Key points
- Chinese nationals can now enter the Philippines visa-free for up to 14 days for tourism or business
- The privilege is valid only through Manila (NAIA) and Cebu (MCIA) airports
- The 14-day stay cannot be extended or converted to another visa type
- For stays longer than 14 days, you will need to apply for a Philippine visa
The visa-free privilege took effect on January 16, 2026, and is valid for one year
Chinese nationals can now enter the Philippines without a visa for up to 14 days. The visa-free privilege took effect on January 16, 2026, and applies to travelers visiting for tourism or business purposes.
In a press release dated January 15, 2026, the Department of Foreign Affairs stated:
“This is in line with the President’s directive to facilitate trade, investments, and tourism, as well as strengthen people-to-people exchanges between the Philippines and China.”
The visa-free arrangement will be in effect for one year and reviewed before it expires.
Conditions for visa-free entry
Chinese nationals must meet the following requirements to enter the Philippines without a visa:
- A passport valid for at least six months beyond the intended stay
- Confirmed hotel accommodation or booking
- A return or onward ticket to the next destination
The 14-day stay is non-extendable and cannot be converted to any other Philippine visa category.
Limited to two airports
The visa-free privilege is only valid for entry through two designated airports:
- Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) in Metro Manila
- Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA) in Cebu
Chinese nationals arriving at other Philippine ports of entry will still need to obtain a visa in advance.
Transit visa still required
Chinese nationals transiting through the Philippines en route to a third country are not covered by this visa-free privilege. They must obtain a Philippine transit visa before travel.
Other entry options for Chinese travelers
Chinese nationals who hold a valid Australian, Japanese, Canadian, Schengen, or US visa can enter the Philippines visa-free for seven days, extendable by 14 days for a maximum stay of 21 days.
Holders of Hong Kong SAR passports can enter visa-free for 14 days. Macau SAR passport holders can also enter for 14 days with proof of onward travel.
What this means for Chinese travelers
If you are a Chinese national planning to visit the Philippines for tourism or business, you can now enter without a visa for up to 14 days, provided you arrive through Manila or Cebu airports.
For stays longer than 14 days, or if you plan to work or study, you will need to apply for a Philippine visa before your trip.
