Attention: Passengers traveling to the Philippines! e-Travel Registration System Full Scale Implementation Starting May 1 [Philippine One-Stop Electronic Travel Declaration System]

Streamlined Departure Process: Paper Departure Cards No Longer Required for Travelers Leaving the Country Starting May 1, 2023

Travelers departing from the Philippines will no longer need to fill out paper departure cards as a new measure will be implemented from May 1, 2023. Instead, passengers will be able to complete an e-departure form via the online portal eTravel (https://etravel.gov.ph).

The eTravel is a single data collection platform for arriving and departing passengers that establishes integrated border control, health surveillance and economic data analysis.

Letter notice by the Bureau of Immigration dated 30 March 2023 regarding the full-scale implementation of the e-Travel system.

The Bureau of Immigration (BI) stated that this change aims to reduce the requirements for departing passengers, making the process more efficient. The eTravel platform will eventually be used for both arriving and departing passengers, according to BI Commissioner Norman Tansingco.

By answering the e-departure form online, travelers can save precious minutes. However, registration on the eTravel platform can only be done within 72 hours (around three days) prior to the arrival or departure from the Philippines. Upon registration, an eTravel QR Code will be generated, which will be presented and scanned at the airport counters. This streamlined process aims to provide a more convenient and modernized departure experience for travelers.

IMPORTANT NOTE: BEWARE OF eTravel SCAMS

The Bureau of Immigration warned the public to be wary of scammers who have put up websites that mirror their eTravel website and charge as much as P6,000 per person.

It reminded the public that online registration to eTravel is free of charge.

New Portal for e-Travel Registration to Replace e-ARRIVAL CARD for Travelers

eTravel website Home interface

It is important to note that e-Travel Registration is now a mandatory requirement for travelers arriving in the Philippines, as mandated by the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID).

The new e-Travel Registration platform will be easier to fill out and require less information, aligning with the decision of Philippine health authorities to simplify the arrival process. The user-friendly interface of the new portal will soon be integrated with the system requirements of the Immigration and Customs authorities.

To avoid long lines and delays at the airport, it is highly recommended to complete the e-Travel Registration within 72 hours prior to departure from your country of origin. However, if you are unable to do so, personnel from the Philippine Bureau of Quarantine (BOQ) and airport staff will be available to assist you in completing and uploading the e-Travel Registration upon your arrival in the Philippines.

Reminder for OFWs to Register Online before Traveling

The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) is reminding overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) who are planning to return home for summer vacation to register online before their scheduled trips.

There have been mixed reactions from OFWs regarding the e-travel system, with some expressing no issues, while others are complaining about what they perceive as excessive requirements imposed by the government.

The DMW has noted that starting in May, the Bureau of Immigration (BI) will discontinue the use of paper-based arrival and departure cards. The BI had previously announced that travelers will be required to fill out their departure and arrival cards online, as part of the transition away from paper-based processes.

How to Get eTRAVEL QR CODE Online (Arrival Card) - Tagalog Step by Step Guide

Collaborative Government Effort to Digitize Processes: Online Portal Simplifies Traveler Documentation

Multiple government agencies, including the DICT, DOT, DOJ, DOH, and others, have joined forces in a project aimed at digitalizing government processes and forms. As part of this initiative, an online portal has been established with a "save" feature that enables users to retrieve their previously entered details. This eliminates the need to repeatedly input information such as birthdate, passport number, and more, when embarking on multiple international trips.

"This marks a significant stride in streamlining documentation for departing travelers, resulting in faster and more efficient immigration processing," stated Tansingco, Commissioner of the BI. The BI also emphasized that access to the eTravel website is completely free of charge, and no bank details, credit card numbers, or online payments are required from users of the website. This collaborative effort by various government agencies aims to modernize and simplify government processes for the benefit of travelers.

BI's Paperless Transaction: Benefits for Environment, Data Accuracy, and Traveler Experience

The recent implementation of paperless transactions by the BI brings about positive news. Beyond the expedited process, it also translates to significant savings in resources and costs associated with printing tons of departure cards, which may or may not be utilized. Undoubtedly, this is a commendable step towards environmental conservation.

