eTravel Philippines:
the mandatory form before your arrival in the Philippines

Page updated on May 9, 2026.

Traveling to the Philippines is an unforgettable experience: tropical beaches, preserved islands, majestic volcanoes and warm hospitality. But before enjoying the country, all international travelers must now complete the official eTravel Philippines form.

This digital document has become a mandatory step before boarding and entering the Philippines. Here is everything you need to know to prepare your trip with confidence, avoid common mistakes and understand the arrival formalities.

We will also introduce you to a destination still preserved from mass tourism: Catanduanes, one of the most authentic islands in the Philippines.

What is the eTravel Philippines form?

The eTravel Philippines system is an official platform created by the Philippine government to simplify entry formalities into the country.

The form replaces several older paper documents related to:

• immigration,
• health,
• customs declarations.

Once the form is completed, you receive an eTravel QR Code that may be requested:

• before boarding,
• upon arrival in the Philippines,
• during immigration checks.

Is eTravel mandatory?

Yes. The eTravel form is mandatory for almost all international travelers entering the Philippines, including:

• tourists,
• business travelers,
• Philippine residents returning to the country,
• and transit passengers in some cases.

Without a valid eTravel registration, boarding may be refused by the airline.

When should you complete the eTravel form?

The form can generally be completed within 72 hours before your arrival in the Philippines.

It is recommended to:

• complete it the day before departure,
• carefully check all information,
• keep a screenshot of the QR Code.

How to complete the eTravel Philippines form

1. Go to the official website

The form should only be completed on the official Philippine government website:

⚠️ Beware of fake websites asking for unnecessary payments: the eTravel form is free.

2. Prepare the required information

You will generally need to provide:

• your passport,
• your flight number,
• your travel dates,
• your address in the Philippines,
• your personal contact details.

3. Enter your accommodation in the Philippines

When completing the form, you will need to provide an address for your stay.

If you are looking for a more authentic and preserved destination, away from crowded tourist areas such as Boracay or some parts of Palawan, you can discover L’Astrolabe Ecolodge in Catanduanes.

Located on the still-wild island of Catanduanes, this ecolodge offers:

• a private beach,
• nature-focused bungalows,
• views over the Pacific Ocean,
• an immersive stay on an island still largely untouched by mass tourism.

For travelers looking to discover a different side of the Philippines, Catanduanes is an ideal alternative to more crowded destinations.

What documents do you need to enter the Philippines?

In addition to the eTravel form, travelers generally need:

• a valid passport,
• an onward or return ticket,
• a visa if required depending on nationality,
• and sometimes other supporting documents requested by the authorities.

Citizens of many countries benefit from visa-free entry for a short tourist stay.

Do you need to print the eTravel QR Code?

It is not mandatory, but strongly recommended. You can:

• keep a digital version on your phone,
• take a screenshot,
• print the QR Code as a backup.

In some airports, or in case of limited internet access, having a printed copy can make checks easier.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Using a fake paid website → The official form is free.
• Entering the wrong passport number → A simple typo can complicate your entry into the country.
• Waiting until the last minute → Some airlines check the QR Code even before boarding.
• Forgetting your accommodation address → Prepare the name and address of your accommodation in advance.

Where to stay in the Philippines to avoid mass tourism

The Philippines has more than 7,000 islands, but some destinations are becoming very crowded.

For a more immersive experience, more and more travelers are turning to still-preserved islands such as Catanduanes.

The island is especially appealing for:

• its spectacular landscapes,
• its wild beaches,
• its surf spots,
• its tropical rice fields,
• its peaceful and authentic atmosphere.

At L’Astrolabe Ecolodge, travelers can stay in accommodations integrated into nature, between tropical jungle, river and the Pacific Ocean.

L’Astrolabe: reconnect with what matters

Set in a preserved natural environment in Catanduanes, L’Astrolabe is designed for travelers seeking peace, nature and authenticity.

• a peaceful setting far from the crowds,
• an immersion between ocean, greenery and rice fields,
• accommodations suited to different travel styles,
• a convenient base to explore the island.

You can discover our accommodations depending on the experience you are looking for: the Tiny House, the La Rivière bungalows or the private beach glamping experience.

You can contact us directly on Messenger to ask questions and book your stay:

Prepare your trip to the Philippines with confidence

The eTravel Philippines form is now one of the essential formalities for entering the country. Fortunately, the process remains relatively simple when prepared in advance.

Once these steps are completed, all that remains is to enjoy the extraordinary landscapes of the Philippines: lagoons, volcanoes, surf, tropical jungle and still-secret islands such as Catanduanes.

For travelers looking for a more authentic and nature-focused experience, L’Astrolabe Ecolodge is an excellent base to discover another side of the Philippines.