Siargao, Philippines Travel Requirements for Tourists
As anyone who has jumped on a plane for an overseas trip knows, every country has its own set of travel requirements. To make matters even more confusing, navigating your way through embassy websites to find out what's needed isn't always as straightforward as it sounds. Moreover, the last thing any globetrotter wants is to arrive at the airport and realize they're missing the right documentation to get in!
Thankfully, this article will cover the travel requirements for Siargao Island and the Philippines to make sure you're in the clear. So, you don't end up on the shortest vacation ever, to the airport and back home again!
Siargao Travel Requirements
For certain locations within countries, there are sometimes additional requirements to visit them. For instance, protected areas like historical and cultural sites or national parks and world heritage sites. Fortunately, Siargao Island doesn't have any extra conditions and that means that all you need to go there is to meet the travel requirements for entering the Philippines.
So long as you have that, you will have no problems getting into this tropical paradise of fun, sun, and relaxation.
Is Siargao Open for Tourists?
Unless you've been living under a rock for the last few years, you may recall a small pandemic that completely took over the world. The COVID-19 pandemic essentially halted international travel and had a massive impact on tourist destinations, such as Siargao. However, to the applause of travelers everywhere, these restrictions have now been lifted and Siargao is no exception.
That's right, planes are flying again and Siargao is open for business! In practical terms, that means you won't have to flash your vaccination card to enter the Philippines or Siargao. But that doesn't mean you can just show up with a smile and a backpack. There are still other things you will need to have on you to enter Siargao so you can start your dream holiday without any mishaps.
Philippines Travel Requirements
Of course, the specific travel requirements for traveling to the Philippines hinges on where you're coming from. That being said, the Philippines is a tourist-friendly country, and if your trip is going to be less than 30 days, there's a good chance you won't need a visa. In fact, there are a total of 158 countries that can travel to the Philippines without a visa.
If you're lucky enough to be from one of those countries, all you're going to need is the below for a seamless entry to paradise:
- A passport that is valid for six months from your Philippines departure date.
- Tickets for your flight out of the Philippines, either back home or to another country.
- Complete the eTravel Card upon arrival or 72 hours before touching down.
What Documents Do I Need to Travel to the Philippines
Now let's get down to brass tax, exactly what documents are you going to need to travel to the Philippines? As mentioned, a majority of countries can enjoy smooth, visa-free entry into the Philippines provided they have the above. However, if you're not from one of the countries on the exemption list or wish to stay longer than 30 days, you'll need a tourist visa.
To get your hands on a tourist visa, you're going to need:
- A proper passport photo but remember to take off your glasses as that may lead to problems.
- A correctly filled out visa application form.
- A passport that is valid for six months from your Philippines departure date.
- Tickets for your flight out of the Philippines, either back home or to another country.
- Proof of both financial means and accommodation for the duration of your stay.
Types of Visas and Cost
If a tourist visa is the path for you then you have a few options to choose from. But be sure to get your documents completed and submitted well before you intend to fly out or you may be staying home instead. To avoid any hold-ups or issues that may result in not getting your visa in time, get your documents in at least 2-3 weeks before your arrival date.
Here are the types of tourist visas you can get and their cost:
- A 3-month single-entry tourist visa will cost USD 30.
- A 6-month multiple-entry tourist visa will set you back USD 60.
- A 12-month multiple-entry tourist visa goes for USD 90.