri, Philippines:

September 2022 – Elizabeth, visitor from UK:   “I visited the Philippines for a 3-week trip to explore its top destinations. The locals are still wearing masks, however, it’s a bit more relaxed, especially in the open public area. When you enter an establishment, you will be asked or expected to put on the mask.

Most businesses related to tourism are open or in service such as airlines, hotels, and tour agencies. Locals seems to be getting back on travelling as well, but it seems like the airlines are not well-staffed resulting in long queues, although very little delay.”

July 2022 – Angeline of GoAroundPhilippines.com , resident:  “All tourist destinations in the country are open and locals mostly enjoy them now. It is the best time to visit as there are still few tourists around and you can easily get cheaper rates for hotels and tours as companies need tourists.

The islands and beaches have gone through a bit of a break so they’ve become more vibrant and marine animals are plenty. There are still no long lines or crowds either.”

March 2022 – Camille, resident of the Philippines: “Things are finally the closest it’s been to “back to normal” after two long years of strict quarantine rules. Everything feels much more relaxed and people are happy to go out, dine out, party, and travel. Even though it feels like back to normal, most people still comply with wearing masks almost everywhere so this is something foreigners should expect and be sensitive in following.

Many places still are at limited capacity though, so lines are long and crowds can be packed. As much as possible, we appreciate it when tourists are understanding of any delays or mishaps. There’s a period of adjustment since it’s only been recently that things are as they were before. Many workers have been affected and are now happy to get back to work, so patience and tips are appreciated. At the end of the day, tourism has always played a big part in our economy so you’ll definitely feel welcome.”

July 2021 – Ailene, resident of Manila: “The Philippines does not currently allow tourists to enter the country. Majority of the residents are hesitant to the reopening of the borders to foreign tourists because of the fear that our healthcare system would collapse if there will be a surge in Covid cases. In Metro Manila, people (except children and senior citizens) are free to move within the city as long as the curfew, social distancing, face mask, and face shield rules are observed. Traveling to other places outside Metro Manila is also possible. Travel restrictions are generally being followed. However, there were some instances when people were caught violating the rules such as faking their Covid results, partying, and not following the curfew. Access to healthcare is a little difficult. In some hospitals and clinics, patients without an appointment will not be allowed to enter. But virtual consultation is also available. Getting tested for Covid is easier. People have an option to get tested at clinics, hospitals, drive through testing centers, or at home. Access to local attractions is possible as long as the needed requirements are provided. A negative Covid test is required in some destinations, while a health certificate is enough for some. Right now, the safest and preferred places to travel to are private resorts and outdoor open areas like parks and beaches where interaction with other people can be avoided as much as possible. Restaurants, groceries, and other food service can be accessed easily. Although public transportation is available for travelers, it is safer to travel in private vehicles.”

June 2021 – Tina of https://iwentanyways.com , resident of Philippines: “Many provinces in the country are not yet open to tourism, and those that are already open have requirements that need to be followed. Locals have varying reaction to their place opening up to tourists. Some support the opening due to financial reasons, while those that are not in favor are concerned that these tourists might spread the virus in their place. Travel restrictions are being followed by locals and visitors, but I’ve heard of stories of some people who do not follow it but are able to get away with it. As for the healthcare and testing, most of the hospitals and testing centers are available in the capital cities. Some provinces that have opened for tourism require visitors to register in an app and wait for the approval of their visit before they could travel. This is required for contact tracing purposes.”

Even if you can’t go to the Philippines right now, you can still get started planning your Philippines trip for the future.

Check out our other Philippines travel resources: – Best Places to Visit in the Philippines on a Budget

If you have questions or updates about travel to the Philippines during the Coronavirus crisis or post-pandemic, please let us know in the comments below. *Please note that we are not able to advise travelers regarding specific situations outside of the free information provided above. We recommend working with a professional travel agent if you need assistance particular to your trip.

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Disclaimer: Please note, travel restrictions change frequently. Readers must take responsibility for verifying information through official sources like the State Department and CDC, in respect to their specific situations. No responsibility can be accepted by Intentional Travelers for action or inaction as a result of information provided through IntentionalTravelers.com. Any information provided here is issued as general information only.

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We have booked a trip to the Philippines next month. We have not been vaccinated for covid19, Earlier it was mentioned that we had to take a corona test to enter the philippines. Last weekend all corona measures in the Philippines were scrapped, see source: https://pco.gov.ph/news_releases/pbbm-lifts-state-of-public-health-emergency-throughout-ph-due-to-covid-19/

I don’t want any surprises, Can you please confirm to me if we need to take a corona test to fly to the Philippines (from Madrid) or if it is therefore not necessary anymore now. In addition, I am also asking for more clarity on the inernal movements.

Hello Falko. Since the State of Public Health Emergency has been lifted in the Philippines, all rules and restrictions due to Covid 19 are no longer in effect. This means that you are no longer required to present a negative Covid test to enter the Philippines. For traveling within the Philippines, restrictions are also no longer in effect. However, it is still advisable to check your destination’s local government unit (LGU) official website or Facebook page for the latest travel guidelines. You may also check for the latest COVID requirements by destination through this websites: https://www.philippineairlines.com/covid-information-hub/covid-requirements

Hello, I’m a little confused on one issue. I’m a US citizen unvaccinated and would like to fly to the Philippines. I know what tests, etc I need to actually fly to the philippines, but what is not clear to me based on conflicting information is will I be required to take another covid test on arrival if the 24 hour one taken before flight was negative? One thing I don’t want to happen is discover I have to have another one when I arrive as I really hate them since they are so unnecessarily intrusive, and I’ve read some places that you will need a second one on arrival regardless of the results of the preflight test. I would be flying to Cebu. Thank you for your time.

