Manila tightens visa policy for Chinese nationals

The Philippine government is tightening its requirements for Chinese nationals applying for Philippine visas, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) announced on Thursday, May 9.

The DFA said that the move is aimed at countering the increasing number of fraudulent applications that Philippine embassies and consulates are receiving.

“It is not related to national security issues,” said DFA Undersecretary Jesus Domingo in a press conference as he clarified that it is not about the country’s ongoing tension with China in the West Philippine Sea.

The country’s action will be good also for Chinese nationals because they are the victims of their compatriots Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator’s (Pogo)related crimes.

It will take effect “starting this week,” Domingo said.

Visa applicants will be required to submit a social insurance certificate as proof of their identities.

The policy is applicable both for individuals and those part of a group. Individuals will have to undergo an interview.

The new policy is based on the best practice “used by other foreign embassies such as Japan, South Korea, US, and UK,” according to Domingo.

“And they also require applicants to submit a social insurance certificate,” he said.

There are other requirements, such as bank statements, a notarized letter of support from a host in the Philippines, if applicable, and hotel and airfare bookings.

“Those traveling on a group tour would have to arrive and depart at the same time,” Domingo said.

He said the Philippine government is hoping to increase the number of Chinese tourists in the country by making the move.