The Philippines vaccine requirements: Do I need a vaccine to travel to the Philippines?

If you’re considering the Philippines as your next travel destination, we have great news! COVID-19 vaccination passports or certificates are no longer mandatory for entry into the Philippines.

However, before your trip, you must complete the Philippines eArrival card.

This health declaration is mandatory for all travelers and must be filled out before boarding your flight or upon arrival.

Find out more about the recommended vaccinations and the eArrival Card registration in this article.

Do I need a COVID-19 vaccine to travel to the Philippines?

As of now, international travelers arriving in the Philippines don't need to present proof of COVID-19 vaccination, a negative test result, or a vaccination certificate. Regardless of their vaccination status, all travelers are welcome to enter the country.

A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required only if arriving from a yellow fever-endemic country.

While COVID-19 vaccination is not required, the Philippine Department of Health and CDC strongly recommends vaccinations against the following diseases:

• Hepatitis A and B: Common for travelers due to potential exposure through food, water, or medical treatments.
• Rabies: Particularly important for those engaging in outdoor activities or visiting rural areas.
• Typhoid: Essential for travelers visiting smaller towns or remote areas.
• Japanese encephalitis: Necessary if visiting rural or farming regions.

“Before visiting the Philippines, I updated my Hepatitis and Typhoid vaccines. It gave me peace of mind while exploring street food in Manila and hiking through rice terraces in Banaue.” – Julia from Canada.

For more information on these vaccine recommendations, visit the CDC’s travel page for the Philippines.

Are vaccines checked at the airport?

Vaccination certificates are generally not checked upon arrival unless a specific health advisory or outbreak exists.

However, travelers from yellow fever-endemic areas may be asked to present proof of vaccination against yellow fever. It is always best to carry your vaccination records while traveling, to avoid issues.

Seasonal recommendations for traveling to the Philippines

Here are some more health & safety tips for your trip to the Philippines:

Best time to visit the Philippines

November to April offers the best weather, with dry and cooler conditions. This period is ideal for outdoor activities, sightseeing, and beach trips.

Monsoon preparedness

If visiting between May and October, be prepared for heavy rains, potential flooding, and higher humidity. It is highly recommended to:

• Carry waterproof gear, including rain jackets and sealed bags for electronics.
• Take extra precautions against mosquito-borne diseases like dengue and Japanese encephalitis, which tend to spike during the rainy season. Vaccination for Japanese encephalitis is especially advised if visiting rural or agricultural areas.
• Monitor local weather updates to stay informed about typhoon warnings or severe weather conditions.

Healthcare facilities

Major cities such as Manila and Cebu have well-equipped hospitals with highly trained medical professionals.

In contrast, rural areas may have limited healthcare facilities, often with only basic services available. Packaging a travel health kit with essential medications, bandages, and over-the-counter remedies is advisable. 

Camila from Madrid recounted, "While hiking in Sagada, I suffered a minor cut and was grateful for the antiseptic wipes and bandages I had packed, as the nearest clinic was hours away."

Food safety

Filipino cuisine is a highlight of any trip, but food safety should be a priority. Opt for establishments that appear clean and have a high turnover of customers. When enjoying street food, ensure it is freshly cooked and served hot. Drink only bottled or boiled water, as tap water is unsafe in most areas.

Anne from the United States shared, "I couldn’t resist trying balut from a street vendor in Cebu. The vendor’s stall was busy, and the eggs were steaming fresh, which reassured me about the hygiene."

Mosquito protection

The Philippines’ tropical climate means that mosquito-borne illnesses such as dengue fever and malaria are a concern, particularly in rural and forested areas. Use a DEET-based insect repellent, wear long-sleeved clothing, and sleep under mosquito nets if accommodations are not fully sealed.

"I stayed at an eco-lodge in Palawan and appreciated the mosquito nets they provided. Combined with repellent, I felt safe from bites while sleeping under the stars." – Daniel from the UK.

Travel insurance

Comprehensive travel insurance is essential, covering health emergencies and evacuation in case of severe illness or injury. Choose a policy that includes coverage for adventure activities, as many travelers to the Philippines engage in diving, hiking, or water sports.

"During a dive trip in Coron, I got the bends and had to visit a hyperbaric chamber. My insurance covered the costs, which would have been overwhelming otherwise," revealed Jack, a diver from Australia.

What is the Philippines eArrival card?

The Philippines eArrival card, previously known as the health pass, is a mandatory health declaration form required for all travelers entering the Philippines. It is a precautionary measure to monitor and ensure public health and safety.

• It must be completed before boarding your flight or arriving in the Philippines.
• It is not a visa substitute; travelers requiring a visa must secure one separately.
• You can apply for it easily through us or the official eTravel portal.

“Filling out the eArrival card online saved me so much time at the airport. The QR code was scanned in seconds, and I was on my way!” – Mark, a traveler from Australia.

How can I apply for the Philippines eArrival card?

Applying for the eArrival card is quick and straightforward. Follow these steps:

1. Fill out the online application form: Provide personal details, travel information, and health-related details.
2. Choose a processing time: Standard, rush, or super rush options are available.
3. Review and confirm: Double-check your details and pay using a credit/debit card.
4. Receive your eArrival card: It will be sent directly to your email inbox. You can save the QR code to your mobile device or print it out.

Need more information about traveling to the Philippines?

For any questions or assistance with your application, feel free to contact our customer support agents via chat or WhatsApp. We’re here to make your travel planning seamless and stress-free.