Important Visa Information

We’re excited to welcome attendees from all over the world to Manila, Philippines, for WordCamp Asia 2025! To help you prepare for your trip, we’ve gathered the necessary visa information to ensure a smooth journey.

Important: This information is intended for general guidance. Visa policies may vary depending on your nationality, so we strongly recommend checking with your nearest Philippine embassy or immigration office for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding your specific visa requirements.

Key Steps Before Traveling:

  • Passport Validity: Your passport must be valid for at least six months from your date of arrival in the Philippines.
  • Proof of Onward Travel: Immigration officials may require proof of onward travel, so ensure you have a valid return or onward ticket to your home country or next destination.

Visa-Free Entry

The Philippines allows visa-free entry to citizens of many countries for specific periods. Depending on your nationality, you can stay in the Philippines for:

  • Up to 59 days: Brazil, Israel
  • Up to 30 days: ASEAN countries, Japan, South Korea, the USA, Canada, Australia, most European Union countries, and many others
  • Up to 14 days: Taiwan, Hong Kong SAR, Macau SAR
  • Up to 7 days: Holders of Macau-Portuguese or Macau-British passports

A full list of visa-exempt countries and more details are available on the Philippine Bureau of Immigration website.

Important Notes:

  • Visitors must have a return or onward ticket to qualify for visa-free entry.
  • Extensions: If you wish to stay beyond the visa-free period, you can apply for a visa extension at any Bureau of Immigration office in the Philippines.

Visa Requirements for Non-Exempt Countries

If your country is not on the visa-exempt list, you will need to apply for a visa before traveling to the Philippines. Visa processing times may vary, so it’s best to apply well in advance of your planned trip. Typical visa requirements include:

  • Completed visa application form
  • Passport valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay
  • Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or address of where you’ll be staying)
  • Return or onward ticket
  • Proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay
  • Visa fee (varies by country)

Special Visa Exemptions

  • Chinese Nationals: Chinese nationals holding valid visas issued by Australia, Canada, Japan, the United States, or Schengen Area countries may enter the Philippines for up to 7 days without a Philippine visa.
  • Indian Nationals: Indian nationals with a valid tourist, business, or resident visa from Australia, Canada, Japan, Singapore, the UK, the US, or Schengen Area countries may enter and stay in the Philippines for up to 14 days without a visa.
  • Taiwanese Nationals: Citizens of Taiwan can apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) online through the Manila Economic and Cultural Office (MECO) portal. The ETA allows multiple entries with a stay of up to 30 days.

Requesting a Visa Letter for WordCamp Asia

If you need to apply for a visa, WordCamp Asia 2025 organizers can provide a visa letter to support your application. This letter will confirm your participation in the event, along with details such as event dates and purpose.

How to Request a Visa Letter:

  • After completing your WordCamp Asia registration, you will be able to generate a visa letter through the system.
  • Ensure that your ticket and passport names match to avoid any discrepancies during the visa application process.

Read the instructions above and request your visa invitation letter here.

Additional Visa Assistance for Attendees

WordCamp Asia 2025 is endorsed by the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) of the Philippines, and they are committed to supporting visa-related inquiries. Should you require additional help or face visa-related challenges, please contact asia@wordcamp.org for assistance.

Country-Specific Information

Visa requirements and exemptions may differ based on your nationality. For more detailed information, check the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs website or contact your local embassy.

Visa Extensions

If you wish to extend your stay in the Philippines beyond the visa-free period, you can apply for a visa extension at the Bureau of Immigration in the Philippines. Visa extensions are generally granted for an additional 29 to 59 days, depending on your initial entry status.

Important Reminders

  • Review the visa requirements for your country well before your travel date.
  • Have your accommodation and flight details ready for your visa application.
  • Keep your passport, visa letter, and other important travel documents easily accessible when traveling.

Still Have Questions?

We’re here to help! If you have any questions or concerns about your visa application, feel free to reach out to our team at asia@wordcamp.org. We are committed to making your trip to WordCamp Asia 2025 as smooth as possible.

We look forward to welcoming you to Manila for an amazing WordCamp experience!