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Do I Need to Complete eTravel Before Departure?

Do I Need to Complete eTravel Before Departure?

✅ Short Answer:

Yes. All travelers entering the Philippines are required to complete the eTravel registration prior to departure. This includes tourists, students, overseas workers, and returning residents. It is a mandatory online form that replaces the former paper-based arrival card and health declaration form.

The eTravel form must be filled out within 72 hours before your flight, and you will need to present the QR code upon arrival at the airport in the Philippines.

How to Register for eTravel Philippines (2025 Complete Guide with Images)


What is eTravel?

eTravel is the Philippine government’s official electronic travel declaration system, developed to streamline immigration procedures and public health data collection. It replaces several documents previously required at entry, such as:

  • Arrival Card

  • Health Declaration

  • Customs Declaration (in some cases)

The system is completely free, easy to use, and mobile-friendly.

Website: https://etravel.gov.ph


Who Must Complete It?

The eTravel registration is mandatory for all incoming travelers, including:

  • International students (like 3D ACADEMY enrollees)

  • Tourists

  • OFWs (Overseas Filipino Workers)

  • Filipino citizens returning home

  • Foreign residents returning to the Philippines

Children must also be registered. Parents or guardians can fill out the form on behalf of minors.


When Should I Register?

You can complete the eTravel form within 72 hours before your scheduled flight departure. It is recommended to do this 24–48 hours before your flight, not earlier, to ensure that your information is accurate and up to date.

Do not wait until the airport. In many cases, airlines will ask to see your eTravel QR code during check-in, and failing to register in advance may delay your boarding or cause immigration issues upon arrival.


How to Complete eTravel: Step-by-Step

  1. Visit the official website: https://etravel.gov.ph

  2. Select “Arrival Card” and your traveler type (Foreigner, Filipino, etc.)

  3. Fill in your personal information: name, birth date, passport number, etc.

  4. Flight details: airline, flight number, arrival date, point of origin

  5. Destination information: address in the Philippines (use 3D ACADEMY’s address)

  6. Health information: COVID-19 vaccination (if any), symptoms

  7. Submit and download your QR code

Once completed, you will receive a QR code, which must be:

  • Saved on your phone (screenshot or email)

  • Or printed out and carried with you


What Should I Enter for My Address in the Philippines?

When asked for your local address, you should enter the school address:

3D ACADEMY
2nd Floor, La Nivel Hotel, JY Square, Lahug, Cebu City, Philippines

This helps ensure your entry goes smoothly, especially if immigration officers ask about your purpose of stay.


What Happens If I Don’t Register?

If you do not complete the eTravel form:

  • You may face delays at check-in at your departure airport

  • Philippine immigration may require you to fill out the form at the airport, which can take extra time

  • You may be moved to the “non-compliant” lane at immigration, delaying your entry

  • In rare cases, airlines may deny boarding

Registering in advance helps you avoid these problems and ensures a smooth arrival.


Is There an App?

No, there is no official eTravel app. The official system is a web-based platform, but it is mobile-optimized and works well on smartphones and tablets.

Avoid downloading unofficial apps or paying fees. The eTravel registration is 100% free.


Beware of Scams

Make sure you are using the official website:
https://etravel.gov.ph

Scam websites may ask for credit card payments or personal data. The Philippine government has issued warnings about fake eTravel portals, so always double-check the URL before entering your information.


‍ What If I Have Questions?

If you’re unsure how to fill out the form, don’t worry. At 3D ACADEMY:

  • You will receive arrival instructions via email

  • Our staff can help you complete the form online before your flight

  • If you forgot or made a mistake, we can guide you at the airport or after arrival

We recommend sending a screenshot of your QR code to the school before departure as a backup.


‍ Student Experience: Reina (Japan)

“I had never traveled abroad alone before, and I was worried about immigration. But the eTravel form was easy to complete, especially after the school sent me a guide. I just showed the QR code when I landed and got through immigration quickly!”


Pro Tips

  • Double-check your passport number and flight details before submitting

  • Register 48–24 hours before your flight for best timing

  • If you don’t receive a QR code, check your spam folder

  • Bring a printed copy just in case your phone battery dies

  • Screenshot the code and save it to your gallery


Summary

Item Required? When to Do It How to Use
eTravel Registration ✅ Yes 72–24 hours pre-flight Show QR code at check-in and arrival
Cost ❌ Free Do not pay anyone
Who Must Register Everyone Including minors
What Info You Need Passport, flight, address Use 3D ACADEMY’s Cebu address

✨ Final Message

Completing the eTravel form is fast, free, and essential. It is your gateway to a smooth arrival in the Philippines and your new life at 3D ACADEMY. Don’t leave it to the last minute—take 5 minutes to register and travel with confidence.

If you need help, just ask us. We’re here for you from the moment you book your flight to the moment you arrive on campus.


How to Register for eTravel Philippines (2025 Complete Guide with Images)