The Philippines has officially launched its new electronic visa (eVisa) system for Chinese nationals, aiming to attract more visitors and strengthen the country’s tourism recovery.
The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) announced that the eVisa platform, jointly developed with the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), is part of the government’s digitalization efforts under President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. It had its soft launch on November 1.
The new system allows Chinese travelers to apply for visas online, 24/7, eliminating the need for in-person applications and shortening processing time. Applicants can obtain single-entry visas valid for a 14-day stay in the Philippines.
Eligible applicants include Chinese nationals residing in mainland China, Macau, and Hong Kong entering through the Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Manila or the Mactan-Cebu International Airport in Cebu. Those staying longer than 14 days or arriving via other airports can still apply through VFS Global centers in China.
Philippine Ambassador to China Jaime FlorCruz expressed optimism about the program’s potential. “This honor, through the efforts of the Philippine Department of Tourism in Beijing, highlights not only our remarkable dive sites but also our rich marine biodiversity,” he said, noting the Philippines’ recent “Island Charm Award” recognition at the 2025 Beijing International Diving & Resort Travel Expo.
The official launch in Beijing was led by Deputy Chief of Mission Arnel Talisayon, Consul General Rodillo Catalan, and other Philippine consuls representing major Chinese cities.
The eVisa portal is now live at www.vfsglobal.com.