Are you traveling abroad soon? Take note that an updated list of travel requirements for outbound travelers including OFWs from the Philippines has been released which will take effect starting September 3, 2023. According to the revised guidelines, self-financed travelers must now provide extra documents to support their travel plans. These documents include a confirmed return or roundtrip ticket, proof of hotel reservation or lodging arrangements, evidence of financial capability or a reliable income source, and verification of employment. Make sure to have this documents to avoid getting offloaded.
These new additions as reported by the Philippine Information Agency accompany the standard travel requirements, and they have been put in place to enhance the overall travel process for outbound travelers. With this in mind, make sure you’re well-prepared to enjoy a seamless journey abroad.
Traveling Abroad from the PH? Check out the Updated List of Document Requirements this 2023
To give you a refresher, here are the basic documents required for overseas travel:
- Ensure your passport is valid for at least six (6) months from your departure date.
- Make sure you have the appropriate visa, if needed.
- Have your boarding pass ready for a hassle-free journey.
- Remember to secure a confirmed return or roundtrip ticket, if required.
Here are the additional supporting documents per category:
Tourists: Self-Funded Travelers
- Provide proof of your accommodation
- Demonstrate your financial capacity or source of income.
- Show evidence of employment.
- If sponsored by a relative abroad within the 1st civil degree:
- Present original birth or marriage certificates or reports issued by PSA.
- Provide copies of the sponsor’s passport and valid work visa/residence permit.
- Overseas Employment Certificate required for OFW sponsors.
- If sponsored by a relative abroad up to the 4th civil degree of consanguinity or affinity:
- Furnish a notarized Original Affidavit of Support and Guarantee.
- Include a confirmed return or roundtrip ticket.
- Provide birth or marriage certificates/report showing your relationship with the sponsor.
Tourists: Sponsored by Non-Relative or Legal Entity
- Obtain a Notarized Original Affidavit of Support and Guarantee.
- Present substantial proof of the relationship between you and the sponsor.
- Have a confirmed return or roundtrip ticket.
- If sponsored by a legal/juridical entity, provide registration papers of the sponsor.
Tourists: Traveling with a Local Sponsor
- Have a duly notarized affidavit executed by your local sponsor.
- Show substantial proof of your relationship.
- Include a copy of your sponsor’s return ticket consistent with your travel plans.
Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs)
- OFWs departing for the first time need:
- OEC or OFW clearance issued by DMW.
- Valid employment visa or work permit.
- Employment contract.
- Visa usage undertaking or manpower request.
- Balik-Manggagawa (BM) OFWs:
- Valid employment visa or work permit.
- OEC or OFW clearance issued on-site or BM OEC Exemption.
- Proof of employment.
- Direct-Hire OFWs:
- OEC, E-receipt, or OFW Clearance.
- Valid employment visa or work permit.
- OFWs Requiring Special Travel Exit Clearance:
- Locally employed seafarers on a Philippine Registered Ship’s conduction from a foreign port to the Philippines.
Travel Guidelines Set for Departure Delays, Secondary Inspections
The recently published guidelines have outlined scenarios in which immigration officers can delay a passenger’s departure.
These include instances where passengers decline secondary inspection, suspicions arise regarding travel intent, discrepancies or insufficiencies are found in travel or supporting papers, pertinent travel details are concealed or misrepresented, fraudulent or altered travel documents are presented, prior deferred-departure conditions are not met, or there are concerns of potential human trafficking or illegal recruitment.
The Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking (IACAT) emphasizes that secondary inspections should ideally be completed within 15 minutes. This timeline begins with the start of the interview led by the secondary inspection officer.
The IACAT underscores the importance of adhering to these guidelines, viewing them not only as administrative protocols but also as a tangible embodiment of their commitment to safeguarding the rights and welfare of fellow Filipinos.
In cases of human trafficking, the IACAT has made available contact information for reporting incidents: “Report Human Trafficking at 1343 Action line if within Metro Manila or (02) 1343 if outside Metro Manila.”
You may find the official notice from the PCOO on this post via Facebook:
In conclusion, staying informed about the updated travel requirements is crucial for a smooth journey from the Philippines. These guidelines, effective September 3, aim to streamline outbound travel and ensure a hassle-free experience for all.
Whether you’re a tourist or an overseas Filipino worker, understanding the necessary documents and procedures will help you prepare effectively.
Remember to adhere to the instructions during inspections, with the Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking (IACAT) emphasizing the significance of timely secondary inspections.
By following these guidelines, we not only navigate administrative processes but also contribute to the protection of our fellow Filipinos’ rights and well-being.
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