The Philippine tourist visa (commonly the 9(a) visitor visa) is the entry point for most foreigners arriving in the Philippines for tourism, leisure, family visits, or short-term business meetings.
Who it’s for
Citizens of most countries benefit from visa-free entry for an initial stay of 30 days upon arrival, provided they hold a valid onward or return ticket and sufficient funds. Nationals of certain countries are required to obtain a visa before travel from a Philippine Embassy or Consulate abroad.
If you plan to stay beyond 30 days, you will need to extend your stay through the Bureau of Immigration.
Requirements for visa-on-arrival / visa-free entry
- Valid passport (generally at least six months’ validity beyond your intended stay)
- Confirmed onward or return ticket
- Proof of sufficient funds for the duration of your visit
- Completed arrival card (now largely digital)
For nationals who require a visa in advance, the Philippine Embassy in your home country will specify the documentary requirements for a 9(a) single-entry or multiple-entry visa.
Extending your stay
Extensions are filed at any Bureau of Immigration (BI) office throughout the Philippines. From an initial 30-day stamp, you can generally extend in increments — first to 59 days, then in further monthly extensions thereafter. Each extension carries a government fee set by the BI; fees are subject to change and should be confirmed at the time of filing.
Overstaying without an approved extension results in fines and may affect future entry eligibility. Chamberlain recommends filing extensions before your authorised stay expires.
What Chamberlain does
We handle tourist visa extensions for clients already in the Philippines — so you avoid BI queues and filing errors. We also advise when a tourist stay is no longer the right structure and a proper resident or work visa is needed.
If your situation has evolved beyond a tourist stay — you’re working, investing, or planning to settle — explore our Philippine Visas hub or consider a longer-term option such as the SRRV retirement visa or the 9(g) work visa.
Book a consultation to get clarity on the right visa for your situation, or review our transparent pricing first.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a tourist visa to visit the Philippines?
Citizens of most countries enter visa-free for an initial stay of 30 days. A visa may be required depending on your nationality — check with the nearest Philippine Embassy or Consulate before travel.
Can I extend a tourist visa in the Philippines?
Yes. Extensions are processed at any Bureau of Immigration office. Most visitors can extend their stay up to a maximum period, subject to BI fees and requirements at the time of application.
Can I work on a tourist visa?
No. A tourist visa does not authorise employment. Foreigners intending to work must secure the appropriate work visa or permit before commencing any employment activity.