U.S. Embassy Manila

1201 Roxas Boulevard
Manila, Philippines 1000
Telephone: + (63) (2) 5301-2000
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: + (63) (2) 5301-2000 
Fax: + (63) (2) 5301-2017
Email: ACSInfoManila@state.gov

Consulates

U.S. Consular Agency - Cebu City
Waterfront Hotel, Lower Ground Floor
Salinas Drive
Lahug, Cebu City
Philippines 6000
Telephone: + (63) (32) 231-1261
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: Please contact the U.S. Embassy in Manila: + (63) (2) 301-2000 
Fax: +(63) (32) 231-0174
Email: ACSInfoCebu@state.gov

See the Department of State’s Fact Sheet on Philippines for information on U.S.-Philippines relations. 

Visit the website of the Embassy of the Republic of the Philippines in Washington, D.C., for the most current visa information.

If you remain in the Philippines beyond the “admit until” date stamped in your passport by immigration authorities, you may be subject to fines and/or detention by the Philippine Bureau of Immigration (BI).

Certain foreign nationals  must apply for an Emigration Clearance Certificate (ECC) from BI before they may depart the Philippines.

See the Philippine Bureau of Immigration (BI)'s website for information about Philippine visas, exit clearances, and Alien Certificate Registration (ACR).  

See the Philippine Retirement Authority (PRA)'s website for information about the Special Retiree Resident Visa (SRRV).  

U.S. citizens who intend to work in the Philippines should contact the Philippines Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) for information.

The Philippines does not have any HIV/AIDS-related entry restrictions for visitors or foreign residents. 

We advise all U.S. citizens not to travel with potentially prohibited items, such as firearms or live or spent ammunition, on their person or in their checked baggage. While at the airport or traveling in country, possession of prohibited items or anything resembling such items -- whether it be a souvenir, gift, or artifact – may subject the traveler to prosecution and stringent penalties by local authorities. Learn more about how to avoid problems when traveling abroad with firearms. 

Check with your airline to determine whether a particular item is allowed for transport, and with the appropriate authorities in the Philippines – such as the Philippine National Police and Bureau of Immigration – and the appropriate authorities in any transit countries.

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging along with your doctor’s prescription. Check with the Philippine Bureau of Customs to ensure the medication is legal in the Philippines.

You can find information on dual nationality, prevention of international child abduction, and customs regulations on our website.

Terrorism: Terrorist groups, and those inspired by such organizations, are intent on attacking U.S. citizens abroad. Terrorists are increasingly using less-sophisticated methods of attack – including knives, firearms, and vehicles – to target crowds more effectively. Frequently, their aim is unprotected or vulnerable targets, such as:

• High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by tourists
• Places of worship
• Schools
• Parks
• Shopping malls and markets
• Public transportation systems (including subways, buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights)

U.S. citizens should remain alert to the potential for explosions and bombings as part of pre-planned attacks, as well as the threat of kidnapping.

Terrorist and armed groups continue plotting possible kidnappings, bombings, and other attacks in the Philippines. Terrorist and armed groups may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, markets/shopping malls, and local government facilities.

For more information, see our Terrorism page.  

Crime: Confidence games (con games), pickpocketing, internet scams, and credit/ATM card fraud are common. Be wary of unknown individuals who attempt to befriend you, especially just after you arrive in country. Do not accept food, drinks, or rides in private vehicles from strangers, even if they appear to be legitimate. Solo travelers have been drugged and robbed by strangers after accepting an invitation to visit a tourist destination.

Kidnappings, physical assaults, murder-for-hire, and other violent crimes occur in the Philippines. 

Travelers have been stopped and robbed shortly after leaving Manila Ninoy Aquino International Airport in a taxi or private vehicle. 

Taxi drivers and/or individuals using stolen taxi cabs have committed robberies. Ask the hotel, restaurant, and/or business establishment to call a reliable taxi service for you or use a ride-sharing application.

