Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against advice from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO).
\nFCDO advises against all travel to western and central Mindanao and the Sulu archipelago.
\n\nFCDO also advises against all but essential travel to the remainder of Mindanao, except for:
\n\nThis advice is due to terrorist activity and clashes between the military and insurgent groups in south Philippines.
\n\nFind out more about why FCDO advises against travel.
\n\nAround 20 typhoons hit the Philippines each year. Most typhoons happen between June and November. Follow the advice of local authorities, and monitor the progress of storms on the Philippines state weather agency and the Philippines Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council. You can find updates on typhoon2000.ph, or follow @Typhoon2k on X.
\nEscalation in the Middle East has caused widespread travel disruption, including airspace closures, delayed and cancelled flights.
\n\nCommercial options to depart the Philippines remain available, but your travel plans may be affected, even if your destination is not in the Middle East. Before you travel:
\n\nLarge-scale demonstrations are expected over the coming weeks in Metro Manila and elsewhere in the Philippines.
\n\nAvoid all demonstrations and large gatherings and follow the advice of local authorities. Demonstrations may lead to travel disruption. You should allow extra time for journeys and monitor local media for updates.
\n\nSee Safety and security for more information on demonstrations and rallies in the Philippines.
\nNo travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide. You may also find it helpful to:
\n\nIf you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.
\n\nFCDO provides advice about risks of travel to help you make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice.
\n\nSign up to get email notifications when this travel advice is updated.
\n\nFollow FCDO:
\n\nThis information is for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government’s understanding of the Philippines’ rules for the most common types of travel.
\n\nThe authorities in the Philippines set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Philippine Embassy in the UK.
\n\nTo enter the Philippines, your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the date you arrive.
\n\nCheck with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.
\n\nYou will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.
\n\nWhen returning to the UK, British citizens must carry a valid British passport or certificate of entitlement. See Dual citizenship.
\n\nYou can visit the Philippines without a visa for tourism or business for up to 30 days.
\n\nYou must have a QR code to show that you have registered on the e-travel system within the 72 hours before your arrival in the Philippines. Some airlines will not allow you to board your flight to the Philippines if you cannot show the QR code.
\n\nThe e-travel registration is free of charge.
\n\nMost UK visitors are also expected to have proof of return or onward travel. Immigration officials and airlines may ask for this.
\n\nTo stay more than 30 days, you can apply for an extension when you are in the Philippines. If you overstay any visa without authority, it is a serious matter. You could face fees and fines, and detention if you cannot pay them, or you could be deported at your own expense.
\n\nIf you want a visa to live, work, or study in the Philippines, you’ll need to meet the requirements of the Philippine immigration regulations. This includes having certain UK documents (birth certificates, marriage certificates, UK police certificates and school documents) legalised by the Legalisation Office (not by the Philippine Embassy in London).
\n\nIf your non-Filipino children aged 14 or under are travelling without either parent, you must apply for a waiver of exclusion ground for entry into the Philippines.
\n\nTo enter the Philippines, you must have certificates to prove you’ve had:
\n\nFor full details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro’s Philippines guide.
\n\nThere are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of the Philippines. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.
\n\nYou cannot take in more than 50,000 Philippine pesos.
\n\nIf you are bringing in foreign currency (cash or cheques) worth more than 10,000 US dollars, you must declare it on your foreign currency declaration form on arrival.
\n\nIf you have stayed in the Philippines for 6 months or more on a tourist visa, you must get an emigration clearance certificate (ECC) during the 72 hours before you leave the country.
\n\nIf you were in the Philippines on a visa issued by the Department of Justice (DoJ), the Board of Investments (BoI), or the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA), you will need a travel pass from the department that issued your visa to leave the Philippines. If you have an ECC, you do not need a travel pass.
\n\nIf you’re leaving the country from Cebu Mactan airport, you must pay a departure tax of 850 Philippine pesos in local currency or the equivalent in US dollars. There’s no longer a departure tax at Manila airport. This information can change and you should check with your airline before you travel.
\n\n","slug":"entry-requirements","title":"Entry requirements"},{"body":"There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.
\n\nUK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.
\n\nTerrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in the Philippines.
\nFCDO advises against all travel to western and central Mindanao and the Sulu archipelago.
\n\nFCDO also advises against all but essential travel to the remainder of Mindanao, except for:
\n\nThis advice is due to terrorist activity and clashes between the military and insurgent groups in south Philippines.
\n\nTerrorist attacks occur frequently in Mindanao and the Sulu Archipelago. While attacks primarily target Filipino security forces, certain groups operating in these regions have pledged allegiance to Daesh and have targeted religious groups. Terrorist groups may also consider westerners as legitimate targets for an attack.
\n\nThere are multiple terrorist and militant groups operating in the Philippines, including the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG), Islamic State Philippines (IS-Philippines), the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF).
