Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, July 5) — The country is set to launch its e-visa system soon, making it easier for foreigners to visit the Philippines, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said on Wednesday.
In a press briefing, Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Jesus Domingo said the e-visa system is scheduled for implementation by the third quarter of the year, or by end-September at the latest.
“The Philippine e-visa system will allow foreign nationals to apply for appropriate Philippine visas remotely through personal computers, laptops, and mobile devices,” Domingo said.
“This would make the visa application process faster, more efficient and convenient for foreign nationals who wish to visit the Philippines for touristic and business purposes,” he added.
Malacañang earlier said the program, which allows tourists to apply for temporary visas online, is only currently enjoyed by Taiwanese nationals.
Secretary Ivan John Uy of the Department of Information and Communications Technology previously explained that expanding the program would take time, as “there is so much anti-fraud element that needs to be consolidated with the platform,” and considering the processes needed to connect other nations with the system.
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