Applying for a Philippines visa just became considerably easier for a much wider pool of international travellers. The Philippines has expanded its e-visa system to all people who are legally residing in any of 45 qualifying countries — regardless of their passport nationality. Previously, the electronic system was primarily available to Indian and Chinese passport holders. The expansion, which follows an earlier extension to European nations in October 2025, now covers residents across Asia, Europe, the Middle East, Oceania, and beyond.
For anyone planning a beach holiday in Boracay, island-hopping in Palawan, visiting family in Manila, or travelling for business, this change removes the requirement to visit a Philippine embassy in person.
Full List of 45 Countries Covered by the Philippines E-Visa
Legal residents living in the following countries can now apply for a Philippines e-visa online — regardless of which passport they hold:
- Australia
- Austria
- Bahrain
- Belgium
- Brazil
- Cambodia
- Canada
- China
- Denmark
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Hong Kong
- India
- Indonesia
- Ireland
- Israel
- Italy
- Japan
- Kuwait
- Laos
- Luxembourg
- Macau
- Malaysia
- Myanmar
- Netherlands
- New Zealand
- Norway
- Oman
- Portugal
- Qatar
- Saudi Arabia
- Singapore
- South Africa
- South Korea
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
- Thailand
- United Arab Emirates
- United Kingdom
- United States
- Vietnam
Processing Times and Fees
| Visa Type | Processing Time | Approximate Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Single-entry visa | 7 – 12 business days | $30 – $60 (varies by nationality and visa type) |
| Multiple-entry visa | 15 – 21 business days | $30 – $60 (varies by nationality and visa type) |
An additional convenience fee of approximately $25 is charged during the online application process. Given processing times of up to 21 business days, applicants are strongly advised not to leave their application until close to their departure date.
What Documents Are Required
- Valid passport
- Passport-sized photograph
- Proof of legal residency in one of the 45 qualifying countries
- Confirmed return or onward travel ticket
- Hotel booking or accommodation details
- Proof of sufficient financial means
- Completed online application form
Additional supporting documents may be requested depending on the applicant’s country of residence and visa category.
How to Apply for the Philippines E-Visa: Step by Step
Step 1: Access the Official E-Visa Portal
Visit the official Philippines e-visa website and create an account to begin your application.
Step 2: Complete the Online Application Form
Enter your personal details, passport information, and travel intentions, then upload all required documents in the specified formats.
Step 3: Pay the Visa and Convenience Fees
Both the visa application fee and the convenience charge must be paid online as part of the application process.
Step 4: Wait for Processing
Philippine immigration authorities will review your application. Allow the full processing window — up to 21 business days for multiple-entry visas — before following up.
Step 5: Receive and Print Your E-Visa
Once approved, your e-visa is sent electronically. Print a copy and carry it with you during travel — it is required at the point of entry.
E-Visa Validity and Entry Conditions
Validity periods and permitted stay durations vary by visa type and individual authorisation. Applicants should review their approved e-visa carefully upon receipt to confirm the validity dates and the maximum permitted length of stay, as these details can differ based on country of residence and the specific visa issued.
The e-visa can be used for tourism, family visits, and short-term business stays, depending on the category granted.
Conclusion
The Philippines’ expansion of its e-visa system to legal residents in 45 countries is a meaningful step toward making the country more accessible to international visitors. Whether you are planning to explore Cebu, relax in Boracay, or visit Manila — and regardless of which passport you hold — if you are legally residing in one of the 45 qualifying countries, you can now apply for a Philippines visa entirely online. Apply early, allow the full processing window, and ensure your proof of legal residency is clearly documented as part of your application.