The new guidelines make it easier for vaccinated and first booster-dosed foreigners to enter the country.
Beginning May 30, 2022, foreigners may enter the country provided they comply with applicable visa requirements and immigration entry and departure requirements. However in addition to this they have to comply with requirements pertaining to COVID-19 vaccination and testing.
Who are Exempted from Pre-Departure Testing Requirements?
The following shall be exempted from any pre-departure testing requirement:
- Foreign nationals aged 18 and above who have received their primary series COVID-19 vaccine AND at least one (1) COVID-19 booster shot.
- Foreign nationals aged 12 to 17 who are fully vaccinated.
- Foreign nationals aged below 12, regardless of their vaccination status, who are accompanied by their parents or guardians.
So for as long as you’re vaccinated and have a booster shot (for 18 years old and above), you will simply just need to show proof therefore of your COVID-19 Vaccinations with Booster (vaccine cards, certification, etc.) on top of your visa and immigration requirements.
To be considered “fully vaccinated” you will need to have received the second (2nd) dose in a 2-dose series (Pfizer, Sinovac, Moderna, etc.) or a single dose (J&J) more than fourteen (14) days prior to the date and time of departure from country of origin.
If Not Vaccinated, What Are the Requirements?
If unvaxxed, you will need to get an RT-PCR or antigen test with a negative result.
If you opt for an RT-PCR test, this needs to be taken within 48 hours prior to the date and time of departure from country of origin.
If you take a rapid antigen test, this needs to be taken from a laboratory-based, certified/accredited healthcare facility/clinic/laboratory/pharmacy within 24 hours prior to date and time of departure from country of origin.
If you have connecting flights/lay-overs, you need to make sure you do not leave the airport premises or has not been admitted in another country during lay-over. Otherwise you may need to take the test again.
Requirements For Filipino Nationals Entering the Philippines?
The requirements for Filipino nationals coming into the Philippines remain the same as above.
To read the full-text of the updated guidelines from the IATF (IATF Resolution No. 168 s 2022). Please click here.