Hello Sam, thank you for visiting our blog. According to the current entry rules , unvaccinated or partially vaccinated “travelers 15 years and older who fail to present a negative pre-departure testing shall be required to undergo a laboratory-based Antigen Test UPON ARRIVAL at the airport.” Therefore, if you can provide a valid and negative pre-departure Covid test when you arrive in the Philippines, then you will no longer have to test upon arrival at the airport.

Thank you for answering my question, that is good news. Just one other question please. Where do I look to find what remotely supervised covid tests are accepted by Philippines government on arrival since I don’t want to take a test in a clinic?

Hello Sam. Unfortunately, we cannot find updated information about remotely supervised tests accepted by the Philippines. It seems like no updates have been published but we’ll let you know if we find updated information regarding this. You may also contact the Philippine Department of Tourism official Facebook page or a Philippine embassy near you to get information about remotely supervised tests.

Is a negative COVID test result required for return travel from the Philippines to the United States?

Hi. Regardless of departure point, test results are not required going to the US, and as of this month (May 2023), noncitizen nonimmigrant air passengers no longer need to show proof of being fully vaccinated either.

I will be on vacation soon in the Philippines and resorts (specifically at Pico de Loro, Batangas and Los Banos, Laguna) still require a certified negative covid-test for stay. Where can I get this certified covid-19 rapid antigen test?

Hello Yeen. Thank you for visiting our blog. You can see the list of licensed Covid 19 testing facilities in the Philippines here: Philippine Department of Health Licensed Covid-19 Testing Laboratories

I am traveling to the Philippines in July 2023. I see that the Philippines currently still requires a negative Antigen Test for entry. Once a traveler has entered the country and wants to travel to different locations (such as Tacloban, Cebu City, Bohol, etc.) does a traveler have to provide a clean test at every domestic airport in the Philippines to board the plane if I stayed at each different location for 3-5 days? I need clarification as the domestic air carriers (Cebu Pacific, Air Asia, etc.) indicate that you need at least a negative Antigen Test to board on their websites. Any comments from recent travelers in the Philippines would be helpful. Thank you

Hi Greg. It is correct that the Philippines still require proof of a negative COVID test for entry if a traveler is unvaccinated or partially vaccinated. For travel within the Philippines, most destination no longer require a negative test for domestic flights. However, please note that some destination may still require a negative test and other documents for domestic travel depending on the local authorities’ regulations. We recommend that you check your destination’s local government unit (LGU) official website or Facebook page for the latest travel guidelines and requirements.

You may also check for the latest COVID requirements by destination through these websites: https://www.cebupacificair.com/pages/travel-info/covid-travel-reminders/travel-document-requirements?lang=en-PH https://www.philippineairlines.com/covid-information-hub/covid-requirements

We hope this helps and thank you for visiting our blog!

Hello, we are scheduled to go to the Philippines February 1st. We will be flying to japan January 27th and then from japan to Manila February 1st. Then from Manila to Boracay on the 2nd of February. We are American us citizens unvaccinated. What are the requirements and regulations for us? Will we be allowed to go with the new covid laws?

Hello Vee. Thanks for visiting our blog. Based on the current travel requirements and your status as an unvaccinated U.S. citizens, the following are the requirements you need:

For travel to Japan, you will need to provide a pre-travel COVID-19 test conducted within 72 hours prior to departure from the country/region of origin. You may check the Japan Ministry of Foreign Affairs webpage or the U.S. Embassy in Japan webpage for details.

For travel to the Philippines, you will need the follwing: – negative Antigen test certificate from a clinic conducted within 24 hours of departure from the country of origin – complete a BOQ e-Health Declaration Card (e-HDC), including children – passport valid for at least six months at the time of arrival – return or outbound ticket to your country of origin or next country of destination.

Once you’re in the Philippines, the requirements to travel to Boracay are the following: – Tourist Arrival Form – Confirmed Boracay Hotel Booking slip/voucher – Passport (for Foreigners)

You may also contact the Boracay/Aklan Tourism facebook page for more details.

Hello, we are Polish Filipino marrige and we are not vaccinated. We are planing to Visit Philipinnes in the middle of January 2024. Do you think it will be still required to do the PCR covid tests before travel? Since I read about Thailand, Laos, Vietnam is already fully open (no covid tests, no vaccinated etc). When they will fully open the Philippines? Regards

Thanks for visiting our blog. We don’t have any special information about the government’s future plans about travel restrictions, however, we will be sure to update this post when we see that anything changes.

Hello there, i am filipino-american citizen. I am unvaccinated and my vacation and my 4yo son to cebu by october. What are the restrictions for us since we don’t want to get vaccinated. From cebu international airport do we have to book a hotel for quaratines that are doh accredited and for how many days? Is it possible to choose our own place to stay while waiting for pcr test? And also does me and my son need a pcr test before we travel to Philippines? And also do we need return ticket or not needed? Hope to hear your response. Thank you

Hi Isabel. Thanks for visiting our blog! The current restriction states that foreign nationals (including Balikbayans) visiting the Philippines without a visa must be vaccinated. Unfortunately, you won’t be allowed entry into the Philippines based on the current rules. The same goes for your 4-year-old son since he will follow the rules that are applicable to you. However, if you will enter the Philippines with a visa or if you have double citizenship (Filipino and American) then it’s possible that you and your son may be allowed entry. We recommend that you contact or visit the Philippine Embassy in your area to see if there are any exemptions applicable to you that will allow you to visit the Philippines. Hope this helps.

Hello hoping to travel to the Philippines but I am unvaccinated are they open for unvaccinated foreign travelers yet?

Hi Mark. You’ll find the answer to that in our post and we’ll continue to update it as rules change.

