The Philippines is pressing Oman to scrap its requirement for Filipino tourists to present a negative HIV medical certificate—a move Manila says runs counter to more inclusive and streamlined travel policies.
In a statement on Friday, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) confirmed it has made “strong representations” to the Oman Embassy in Manila, urging a review and removal of the policy.
Omani officials, for their part, signaled openness to the request. The embassy said the matter is “currently being seriously reviewed” by authorities in Muscat, with a meeting scheduled next week to deliberate on the issue.
Manila is cautiously optimistic.
“The DFA expects a positive outcome given the good and strong relationship between the Philippines and Oman,” the agency said, underscoring longstanding diplomatic ties between the two countries.
The embassy clarified that the HIV certificate requirement applies only to Filipino tourists entering Oman under its visa-free arrangement. Those traveling on work visas are not covered by the rule.
The outcome of next week’s discussions could determine whether Filipino travelers will soon face fewer barriers when visiting the Gulf state—potentially aligning Oman’s entry requirements with broader global norms on non-discriminatory travel policies.
