Contents
Your passport is your most important travel document—but it’s not the only one you’ll need. To ensure a smooth entry into the Philippines and a stress-free study experience at 3D ACADEMY, there are several other essential documents you should prepare and bring with you.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through:
Documents required for entry and immigration
Proofs you need for school enrollment
Travel insurance and health-related paperwork
Special documents for minors
How to organize and protect your documents
Let’s make sure you have everything ready before you fly.
Before we move on, a reminder: your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay in the Philippines. Immigration officers may refuse entry if your passport is close to expiring.
Bring a printed copy of your flight itinerary, even if you’ve already checked in online. Immigration officers at both your home country and the Philippines may ask to see:
Your return ticket or onward flight
Confirmation of arrival and departure dates
Booking reference number (PNR)
This is especially important if you’re entering on a tourist visa or Visa Upon Arrival, as they may want proof that you plan to leave within the allowed timeframe.
You’ll receive an official Letter of Acceptance (LOA) or enrollment confirmation from 3D ACADEMY before your departure.
Bring a printed copy and keep a digital version saved in your phone or email. Immigration officers may ask:
Why you’re visiting the Philippines
Where you’re staying
Whether you’re enrolled in a recognized institution
Having your LOA shows that you’re entering the country for a legitimate purpose—to study English.
While not mandatory for entry into the Philippines in 2025, we strongly recommend all students bring:
A copy of your travel insurance certificate or policy
Clear contact information for the insurance company
A description of what is covered (especially medical and emergency care)
Many clinics in the Philippines offer cashless medical service, but only if you have proper travel insurance. 3D ACADEMY can help you process insurance claims—but only if you have the necessary documentation.
As of 2025, no COVID-related documents are required to enter the Philippines. However:
Some students feel more comfortable carrying a COVID vaccination certificate, just in case
If you’ve had other vaccinations (e.g., yellow fever, hepatitis), keeping a record may be helpful in case of medical consultation
It’s optional, but recommended to carry a digital copy in your phone for emergencies.
Depending on the length of your stay, you may enter on:
A tourist visa (valid for up to 30 days or longer with extensions)
A Special Study Permit (SSP) – which 3D ACADEMY will assist you in obtaining after arrival
A student visa – required only for long-term university programs
Note: You do not need to apply for the SSP before departure. Our staff will guide you through the application process after arrival. Still, we recommend you bring:
2–4 passport-size photos (white background)
A copy of your passport bio page
A copy of your return flight
Your LOA from 3D ACADEMY
These will speed up the SSP application process upon arrival.
If you are under 18, you must carry additional documentation, including:
Parental Consent Letter (in English)
Affidavit of Support and Undertaking – stating who will support you financially
Photocopy of your parents’ IDs or passports
Authorization for travel – particularly if you’re traveling alone
In some cases, immigration may require this to ensure that the travel is properly authorized and supported. 3D ACADEMY staff can assist with forms if needed.
We recommend making at least two photocopies of each key document, such as:
Passport (bio page and Philippine visa stamp)
Insurance certificate
Flight ticket
Enrollment letter
Emergency contact list
Bank cards (front and back)
Prescription for any regular medication
Leave one set of copies in your suitcase, and keep another with you. Also consider scanning everything and uploading it to:
Google Drive
Dropbox
Your email
A USB drive
That way, you’ll have backup access even if your documents are lost or stolen.
Bring 2 to 4 passport-size photos (2×2 inches, white background). These are useful for:
Your Special Study Permit (SSP)
School ID application
Lost card replacements
Emergency use
You can also get photos taken in Cebu, but it saves time to bring some from home.
You may also want to bring:
Student ID from your home school (if applicable)
Proof of funds or bank statement (in case asked at immigration)
Emergency medical history summary (especially if you have ongoing conditions)
Letter of recommendation or resume (for long-term students who may want to intern or volunteer)
We suggest keeping all documents in a dedicated travel folder or organizer, with labeled sections for:
ID and Passport
Travel Itinerary
School Documents
Insurance and Health
Financial Info
Extras and Emergency Contacts
Use a waterproof pouch or document bag, and don’t pack this in your checked luggage—always keep it with you during travel.
Category | Required Documents |
---|---|
Travel ID | Passport (valid 6+ months) |
Flights | E-ticket or itinerary |
School | Letter of Acceptance from 3D ACADEMY |
Insurance | Certificate or policy copy |
Health | Vaccination record (optional), prescriptions |
Visa | SSP documents (copies and ID photos) |
For Minors | Parental consent, affidavit of support |
Backup | Photocopies and digital scans of all above |
Traveling abroad is exciting, but it requires preparation. Bringing the right documents ensures:
Faster immigration processing
Smoother school enrollment
Safer and easier handling of emergencies
Peace of mind for both you and your family
So yes—your passport is your key. But these supporting documents are what unlock the door to a safe, smooth, and successful experience in Cebu.
Don’t wait until the last minute. Prepare early, pack smart, and if you have questions—our staff are here to help.