DestinationsThe country finally joins Southeast Asia’s visa-free club for Chinese visitors.

Philippines opens tourism door for China

|
Visa-free trips for up to 14 days via Metro Manila and Cebu airports.
Visa-free trips for up to 14 days via Metro Manila and Cebu airports. Photo Credit: Adobe Stock/Nate Hovee

From 16 January, Chinese nationals may enter the Philippines on visa-free holidays for up to 14 days, as part of the country’s push to facilitate trade, investments, and tourism.

With the latest move, effective 16 January 2026, the Philippines is now aligned other Southeast Asian nations like Thailand, Malaysia and Singapore, which are already offering visa-free stays to Chinese tourists.

These visits are to be strictly for tourism or business purposes only, and is non extendable nor convertible to another type of Philippine visa category.

Upon arrival, all Chinese nationals will need to present a passport of at least six months validity, confirmed hotel accommodation, and a return or onward ticket to the next country of destination.

The visa-free entry arrangement will be in effect for one year, to be revisited at a later time.

Related: Tourism misses target, but Philippines plays the long game

MagazinesPreviousNext



JDS Travel News JDS Viewpoints JDS Africa/MI