Do I still need arrival card Philippines?

Philippines Drops Arrival Card: New e-Travel Registration Portal Takes Effect

The Philippines is streamlining its entry procedures for international travelers. Starting December 1, 2022, the traditional arrival card system is being phased out, replaced by a new online e-Travel Registration portal. This shift signifies a move towards a more digital and efficient process for travelers entering the archipelago.

The old e-Arrival CARD, which required travelers to fill out information upon arrival, is no longer necessary. Instead, all prospective visitors are required to complete a pre-arrival registration using the new etravel.gov.ph portal. This portal will collect essential information, including details about the traveler’s itinerary, contact information, and purpose of visit.

This significant change marks a notable departure from previous procedures. The e-Travel Registration portal aims to streamline the entry process, reduce processing times at airports and ports, and improve data management for the Philippine government.

Crucially, travelers should not expect to fill out any paperwork upon arrival at the airport or seaport. All necessary information should be provided and verified via the etravel.gov.ph portal well in advance of their scheduled arrival. This anticipatory registration is mandatory for all visitors, regardless of nationality or the length of their stay.

The Philippine government’s decision to transition to a digital-first approach for visitor registration reflects a broader global trend towards digitalization in travel and immigration processes. By centralizing the information collection process, the new e-Travel Registration is designed to offer a more seamless and efficient experience for both travelers and immigration authorities.

This update is important for any traveler planning a trip to the Philippines after December 1st, 2022. Failure to complete the pre-arrival registration through the etravel.gov.ph portal may lead to delays or denial of entry into the country. Therefore, visitors are strongly advised to visit the official website and familiarize themselves with the new process prior to their departure.