Quick Facts

Most foreign passports do not require visas for stays under 21 days. Three-month visas can be obtained in advance. These usually cost around USD 35.

For more detailed information in visa requirements, please visit the Republic of the Philippines website below.

Click here to view visa requirements from Bureau of Immigration, Philippines

The national currency of the Philippines is the Philippine peso (PHP).

Coins come in denominations of 5, 10 and 25 centavos; 1, 5 and 10 pesos; and 20, 50, 100, 200, 500 and 1,000 notes.

Cash and travellers cheques can be exchanged in licensed exchange offices and international hotels.

Here are the most recent exchange rates for some common currencies.

PHP 1.00 equals:

A 12% VAT tax applies to all food, shopping and hotel purchases in Manila.

A service charge of 10% is usually added to all hotel and restaurant bills in Manila. If not, a 10% tip is appropriate for waiters.

Bank Hours 
9am - 3pm, Monday to Friday

Office Hours
8am - 5pm, Monday to Friday (Government)
9am - 6pm, Monday to Saturday (Commercial)

Shopping Hours
9am - 9pm, Monday to Sunday

Visitors do not require a health certificate for entry in Manila.

While international medical services in Manila are of a high standard and are readily available, Traders Hotel, Manila, recommends drinking bottled water during your stay. A bottle of water will be provided in your room free of charge.

Light clothing is appropriate for daily wear. Jackets are good to have during rain storms or the occasional cool period.

For formal occasions, men wear coat and tie or a traditional Barong Tagalog (tailored slacks and leather shoes). Women often wear cocktail dresses with a light shawl.

Manila is tropically warm year-round. Temperatures range from 22°C to 33°C (72°F to 92°F). The rainy season is from July to October.