What Should I Know for Immigration Inspection?

What Should I Know for Immigration Inspection?

When you arrive in the Philippines, the first official you will meet is the immigration officer at the airport. This can feel intimidating, especially if you are a first-time traveler or not confident in English.
But don’t worry—this guide will walk you through everything you need to prepare, say, and expect at immigration inspection so that your arrival goes smoothly.

What Happens at Immigration Inspection?

After landing in the Philippines, you will go through:

1. Quarantine and health check (if required)

2. Immigration inspection

3. Baggage claim

4. Customs inspection

The immigration inspection is where officers check:

• Your passport and visa status

• Your purpose of visit

• Your accommodation or return flight plans

• Any special documents required for minors (e.g. WEG)

Once approved, your passport will be stamped with your entry date and the allowed length of stay (usually 30 days for visa-free countries like Japan, Korea, Taiwan, etc.).

What Documents Do I Need to Show?

Be ready to present the following documents to the officer:

eTravel is a digital arrival card. You must fill it out before your flight:
https://etravel.gov.ph

What Questions Will the Officer Ask?

The officer may ask basic questions such as:

• Why are you visiting the Philippines?
  → “To study English at 3D ACADEMY in Cebu.”

• Where will you stay?
  → “At 3D ACADEMY dormitory in Cebu City.”

• How long will you stay?
  → “Four weeks.” (or your planned duration)

• Do you have a return ticket?
  → Show your ticket or e-ticket on your phone.

Most officers speak English, but they speak slowly and clearly.
You can answer simply and politely. If you don’t understand, just say:
→ “Sorry, I don’t understand. Can you repeat that, please?”

What if I’m Under 15 Years Old?

Minors under 15 who travel without a parent need to prepare WEG (Waiver of Exclusion Ground) documents before travel.

At immigration:

• Show your WEG approval documents

• Pay the required arrival fee (PHP 3,120)

• Present your passport, school letter, and guardian’s ID

⚠️ If you don’t have WEG, you may be denied entry.

Will They Check My Luggage?

Yes. After immigration, you will proceed to baggage claim and then to customs.
Declare any items over allowed limits, such as:

• Cash over USD 10,000

• Large quantities of electronics

• Expensive gifts or resale goods

Personal items, books, laptops, and clothes are usually not a problem.

What If I’m Nervous or Make a Mistake?

It’s normal to be nervous. Remember:

• Speak slowly and clearly

• Smile and remain calm

• It’s okay to say: “Sorry, can you repeat that?”

• If you feel overwhelmed, show your acceptance letter from 3D ACADEMY and say:
  → “I’m going to 3D ACADEMY to study English.”

Immigration officers are used to international students. As long as your documents are complete, there should be no problem.

Sample Dialogue

Here’s an example of a typical exchange at the airport:

Officer: “What is the purpose of your visit?”
You: “To study English at 3D ACADEMY in Cebu.”

Officer: “How long will you stay?”
You: “Eight weeks.”

Officer: “Where will you stay?”
You: “At the 3D dormitory in Lahug, Cebu City.”

Officer: “Do you have a return ticket?”
You: “Yes.” (Show it on your phone)

Officer: “OK. Enjoy your stay.” (stamp)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Forgetting to fill out the eTravel form

• Not having a return or onward ticket

• Giving vague answers like “I don’t know” or “Just traveling”

• Saying “I’m here to work” (⚠️ Never say this if you’re on a tourist visa!)

• Arriving without WEG if you’re under 15

Airport Pickup After Immigration

If you have arranged airport pickup with 3D ACADEMY:

1. After customs, exit to the arrival lobby

2. Look for a staff member holding a 3D ACADEMY sign

3. Show your name and wait to be guided to the school van

4. If you cannot find the staff, go to the designated meeting point (McDonald’s Mactan Airport) or call the school

Final Checklist for Immigration

Final Tips

• Be confident. You are well-prepared.

• Officers aren’t trying to fail you—they just want to confirm your visit.

• 3D ACADEMY has welcomed thousands of students like you.

• If something goes wrong, stay calm. Our staff is ready to help once you arrive.

✨ “Welcome to the Philippines! Your study abroad journey starts now.”

About 3D ACADEMY

3D ACADEMY is a well-established English language school located in Cebu City, Philippines, offering high-quality ESL programs in a safe and supportive environment. Since its founding in 2002, the school has welcomed over 20,000 students from around the world and built a reputation for providing practical, affordable, and personalized English education.

A Truly International Environment

Students at 3D ACADEMY come from a wide variety of countries, including Japan, Korea, Taiwan, Vietnam, Saudi Arabia, Brazil, and many others. This diverse atmosphere creates a perfect setting for improving real-world English communication skills and developing global friendships.

Whether you’re a complete beginner or an advanced speaker, you’ll be surrounded by peers who are equally motivated to learn English and grow together.

Flexible ESL Programs for Every Goal

3D ACADEMY offers a range of ESL (English as a Second Language) programs to suit different learning styles and purposes:

• General ESL Courses with 1:1 and group classes

• Intensive TOEIC / IELTS Preparation

• Business English Programs

• Parent–Child / Family ESL Programs

• Internship and Working Holiday Preparation

• Online Courses for pre- or post-study support

Students can choose from short-term (1–4 weeks) or long-term (up to 6 months or more) study plans, with flexible start dates available every week.

‍ Experienced, Friendly Teachers

All classes are taught by experienced Filipino teachers, many of whom are TESOL-certified. Their warmth, patience, and dedication make it easy for students to feel comfortable and improve at their own pace.

The core of the 3D program is 1:1 private classes, which allow you to customize your learning based on your personal goals—whether it’s conversation, grammar, business English, or test prep.

Comfortable Dormitories and Facilities

The school provides clean and secure on-campus dormitories as well as hotel-type accommodations nearby. Rooms are air-conditioned and come with Wi-Fi and weekly cleaning services. Three daily meals are included in the tuition, with menus designed to suit Japanese and Asian tastes.

On campus, you’ll find:

• Study rooms and lounges

• Laundry service

• Free Wi-Fi

• 24/7 security

• A school cafeteria and convenience store nearby

Full Student Support

3D ACADEMY provides comprehensive support in English, Japanese, and other languages. Services include:

• Airport pickup

• Orientation on the first day

• Visa extension assistance

• Medical support with weekday clinic visits

• Cultural activities and weekend trips

Whether you’re traveling alone or with family, you’ll always have someone to turn to.

At 3D ACADEMY, you’re not just learning English—you’re building confidence, friendships, and a future full of possibilities.
Join us in Cebu and discover where English can take you!

3d-universal.com
info@3d-universal.com