Other tips for safer travel by taxi:

• Do not enter a taxi if it is already occupied by another passenger.
• Request that the taxi driver use the meter to record your fare.
• Wait for another cab if the driver is unwilling to comply with these requests.
• Make a mental note of the license plate number of your taxi, or text it to someone, should there be a problem.

When driving in the city, make certain that vehicle doors are locked and windows are rolled up.

One common form of credit/ATM card fraud involves an illicit electronic device attached to ATM card readers that retrieves and records information, including the PIN, from a card's magnetic strip. Refer to the Overseas Security Advisory Council (OSAC) website for more information.

International Financial Scams: See the Department of State and the FBI pages for information on scams.

Internet romance and financial scams are prevalent in the Philippines. Scams are often initiated through social media or by unsolicited emails or messages sent via messaging apps such as WhatsApp or Viber. Scammers may pose as potential romantic partners or as U.S. citizens in crisis. 

Common scams include:

• Romance/online dating
• Money transfers
• Lucrative sales schemes
• Gold purchase schemes
• Contracts or jobs with promises of large salaries or commissions
• Grandparent/relative targeting
• Offers of free travel or luggage
• Lottery winnings
• Inheritance notices
• Work permits
• Bank overpayments

Victims of Crime: The Department encourages U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault to contact the U.S. Embassy for assistance.

Report crimes to the local police at the 911 hotline and contact the U.S. Embassy at +(63)(2) 5301-2000. Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting the crime.

See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas.

We can:

• Help you find appropriate medical care.
• Help you report a crime to the police.
• Contact relatives or friends (with your written consent).
• Provide general information regarding the victim’s role in the local criminal justice system.
• Provide a list of local attorneys.
• Provide our information on victim’s compensation programs in the United States.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution.
• Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home.
• Replace a stolen or lost passport.

Domestic Violence: U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the Embassy for assistance.

Tourism: Please check with the Philippine Department of Tourism before traveling. The safety standards you might expect of transport and tour operators, including adventure activities such as SCUBA diving, are not always met. Operators may not provide sufficient safety equipment or observe recommended maintenance standards and safety precautions. Always use available safety equipment, such as lifejackets or seatbelts, even if others do not. If appropriate safety equipment is not available, use another provider. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is widely available throughout the country. However, outside of major metropolitan centers, it may take more time for first responders and medical professionals to stabilize a patient and provide life-saving assistance. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance. If you are planning to SCUBA dive, the Diver’s Alert Network (DAN) provides information on diving accident management. 

Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities prior to practicing or operating a business.

The judicial process in the Philippines can be lengthy, with cases often taking several years to reach resolution. Individuals facing criminal charges may encounter extended periods of pre-trial detention. 

Penalties for possessing, using, or trafficking illegal drugs are strictly enforced, including significant prison terms, substantial fines, and in severe cases, life imprisonment. Carry prescription medication in its original packaging and check with the Philippine Bureau of Customs to ensure it is legal in the Philippines.

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs could land you immediately in jail.

Travelers should know that medical marijuana is illegal in the Philippines, even with a prescription from the United States or elsewhere. Bringing marijuana or cannabis-based products into the Philippines can result in drug trafficking charges, a non-bailable offense with a maximum penalty of life imprisonment.  The Department strongly advises travelers not to bring marijuana or any cannabis-based products, including vape cartridges, into the Philippines under any circumstances.

Always carry a copy of your passport in the event that you are asked about your citizenship. You may be questioned by authorities if you take pictures of certain buildings, especially government buildings or military installations. 

The Philippine Bureau of Immigration (BI) may consider the participation of foreign nationals in demonstrations or political rallies in the Philippines to be anti-government and/or a violation of the terms of admission, resulting in possible detention or deportation

In the Philippines, any adult in the company of a minor under 12 years old who is not related within the “fourth degree” may be subject to a severe penalty.

U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents who have sex with people under the age of 18 or commit other sexual offenses involving children overseas are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of whether those offenses are illegal under local law. See our website on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website.

Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our webpage for further information.

Counterfeit and Pirated Goods: Counterfeit and pirated goods are illegal in the Philippines. You may  pay fines or have counterfeit goods seized if you attempt to bring them back to the United States. See the U.S. Department of Justice website for more information.

