Field guide
eTravel
eTravel is the Philippine government's online declaration for international passengers flying through NAIA. It takes a few minutes, but skipping it can stop you cold at immigration.
You submit eTravel online before you fly. Most international passengers need to file it; domestic flights don't require it at all.
The form takes a few minutes. Fill it out before you leave for the airport, not once you're already in line. You'll get a QR code immigration may check before you board.
You can use the official eTravel website or the eGovPH app. If eTravel is all you need, skip the app - the website works fine and loads faster. Create an account first; you need it before you can submit your declaration.
Start your eTravel declaration
Who needs to complete eTravel?
If you're arriving in the Philippines on an international flight, complete eTravel before you clear immigration. Foreign diplomats, their delegations, holders of 9(e) visas, and their dependents are exempt.
If you're leaving the Philippines, Filipino citizens flying internationally need to complete eTravel too.
Without it, immigration may not let you through the checkpoint.
When should you fill it out?
Submit your declaration within 72 hours of your flight. Do it before you head to the airport so you have time to fix mistakes.
How much does it cost?
eTravel is free. Watch out for websites that charge a fee or mimic the official government pages. Use only the official eTravel website or the eGovPH app.
Do you need to pay travel tax first?
No. You can complete eTravel before paying Philippine Travel Tax.
If you already paid your travel tax online, or if it was included in your ticket, it should show up when you create your travel declaration.
Tips before you submit
Check that your name, passport number, flight details, and travel dates match your documents. Small typos can slow you down later.
After submitting, screenshot your QR code and save it offline so you can show it without a signal.
If you spot a mistake, log back in and check whether you can still update your declaration before your flight.
Once you've filed eTravel, plan how to get to NAIA and check whether you owe travel tax before you head to the airport.
Spot something out of date or off?
Better NAIA is maintained by a small volunteer team. If you've travelled recently and noticed a price, schedule, or route that no longer matches reality (or you want to contribute a guide of your own), please write in.