\n\nMultiple terrorist groups have the intent to carry out attacks anywhere in the Philippines, including in the capital Manila. Terrorism attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreign nationals, such as:
\n\nPrevious significant incidents include:
\n\nThere is a threat of kidnapping by terrorist groups operating in the Philippines, including the targeting of foreign nationals in rural, urban and coastal areas throughout Mindanao especially in the Sulu Archipelago and the Zamboanga Peninsula.
\n\nA number of Westerners have been kidnapped in recent years, including British Nationals in 2019.
\n\nBritish nationals are seen as legitimate targets, including tourists, humanitarian aid workers, journalists, and business travellers. If you are kidnapped, the reason for your presence is unlikely to protect you or secure your safe release.
\n\nThe long-standing policy of the British government is not to make substantive concessions to hostage takers. The British government considers that paying ransoms and releasing prisoners builds the capability of terrorist groups and finances their activities. This can, in turn, increase the risk of further hostage-taking. The Terrorism Act (2000) makes payments to terrorists illegal.
\n\nThere are high levels of street crime and robbery, sometimes involving weapons and firearms.
\n\nBe alert when travelling on public transport and avoid displaying cash or jewellery. Armed hold-ups on ‘jeepneys’ and buses can happen, particularly in Manila and other large cities. In some cases these have resulted in fatalities.
\n\nIf you’re travelling by taxi, including to or from the airport, only use taxis from a reputable company. Some taxi drivers and their accomplices have robbed and harmed passengers. Consider arranging to be met at the airport or using a hotel transfer service.
\n\nThere has been an increase in cases of serious illness caused by alcoholic drinks containing methanol in popular travel destinations around the world.
\n\nEven small amounts of methanol can kill. It is not possible to identify methanol in alcoholic drinks by taste or smell. See Travel Aware Drink Spiking and Methanol Poisoning for information about how to reduce the risks.
\n\nSeek urgent medical attention if you or someone you are travelling with show the signs of methanol poisoning after drinking.
\n\nBritish nationals have reported rape and sexual assaults in some locations popular with backpackers, including Coron and Siargao.
\n\nSee our advice for solo and independent travel.
\n\nThere is a risk of being kidnapped by criminals who will demand a ransom.
\n\nYou must be able to show some identification if requested by the police. If you want to keep your passport in a safe place, such as in a hotel safe, carry a printed copy of the photo page.
\n\nViolating local laws may result in a prison sentence, served in a local prison. Sentences are severe. The judicial system allows long-term detention until a court hearing takes place. Foreign nationals have been known to spend several years in prison on remand while their cases are processed.
\n\nThe detention facilities and prison conditions are far below UK standards.
\n\nThe Philippines Bureau of Immigration has warned foreign nationals against participating in public protests and political rallies. If you participate, you may be detained and deported. Avoid demonstrations and large gatherings of people.
\n\nDo not become involved with drugs of any kind. Penalties for importing and using illegal drugs are particularly severe. A conviction for possession of even a small amount of any illicit drug in the Philippines means a mandatory prison sentence.
\n\nPolice and other authorities have been publicly encouraged to kill suspected drug traffickers who resist arrest.
\n\nChild abuse and rape are punished with extremely long prison sentences. Be cautious about strangers offering friendship. There have been cases where women, single or sometimes with children, have befriended single male tourists and then threatened to report rape or abuse in an apparent attempt to extort money. A child is defined in Philippine law as a person aged 17 and under.
\n\nThe Philippines is generally a tolerant and progressive place for LGBT+ travellers, although overt public displays of affection may be considered a ‘grave scandal’ under the Revised Penal Code. If convicted, you could get a fine or a 6-month prison sentence.
\n\nCurrent legislation does not recognise same-sex marriage. Same-sex relationships are not illegal in the Philippines, but some stigma exists outside urban centres.
\n\nRead more advice for LGBT+ travellers.
\n\nIf you’re planning to travel away from the main resort areas and tourist spots, contact the authorities in the local area as part of your preparation.
\n\nAlways leave travel plans and your passport and credit card details with friends, colleagues or relatives. Carry identification such as a driving licence or copy of your passport at all times, and make sure the emergency contact details in your passport are up to date.
\n\nSwimming and surfing beaches are unlikely to have lifeguards or warning signs, so get advice from your hotel or local residents before starting any activities. The seas can be extremely dangerous and British nationals regularly get into trouble in the water, or even drown.
\n\nSee water safety on holiday from the Royal Life Saving Society.
\n\nDiving schools may have limited resources and do not always observe safety and maintenance standards. Always:
\n\nIf you have not had any previous diving experience:
\n\nIf you are planning to drive in the Philippines, see information on driving abroad.
\n\nYou can drive in the Philippines on a UK driving licence for up to 90 days. If you’re planning to hire a car, check their requirements before you travel. If you’re staying longer than 90 days, you must apply for a Philippine driving licence.
\n\nAccidents happen frequently, mainly due to poor road conditions, dangerous driving and non-enforcement of traffic laws. Observe the speed limit and be cautious around motorbikes and scooters. Avoid driving at night or during dangerous weather conditions if possible. Make sure you have adequate insurance.
