The Philippine government will allow Chinese nationals to enter the country without a visa for stays of up to 14 days beginning January 16, in a move aimed at boosting tourism, trade, and people-to-people exchanges with China.
The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said the visa-free privilege applies to Chinese passport holders traveling for tourism or business, provided their stay does not exceed 14 days. The entry is non-extendable and cannot be converted into another visa category.
The DFA said the measure follows the President’s directive to promote economic cooperation, investments, and tourism while strengthening ties between the two countries.
Visa-free entry will be allowed only through Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Metro Manila and Mactan-Cebu International Airport in central Philippines.
Chinese travelers must present a passport valid for at least six months beyond their intended stay, confirmed hotel bookings, and a return or onward ticket. The DFA stressed that security screening and checks against derogatory records will continue to be enforced.
The visa-free arrangement will initially be valid for one year and will be reviewed before its expiration.
The policy comes as the Philippines seeks to regain momentum in its tourism sector. According to the Department of Tourism (DOT), the country recorded 5.6 million foreign visitor arrivals as of December 20, nearly matching its full-year total in 2024, though still below pre-pandemic levels in 2019.
Tourism officials expressed optimism for 2026, citing improved access for Chinese travelers following the resumption of the Philippine e-Visa system for China in November. China ranked sixth among source markets in 2025 with 262,144 arrivals, behind South Korea, the United States, Japan, Australia, and Canada.
Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco previously said visa disruptions, security concerns, currency weakness, and limited flight capacity contributed to the decline in arrivals from China and South Korea. The DOT added that China–Philippines flight routes are operating at only about 45% of pre-pandemic levels, although discussions with airlines are underway to restore connectivity.
