The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) in the Philippines will launch the e-visa system for Chinese visitors on August 24, marking a significant step towards facilitating ease of doing business and revitalizing the country’s tourism sector. The move aligns with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to embrace digitalization in government transactions.
Undersecretary Jesus Domingo explained that the e-visa system is part of the DFA’s strategic goal to optimize information and communications technology for consular services. It also supports the Department of Tourism’s efforts to boost tourism arrivals in the country.
The e-visa system is the result of a memorandum of understanding between the DFA and the Department of Information Communications Technology. Starting from August 24, Chinese nationals who wish to visit the Philippines can access the visa.e.gov.ph website or download an app to apply for an e-visa. They will need to create an account, provide personal and travel details, answer security questions, and upload required documents. Applicants can choose between single entry and multiple entry visas for tourism, business, or other purposes.
The application fee for single entry visas is $25, while multiple entry visas cost $60. However, the DFA clarified that these amounts are under review.
Once the application is submitted and the fee paid, a visa officer will assess whether additional documents or a face-to-face interview are needed. Approved applicants will receive their e-visa via email.
The processing time for single entry visas is expected to take 3 to 8 days, while multiple entry visas may take up to 30 days due to the need for security clearance from agencies such as the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency, Interpol, and the Bureau of Immigration. This thorough vetting process aims to ensure that applicants are not security threats, have no criminal records, are not terrorists, and will not create problems for the Philippines.
China was chosen as the pilot country for the e-visa system, given its significance as a major source of tourists for the Philippines. The move is expected to expedite visa facilitation and encourage more “good tourists” to visit the country. The Philippines also plans to extend the e-visa system to other countries in the future.