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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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
Extension | Validity | Fee (PHP) |
---|---|---|
1st | Up to 59 days total | 4,440 |
2nd | Up to 89 days | 5,710 |
3rd | Up to 119 days | 4,240 |
4th | Up to 149 days | 4,240 |
5th | Up to 179 days | 4,240 |
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.
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.”
✅ Tip | Description |
---|---|
✔️ Passport Validity | Must be valid for at least 6 months on arrival |
✔️ Onward Ticket | Immigration may not allow entry without proof of exit |
✔️ Tourist Visa Validity | Initial 30 days can be extended up to 6 months or more |
✔️ Visa Overstay | Results in fines or deportation—don’t risk it |
✔️ Don’t Forget SSP | Required for all foreign students (regardless of nationality) |
“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
✅ Topic | Answer |
---|---|
Can I enter visa-free? | Yes, if you’re from Japan, Korea, Taiwan, Saudi Arabia, etc. |
Do I need to apply in advance? | Only if you’re from a non-exempt country |
Can I study with a tourist visa? | Yes, with an SSP (Special Study Permit) |
Can I extend my stay? | Yes, up to 6 months or more with regular extensions |
Will the school help? | Absolutely. Full visa & SSP support provided |
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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
✅ 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
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.