Please note that on the PAL site ( https://www.philippineairlines.com/en/covid-19/arrivingintheph ) it states that valid return ticket(s) to the original port of origin or next port of destination for not more than 30 days from the date of arrival in the Philippines is/are required. Since I want to go for 3 months can I assume this is now impossible? Please help

Hi Norman! Thanks for visiting our blog. Tourists entering the Philippines visa-free are allowed to stay for not more than 30 days. Thus, the need for a valid return ticket to your country of origin or your next destination dated not more than 30 days from the date of arrival in the Philippines. If you want to stay in the Philippines for more than 30 days, you will need to apply for a Philippine tourist visa. You need to contact the Philippine Embassy or Consulate near you for information on how to apply for a Philippine tourist visa. I hope this helps.

I am a Filipino citizen with Philippine passport and vaccinated, I will be traveling with my family to Philippines – my husband american citizen fully vaccinated, but my 1.5 yrs old son also american citizen and not vaccinated. We are just planning to stay in the Philippines for 1 week just for my son to meet my parents. My question is, will he/we still need to be in quarantine? Thanks

Hi Camille. Thanks for visiting our blog. According to the Philippine’s quarantine rules, children below the age of 12 who cannot be vaccinated must follow the quarantine protocols of the parents traveling with them. Since you and your husband are fully vaccinated and do not need to quarantine, your son is not required to quarantine as well. You may also contact the Philippine Bureau of Immigration for more information regarding entry requirements.

I heard the quarantine laws recently changed. I am a US citizen fully vaccinated. I have two questions…

1) Do I still have to quarantine? 2) Will I be admitted with a work visa?

Thanks for visiting our blog. If you are traveling to the Philippines from the United States and fully vaccinated, you still need to quarantine at a government approved facility until the result of a RT-PCR test taken on the 5th day of quarantine is released. If the result is negative, you’ll be allowed to continue the quarantine at home until the 10th day. You can check the post for more details about quarantine rules in the Philippines. Regarding your work visa, if it is valid and existing, then you may be allowed to enter the Philippines. We advise that you contact the nearest Philippine Embassy or Consulate in your area to get more information and before attempting travel.

Travel to the Philippines My legal wife is an ex-Philippine citizen having been “required” to give it up on becoming a Canadian citizen, more years ago than I’m “allowed to divulge”! I’m a naturalized Canadian citizen originally from the UK, a few years ago shall we say! Am I correct in believing my wife can travel “home” without a pre-authorized but will we granted a “tourist” visa on arrival, and that I may accompany her getting a “balikbyan” visa on arrival?

Vaccine “Combo” Canada considers us “fully” vaccinated against COVID-19 with 1st Dose Pfizer-BioNTech & 2nd Dose Moderna Mrna vaccines, but is this “combo” accepted by the Philippines?

Vaccination-Quarantine I understand that as we are “fully” vaccinated we will be required to “reside” at a hotel for 7 days with a PCR test on Day 5, and if the PCR test is clear we can then shorten the full 14-day period to 10 days? Can the hotel be “of our choice” if that hotel provides such facilities, or are their only “designated” hotels to choose from? At the hotel do we have full access to its facilities such as swimming pool etc if open, or are we “imprisioned” in our rooms for the duration?

Post-Quarantine Travel in the Locale Are there any restrictions for “ALL” in moving around the locale to say attend golf courses if open, and can we travel by public transport. Are there any “AGE” restrictions as we are seniors, although the exact ages are a “closely guarded secret”!

Travel to Provences On arrival into Manila can we “immediately” transfer to the domestic airport for travel to the Provences for quarantine, or do we have to quarantine in Manila before moving on?

Best wishes William & Lourdes

Hello, William and Lourdes, and thank you for visiting our blog. These are important questions you have, and travel restrictions can certainly be confusing, not to mention constantly changing. We are only able to track a limited set of scenarios, which we post for free on the blog. To answer specific questions beyond what’s in our post, we would recommend working with a travel agent to ensure your trip needs are met. We’ll also see where we can better clarify some of the information in our post in the coming days. Best regards.

I would like to get a visitor visa for the Philippines as I plan to marry my fiancé who is a Philippine resident in January 2022. Can you guide me to websites so that the visa process for the Philippines can be simplified if that is possible, or inexpensive visa service for the Philippines? Thank you for any help you can provide me. Anthony

Hi Anthony. Thank you for your question. As we do not have personal experience using a visa service ourselves, we can only recommend doing a web search for “philippines visa services” and checking for recent user reviews. Perhaps one of our other readers will be able to chime in with a suggestion in the future.

Hi – Is there a quarantine exception offered for emergency travel from the U.S. (fully vaccinated) such as caring for sick/dying family member?

Thanks for visiting our blog. We are not aware of emergency exceptions at this time. With the many changing rules, we have to focus on those that apply to the majority of travelers, so a travel agent or visa service that specializes in the Philippines may be more help for specific scenarios or exceptions.

Hi! Fully vaccinated foreign travellers who have been in a green list country for at least 14 days are allowed to enter the Philippines without any problems as long as they quarantine 7 days in an approved facility, right? So for me who live in Italy, the only way I can currently access the Philippines would be to travel to Albania (green list country) right after I get my second dose, stay there 2 weeks and then fly from Albania to the Philippines.

Hi Andrea, thank you for visiting our blog. That is a very good question. The Philippines’ green lane was created to lessen the quarantine period of fully vaccinated individuals who are allowed to enter in the Philippines. Therefore, it is important to determine first if you belong to any of the traveler categories who can enter the Philippines. For foreign citizens, you must have a valid and existing Philippine visa. If without a visa, you must be a former Filipino or a family member traveling with a former Filipino. You can check the complete details of who can enter the Philippines here .

If you are one of those travelers who are allowed to enter, fully vaccinated, and traveling from Albania or any of the countries in the Philippines’ green list, the quarantine period would only be 7 days.

Hi Ailene and thank you for your kind reply. I guess I will need a visa and probably an exemption document which I have now idea how to get and if there are any requirements I don’t think I meet them anyway since the purpose of the trip would be to visit my girlfriend hence why I am considered as a mere tourist.

