If you're a U.S. citizens visiting the Philippines for tourism or business, you are allowed entrance into the country without a visa for a maximum of 21 days. You will need to provide proof that you have a round trip or outbound ticket and a passport that is valid for six months beyond the time you will stay in the Philippines. If you intend to stay for more than 21 days, apply for a visa prior to entering the country.
If your intention was to stay in the Philippines for less than 21 days, but something happens that requires you to extend your stay, you must obtain a visa extension at the Philippine Bureau of Immigration and Deportation, which has an office in Manila and other cities in the Philippines. If you overstay your visa, you may face fines and the possibility of detention.
There are nine Philippine consulates throughout the United States, including Los Angeles, San Francisco, Chicago, New York and Washington D.C. To apply for a visa, you need a valid passport, one signed 2-by-2 passport photo taken within the past six months, an FA form no. 2, and proof of financial ability to travel, such as a copy of your checking or savings account balance. If you're traveling for business reasons, you will need a letter from your company that confirms the nature of your business and guarantees financial support. If you're a minor traveling alone or with someone other than your parent, you need to provide an affidavit of consent and support signed by one of your parents. Include the appropriate visa fee with your application by checking the fee schedule on the Philippine Embassy website. If you're applying by mail, enclose a self-addressed stamped envelope and use a tracking system. Visas are issued for three months, six months and 12 months, depending on the nature of your visit.
According to the U.S. State Department, American citizens traveling to the Philippines should be aware of potential terrorist activities in cities such as Manila. There is also an increased risk of kidnapping because of ransom gangs that roam the country targeting foreigners, con games, pickpockets and ATM card fraud. In addition, the Philippines is a haven for counterfeit goods sold to unsuspecting foreigners. Exercise caution in all local transactions. If you bring back items that are counterfeit or stolen, they will be confiscated and you may be fined.
