Planning to visit Panglao, Bohol in 2025? Before you pack your bags and book that flight to the turquoise waters of Alona Beach, it’s important to understand the visa and entry requirements for international tourists. This guide provides a clear overview of the rules, especially for South Korean and Chinese travelers, and includes official resources for visa extensions and immigration information.
Entry Requirements for Most Tourists
Planning a visit to Panglao? For many nationalities—including travelers from South Korea, Japan, the United States, most of Europe, ASEAN countries, and others—the
Philippines offers visa-free entry for up to 30 days. This convenient policy applies to
citizens of over 150 countries, making it easier than ever to experience the beauty of Bohol and Panglao Island.
As of
2025, the Philippine government has lifted all
COVID-19 vaccination and testing requirements for entry. There is no need to present proof of vaccination or negative test results, making your journey smoother and more relaxed compared to previous years.
Basic Entry Conditions (Visa-Free Travelers)
To enjoy visa-free entry into the Philippines, travelers must meet the following requirements:
A valid passport with at least
six (6) months of validity beyond your intended date of departure from the Philippines
A
return or onward ticket dated within
30 days of arrival
Completion of the
eTravel registration, which is mandatory for all arriving passengers.
This should be done
online before your flight via the official portal:
https://etravel.gov.ph The eTravel system replaces both the paper arrival card and health declaration forms. It's quick, free, and easy to complete—simply fill it out within
72 hours before arrival.
Arrival and Immigration
Visa-free travelers only need to present the above documents upon arrival at any
international port of entry, including the
Bohol–Panglao International Airport (TAG), Cebu-Mactan International Airport, or Manila’s NAIA.
At the immigration counter:
Your passport will be stamped with a
30-day stay period, starting from the day of arrival.
Make sure your printed or digital
return/onward flight confirmation is readily available, as immigration officers may request it.
Special Considerations for South Korean Travelers
South Korean citizens are among the top visitors to Panglao, drawn by its white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and relaxed island lifestyle. If you’re a South Korean passport holder, you're eligible for visa-free entry to the Philippines for up to 30 days, provided your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay and you have a return or onward ticket.
If you fall in love with Panglao and wish to extend your stay beyond the initial 30 days, you can easily apply for a tourist visa extension at the Bureau of Immigration – Bohol Field Office, located conveniently in Panglao. Extensions are typically granted in 29-day increments, with the possibility to apply for up to six months, depending on your travel plans.
Entry Rules for Chinese Tourists
Travelers holding Chinese passports are
not eligible for visa-free entry into the Philippines and must
secure a tourist visa before arrival. If you’re planning a trip to Panglao or anywhere in the Philippines, it’s essential to apply for a visa in advance through the
Philippine Embassy or Consulate in China.
How to Apply for a Tourist VisaChinese citizens must submit their visa application to either the
Philippine Embassy in Beijing or the
Consulate General in Shanghai, depending on their region of residence. The requirements typically include:
A valid
passport (at least 6 months before expiration)
A completed
visa application formRecent
passport-sized photos
A copy of your
round-trip airline ticket
Proof of
accommodation and financial capacity
Payment of applicable
visa fees
For official guidelines, application forms, and appointment booking:
Philippine Embassy in Beijing
Philippine Consulate General in Shanghai
AJACS Program – Limited 7-Day Visa-Free EntryAs an alternative, Chinese passport holders who possess a
valid visa or residence permit issued by
the United States, Japan, Australia, Canada, or any Schengen Area country may be eligible for
visa-free entry for up to 7 days under the
AJACS (Australia, Japan, America, Canada, Schengen) visa waiver program.
To qualify, travelers must:
Enter the Philippines
via an accredited international airport, such as Manila, Cebu, or Clark
Hold a
valid onward or return ticket
Have a passport with at least
6 months validity
Present their
AJACS visa and meet all other entry requirements
Extensions beyond 7 days
are not allowed under the AJACS program, so if you plan to stay longer, it’s best to apply for a full tourist visa in advance.
Travel Tip:Make sure to apply well ahead of your intended travel date, as processing times can vary depending on the volume of applications and consular schedules.
Visa Extensions
If you’re already in Panglao or nearby and wish to extend your stay in the Philippines, you can apply for a visa extension at the Bureau of Immigration – Tagbilaran Field Office, the nearest immigration office to Panglao. This office handles tourist visa renewals, including extensions for 9A (temporary visitor) visas.
The process is generally straightforward, especially for those applying for their first or second extension. Most travelers can receive a 29-day extension on top of their initial 30-day stay, with the option to apply for further extensions up to six months depending on your travel plans.
Bureau of Immigration – Tagbilaran Field Office2nd Floor, Galleria Luisa, Gallares St., Tagbilaran City, Bohol
Office Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Phone: (038) 411-2651
Website:
https://immigration.gov.ph
The office is centrally located in Panglao and easy to reach by foot, bicycle, or tricycle depending on where you're staying. Many accommodations can help arrange transport or guide you to the location.
Health and Safety Protocols
As of early 2025, the Philippine government has lifted all COVID-19 travel restrictions. No vaccination cards or PCR tests are required. However, travelers must complete the eTravel registration form prior to arrival.
Final Tips
Always ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned departure date.
Keep a printed or digital copy of your return/onward ticket.
Fill out the eTravel form before flying.
Chinese nationals must apply for a visa ahead of time unless eligible for the AJACS transit program.
For the most updated travel information, check the official websites:
Philippine Bureau of Immigration
Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs
By following these guidelines, your trip to Alona Beach Panglao Bohol should go smoothly and stress-free. Enjoy the warm waters, white sands, and vibrant culture of this tropical paradise!