I’m from Arizona currently looking for a way to travel to the Philippines ASAP to marry my fiance. I have my vaild US passport, however found myself needing a tourist visa with a possible certificate of entry as well..would you recommend going through a travel agency, a family member who is Filipino, or waiting for the covid travel restrictions to be lifted? Point me in the right direction or any vaild news will be greatly appreciated. Thanks & God bless.

Hi Chris. Without a valid and existing visa, you would need to wait for restrictions to change. We’ll be sure to update this post as we get more news. In general, we do recommend working with a travel agent who is familiar with Philippine visas to help navigate the ever-changing travel situation these days.

Chris You and so many others are in the same situation. I am looking into flying my Fiance to another country, (Mexico, Columbia or Costa Rica) Getting married there Then fly back together on a Balikbayan Visa.

Hi! We want to visit Philippines in February. If we are vaccinated with 2 doses do we still need to do a covid test? We need to fill out a form before entering the Philippines? but for Boracay? Thank you!

Hello Cristina! Based on the current Philippine travel rules, a booster is no longer required for entry, therefore, you no longer need to provide a negative Covid test. However, you need to register on the Philippines eTravel website and you can register up to three days in advance of your departure. For Boracay, a filled out tourist arrival form, hotel booking, and passport for foreign tourists are required. You can check details here or you may contact the Aklan government through their Facebook page for additional information.

Hi! I was just wondering, are fully vaccinated senior citizen (60 years and older) coming from Canada allowed to enter Philippines? Are there any travel restriction for their age group? Thanks a lot!

Thanks for visiting our blog. We’ve been focusing on requirements primarily for US citizens, as it can vary by country and it’s a challenge to track all the changes. I would double-check with the Canadian State Department and/or a travel agent for more specific guidance. It’s my understanding that the age group restrictions don’t apply for entering the country but rather for going out and about once there – so far this has only been relevant to Philippine residents and will likely change with local vaccination rates eventually.

Hi, thank you for a really good blog. I am fully vaccinated norwegian man, and I wonder if you know anything about when it will be possible to travel to the Philippines. Cebu is a possible destination. If you dont know, because I think no one can know for sure now, what will be your educated guess. I have a close friend I want to visit there.

I’m glad you’ve found our blog helpful. I wish we had more insight as to when things will open up more. Some countries in Southeast Asia have indicated that they may wait until a majority of their own population is vaccinated, so it really is uncertain. We’ll do our best to provide updates here as they come out.

I am a fully-vaccinated US citizen. Do I understand correctly that I can fly into Cebu with no quarantine requirements? What covid-related requirements would I be subjected to (e.g. tests, etc). Thank you!

Hi James. Thank you for visiting our blog. Travelers flying in directly to Cebu don’t have to quarantine at the hotel, provided that they receive a negative test result conducted immediately upon arrival at the airport. Please note that this is applicable only to permitted foreign nationals. We recommend that you contact the local government of Cebu or the Cebu-Mactan International Airport for complete details and requirements. Also, as of today, only US citizens with visa, US citizens who are former Filipinos, and US citizens who are family members and traveling with a Filipino citizen or former Filipino are allowed entry in the Philippines. Please see the Philippine Bureau of Immigration page for complete details. It is also advisable to contact the Philippine Embassy or Consulate in your area for more information and before attempting travel.

My daughter was born in Manila in 2020. What do i need to do to get to the philippines? The philippines embassy in los angelas doesn’t replay to my emails and nobody picks up the phones. please help

Hello and thank you for visiting our blog. We do our best to provide regularly updated information on this post for free to the public, as our small team does not have capacity to provide individualized advice for everyone who requests. If you’re not able to find what you need in the details of our post or through the official resource links we have provided above, many travelers are finding this type of support through travel agents.

I’m from Canada and I’m also a citizen here. I don’t understand why United States citizen foreigners are allowed in the Philippines but not Canadians when their country is much worse with the current situation with the covid virus. Or are Canadians allowed also? Thank you.

Hello and thanks for visiting our blog. Because the majority of our blog readers are from the US and rules do vary by country and change frequently, we have chosen to focus on restrictions for Americans in this particular post. This does not mean other nationalities are excluded from entering the Philippines. I would suggest checking the Canadian State Department website for details that apply to your home country.

Thanks for all the info! Hoping to head to the Philippines December of this year, of course plans are put on hold until then.

I’m planning a trip in August. Do you think the borders will be reopened? If so, I want to go to Iloilo directly, can I quarantine there instead of Manilla even though I have a 1h change (stopover because of a direct flight with terminal as Iloilo) of plane there? Thank you

Hi. Thanks for visiting our blog. We do our best to keep this post updated as things change, but we don’t have any special insight as to when changes will happen in the future. For advice on specific trip questions that you can’t find in our post, we recommend seeking a professional travel agent. Safe travels.

My American boyfriend planning to come and meet me this coming month of July. He should get a visa in US before coming here in the Philippines or he could get a visa when he landed here in the Philippines then? His destination will be in Kalibo, Aklan. Any idea about the protocols travelling to Kalibo, Aklan? And if he need to be quarantine for 14 days? He’s already fully vaccinated with Moderna vaccine. He is also tested in Covid and had a negative results. Thank you.

Thank you for visiting our blog. Traveling to the Philippines without a visa, unfortunately, that has been temporarily suspended because of the pandemic so he would need to arrange a visa before traveling. You can find details on the Philippine Bureau of Immigration Facebook page . Please note that we are not able to advise travelers regarding specific situations outside of the free information we already provide above. If you’re not able to find answers for your particular trip in our post, we recommend working with a professional travel agent to ensure your personal trip needs are met.

