• The Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco announced the initiation of electronic visas (e-Visas) for Chinese nationals starting in November 2025.

“The suspension of the e-Visa system in 2023 had a significant and measurable impact on our ability to meet tourism targets, particularly from one of our strongest pre-pandemic markets,” stated Secretary Frasco.

This decision responds to ongoing market demand and was made necessary by prior limitations. The e-Visa system is expected to simplify travel for visitors and revive confidence in the tourism sector.

“While we do not expect immediate surges in arrivals…” the DOT chief mentioned, emphasizing future improvements in the travel experience.

Before the pandemic, China was a primary source of tourists to the Philippines, and the reintroduction of the e-Visa aims to restore that flow.

As of September 2025, the Philippines welcomed over 203,923 Chinese visitors. The DOT is also working on additional initiatives, such as a digital nomad visa, to enhance tourism appeal.