The Philippines has announced that it will expand its electronic visa system (e-visa) in the 3rd quarter of this year to facilitate entry into the country and stimulate foreign investment. According to Jesus DomingoUnder-Secretary for Consular Affairs Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Philippines, this new system will greatly facilitate the visa application process for international visitors.
Currently, the Philippine e-Visa is only available to citizens of Taiwan. This initiative also aims to promote the Philippines as an attractive and competitive tourist destination in the Asian region. Earlier this year, the Philippines had already begun work on its extension..
An online visa application system for various visa categories
The Department of Foreign Affairs is currently working on the development of a website dedicated to the expanded electronic visa application. This portal will enable applicants from different countries to submit their visa applications online without the need to visit the Philippine embassy or consulate.
The e-visa will be available for several visa categories, including tourist, business, study and work visas. In addition, holders of diplomatic or official passports will also be eligible for e-visa.
The e-Visa will undoubtedly enable longer stays for nationalities currently exempt from visa requirements, such as Europeans up to 30 days. Chinese tourists also represent a huge potential market, as this nationality is required to apply for a visa at the embassy for stays of up to 59 days.
A digital approach to save time and simplify administrative procedures
The online application system will enable travellers to avoid queues and save time when preparing their trip. What's more, they'll be able to track the status of their request in real time.
This digital process will also facilitate the Philippine authorities' work in processing visa applications and combating document fraud. Thanks to e-visa, information on applicants will be centralized in a single database, helping to further secure the country's borders.
A positive impact on tourism and foreign investment
The Philippines is relying heavily on this initiative to boost its local economy. By facilitating the entry of tourists and foreign investors, the Philippine government hopes to boost various sectors such as tourism, hotels and real estate.
In 2019, the Philippines welcomed nearly 8 million foreign visitorsgenerating some $9 billion in tourism revenues.
The government is now aiming to reach 10 million annual tourists by 2025, thanks in particular to the roll-out of e-visa.
In addition, foreign direct investment (FDI) in the Philippines increased by 29.3 % in 2021, with a total amount of $6.48 billion. Facilitating procedures for entering the country should attract more investors and support this growth.
An asset for the Philippines' tourism competitiveness vis-à-vis its Asian neighbors
Neighboring countries such as Indonesia, Thailand and Malaysia have already set up electronic visa systems to simplify and facilitate visa applications. By adopting this digital approach, the Philippines aims to boost its attractiveness on the regional and international tourism markets.
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