International travel rules and regulations can be overwhelming, but for Indonesians, traveling to other countries is relatively easy. In this travel guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know about Philippines visa requirements for Indonesians, the new e-Visa process, and how you can have a smooth entry into the “Pearl of the Orient Seas.”
Do Indonesians Need a Visa for the Philippines?
No, As a member of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), Indonesia has a visa-free entry agreement with the Philippines. Indonesian citizens can stay in the Philippines visa-free for up to 30 days for tourism or business.
How to Apply for a Philippines e-visa from Indonesia?
If you intend to stay in the Philippines for more than the visa-free stay of 30 days, you can now Apply Philippines e-visa from Indonesia using the online platform.
Form Filling: You will be required to fill out the 9(a) Temporary Visitor Visa application form.
Document Upload: You will be required to upload electronic copies of your passport, flight tickets, and proof of financial capability.
Payment of Fees: You will be required to pay the processing fee online.
Download: After approval, which takes 7-12 working days, your e-visa will be delivered to your email address. You will be required to print it out.
When Should I Apply for a Philippines e-Visa?
Although the stay is free for 30 days, many tourists feel that a month is insufficient to discover the 7,641 islands of the Philippines. You may want to apply for an e-Visa or a Temporary Visitors Visa if:
Stay Duration: You plan to stay in the Philippines for more than 30 days.
Frequent Travel: You need multiple entries within 6 months or 1 year.
Specific Purposes: You plan to visit the Philippines for medical reasons or specialized training.
What are the Philippines Visa Photo Requirements?
The Philippines Visa Photo Requirements are strict, especially when it comes to the quality of the photo. To avoid disqualification, you must ensure that you meet the following Philippines Visa Photo Requirements:
Size: The photo should be in standard 35mm x 45mm (2×2 inches).
Background: The background should be plain white.
Recent: The photo should not be older than 6 months.
Expression: The expression should be neutral, without smiling or showing teeth.
Eyeglasses: Eyeglasses are not allowed.
What are the Requirements for a Philippines Business Visa?
If your visit includes contract signing or participation in industrial exhibitions, you may require a Philippines Business Visa.
Invitation Letter: An official letter from the sponsoring company in the Philippines.
Employer Endorsement: An official letter from your company in Indonesia.
Financial Proof: Bank statements for the past 6 months to reflect adequate company or personal finances.
How Do I Register My Digital Arrival Card Before Flying?
Even if you are visa-free, an eTravel Philippines digital arrival card is required. This is in place of the paper declaration cards that were previously used.
Timeline: You have to do this within 72 hours of your flight.
The QR Code: Once you are done, you will get a QR code. Save this as a screenshot or print it out because this will be checked by the airlines before you can board in Indonesia.
What are the Exact Visa-Free Entry Limits?
It is essential to note the 30-day limit. Many people have been known to believe that they can stay in the country for a whole month, but the rule is to stay for 30 days, including the day of arrival. Staying for one day extra can lead to “Blacklisting” or hefty fines at the airport.
How Can I Avoid Common e-Visa Errors?
Small mistakes can cause big delays. To avoid any delays, you should avoid the following common mistakes:
Inconsistent Naming: Make sure that the name you provide on the application is exactly the same as your passport .
Low-Quality Scans: Scan your passport bio-page using a high-resolution scanner; photos taken with glare on your phone are frequently denied.
Incorrect Visa Type: Do not apply for a business visa if you are traveling for a vacation, as the requirements for each visa are different.
What are the Rules for Service and Diplomatic Passports?
If you possess an Indonesian Service Passport or a Diplomatic Passport, you may be subject to different regulations. In general, these passport holders are allowed visa-free entry for official business, but you might be required to show a “Note Verbale” issued by the Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs or a letter of assignment to prove the purpose of your visit.
What are the Philippines Airport Transit Requirements for Indonesians?
If you are transiting in Manila (NAIA) to board a plane to another country:
Layovers of less than 24 hours: In most cases, you do not need a transit visa if you stay in the international transit area.
Terminal Transfer: If your connecting flight is from another terminal, you will need to go through immigration. Since Indonesians do not need a visa, you can proceed to immigration to transfer terminals without needing a transit visa.
What are the Best Cities for Night Sightseeing?
In case you have a late flight or want to experience the “City Lights,” the following cities are the best for night sightseeing:
Taguig (BGC): This is also known as the “Manhattan of the Philippines” for its beautiful lighted skyscrapers, upscale night markets, and safe walking streets.
Manila (Intramuros): The Spanish walled city has a nostalgic and romantic ambiance during night hours with horse-drawn carriages and lighted cathedrals.
Makati: The Ayala Triangle Gardens feature light shows, and the rooftop bars give the best views of the city skyline.
What is the Difference Between an e-Visa and the eTravel QR Code?
e-Visa: A legal document for those staying over 30 days or needing multiple entries.
eTravel QR Code: A mandatory health and customs declaration for all travelers, irrespective of stay duration.
What are the various kinds of visas in the Philippines?
Visa Type
No. of Entries
Max. Stay
Validity
Temporary Visitors Visa
Single
30 days
90 days
Temporary Visitors Visa
Multiple
30 days
180 Days
Temporary Visitors Visa
Multiple
30 days
1 Year
Can a Specialist Agent (visa-philippines.info) Assist with Rejection Risks?
If your visa application has been rejected or you are concerned about the “Rejection Risk,” a specialist agent, such as visa-philippines.info, is a safety net.
Pre-Check System: The agent checks your bank statements and travel plans before submission to ensure that there are no mistakes that the computer system could pick up on.
Expert Appeals: If you have previously been rejected, an agent can assist you in writing an explanation letter or repairing the exact documents that led to the original rejection.
Efficiency: They will take care of the communication with the Bureau of Immigration, which can be stressful if there are technical issues with the portal.
How Long Does it Take to Process a Philippine e-Visa?
Standard Processing: 10-17 Working Days.
Rush Processing: 7-15 Working Days.
Super Rush: 5-7 Working Days.
Can I Extend My Stay While Already in the Philippines?
Yes. You can apply for a Visa Waiver at any Bureau of Immigration (BI) office in major cities. This will give you an extension of 29 days from your initial 30 days stay in the Philippines.
What Happens in the Refund Policy if My Visa is Denied?
Non-Approval: Most government fees are non-refundable once the process has started. However, we offer clear information on which parts of our service fees can be credited or refunded based on the status of your application.
Frequently Asked Questions (People Also Ask)
Q: Do I need a return ticket?
Yes. You must show proof of departure from the Philippines before being allowed to board your flight.
Q: Can I apply for a visa on behalf of my family?
Yes, proxy applications are allowed for immediate family members.
Conclusion
Visa requirements for travel to the Philippines are an attractive option for Indonesians. With the secure digital arrival card, the visa-free limit, and the expert assistance of visa-philippines.info to avoid errors, you can enjoy the Philippines’ beauty instead of worrying about the process.
