Added: 01/21/2006 |
Philippines Embassy: how to obtain visas and special permitsConsidered as the third-largest English-speaking country in the world, the Philippines is known for its world-class facilities and top-notch services for locals and visitors alike. Tourists enjoy a wide array of excellent accommodations, fine restaurants, huge shopping malls, reliable communication services and conference and exhibition organizers. Those wishing to get away from the busy cities can discover tours promoting relaxation and recreation around the country. From pristine, white-sand beaches to cool mountain escapes, there is always something interesting for the avid traveler to enjoy in the Philippines.
The good news is that Filipinos themselves are warm and welcoming - as underscored in the country's tagline - 'where Asia wears a smile'. Apart from some beautiful, remote tropical islands and legendary scuba diving spots, the archipelago's best resource is the friendliness and laid-back attitude of the Filipino people. Their hospitable and embracing attitude is enough to put a smile on any visitor's face; this is even more the case in the rural areas. The Philippines has some superb all-inclusive luxury resorts spread around the islands which cushion visitors from the general degradation and safety-risks of the cities and towns, and a major plus is that the country is amazingly good-value. Also, the food is delicious, and English is widely spoken.
You can find out about Philippines form outlets that you can get from philippines embassy in your country. Anyway visiting your philippines embassy will help you to organize the trip.
All visitors to the country must hold a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the period they plan to stay. Everyone, except for the stateless persons, nationals from restricted countries and those originating from countries with which the Philippines has no diplomatic ties are allowed into the country without visas. They are permitted to stay for up to 21 days provided they hold tickets for onward or return journeys. If there is an embassy of country of nationality in the Philippines, then the passport can be valid for less than six months. All visitors must have return or onward tickets and documents necessary for further travel, as well as sufficient funds.
Visas and special permits may be obtained from philippines embassy or consular office overseas. If you want to extend your stay from 21 days to 59 days you should contact the Immigration Office. If you are planning to apply for a visa extension, do remember not to dress in shorts and flip-flops (thongs) or else you can expect to be refused service.
If you are coming from America, Asia or Europe and hold a valid passport and either a return ticket or a ticket to another destination outside the Philippines you may enter without a formal visa and stay for 21 days. If you wish to stay longer you must obtain a Visa Extension either before your trip from a Philippine Consulate or philippines embassy or, once here, from Bureau of Immigration.
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