I’M TRYING TO TRAVEL IN JULY IS IT POSSIBLE FOR ME TO VISIT MY FAMILY. I’M AN AMERICAN CITIZEN BUT FORMERLY FILIPINO CITIZEN. FULLY VACCINATED AND JUST GOT SWAB FOR COVID 4 TIMES ALREADY. THANK YOU

Hello and thank you for visiting our blog. We do our best to provide regularly updated information on this post for free to the public, as our small team does not have capacity to provide individualized advice for everyone who requests. I hope you’ll find what you need in the details of our post or through the official resource links we have provided above. If you need further assistance, many travelers are finding this type of support through travel agents.

i don’t know how accurate your info is as i work with a filipino here in the US and he watches Philip news online and told me that if you fly into Cebu which is where i go not Manila that you get a temp check at the airport and only have to quarantine for 1 day not 14 like u said, also can you answer this question. I being a American and traveling with a passport the bureau of philippines website said if your traveling to the PI for less then 30 days you don]t need a tourist visa just your passport…any truth to that?? Thanks

Hi Will. As a general rule, a mandatory quarantine of 7-14 days is required for persons traveling to the Philippines. In the Province of Cebu, it is true that quarantine is no longer a requirement as of March 31, 2021. However, this is only for repatriated Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and returning non-OFWs. You can visit the Cebu Provincial Tourism Office page for more information about this.

About traveling to the Philippines without a visa, unfortunately, that has been temporarily suspended because of the pandemic. Please check the Philippine Bureau of Immigration Facebook page for information and updates on who are allowed entry into the Philippines at this time.

Thank you so much for the information, that helps a lot….can’t wait to be there, but I know it may get delayed again. Just as long as everyone is safe and protected I can wait. I love the Philippine people, such beautiful souls.

I have rescheduled my trip from USA Arizona to Lapu-Lapu city where I will be staying with my friend who lives there this coming August….4th time rebooking since COVID. I will be there for 3 weeks. I have my COVID vaccination already and got a Hepatitis A vaccine. Do you know what other vaccines are required? Also, will I need to get a Visa since I am on a limited stay? Been trying to get there since last May, but want to be safe for everyone there. I am so looking forward to being with my friend this has been 2 years in the making. Thank you for any information you can give.

Hi Kenneth. I hope your trip will finally come to fruition. As you know, it’s still a difficult time to plan travel and the situation continues to change month to month. According to the State Department, U.S. citizens must have a visa to enter the Philippines for all travel purposes. The best place to find vaccination requirements and recommendations would be through the CDC: https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/list

I am a Physician in Mexico with a Philippine wife. She is returning there on May 2. I am wondering what I need to travel only to Manilla in June or July only to accompany her back to Mexico. I would have no problem staying at motel around Manila for the approximately 30 days that I will be there. Any help on this ?

Hello and thanks for visiting the blog. Your ability to enter the Philippines as the spouse of a Filippino citizen in June/July will depend on whether the suspension is lifted for foreign nationals. We will do our best to update this post as the situation changes. Please refer to our post for other protocols and recommended hotels for quarantine in Manila. For further assistance, you may wish to work with a travel agent.

Planning to come home to the Philippines on May from a very long time (1982) since I left PI.. I am now a Us Passport holder, am I qualified as a Philippine balikbayan? Do I need to get a Philippine visa? Is my husband the same?

Hi Nimfa. Thanks for visiting our blog! Under the Philippines Balikbayan Program , you are considered a “balikbayan”. You can visit the Philippines and stay for 1 year without a visa. Your husband can also get the same privilege as long as he is traveling with you.

However, please take note that traveling to the Philippines has been recently suspended until April 19, 2021. Check our blog for updates on who will be allowed entry in May. We also advise that you contact the nearest Philippine Embassy or Consulate in your area for more information and before attempting travel.

With vaccines starting to arrive in PI and some places starting to make roll out plans- Any idea when tourist visas will start to be processed again and citizens will be able to take a trips out of PI?

Hi Dan. Thank you for your question, but I’m afraid we don’t have any special insight about when the Philippines will make changes to travel protocols.

i am now in the us, i left manila last march and coming back in april, do i still need to book a hotel for quarantine? most articles i see are for ofw’s and balikbayans.

also, do you know kung sino sasagot ng food ng magku-quarantine? coz hindi makakalabas yun tao to buy food and water. just wondering.

Hi Cher. Yes, you still need a confirmed booking at any accredited quarantine hotel in Metro Manila for at least 7 days (or 6 nights) from the date of your arrival. This is to accommodate the schedule of your RT-PCR test (which will be on the 5th day) and the release of the result. Your food during your stay at the hotel will be at your own expense. You may also have food from outside the hotel delivered to your room, but you need to check with the rules and regulations of the hotel first if it is allowed.

You may check the Philippine Airlines or the Philippines Travel website for the complete guidelines. I hope this helps.

Hello Is there a list of the hotels like in Manila or Subic that might be quarantine hotels and what the costs would be for the 14 day duration. .

Hi Bob. The current list of accredited hotels by the Bureau of Quarantine can be found here: http://quarantine.doh.gov.ph/facilities-inspected-as-of-february-18-2021/ You would need to look up the costs for individual hotels that interest you.

What is the best website to get Current travel updates for traveling to the Philippines this spring if possible.

Hi and thanks for visiting our blog. We are doing our best to update this post on a weekly basis with current information about travel to the Philippines. Your home country’s State Department website is probably the most reliable source. To get an official answer for your Spring travel, you can contact the nearest Philippine Embassy or Consulate (if in the United States).

The Philippine Airlines website is the most up to date regarding travel restrictions.

If one has had a coronavirus vaccine in the US, can one come to the Philippines without the need to quarantine and have the Covid test? I should have my second round of the Moderna vaccine on March 4th. Could I travel to the Philippines shortly after that time if I have a card proving that I had the vaccine?

That is a good question and I think many are wondering the same thing about other destinations as well. We can’t predict when the Philippines will reopen to travelers, nor what they will choose to require in terms of vaccines. From what I’ve read, I would guess that most destinations will continue to require a Covid test regardless of the vaccine since the timeline for immunity after vaccination is still uncertain.

