Philippines Introduces E-Visa for Bangladeshis, Ends Tourist Sticker Visa Requirement
The Philippines has announced the introduction of an electronic visa (e-Visa) system for Bangladeshi citizens. As a result, beginning June 8, Bangladeshi travelers wishing to visit the Philippines for tourism purposes can now apply for visas online. Consequently, the traditional sticker visa issuance process for tourist visas is being discontinued.
According to the Philippine Embassy, eligible Bangladeshi nationals traveling for temporary tourism purposes may now submit their applications through the government's official e-Visa platform. Applicants will be required to complete the prescribed online procedures, while visa fees must continue to be paid through the embassy until further notice.
Once an e-Visa is approved and issued, applicants will be able to download it to their personal computers, laptops, or mobile devices. During travel, both digital and printed copies of the approved e-Visa will be accepted by immigration authorities.
The embassy further stated that all travelers must complete online e-Travel registration at least 72 hours before departure for the Philippines. This registration becomes mandatory after e-Visa approval, and travelers are advised to complete it in advance to avoid potential complications at ports of entry.
However, the e-Visa facility is applicable only for tourism-related travel. The visa cannot be converted into any other visa category, nor can the approved period of stay be extended. Individuals intending to travel to the Philippines for higher education, employment, or other long-term purposes will still be required to apply for conventional sticker visas through the embassy.
According to the fee structure published by the embassy, the fee for a single-entry e-Visa has been set at BDT 8,580. A six-month multiple-entry visa will cost BDT 13,860, while a one-year multiple-entry visa will require a fee of BDT 19,140.
The introduction of the e-Visa system is expected to simplify the visa application process, reduce paperwork, and make travel to the Philippines more convenient for Bangladeshi tourists. The move also reflects the growing adoption of digital immigration and consular services worldwide.
//DBTech/BTO/MI/OR//
