Immigration News - Business Travel, Global Entry, Philippines Philippines | Visa-free entry for Chinese nationals Share this article LinkedIn Facebook X (Twitter) January 20, 2026 The Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs announced that Chinese nationals may enter the Philippines without obtaining a visa for up to 14 days, effective Jan. 16, 2026. Key Points: Visa-free entry applies to Chinese nationals traveling to the Philippines strictly for tourism or business. The 14-day stay is nonextendable and nonconvertible to any other Philippine visa category. Visa-free entry is valid only through Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) and Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA). To receive visa-free entry, Chinese nationals must provide: Passport valid for at least six months beyond the visit timeframe Confirmed hotel accommodation Return or onward ticket to the next country of destination According to the announcement, “checks on derogatory records of travelers will continue to apply.” The visa-free entry arrangement will be in effect for one year and reviewed accordingly before it expires. This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice Group. Copyright © 2026 Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. All rights reserved. Reprinting or digital redistribution to the public is permitted only with the express written permission of Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. For inquiries, please contact copyright@bal.com.