Faith-Based Travelers: See the following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report – see country reports
• Human Rights Report – see country reports
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGB Travelers: There is no prohibition on entry into the Philippines by LGB individuals. Same-sex relationships are not illegal in the Philippines but they lack legal recognition. No federal law prohibits discrimination against LGB individuals. Several cities, however, have passed local ordinances protecting LGB rights. Despite these legislative efforts, LGB individuals continue to face discrimination and harassment.

See our LGB Travel Information Page and section  of our Human Rights Report for further details.

Travelers with Disabilities: Streets, buildings, and public transportation may lack facilities for persons with disabilities. Most public buildings are inaccessible to persons with mobility impairments.  Government efforts to improve access to transportation for persons with disabilities are limited due to weak implementing regulations.

There are local stores in the Philippines that sell durable medical equipment . Some pharmacies also carry limited medical supplies and equipment.

• For information regarding disability laws, please visit the Philippines National Council on Disability Affairs website.

Students: See our Students Abroad page.

Women Travelers: See our travel tips for Women Travelers.

For emergency services in the Philippines, dial 911.

Ambulance services are not widely available, and training and availability of emergency responders may be below U.S. standards. Most ambulances are not equipped medical equipment and function as medical transport only.

Healthcare Coverage and Medical Insurance:  
Make sure your health insurance covers you while traveling overseas.  U.S. Medicare and Medicaid benefits cannot be used in the Philippines. While some private hospitals in the Philippines may accept international health insurance, most require you to pay up front and seek reimbursement from your insurance provider. Many providers in the Philippines only accept cash payments.  

Check our webpage for more information on insurance when traveling abroad. You can also visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for advice on health insurance for travel.

For information about TRICARE (a health care program for service members, retirees, and their families), including possible vaccinations, please visit the TRICARE overseas website. 

Supplemental Insurance: We strongly recommend purchasing supplemental insurance that includes coverage for  medical evacuation while in the Philippines.  This type of insurance can help cover costly emergencies, including air transportation to the nearest medical facility or back to the United States if needed.

Blood types that are Rh-negative (e.g., O-negative, A-negative, B-negative, AB-negative) are extremely rare in the Philippines, as they occur in less than one percent of the population.  U.S. citizens with Rh-negative blood are encouraged to be aware of this scarcity, particularly in the event of an emergency requiring a transfusion.  Travelers with known medical conditions may wish to identify hospitals or donor networks that can accommodate their needs before traveling.

Vaccinations: Be up-to-date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Veterans Affairs (VA) Clinic in Manila: The VA Manila Outpatient Clinic provides services to eligible U.S. veterans living in the Philippines.  It offers outpatient medical care and assistance with service-connected disabilities only.  Care that is not service-connected is not permitted and will have to be obtained in the community at the veteran’s expense.  The clinic cannot provide inpatient care.  For more details on eligibility and available services, visit the VA Manila website or contact the clinic directly.

The U.S. Embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals in the Philippines that accept U.S. patients. We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

Health facilities in general:

• Adequate health facilities are available throughout the country but health care in rural areas may be below U.S. standards.  Medical staff may speak little or no English.
• Public medical clinics lack basic resources and supplies.  Staff may be limited, particularly overnight.  Consider hiring a private nurse or having family spend the night with the patient, especially a minor child.
• Hospitals and doctors often require payment or proof of adequate insurance prior to service or admission.
• Patients bear all costs for transfer to or between hospitals.
• Psychological and psychiatric services are limited, even in the larger cities, with hospital-based psychological and psychiatric care only available through government institutions.
• Some medical facilities engage in unethical business practices, pricing, and collection measures. Travelers should make efforts to obtain complete information on billing, pricing, and proposed medical procedures before agreeing to any medical care.  
• Be aware that some hotels or resorts may have exclusive agreements with medical providers, which may limit your choices in seeking emergency medical attention. 