I look forward to the country opening again. It is certainly one of my favorites!

Can I book myself on June or July to go to manila since they ( Department of Tourism ) mencioned that they will reopen the country for international tourism around June so ????

Hi Ricardo. We cannot predict if you’ll be able to fly into Manila at that time. What we personally are doing is making sure any flight we book is fully refundable, or can at least be changed to a later date without change fees if travel is not allowed for our original flight date. This will depend on the particular airline’s terms and conditions.

Do you know when is the date or anything that the Philippine government is gonna let foreigners for tourism cause I’ve been planning this trip for a year and its getting the people so angry that we cant go to the Philippines and nobody can give me a straight up answer.

Hi Clint. Thanks for your question. We know how frustrating it can be to have travel plans up in the air. Unfortunately, most countries do not have set dates for opening tourism yet because so much depends on ever-changing situations, both domestically and internationally.

Covid is spreading rapidly and nobody is vaccinated there stay home and keep you and the Philippines safer

The Philippines has no intention of opening up to tourism any time soon. The president has said that when the country is between 70 to 80 percent vaccinated it will reopen the country it currently is at 19%. So if you want to take a vacation start thinking of an alternative destination or your going to be waiting for at least a year.

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ITALIAN PASSPORT REQUIREMENTS

Applying for an italian passport or passport renewal.

For most people, Italian passport requirements can seem rather confusing but obtaining an Italian passport is fairly straightforward when you know the proper procedure. You need to meet certain criteria, gather the right documents and schedule an appointment at an Italian consulate. There are detailed steps outlined below that must be followed to ensure your application is not denied. It is critical you pay very close attention to to these steps to ensure you meet the Italian passport requirements necessary for you to be approved.

You must be granted citizenship before applying for an Italian passport. For this reason, applying for an Italian passport requires that you first meet the requirements of dual citizenship and have your paperwork in-hand.

Whether your Italian citizenship is obtained by marriage or by descent, the necessary  documents  are sent by your local consulate to the relevant government agency in Italy. After the Italian government has reviewed these documents and approved your dual citizenship, you can then focus on the steps necessary to get an Italian passport.

Getting an Italian Passport with Dual Citizenship

When applying for dual citizenship, the primary Italian passport requirement is that you must be granted citizenship before you can apply for an Italian passport. Therefore, you must apply for Italian dual citizenship prior to applying for an Italian passport. Once you’ve obtained your Italian citizenship, you can work on obtaining an Italian passport which allows you to travel around the world and back into the country.

Whether your Italian citizenship is obtained  by marriage  or  by descent , the provided information is sent by an Italian Consulate to the pertinent Italian governmental agency. Once the Italian government acknowledges your citizenship registration, the Consulate will inform you on how to get an Italian passport.

A passport is an official government ID document AND a travel document. With this in mind, you can only apply to the Italian consulate which has jurisdiction over the area in which you reside. You must contact the nearest consulate to your most permanent residence

At the same time, you must also schedule an appointment with this consulate through an  online reservation system . Electronic passports now require fingerprinting which means that the entire process cannot be completed online and you will need to visit the consulate at some point. Furthermore, passports can no longer be issued by mail and collection at the consulate is required in every instance.

You can determine the right jurisdiction for sending your application by checking  this page for a list of the Italian consulates in the United States . However, keep in mind that those who need to renew Italian passport or apply for a new one must contact the same consulate. For this reason, the average wait time can be several weeks and sometimes over than a month for an appointment.

Passport Renewal for Adults (Over 16 Years)

We are a private firm – if you already have an italian passport and are looking for assistance to renew it  click here to contact us by phone or email . one of our official representatives will contact you to gather the proper documents and assist you with your passport renewal..

For passport renewal, you must first  register with AIRE  and then schedule an appointment on the  Prenota OnLine system  with your  local Italian Consulate . You must schedule and confirm each appointment to ensure it has been properly submitted. Below are a list of what documents are needed to renew passport:

Here is a list of requirements you will need to renew the passport which is expiring:

• Your current passport (even if it has expired)
• Your driving license, national ID card or equivalent form of valid photo identification
• One  passport photograph  taken within the previous six months (Check with your local consulate for their Italian passport photo requirements)
• If you were over the age of 16 and your passport was issued within the previous 15 years, you will also need to complete a  DS-82 form . Alternatively, you must complete a  DS-11 form  and ensure that you include a specific emergency contact rather than selecting a “country”.
• A  parental awareness form  is also necessary for those who are 16 or 17 years of age.

When your application for passport renewal is completed, you can collect your new passport at the relevant office. Most often, this will be the place in which you submitted the application. You can also  pick up your passport through a private shipping company  (Postal Annex, Mail Boxes Etc, UPS, etc)

How To Submit Your Application In Person (in Italy)

Once you have completed your application for passport renewal, you can schedule an appointment with your local Italian Consulate or US Embassy. Below are the links to schedule your appointment in Italy:

• Click here  to arrange an appointment for your passport in Milan, Italy
• Click here  to arrange an appointment for your passport in Naples, Italy
• Click here  to arrange an appointment for your passport in Rome, Italy
• Click here  to arrange an appointment for your passport in Florence, Italy

How To Submit Your Application Through Mail

In Italy, you will need a mailing address in order to submit your application by mail and will need to be in Italy at the time of submission.

You must be in receipt of a passport that was issued within the previous 15 years and you must have been at least 16 years of age at that time.

You will need to complete a shipping order form on the following  link .

When you have met all of the above requirements, you can send your passport application by mail to your  local consulate . Most often, this process will take 3 or 4 weeks. However, it’s important to re-check all information to avoid any unnecessary delays with the issuance of your new passport.

Warning About Applying for an Italian Passport

When you need to renew Italian passport or submit a new application, keep in mind that the consulate needs time to process these documents. Please plan accordingly and allow sufficient time to process and receive your passport on time. If you are planning a trip, it is highly recommended to submit your application for passport renewal prior to the travel season when availability for appointments are few and far between.