Moreover, the digitalization of details enables the BI to gather more accurate data, enhance passenger screening, and promptly detect any irregularities or discrepancies. These digital tools aid BI personnel in fulfilling their mandate to combat human trafficking, illegal recruitment, and unlawful border entries/departures.

This development also aligns the Philippines with other countries that have shifted away from paper-based processes. Many airports worldwide now utilize digital platforms, including apps or websites with user-friendly tabs for inputting responses, resulting in a safer, contactless experience, especially in light of the lessons learned from the pandemic.

As you plan your future travels, be sure to bookmark the website (https://etravel.gov.ph) for a time-saving, eco-friendly, and enhanced travel experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

In response to the IATF directive eArrivalCard will be officially replaced by eTravel which incorporates the health declaration checklist.

What is IATF?

The Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID) is a task force organized by the Government of the Philippines to respond to affairs concerning emerging infectious diseases in the country. The IATF-EID convened in January 2020 to address the growing viral outbreak in Wuhan, China which was eventually called COVID-19. On March 9, 2020, President Duterte called the IATF-EID amidst the rising cases of COVID-19 in the Philippines. The IATF-EID is composed of the following executive departments and agencies:

Chair: Department of Health

Co-Chair: Department of National Defense

Members: Department of Agriculture; Department of Budget and Management; Department of Education; Department of Finance; Department of Foreign Affairs; Department of Information and Communications Technology; Department of the Interior and Local Government; Department of Justice; Department of Labor and Employment; Department of Migrant Workers; Department of Public Works and Highways; Department of Science and Technology; Department of Social Welfare and Development; Department of the Interior and Local Government; Department of Tourism; Department of Trade and Industry; Department of Transportation; Office of the Executive Secretary; Office of the Press Secretary; Presidential Management Staff; Office of the Special Assistant to the President; Commission on Higher Education; Technical Education and Skills Development Authority; National Economic and Development Authority; Office of the Chief Presidential Legal Counsel; and Civil Service Commission.

What are the Entry Requirements in the Philippines?

First you are required to register individually to the eTravel platform and show proof of eTravel registration upon checkin/boarding and on arrival in the Philippines.

Second, as per IATF Resolution No. 168, effective May 30, 2022 and BOQ Advisory on the ENTRY, QUARANTINE AND TESTING REQUIREMENTS FOR ARRIVING FILIPINO PASSENGERS dated September 12, 2022, all international travelers bound to the Philippines may NO LONGER BE REQUIRED to undergo facility-based quarantine and EXEMPTED from PRESENTING Pre-departure COVID-19 Negative Test Result (RT-PCR/Antigen Test), ONLY if the following conditions stated herein are met (Click Here):

What does Fully Vaccinated mean?

F“Fully Vaccinated” against COVID-19 is defined as a traveler who has second (2nd) dose in a 2 dose series or a single dose COVID-19 vaccine MORE THAN Fourteen (14) days prior to the date and time of departure from the country of origin/port of embarkation (“Primary Series COVID-19 Vaccination”).

What does Booster mean?

“Booster” shot shall refer to doses administered to a vaccinated population that has completed a primary vaccination series.

Why do I need to register to the eTravel?

Starting 01 September 2021, all incoming travelers to the Philippines are advised to use the eTravel registration system as mandated by IATF Resolution No. 135 dated 26 August 2021.

What is the official website of the eTravel?

The https://etravel.gov.ph/ is the ONLY OFFICIAL registration website for all international inbound travelers to the Philippines.

Do I need to pay for the registration of eTravel?

eTravel registration is FREE OF CHARGE and does not collect or require any form of online payment. BEWARE of fake, fraudulent, or scam websites and entities which require payment upon registration.

Do I need to download an application to use the eTravel?

No. eTravel is an information system that is mobile responsive, and a web based online platform. To use the eTravel, all you need is a smartphone or tablet or laptop or personal computer. You can open the eTravel using a mobile or computer internet browser.

