entry requirements for australians

Australian passport holders can enter the Philippines without a visa for stays of up to 30 days. Your passport must be valid for at least six months from your date of arrival, and you’ll need a return or onward ticket when you arrive.

eTravel registration form online, which also has a mobile app version. It collects basic health and travel information and should be submitted online within 72 hours before departure.

Planning to stay longer? You can apply for a visa extension in-country at the Bureau of Immigration. The process is relatively straightforward, but don’t leave it to the last minute.

travel insurance and safety

Book a check-up with your GP or a health clinic before travelling to the Philippines from Australia. While no vaccinations are mandatory, it’s a good idea to be up to date with hepatitis A, typhoid and standard jabs like measles and tetanus. Travellers heading to rural regions may want to consider additional protection like rabies and Japanese encephalitis vaccines.

Don’t forget travel insurance. Medical costs can vary, and insurance can cover unexpected events like illness, cancelled flights or weather-related disruptions. Choose a policy that includes emergency medical coverage and COVID-related incidents.

As for safety, most tourist destinations are welcoming and easy to navigate. Check Smartraveller for updated advice, especially if you're visiting southern Mindanao or planning off-grid adventures. Basic precautions go a long way: Stay aware of your surroundings, use hotel safes when available and avoid displaying valuables.

Money, language and local customs

When travelling to the Philippines from Australia, understanding how money and manners work on the ground can make your trip smoother. The Philippine Peso (PHP) is the local currency. In cities, card payments are common, but smaller towns and islands still rely heavily on cash. ATMs are generally accessible, but it’s smart to carry cash when heading into regional areas.

English is widely spoken, particularly in tourism-heavy zones, so communication won’t be a challenge. Even so, learning a few simple phrases in Tagalog can be a respectful and rewarding gesture. “Salamat po” (thank you) is a good place to start.

Cultural respect is key. Dress modestly at religious sites, remove your shoes when entering a home and be mindful of your tone and gestures. Locals are polite and often reserved, and showing mutual courtesy is appreciated.

Getting there: flying from Australia

If you’re travelling to the Philippines from Australia, nonstop flights to Manila, Cebu and other major cities depart regularly from Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane. Average flight time is around 8–9 hours. If your final stop is a smaller island, plan for an additional domestic connection — Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airlines offer daily internal routes.

To avoid inflated prices and crowded flights, try to book well in advance and travel outside major holidays like Easter, Christmas and Holy Week.

Final tips before travelling to the Philippines from Australia

• Use Grab (similar to Uber) for reliable city transport, or use motorbike hailing apps like Angkas.
• Buy a local SIM like Globe or Smart for better mobile coverage and lower data costs.
• Domestic carriers often have strict baggage rules of 7kg for carry-ons and 20kg for check-ins, so don’t forget to check limits.
• Pack light, breathable clothes and reef-safe sunscreen — the tropical climate can be hot and humid, and sun protection is a must.
• Bring a Type A, B or C travel adaptor. The Philippines uses 220V electricity, so check if your devices are compatible or bring a voltage converter.

Protect your trip to the Philippines with 1Cover

Travelling to the Philippines from Australia comes with plenty to explore — treks, street food crawls, coral reefs, colonial towns and unexpected island moments that stay with you long after the flight home.

But before you take off, make sure your plans are protected. At 1Cover, we offer Philippines travel insurance that fits the way you travel — from quick beach escapes to multi-island itineraries. Get a quote now and take the stress out of your trip.