\n\nSafety standards on taxis and buses can be low.
\n\nWhen travelling by private car, taxi or any shared transport, you can expect a routine security presence with random checkpoints along the roads. Always co-operate with officials and allow extra time to pass through security checks.
\n\nThere is a high level of piracy and armed robbery against ships in and around the Sulu and Celebes seas. Boats travelling to and from offshore islands and dive sites are also possible targets.
\n\nThe ferry and passenger boat network has a poor record of maritime safety. Boats sometimes lack lifesaving equipment, and maritime rescue services may be limited. You should be cautious when using ferries and avoid overcrowded boats. Accidents are more frequent during the rainy season between June and December when storms can develop quickly.
\n\nSee extreme weather and natural hazards for information about how to prepare, and how to react if there is a warning.
\n\nAround 20 typhoons hit the Philippines each year. Most typhoons happen between June and November. Follow the advice of local authorities, and monitor the progress of storms on the Philippines state weather agency and the Philippines Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council. You can find updates on typhoon2000.ph, or follow @Typhoon2k on X.
\n\nEarthquakes are a risk in the Philippines. The US Federal Emergency Management Agency website has advice about what to do before, during and after an earthquake. You can get more information from the Philippine Institute for Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS).
\n\nOn 30 September 2025, a magnitude 6.9 earthquake struck northern Cebu, with the epicentre near Bogo City. Local authorities have reported casualties, injuries, and significant damage to infrastructure.
\n\nPower outages and disruptions to transport and communications have been reported. Aftershocks are expected and may continue over the coming days
\n\nIf you are in the affected area:
\n\nIf you are planning to travel to Cebu or nearby provinces:
\n\nThere are numerous volcanoes in the Philippines, any of which can erupt without warning. Sudden steam and ash explosions may happen at any time.
\n\nThe Mayon Volcano is currently at alert level 3 (increased tendency towards a hazardous eruption).
\n\nCheck news reports and follow local advice before travelling to any areas around volcanoes. Avoid volcanic areas during and immediately after heavy rainfall when there’s increased risk of lava flows.
\n\nGet more information about volcanoes from the Philippine Institute for Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS).
\n\nEntry into Taal Volcano Island and Taal’s Permanent Danger Zone is prohibited. See updates from PHIVOLCS.
\n\nAsh plumes can affect air quality and have an impact on health. If you have any pre-existing respiratory conditions, you might be at increased risk of triggering or worsening your symptoms. A properly fitted face mask may provide some protection.
\n\nThe Philippine emergency and rescue services have a limited capacity to deal with large natural disasters.
\n\n","slug":"safety-and-security","title":"Safety and security"},{"body":"Before you travel check that:
\n\nThis is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.
\n\nCall 911 and ask for an ambulance.
\n\nContact your insurance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.
\n\nAt least 8 weeks before your trip:
\n\nSee what health risks you’ll face in the Philippines, including :
\n\nMosquito-borne diseases are a risk all year round. However, there’s a heightened risk of dengue during the rainy season from June to October. Take precautions to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes.
\n\nAltitude sickness is a risk in parts of the Philippines. Read more about altitude sickness on TravelHealthPro.
\n\nThe legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.
\n\nRead best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro.
\n\nFCDO has a list of medical providers in the Philippines where some staff will speak English.
\n\nThe availability of medical care varies across the Philippines and may not meet the standards of care in the UK, particularly in rural and remote areas. Many places, including some tourist destinations, do not have easy access to emergency medical care.
\n\nPrivate hospital treatment and medical transport is expensive – the daily cost in intensive care units can be more than £1,000. Make sure you have adequate travel health insurance and accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment, including repatriation.
\n\nRead FCDO guidance on travel and mental health. There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro.
\n\n","slug":"health","title":"Health"},{"body":"The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) cannot provide tailored advice for individual trips. Read this travel advice and carry out your own research before deciding whether to travel.
\n\nTelephone: 911 (ambulance, fire, police)
\n\nContact your travel provider and your insurer if you are involved in a serious incident or emergency abroad. They will tell you if they can help and what you need to do.
\n\nFor refunds or changes to travel, contact your travel provider. You may also be able to make a claim through insurance. However, insurers usually require you to talk to your travel provider first.
\n\nFind out more about changing or cancelling travel plans, including:
\n\nFCDO has guidance on staying safe and what to do if you need help or support abroad, including:
\n\nSee how to get help from the UK government abroad including in an emergency.
\n\nYou can call FCDO in London if you need urgent help because something has happened to a friend or relative abroad.
\n\nTelephone: 020 7008 5000 (24 hours)
\n\n\n\nSign up to get email notifications when this travel advice is updated.
\n\nFollow FCDO:
\n\nThe Overseas Business Risk service offers information and advice for British companies operating in the Philippines on how to manage political, economic, and business security-related risks.
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