According to data from the Philippine Department of Tourism (DOT), the Philippines received approximately 5.6 million international visitors in 2025. China accounted for about 262,000 of these visitors, ranking as the sixth largest source country. The DOT anticipates a steady recovery in Chinese visitor numbers in 2026.
With the Philippines resuming electronic visas (eVisa) for Chinese citizens in November 2025 and implementing a new 14-day visa-free policy starting in January 2026, the barriers to travel to the Philippines will be further lowered.
What does this mean for Chinese tourists?
- For short-haul tourism and business trips within 14 days, visa-free direct flights are available to Manila and Cebu.
- For longer trips or special purposes, an eVisa/9A tourist visa can be used;
- For popular island destinations (Boracay, El Nido, Coron, Bohol, Palawan), advance booking is recommended during peak season.
* Data sourced from DOT and released by PNA. Information as of June 2026; please refer to official sources for final accuracy. For Philippines travel planning inquiries, please contact YIXING.
