Philippines: travellers reminded to register on eTravel before arrival
Announced by Bureau of Immigration Philippines (BI)Oct 5, 2026Checked on the official page Oct 24
New
PhilippinesVisas and rules
Study in Philippines
From short language study to degree study, there is a route for each plan.
Currently listed3cities67schools
Country snapshot
Studying in Philippines: costs and visas
Study paths and visa options differ by country. Always confirm official rules before applying.
Entry and permits
30days
Stay without a visa (from the day of arrival)
59days
Total after a 29-day extension at the Bureau of Immigration
36months
With an ACR I-Card (from the day of entry)
Source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan: Philippines safety basic data (visas and entry)
See entry and permits in detailVisa and working holiday rules can change. Check the latest official government or embassy guidance before you apply.
Step 1 — Choose a city
Cities to study in Philippines
Compare the cities of Philippines with photos and numbers.
47 schoolsCebu
The main city on Cebu island.
9 schoolsManila
The capital region of the Philippines.
6 schoolsBaguio
A highland city in northern Luzon.
Haven't decided where to go yet?
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- Budget
- Goal
- Duration
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Step 2 — Know your options
Ways to study in Philippines
Choose a different route, and the permit you need changes.
Short language study
- Length and permit
- An SSP is needed (a permit, not a visa)
For people who want to focus on English for a short period.
Find schools
Degree and credit study
- Length and permit
- A student visa is needed
For people who aim to earn a degree or credits.
Find schools
Visit first as a tourist
- Length and permit
- Up to 30 days without a visa
For people who want to see the place before choosing a school.
Find schoolsWe only send news we have checked against official announcements.
Get advice on studying in Philippines
Tell us your budget and goals, and our team will suggest options for free.
Get free adviceFrequently Asked Questions
Can I go to the Philippines without a visa?
Japanese citizens do not need a visa in advance for tourism or business stays of up to 30 days (counted from the day of arrival). The Philippine government says entry requires registration on eTravel and a ticket showing departure. It has announced that holders of passports from certain countries, including Japan, can enter even with less than 6 months of validity left, but Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs strongly recommends a passport valid for the planned stay plus 6 months.
Do I need a visa for language study?
Short language study needs a Special Study Permit (SSP) from the Bureau of Immigration rather than a visa. An SSP is issued to foreign nationals under 18 and/or taking non-degree courses, under the temporary visitor's visa. Study for a degree or credits needs a student visa.
Can I stay longer than 30 days?
Yes. Get the required visa before entry, or extend your permit by up to 29 days at the Bureau of Immigration before it expires (59 days in total). With an Alien Certificate of Registration I-Card (ACR I-Card) you can stay up to 36 months counted from the day of entry. Keep the receipts from these procedures.
Is the consultation really free?
Yes, consultations are free. You don't need to have decided your budget, goals or city. Feel free to get in touch.
Sources for this page
- Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan: Philippines safety basic data (visas and entry)（checked October 9, 2026）
- Bureau of Immigration (Philippines): FAQs (extension, SSP, student visa)（checked October 9, 2026）
- Bureau of Immigration (Philippines): Special Study Permit（checked October 9, 2026）