Do I need an internet connection to use the eTravel?

Yes. eTravel is an online platform and therefore can only be used when you have an internet access. It is highly recommended to use eTravel while you have good and stable internet connection.

Can I register few days before the flight (before I travel)?

Yes. You may only register within 3 days (or 72 hours) prior to your arrival in the Philippines. Travelers are enjoined to present their proof of valid eTravel registration prior to flight boarding. It is important that your recent declaration of health condition is within 72 hours before arrival.

Is all information asked in the eTravel relevant to Health Declaration Checklist requirement?

Yes. Although some questions were added so that the system can determine your category based on the IATF requirements such as age, traveler classification, itinerary, etc. so you can be categorized and easily assisted/guided by the health border authorities when you arrive at the airport or seaport.

What is eHDC?

It stands for "electronic Health Declaration Card". This is the same yellow paper form which was previously used to be filled out manually by all arriving travelers in the Philippines and submitted to BOQ upon arrival. Instead of this, the eTravel replaces it digitally and your proof of registration and submission is the QR Code form that you receive upon successful registration with the eTravel.

What is the difference between the Green QR Code and Red QR Code of eTravel?

The GREEN QR Code is issued by the eTravel system when your submission of the required information and attachments are complete and complies with the IATF latest entry protocols (IATF Resolution No. 2, s. 2022). On the other hand, you will be issued a Reg QR Code in case you have missing requirements and you will be interviewed upon arrival at the airport by a BOQ personnel to manually verify and determine if you will be required to undergo facility-based quarantine and RT-PCR Testing.

What do I need to do after I register?

Take a screenshot or Download of your personal QR Code before closing or exiting the eTravel webiste or application. You will be required to show this QR code to an airline representative before being allowed to board your flight. Upon arrival in the Philippines, you must present this QR code to the BOQ Quarantine officers for verification.

What happens if I have a QR Code issued upon successful registration with eTravel?

If you received a QR Code upon registration with eTravel, you are pre-qualified for the express lane upon your arrival at the airport/seaport. This means that there’s no need to show the other documents to the Quarantine Officer. However, the data are still reviewed and verified by the BOQ before your actual arrival at the airport in case you have submitted wrongful information and/or the supporting documents you have submitted or uploaded, such as the vaccination or COVID-19 test, is incomplete or incorrect, you will be flagged by the BOQ and may still be required to undergo manual verification upon arrival. Therefore, ensure that you have properly filled out your information and submitted the correct document.

What happens if I have a Red QR Code issued upon successful registration with eTravel?

You will be manually verified by the Quarantine Officers and determine if you are compliant with the entry protocol set by the Philippine Government. It is necessary to show the specific documents which will be asked from you by the officer.

What is “Express Lane”?

Express lane has been included in the eTravel process to provide further convenience to the health protocol compliant international inbound travelers. When you are issued a Green QR Code and the information and supporting documents you have submitted during online registration has been approved, you are qualified in the express lane where your Green QR Code will be scanned and tagged for your arrival date and time. There may be no further interview or need for submission of any documents.

What is Manual Process?

Manual process is required for travelers issued with a Red QR Code. This is to verify and determine if you are compliant with the health protocol requirements of entering the Philippines. This also happens when your submitted information or uploaded documents needed evaluation upon arrival.

Does it automatically mean that I will be quarantined if I am manually processed upon arrival by BOQ?

No. If BOQ is able to verify your information and found you to be compliant based on the entry requirements, you will be advised to proceed to Immigration without the need for facility-based quarantine.

Can I print my eTravel personal QR code instead of screenshot?

Yes. You can print this for presentation at airport/seaport of origin and upon arrival in the Philippines. Yet again, for your convenience, you may as well take a screenshot or click download to save your eTravel personal QR code in your smartphone for presentation at the airport/seaport and upon arrival in the Philippines.

I lost the screenshot of my personal QR Code, what do I do?

