International travel plans are in full swing for Filipinos eager to tick off destinations on their bucket list after two years of lockdown isolation. Most popular tourist spots require a visa, but there are plenty of dream destinations that are open to Philippine passport holders visa-free, or with a relatively easy visa application process.
While some of the countries on this list may not require proof of vaccination or a negative RT-PCR test result, it’s best to have documents prepared anyway in case your airline, border control, or your accommodation ask for it during travel.
To err on the side of caution, ensure that your passport has at least six months validity left to avoid hassles during immigration. Ensure that your supporting documents match your name on the passport.
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Filipino tourists can visit these underrated destinations visa-free or with visa-on-arrival:
Cambodia
No visa is required to witness the glory of Cambodia’s Angkor Wat in person. While a pre-departure RT-PCR test and on-arrival quarantine are now things of the past, Cambodia requires all fully vaccinated tourists to present proof of vaccination.
Israel
Those looking to visit the Holy Land can expect a more relaxed way of entering Israel, as the Middle Eastern country requires only a passport and an entry form which must be filled out 10 days before entry.
Even tourists with no vaccinations can enter, although it is recommended to be fully vaccinated. Visitors can skip the pre-departure RT-PCR test as well.
For more information, check the guidelines from the Population and Immigration Authority of Israel.
Brazil
Rio de Janeiro, home to Brazil’s fabulous resorts and roaring nightlife, is open to tourists. Passengers aged 12 and above must present proof of vaccination status, either electronic or printed, to the airline.
Vaccine certificates must be in English, Portuguese, or Spanish and must include the manufacturer’s name, lot number, and date of the doses.
According to Brazil’s tourism website, the traveler must have received the final dose of the vaccine at least 14 days prior to boarding.
While travel insurance is not mandatory, it is strongly recommended to obtain a comprehensive travel insurance which covers all overseas medical costs, including medical repatriation or evacuation, repatriation of remains and legal costs.
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Maldives
The island destination reopened borders to tourists, and as of March 2022, there is no need for pre-arrival RT-PCR test and on-arrival quarantine. Taking a test 3 to 5 days after arrival is recommended.
A pre-arrival visa is not required for Filipino tourists, but an on-arrival visa good for 30 days will be granted.
Got a trip in the works? Make sure your accommodations are government-approved.
Mongolia
Landlocked Mongolia, home to historical sites and architectural wonders, is open to Filipino tourists visa-free, provided that your stay is 30 days or shorter. No negative PCR or rapid test results are required to enter Mongolia before departure. No testing, quarantine, or self-isolation is required upon arrival at the border points.
Mongolia is open to both vaccinated and unvaccinated tourists.
There are currently no direct flights from the Philippines to Mongolia, so travelers will have to take a flight from Hong Kong, Beijing, or Seoul.
Morocco
Planning to cross off scenic Marrakesh and Casablanca on your travel bucket list? Travelers headed for Morocco must be fully vaccinated with the initial series and at least one booster. Those with the J&J vaccine, a single dose will be honored for the initial series.
In lieu of a vaccination certificate, a negative RT-PCR test result must be presented.
According to the Morocco tourism website, “a valid vaccine passport means receipt of three doses or, failing that, two doses with a delay in the administration of the second dose not exceeding 4 months.”
Madagascar
If you’re committed to getting in touch with nature and acquainting yourself with the planet’s rich biodiversity, Madagascar’s niche eco-tourism market may just be able to satiate your wanderlust.
To enter, Filipino tourists must secure a landing authorization, or a Madagascar e-Visa, which you can apply for online.
You can request for a visa from 6 months up to 72 hours before your travel.
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