Medical Tourism and Elective Surgery: Medical tourism is a rapidly growing industry. People seeking health care overseas should understand that medical systems operate differently from those in the United States and are not subject to the same rules and regulations. Anyone interested in traveling for medical purposes should consult with their local physician before traveling and visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information on medical tourism.

• U.S. citizens have suffered serious complications or died during or after having cosmetic or other elective surgery in the Philippines.
• We strongly recommend those considering obtaining such care in the Philippines  purchase supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation in the event of unforeseen medical complications.
• Your legal options in case of malpractice are very limited in the Philippines.
• Although the Philippines has some cosmetic surgery facilities that are on par with those found in the United States, the quality of care varies widely. If you plan to undergo surgery in the Philippines, make sure that emergency medical facilities are available and professionals are accredited and qualified. 

Pharmaceuticals:

• Exercise caution when purchasing medication overseas. Pharmaceuticals, including those that require a prescription in the United States, are often readily available for purchase with few controls. Counterfeit medication is common and may prove to be ineffective, the wrong strength, or contain dangerous ingredients. Medication should be purchased in consultation with a medical professional and from reputable establishments.
• U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration are responsible for rules governing the transport of medication to the United States. Do not attempt to bring medication purchased abroad into the United States without confirming it complies with their requirements. Please visit the U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration websites for more information.

The following diseases are prevalent in the Philippines:

• Tuberculosis
• Dengue
• Chikungunya
• Measles
• Zika
• Malaria
• Polio

Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about Resources for Travelers regarding specific issues in the Philippines.

Air Quality:  Air pollution is a significant problem in several major cities in the Philippines.  Consider the impact seasonal smog and heavy particulate pollution may have on you and consult your doctor before traveling, if necessary.

• Check NASA’s Air Quality Forecast. It uses AI, historical data, and global pollution models to create a 3-day air quality forecast for the Philippines.
• For information about common air pollutants, check the CDC’s Air Quality page.
• For information about the U.S. Air Quality Index and health guidance, check out the EPA’s AirNow.
• For general health information, visit the “Your Health Abroad” page.

Water Quality:

The Embassy does not recommend drinking tap water in the Philippines. Bottled water and beverages are generally safe, although you should be aware that many restaurants and hotels serve tap water unless bottled water is specifically requested. Be aware that ice for drinks may be made using tap water.

Adventure Travel:

• Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about Adventure Travel.

Road Conditions and Safety: Vehicle traffic is dense and unpredictable. The road system is frequently congested, and drivers are often undisciplined. Driving may be risky if you are not used to Philippine road conditions. Avoid driving off the national highways and other paved roads, especially at night. Be extra vigilant when crossing the street. Do not expect vehicles to stop for pedestrians.

Traffic Laws: Always have a valid driver’s license and relevant documents with you when driving and familiarize yourself with local traffic laws.

Accidents: If you are involved in an accident, contact the local police.  Stay inside your car until the police arrive before engaging with the other driver. Do not attempt to negotiate with drivers until police arrive. Drivers often ignore or do not yield to emergency vehicles, which may delay their arrival to the scene of an accident.

Public Transportation: U.S. embassy personnel are not permitted to use public buses, jeepneys, shared taxis, or light rail due to safety and security concerns. 

U.S. citizens should exercise caution while traveling by public transportation, including inter-island ferryboats. Avoid overcrowded or unsafe transport. There have been 19 major inter-island ferryboat accidents since 2012, two with significant loss of life. U.S. government employees are advised not to use inter-island ferry boat services unless they are the only means of transportation available. There have also been a series of bus accidents due to poor bus maintenance or driver error. Please refer to our Safety and Security section for more information.

See our Road Safety page for more information. Visit the Philippine Department of Tourism website, the national authority responsible for road safety.

Aviation Safety Oversight: 

The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has found that the Philippines’ Civil Aviation Authority meets international standards for aviation safety oversight.  FAA’s website includes more information on its assessment program.   

Maritime Travel: Mariners and passengers planning travel to the Philippines should check for U.S. Maritime Advisories and Alerts. Information may also be posted