U.S. citizens do not need a Philippines visa
for tourism purposes. A visa-free stay is allowed for 30 days. Travelers whose purpose is not tourism-related must secure a visa from a Philippine embassy or consulate prior to travel. Passports need to have at least 6 months of validity remaining upon entry to the Philippines. Immigration authorities will stamp your passport with an "admit until" date. You must not overstay or else be subject to fines and detention by the Philippine Bureau of Immigration.
Persons who overstay their visas are subject to fines and
detention by Philippine immigration authorities. American citizens are
urged to remain aware of their visa status while in the Philippines and
to strictly follow immigration laws and regulations. Travelers
departing the country from international airports must pay a Passenger
Service Charge in Philippine Pesos. Visit the Embassy of the
Philippines web site for the most current visa information.
Special requirements exist for the entry of unaccompanied minors. In an
effort to prevent international child abduction, the Philippine
Government requires that a waiver of exclusion be obtained from a Philippine Embassy
or Consulate or from the Bureau of Immigration and Detention in Manila
for a child under 15 years of age who plans to enter the Philippines
unaccompanied by either a parent or legal guardian prior to the child's
entry into the Philippines.
U.S. citizens are advised 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 artefact may subject the traveler to prosecution and stringent penalties by local authorities.
About the Author: For over 20 years, the U.S. Passport Service Guide team has helped hundreds of thousands of travelers with their travel document questions and shared advice about how to make traveling abroad simpler, safer, and more enjoyable.
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