Philippine Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco has welcomed the reinstatement of electronic visas (e-visas) for Chinese nationals, calling the policy both necessary and overdue. The move comes as the Southeast Asian country seeks to restore one of its largest pre-pandemic tourist markets.
“The suspension of the e-Visa system in 2023 had a significant and measurable impact on our ability to meet tourism targets, particularly from one of our strongest pre-pandemic markets,” Frasco said in a statement. “We had long anticipated this outcome and its lasting impact on international arrivals, which is why the Department of Tourism has consistently advocated for the reinstatement of the e-Visa system since its suspension.”
The Philippine Embassy in Beijing confirmed on its website that the e-visa system will officially launch in November 2025. Chinese nationals may apply online for a 14-day stay, entering through Manila’s Ninoy Aquino International Airport or Cebu’s Mactan-Cebu International Airport. The embassy and consulates in Chongqing, Guangzhou, Hong Kong, Macau, Shanghai, and Xiamen will implement the system.
“This development is therefore both necessary and overdue. The relaunch of the e-Visa system directly responds to persistent market demand and industry feedback, and addresses a gap that has constrained our regional competitiveness for nearly three years,” Frasco said. “We extend our appreciation to the Department of Foreign Affairs and the Philippine Embassy in Beijing for acting on this long-standing call.”
Frasco said the move would streamline travel processes and restore confidence among international travellers and tourism stakeholders.
The Tourism Secretary underscored that the DOT would continue to focus on long-term reform. “The Department of Tourism remains focused on ensuring that reforms translate into real results for our destinations, stakeholders, and tourism workers on the ground. We will continue to work closely with our partners across government and the private sector to align policies with the needs of the market and the aspirations of the Filipino people.”
As of September, the Philippines has recorded 203,923 Chinese visitors. China had historically ranked among the country’s top tourism source markets before the pandemic. However, government agencies earlier said the 2023 suspension of the e-visa system compounded earlier declines caused by travel restrictions, resulting in a slower recovery.
The Philippines fell short of its 2024 tourism target of 7.7 million international arrivals, reaching only 5.9 million. Of the 2 million Chinese visitors expected that year, only 300,000 arrived.
The return of e-visas for Chinese tourists comes amid broader efforts by the Philippine government to boost tourism competitiveness through visa reforms, infrastructure projects, and digital innovation.
Earlier this year, the DOT worked with other agencies to expand international flight routes, develop tourist rest areas, and promote new cultural programmes such as the Philippine Experience Program, which highlights regional heritage and arts.
Speaking at a European Chamber of Commerce event earlier this year, Frasco said the department is preparing for projected demand growth with support from the private sector.
The e-visa reinstatement also comes at a time of heightened geopolitical tension in the South China Sea. Despite maritime disputes, both governments have emphasised the importance of continuing trade and tourism cooperation.
Philippine Ambassador to China Jaime FlorCruz signed an agreement with VFS Global in October to facilitate the programme’s implementation. Officials say the initiative supports President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to expand e-visa access for key tourism markets, including China, India, South Korea, and Japan.
Beyond the e-visa rollout, the government is pursuing other tourism-friendly policies such as a digital nomad visa and a VAT refund scheme for foreign visitors. These are expected to make the Philippines more competitive within the Asia-Pacific region.
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