If you registered within 72 hours prior to your arrival to the Philippines, you may retrieve your personal QR Code and view some of your details using the "Edit Registration” tab in the eTravel website. To open my profile, go to the eTravel etravel.gov.ph/search and enter your reference number and date of birth then press the CONTINUE button as shown in the blue box below.

I made a mistake. Can I still edit my information after I have successfully registered?

For as long as you have not been processed, verified, and tagged as arrived by the border health authorities (BOQ) in the eTravel you may still change some of your information in the eTravel through the “Edit Registration” tab in the eTravel website. You will not be able to edit your data once you have arrived, verified and tagged as arrived by the Quarantine Officer. The editable information are mainly the data that is needed during the issuance of your quarantine certificate (i.e. arrival date, address, other personal info).

I have registered more than once in the eTravel for my travel, which QR code should I use?

You may use either of the QR Code but you should only choose one to present upon your arrival. Only the verified QR Code by BOQ upon your arrival at the airport/seaport is valid for your travel. Presenting different QR code during the process may cause delay or inconvenience for you.

Why can I not use the same QR Code next flight?

In compliance with the Republic Act No. 10173 (otherwise known as the “Data Privacy Act”), all sensitive personal information is immediately deleted from the eTravel database after you have been completely processed based on the quarantine and health protocol set by the Government in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and for disease surveillance and response. Your personal eTravel QR Code is therefore issued per transaction in the system and new registration is required for each travel.

In which cases will I be required to undergo facility-based quarantine?

You will be required to undergo Quarantine if you are one of the following:

1. If you are exhibiting fever or other signs or symptoms related to COVID-19, Monkeypox or other infectious disease pending test confirmation.

2. If you tested POSITIVE on Antigen/RT-PCR Test.

3. If you are partially vaccinated against COVID-19; or

4. If you have signs or symptoms of COVID-19; or

5. If you are a minor but your accompanying parents or guardian is either of the above;

For complete guidance and information about entry requirements, please click here.

How many days is the quarantine period?

1. FULLY VACCINATED- 7 days

2. PARTIALLY/UNVACCINATED- 10 days

What if the result of my COVID-19 RT-PCR is positive?

You will receive a call from the BOQ Operation Center to give instructions on your isolation procedure.

Which COVID-19 laboratory will test me?

There are twelve (12) accredited laboratories for testing of international inbound traveler to ensure service level agreement. These laboratories are required to visit and conduct testing at your quarantine hotels and are mandated to release the result within 24 hours from the time of testing.

Here are the list of laboratories:

1. AL MOLECULAR DIAGNOSTIC LABORATORY

2. CHINESE GENERAL HOSPITAL AND MEDICAL CENTER

3. DETOXICARE MOLECULAR DIAGNOSTICS LABORATORY

4. FIRSTAIDE DIAGNOSTIC CENTER

5. INTRAMUROS MOLECULAR LABORATORY

6. JT CENICA MEDICAL HEALTH SYSTEM

7. KAIROS DIAGNOSTIC LABORATORY

8. PHILIPPINE AIRPORT DIAGNOSTIC LABORATORY

9. PHILIPPINE RED CROSS

10. SAFEGUARD DNA DIAGNOSTICS LABORATORY

11. THE LORDS GRACE MEDICAL AND INDUSTRIAL CLINIC

Can I select which laboratory I will be tested?

Yes, but you may only choose from the list of accredited laboratories. You can select the laboratory when you are processed by the BOQ at the airport/seaport of your arrival. You will be asked by BOQ to choose from the list your preferred laboratory.

What will I present as proof that I have completed the quarantine requirement?

You will need the BOQ Quarantine Certificate as proof of your quarantine completion. You will not be allowed by the Hotel to check out unless you are able to show valid Quarantine Certificate from BOQ.

How do I get the BOQ Quarantine Certificate?

You are only able to get the BOQ Quarantine Certificate if you have been tested by an accredited COVID-19 laboratory and you are found NEGATIVE from COVID-19. BOQ Quarantine Certificate will be issued by the BOQ Medical Team in charge at the isolation facility. Your Quarantine Certificate will only be available if your test is NEGATIVE.