eTravel Philippines 2025: Complete Arrival and Departure Guide
6 min read
Everything you need to know about eTravel 2025 in the Philippines: who must fill it out, when, how to get the QR code, mistakes to avoid and solutions if you have issues upon arrival.
eTravel Philippines 2025: What You Absolutely Need to Know
The "eTravel" is the Philippines' digital arrival/departure card. Free, fast and mandatory, it ensures a smooth passage through immigration and health checks. Here's the 2025 user guide.
Key Takeaways
Manila Bay, main entry point to the Philippines
What is eTravel?
eTravel is the digital version of the Philippines' "arrival/departure card." It gradually replaces paper forms. The goal is to streamline immigration, customs, and if needed, quarantine (Bureau of Quarantine – BOQ) checks. In 2025, it remains the main way to submit your travel information before or during your arrival.
In practice, you complete an online form, receive a personal QR code, then present it to authorities upon arrival. Some airlines verify it at the check-in counter.
Who Must Fill It Out?
In practice, most travelers entering the Philippines must complete eTravel, including:
Accompanied minors can be added to a parent/guardian's form if the interface allows (check the site version). When in doubt, create a separate registration and keep family documents (birth certificates, exit authorization if applicable).
For travelers in airside transit (without entering the territory), eTravel is generally not required. However, if you need to pass through immigration to change airports, collect baggage, or sleep in the city, you must fill it out.
When and How to Do It?
The easiest is to complete eTravel between 72h and 4h before arrival. Some versions of the site also allow same-day entry. If unable to do so, counters exist at international airports (NAIA – Manila, Mactan-Cebu, Clark, Davao) but expect to lose time.
You will need:
1. Your passport (validity ≥ 6 months recommended upon entry).
2. Your flight information (number, date, arrival airport).
3. A Philippines address (reserved hotel, residence or family address).
4. An email address to receive confirmation and the QR code.
Practical tip: take a screenshot of the QR code, and save it in your "offline" files. Airport Wi-Fi can be congested.
Step-by-Step Process (2025)
1. Access the official eTravel site (beware of imitators). Verify that no payment is requested.
2. Fill out the traveler profile (name, date of birth, nationality, passport).
3. Indicate your flight and arrival date.
4. Enter the address in the Philippines (hotel/condo/family). A hotel name is sufficient.
5. Add contact details (email/phone). Check your spam folder.
6. Validate. You will receive a QR code (immediate or sent by email).
7. Keep the QR code. Upon arrival, follow the eTravel/BOQ/Immigration queue.
Useful Documents and Deadlines
| Document | Recommended Deadline | Notes |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Passport | 72h before | Validity ≥ 6 months at entry recommended |
| Return/exit ticket | Per visa | Airlines may request it (9A visa) |
| Philippines address | 72h before | Reserved hotel or host address |
| eTravel (QR code) | 72-4h | Offline screenshot |
Cebu City, second largest city in the Philippines
Special Cases (Common)
Common Problems and Solutions
1. Slow/unavailable site: try again later or complete at the airport's dedicated counter. Have your info ready.
2. QR code not received: check spam. If needed, reconnect and regenerate the code or ask for help at the counter.
3. Error on flight/address: correct before departure if possible. Otherwise, explain upon arrival (bring the correct info).
4. Misspelled name/passport: better to redo the form correctly. Upon arrival, agents rely on the passport.
5. Change of plans (new date/flight): fill out eTravel again. Use the most recent QR code.
Important: eTravel is free. Avoid any site requesting fees or unofficial "express service."
Palawan, natural jewel of the Philippines
Privacy, Security and Compliance
The collected data is used for immigration, customs and quarantine checks. In 2025, no vaccination proof is required for most travelers, but this may change (check BOQ announcements). Avoid unreliable "public" Wi-Fi networks when filling out; prefer a personal or cellular network.
Keep your QR code offline, and avoid posting your travel information on social media. In case of phone loss/theft, a paper copy can help.
Useful Links (Trip Preparation)
Quick FAQ
When to fill out eTravel? Ideally 72 to 4h before arrival. Some versions allow same-day. If forgotten, counters at the airport.
Do I have to pay? No. eTravel is free. Report any site charging fees.
Does the QR code expire? It's linked to your trip. If you change flight/date, redo eTravel.
What about departure? Some periods/airlines request eTravel at departure. Keep the QR code and follow your airline's instructions.
Is vaccination proof required? In 2025, no for most travelers, but check BOQ/Immigration updates before departure.
Conclusion
eTravel is a mandatory but simple step: plan ahead, prepare your information and keep the QR code handy. You'll save precious time upon arrival. To go further, explore our practical content and visas (9A, 13A, SRRV), and our region guides (Manila, Cebu, Palawan, Bohol). Have a great trip to the Philippines!
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Frequently Asked Questions: Check our other articles
Next Steps: Preparation Guides