It is best not to wait until your passport expires to renew it. You can submit an application to renew an Italian passport up to six months before it expires. This will prevent you from finding yourself in a difficult situation as some countries will not allow you entry without at least six months of validity on your existing passport.

Note: Don’t leave your application until the last minute.

Quick Summary  – Aside from making an appointment online, you must have dual citizenship to apply for an Italian passport and be fully registered with the registry of Italian nationals living abroad ( What is the AIRE? ).

Attending Your Appointment at the Consulate

For your appointment, you will need to take all the following supporting documents to the consulate:.

• Passport Fee – You can only pay via two USPS money orders. The first of these is for administrative tax ($83.90) and the second pertains to the actual passport booklet ($48.60).
• Completed Application for an Italian Passport
• 2 x Passport photos with white background (4.5cm x 2.5cm)
• Either US Visa or Green Card showing permanent residence in the United States.
• United States Passport
• United States Driver License
• Naturalization Certificate
• Italian Passport (If renewing your passport)
• 2 x Consent Agreement (If you have children making an application)

Note About Children  – Can I get an Italian passport for my child? If you have any children, a consent agreement is required by both parents. Also, passports for children under 12 years of age can be issued by mail.

Note About Travel for Minors Under 14  – Minors under 14, traveling without a guardian or parents, must obtain travel authorization from their local consulate. This application Must be signed by both parents or guardians at the consulate and this authorization is only valid for one trip.

Note About Naturalization  – As part of the Italy passport requirements, US citizens must present a copy of their naturalization certificate with their application.

Italian Passports for Citizens Non-Resident in the Consulate Jurisdiction (Emergency)

In the event of an emergency, non-residents can submit passport applications in the very same manner as outlined in step one. However, these individuals will need to obtain clearance from the Consulate/Embassy which is responsible for the jurisdiction of their home residence.

In this instance, an online appointment needs to be made and the same documents outlined above are required. However, there must also be a prepaid and self-addressed envelope provided so that the consulate can return the passport via priority mail or express mail with the United States Postal Service.

Italian Passports for Minors Over 12 Years of Age

Appointments are also needed for minors as they must be present at the consulate to give their fingerprints. At the same time, at least one parent must accompany the minor to this appointment and all the same documents must be submitted as you will find with applications for adults. However, minors can submit proof of birth cert registration in Italy in place of the drivers license and other identification.

As with the non-residence option, there must also be a prepaid and self-addressed envelope provided so that the consulate can return the passport via priority mail or express mail with the United States Postal Service.

Finally - Lost or Stolen Italian Passports

To see the  details and benefits of what the Italian passport click here .

You might already have your dual citizenship and Italian passport but there might come a day when you need to notify the consulate about a lost or stolen passport. In this instance, the consulate can sometimes issue an emergency travel document to get you back to Italy but it’s always best to make contact for better advice.

How to get an Italian passport is fairly straightforward, however if you would like a free consultation on how you can go about getting an Italian passport, please do not hesitate to get in touch. Our  team  at  IDC  can help those of Italian descent or those married to an Italian citizen obtain citizenship. Contact us for a  free phone consultation  to learn if we can help you obtain Italian citizenship – be it through marriage or descent.

Frequently Asked Questions:

How can i get italian passport.

If you have Italian ancestors such as parents, grandparents or great grandparents, you may be entitled to  apply for an Italian passport . Alternatively, if you were born in Italy or got married to an Italian citizen, you are also entitled to apply for citizenship and an Italian passport after a specified amount of time.

Can I apply for an Italian passport?

You can apply for an Italian passport if you were born in Italy. On the other hand, it’s also possible to apply for an Italian passport by  marriage to an Italian citizen . Finally, you might be entitled to apply for an Italian passport if your  parents, grandparents, great grandparents  or other ancestors were born in Italy.

How long does it take to get an Italian passport?

For citizens of Italy, the passport renewal time frame generally takes between one and six weeks to obtain a new passport. However, some consulates offer a “fast-track” service which will quicken the process but this also means it’s always best to inquire directly with your local consulate for the most accurate time frame.

How do I check the status of my Italian passport?

You can check the status or progress of your Italian passport application by visiting this  website . After clicking on “Citizenship”, you should see a link on which you can check your application. At this points, you will need to enter your email address and some personal details for a status update.

How much does an Italian passport cost?

An Italian passport should cost $145 and this will be valid for up to five years. This fee is not included in the costs associated with  Italian citizenship  and all fees for an Italian passport must be covered by the person applying for the passport.

This page was last updated with with help by  Marco Permunian

Additional Resources:

• Renew Italian passport
• Italian dual citizenship Canada
• Italian citizenship by descent
• Italian citizenship marriage
• How to get Italian citizenship through grandparents
• How to become an Italian citizen
• Italian citizenship through marriage South Africa
• Italian citizenship benefits
• Italian dual citizenship UK
• Italian dual citizenship
• Requirements for Italian citizenship
• Italian dual citizenship Brazil, Argentina and South America
• Italian dual citizenship Australia

IDC is founded on the passion of helping those of Italian descent restore their heritage and connection to Italy. Obtaining dual citizenship allows you access to a host of valuable benefits.

Italian Citizenship Resources

• Laws for Italian Citizenship
• Visa Requirements for Italian Citizens
• Italian Consulate Website
• Italian Passport Application
• A.I.R.E. Registration for Italian Citizens
• US Dept of State – Dual Nationality
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
• Italian Consulate Locations
• Information Center

Italian Dual Citizenship (IDC)

• (213) 277-8705
• [email protected]
• Privacy Policy

How To Renew Philippine Passport in Italy: An Ultimate Guide

Among the European countries, Italy attracts the most number of overseas Filipinos.

