Wait, What? Chinese Nationals Can Now Enter the Philippines Visa-Free
File this under: we didn’t see that coming.
Published on Jan 15, 2026
(SPOT.ph) In a surprise announcement, Chinese nationals will now be allowed to enter the Philippines without a visa. Yes, really.
The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said Chinese travelers visiting for tourism or business may stay for up to 14 days under the new visa-free policy starting January 16. The length of stay is strictly non-extendable.
They may only avail of the privilege if they arrive through Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Metro Manila or Mactan-Cebu International Airport in Cebu. Travelers entering through other airports or seaports will still be required to secure a visa in advance.
Upon arrival, travelers must present a passport valid for at least six months beyond their intended stay, confirmed hotel accommodation or booking, and a return or onward ticket to their next destination. The DFA added that background checks will continue, noting that record screening remains in place “to ensure that security and public order are maintained.”
China ranks sixth among the Philippines’ top sources of inbound travelers as of December 20, 2025, with 262,144 arrivals—trailing behind South Korea, the United States, Japan, Australia, and Canada.
Also read: Game Over: Marcos Bans POGOs in Surprise SONA Move
A bid to "strengthen people-to-people exchanges between the Philippines and China"
The DFA said the visa-free policy is in line with President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s directive “to facilitate trade, investments, and tourism, and to strengthen people-to-people exchanges between the Philippines and China.”
Over on social media, the response has been far less diplomatic. The comments sections under the announcement were filled with variations of the same concerns.
“And how will DFA monitor where they are?”
“POGO operations is waving”
“What kind of logic was used to arrive at this decision?”
“Why? Is this reciprocal?”
The policy shift lands at a time when Chinese-linked activities are still very much under the microscope. Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGO) investigations are ongoing, West Philippine Sea tensions are far from settled, and high-profile cases like one involving former Bamban Mayor Alice Guo are still lingering in public discourse.
In any case, the visa-free policy will run for one year, after which it will be reviewed based on implementation and enforcement.
Also read: H Club: A Night Inside A Chinese Superclub in Makati
Micah believes that writing is always political. Beyond the byline, you’ll find her bruising herself on a pole or doting on her beagle. Reach her at micah@spot.ph.