Can I enter the country with a tourist visa?

Can I enter the country with a tourist visa?

Short Answer: Yes, most students enter the Philippines using a tourist visa.

Some nationalities are visa-exempt, while others must apply in advance. 3D ACADEMY welcomes students of all nationalities and supports visa extension during your stay.

Who Can Enter the Philippines Without a Visa?

As of 2025, citizens of over 150 countries can enter the Philippines visa-free for 30 days for tourism or short-term study, including:

• Japan

• South Korea

• Taiwan

• Saudi Arabia

• United States

• European Union countries

• Australia

• Singapore

• Thailand

• and many more

These students simply receive a 30-day tourist stamp upon arrival at the airport. No application is needed in advance.

✅ 3D ACADEMY students from these countries usually arrive with only a valid passport and return/onward flight ticket.

What If My Country Requires a Visa?

If you’re from a country not included in the visa-free list, you’ll need to apply for a tourist visa (9a visa) in advance at the Philippine embassy or consulate in your home country.

This typically requires:

• Valid passport (at least 6 months validity)

• Completed visa application form

• Passport-size photos

• Flight itinerary

• Proof of funds

• Possibly an invitation letter from 3D ACADEMY (we can provide this upon request)

Processing time varies by country, so apply at least 3–4 weeks before your departure.

✈️ What Documents Do I Need at the Airport?

When entering the Philippines with a tourist visa (or visa-free), you’ll need to present:

• ✅ Valid passport (with at least 6 months validity)

• ✅ Return or onward flight ticket (within 30 days)

• ✅ Hotel or school address (you can use 3D ACADEMY’s address)

• ✅ Proof of sufficient funds (occasionally checked)

• ❌ No vaccine or PCR test is required as of 2025 (subject to change)

Important: Even visa-free travelers must show a return or onward ticket.
If you’re planning to extend your stay beyond 30 days, you can:

• Purchase a refundable or low-cost ticket

• Use “dummy ticket” services (some students choose this)

• Book a flight out of the Philippines to another country

Can I Study on a Tourist Visa?

Yes! The Philippines allows short-term language study at schools like 3D ACADEMY while on a tourist visa, as long as the student:

• Obtains a Special Study Permit (SSP) after arrival

• Follows visa extension procedures if staying more than 30 days

3D ACADEMY will help you apply for the SSP, which is legally required for all foreign students (except Filipinos). It costs PHP 12,540 and is valid for 3 months.

✅ Even if you stay for only 2–3 weeks, you still need the SSP.
✅ This is a separate document from your visa.

What If I Stay Longer Than 30 Days?

If you plan to study for more than 30 days, you must extend your tourist visa in the Philippines.
3D ACADEMY will guide you through the visa extension process.

Visa Extension Schedule:

Each extension takes about 5 business days, and your passport will be held by immigration during processing. Travel is not allowed during this time.

You can apply for multiple extensions at once to save time.

How Does 3D ACADEMY Help With Visas?

Our experienced staff will support you every step of the way:

• Explain visa and SSP requirements during orientation

• Collect your documents and fees

• Submit your application to the immigration office

• Return your passport and documents when processing is complete

• Assist with any questions or concerns

We also provide:

• Invitation letters if needed for your visa application

• Support for ACR I-Card (required if staying over 59 days)

✅ Many students say our visa support is “stress-free” and “very professional.”

Important Reminders

Real Student Experiences

“I’m from Japan and entered without a visa. The school helped me with everything after arrival.”
— Rika, Japan

“I had to get a visa before leaving India. 3D ACADEMY gave me a letter and instructions—it was easy.”
— Arjun, India

“My passport was with immigration for a few days during extension, but staff kept me updated and I got it back on time.”
— Lisa, Germany

✅ Summary: Can I Enter with a Tourist Visa?

✈️ Final Note

Entering the Philippines with a tourist visa is simple and flexible. Whether you’re planning a short-term language stay or a long-term study program, 3D ACADEMY will assist you from day one—with visa paperwork, SSP registration, and everything else.

Just bring your passport, onward ticket, and a passion for learning. We’ll handle the rest.

About 3D ACADEMY

3D ACADEMY is an international English language school located in Cebu City, Philippines. Founded in 2002, our mission is to provide practical, affordable, and personalized English education for students from around the world.

Every year, we welcome learners from over 20 countries—including Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, China, Vietnam, Saudi Arabia, Russia, Brazil, and more—all sharing one goal: to improve their English communication skills in a global environment.

Our Philosophy: Learn English by Using English

At 3D ACADEMY, we believe that language is learned through real-life use, not just theory. That’s why we focus on speaking-based training through:

• One-on-one (1:1) classes with professional teachers

• Small group classes to build confidence and fluency

• Customized lesson plans based on your goals and level

• Practical English for daily life, work, and travel

Whether you’re a complete beginner or preparing for exams like TOEIC or IELTS, we have a program for you.

Our Programs

We offer a wide range of English courses to meet different needs:

• General ESL (English as a Second Language)

• Power Speaking / Intensive Courses

• TOEIC & IELTS Preparation

• Business English

• Working Holiday Preparation

• Junior / Family Courses

• Optional add-on classes (1:1 or group)

Our classes are conducted by experienced, friendly teachers who specialize in helping international students achieve fast, practical results.

Dormitories & Campus Life

3D ACADEMY offers two types of dormitory options:

• On-campus dormitories – convenient and social

• Hotel-style residences – more privacy and comfort

All facilities include:

• Classrooms with air-conditioning

• Cafeteria with international meals

• Wi-Fi access

• 24/7 security

• Study lounges and communal areas

• Gym access

Students enjoy a safe, comfortable, and active lifestyle while learning English full-time.

‍⚕️ Health & Safety Support

We care about your well-being. At 3D ACADEMY:

• A licensed doctor visits the school daily (Mon–Fri) for on-site medical consultations

• If you have international insurance, cashless treatment is available

• Our multilingual staff (Japanese, Arabic, Chinese) are always ready to support you with health, immigration, or daily life issues

A Truly International Experience

Studying at 3D ACADEMY means more than just attending classes. You’ll be part of a vibrant, international student community. Here, you can:

• Make friends from many countries

• Practice English every day—in and out of the classroom

• Join island trips, cultural activities, and weekend excursions

• Discover the beauty and warmth of Cebu and Filipino culture

✅ Why Choose 3D ACADEMY?

• ✅ Affordable and flexible tuition plans

• ✅ One-on-one classes tailored to your level

• ✅ Full visa and SSP support

• ✅ English-friendly environment + mother tongue support

• ✅ Excellent location near shops, restaurants, and beaches

✈️ Start Your Journey with Us

Whether you’re preparing for university, career advancement, working holidays, or personal growth, 3D ACADEMY is the perfect place to begin.

We don’t just teach English—we build confidence, community, and unforgettable experiences.

Let your English journey start here in Cebu, with 3D ACADEMY.