If you’re one of these people who now call Italy their second home, never forget to ensure that your Philippine citizenship remains intact.

This guide about Philippine passport renewal in Italy will help you replace your expired passport, allowing you to enjoy immersing in the Italian culture and cuisine, worry-free.

Read the main article here:  How to Renew Philippine Passport Abroad: Guide for OFWs and Filipino Immigrants

Table of Contents

Watch video: tips when renewing philippine passport abroad, philippine passport renewal requirements in italy, 1. philippine embassy in rome, 2. philippine consulate in milan, 3. consular outreach mission, 1. book an appointment schedule online, 2. go to the philippine embassy/consulate, 3. submit the requirements, 4. pay the philippine passport renewal fee, 5. undergo biometrics capture, data encoding, and data verification, 6. verify the availability of your philippine passport, 7. claim your new philippine passport, 1. can i do a walk-in application to renew my philippine passport, 2. i can’t get an appointment for philippine passport renewal because all slots are full. what should i do, 3. i need to renew my passport now, but i can’t secure an appointment. can i still travel back to the philippines with an expired passport, 4. can i still renew my expired philippine passport.

• Accomplished passport application form. Rome: Download here . Milan: Download here.
• Original latest passport.
• Photocopy of the passport data page.
• Original and photocopy (front and back) of valid Permesso di Soggiorno or Carta d’Identit . Or, any valid Philippine government-issued ID (for those applying in the Philippine Embassy in Rome).

Where To Renew Philippine Passport in Italy

• Address: Via Aurelia 290 / A 00165 Rome, Italy 1 .
• Contact information: (06) 3974-6621 ext 208 (passport processing); 200 or 206 (releasing) / [email protected] / [email protected]
• Office hours : Mondays to Fridays, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Aosta Valley
• San Marino 
• Address: Viale Stelvio 71 – Via Bernina 18, Milan, 20159. The Consulate can be reached through the stations listed here .
• Contact information: (02) 6682-5232 / [email protected]
• Office hours : Mondays to Fridays, 9:00 AM to 1 : 30 PM (Temporary Public Hours) 2
• Emilia-Romagna
• Trentino-Alto Adige
• Friuli Venezia-Giuglia
• Vale d’Aosta

Update: As of March 2021 3 , the Philippine Consulate in Milan has resumed its outreach missions. Kindly check their website for the latest announcements regarding their consular outreach missions.

Information about upcoming consular missions can be found on the Advisories page of the Embassy website and Announcements page of the Consulate website.

How To Renew Philippine Passport in Italy: 7 Steps

A confirmed appointment is required for all passport renewal applicants at both the Philippine Embassy in Rome and Consulate in Milan.

For applicants in Rome: Secure a slot through the Appointment Request Form . Select “Passport Application” from the list of services and then choose an available date and time for your passport renewal. Provide your name and contact details on the online form.

You can call +39 333 8160487 for assistance if you can’t access the system, have no internet connection, or need help in using the website.

For applicants in Milan: Email a copy of your old passport and carta d’ identita to this email address: [email protected] . Only the applicant’s kin or immediate family members are qualified to apply for an appointment 4 .

Come to the venue at the exact date and time on your scheduled appointment. Bring a printout or screenshot of your email confirmation—you’ll present this to the Embassy or Consulate upon entry. Get a queuing number to start your passport processing.

When your number is called, submit the requirements to the processing area for evaluation.

Proceed to the cashier and pay EUR 54 for the passport renewal fee . The cashier will issue an official receipt and queue number for data encoding.

Proceed to the encoding area and submit yourself for data capture.

On the date stamped on your official receipt, check the Embassy or Consulate website’s homepage (under “ePassport for Release”) if your passport is ready for release.

If you’re not on the list, visit the website again every week.

Contact the Embassy or Consulate if your passport is still not available 60 days after your application date.

The passport is usually ready for release within four to six weeks after the renewal application.

For applicants in Rome: Before claiming your passport, get an appointment through the same website where you first booked for your renewal. Select “Releasing of Passport and Other Documents” from the list of services.

For applicants in Milan: No need to make an appointment for passport release. Once you’ve confirmed the availability of your new passport, go to the Consulate to receive it.

When claiming your new passport, submit your old passport and official receipt.

If you can’t pick up your passport personally, an immediate family member may get it for you. Your authorized representative must present your delega or signed authorization letter , old passport, an official receipt, as well as his or her Permesso di Soggiorno .

Frequently Asked Questions

Go back to the main article:  How to Renew Philippine Passport Abroad: Guide for OFWs and Filipino Immigrants

• Contact Us. Retrieved 19 October 2021, from https://romepe.dfa.gov.ph/contact-us-latest
• Contact Us. Retrieved 19 October 2021, from https://milanpcg.dfa.gov.ph/about-us/contact-us.html
• Advisory on Consular Services – 15 March to 05 April 2021. (2021). Retrieved 19 October 2021, from https://milanpcg.dfa.gov.ph/announcements/333-advisory-on-cosular-services-15-march-to-05-april-2022.html
• (Updated!) Appointment System Para sa Passport (New, Renewal, Lost Passport, etc.). Retrieved 19 October 2021, from https://milanpcg.dfa.gov.ph/announcements/313-appointment-system-para-sa-partial-na-pagbubukas-ng-konsulado-heneral-ng-pilipinas-sa-milan-sa-18-29-mayo-2020.html

Written by Venus Zoleta

in DFA , Government Services , Juander How

Venus Zoleta

Venus Zoleta is an experienced writer and editor for over 10 years, covering topics on personal finance, travel, government services, and digital marketing. Her background is in journalism and corporate communications. In her early 20s, she started investing and purchased a home. Now, she advocates financial literacy for Filipinos and shares her knowledge online. When she's not working, Venus bonds with her pet cats and binges on Korean dramas and Pinoy rom-coms.

Browse all articles written by Venus Zoleta

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