List of Visa-Free Asian Countries for Philippine Passport Holders

It is everyone’s dream to travel and to explore amazing places from different parts of the world. Whether you are a backpacker, solo traveler, or in a group tour if you got the chance to travel, GO for it! Traveling to your absolute dream destination is the best experience you must try once in a life-time.

Yet even while traveling can be beneficial, there is a lot of work involved in getting ready for it, especially if you are from the Philippines. As much as you would desire to visit the Eiffel Tower or experience Cherry Blossom season in Japan, you would definitely need to spend some time at the embassy of each country applying for a visa. Even so, there is no assurance that you will receive one.

Of course, there are other choices. By the year 2020, Filipino citizens will be able to visit 33 nations without a visa, 29 nations that grant visas on arrival, and 14 nations that grant electronic visas. This is a list of countries in Asia where you can travel without a visa, along with information on the tourist attractions you can find there:

Updated: March 2023

Please be aware that Myanmar (Burma) only offers a 14-day visa-free period and requires an eVisa for stays longer than 28 days. Visitors with visas must fly into the airports in Yangon, Nay Pyi Taw, or Mandalay.

Source: Henley Passport Index (HPI)

BRUNEI (Visa Free for 14 days)

First on the list of Visa-Free Asian countries for Filipinos is Brunei. This country is a tiny nation on the island of Borneo, in 2 distinct sections surrounded by Malaysia and the South China Sea. It’s known for its beaches and biodiverse rainforest, much of it protected within reserves. 

Brunei is famous in southeast Asia for its exquisite mosques and Islamic architecture. The Omar Ali Saifuddien and Jame’ Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosques are two of Bandar Seri Begawan’s most popular landmarks. The first has a stunning manmade lagoon and is located close to the shoreline and Brunei River.

MUST-SEES:

• Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque and Jame’ Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque
  
  
• Kampung Ayer which means “water village” in Malay, is one of the largest stilt house settlements in the world. 
  
  
• Brunei River & Proboscis Monkey
  
  
• Kg Kianggeh Open Air Market

CAMBODIA (Visa-Free for 15 days)

Another Visa-Exempt We Filipinos can travel to Cambodia. The Central Market, the Royal Palace, and the historical and archaeological exhibits of the National Museum are all located there. Angkor Wat, a vast network of stone temples constructed during the Khmer Empire, is now only a ruin and is located in the northwest of the nation.

MUST-SEES:

• Angkor Wat – (meaning “City Temple”) is the most majestic and substantial of all the Angkor temples and the most popular tourist destination in Cambodia. One of the finest monuments in the world, the temple was constructed by King Suryavarman II in the first part of the 12th century.
  
  
• Preah Vihear – In the Dângrêk Mountains, on the border between Cambodia and Thailand, Preah Vihear is a Khmer temple perched atop a 525-meter (1,722-foot) cliff. Among all the Khmer temples, it has the most spectacular setting. The Khmer monarchs Suryavarman I and Suryavarman II oversaw the construction of the majority of the temple in the 11th and 12th centuries.
  
  
• Silver Pagoda – On the grounds of the Royal Palace in Phnom Penh, the Silver Pagoda is home to numerous national treasures, including golden and jeweled Buddha statues.
  
  
• Koh Ker  – Prasat Thom, a 30 meter (98 foot) tall temple pyramid rising above the surrounding jungle, dominates the site. The top is still guarded by a massive Garuda, a mythological hybrid of a man and a bird; it is now only partially visible.
  
  
• Banteay Srei –  The red sandstone used to construct the majority of the temple, which was finished in 967 AD, is ideal for the intricate decorative wall carvings, which are still plainly evident today. The only significant temple at Angkor that was not created for a king was Banteay Srei, which was built by Yajnyavahara, one of king Rajendravarman’s advisors.

POPULAR TOURS IN CAMBODIA:

HONG KONG (Visa-Free for 14 days)

Another Asian nation that is popular to Filipinos to visit and to spend their holiday vacation without visa requirement is Hong Kong.

The season with the nicest weather to visit Hong Kong is fall (September to mid-December). Getting the greatest weather will be a pleasure for you. These months experience the lowest levels of humidity. Around 21°C in the evening and 27°C during the day, temperatures are still warm from the summer.

MUST SEES

• SEE THE SKYSCRAPER SKYLINE – The majority of the skyscrapers in Hong Kong are crowded onto the north side of Hong Kong Island, where there are more of them than anyplace else in the world. Photographic gold is the end outcome. The Avenue of Star in Tsim Sha Tsui offers the best views of this stunning group of high skyscrapers. Come at night to view the buildings at their dazzling best.
  
  
• VISIT OCEAN PARK – Ocean Park, Hong Kong’s premier theme park, has been providing thrills and spills to the city’s residents for almost forty years, and it has never been greater.
  
  
• EAT AT THE DAI PAI PONGS – On the side of the road, there are a few benches and food vendors called Dai Pai Dongs. They offer straightforward but superb noodle and rice dishes, frequently have a fantastic range of seafood, and if you’re lucky, chilled beers, making it the perfect place to fill up on a quick and delicious dinner.

POPULAR TOURS IN HONG KONG:

INDONESIA (Visa-Free for 30 days)

With more than 13,000 islands and close proximity to the Philippines, Indonesia is the largest island nation in the world and likely has an equal number of sights and attractions to offer Filipinos with a wanderlust. Indonesia has much to offer, whether you’re looking for culture, art, or stunning natural settings.

MUST-SEES

• Beaches of Bali – Bali, arguably Indonesia’s most well-liked vacation destination, is worth visiting because of its many cultural landmarks and customs. But the warm beach and clear sea that Bali is known for won’t let down any visitors who come with such expectations.
  
  
• Borobudor – The most well-known and historically significant monument in Indonesia is this ancient temple. A traditional Buddhist mandala inspired the construction of Borobudur, which was completed in the eighth century. One of the most important Buddhist sites in the world, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  
  
• Gili Islands – A popular destination for travellers and visitors in recent years, Lombok is known for its Gili Islands. The beaches on these lovely islands rival Bali’s in terms of beauty, and there are also options for diving and even snorkeling at a turtle sanctuary. You can visit a turtle hatchery, where several of these animals are hatched each year, if you want to see more turtle activity.
  
  
• Mount Bromo is one of the most well-known, partly because of its breathtaking views, especially when observed when standing above the caldera at sunrise.
  
  
• Komodo National Park – The komodos of Indonesia are fierce and dangerous animals, not legendary beings. Komodo National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, includes five major islands, a handful of other islands, and the surrounding marine ecosystems.

POPULAR TOURS IN INDONESIA:

KAZAKHSTAN (Visa-Free for 30 days)

From the Caspian Sea in the west to the Altai Mountains at its eastern border with China and Russia, Kazakhstan, a Central Asian nation and former Soviet republic, is bounded by these two countries. The Central State Museum of Kazakhstan, which houses thousands of Kazakh antiquities, and Ascension Cathedral, a Russian Orthodox church from the tsarist era, are among Almaty’s monuments. Almaty is the country’s largest city.

POPULAR TOURS IN KAZAKHSTAN:

LAOS (Visa-Free for 30 days)

Laos is famed for its mountains, forests, and waterfalls, in addition to its delectable regional cuisine with Thai and Indian influences. Due to the fact that no visa is needed for holders of Philippine passports, this is a beautiful location for Filipinos to spend their vacations and get a taste of the local culture.

MUST-SEES:

• Vientiane – The lovely capital of Laos is Vientiane, which despite its status as a capital city still has the atmosphere of a little village. During the colonial era, the location was a French trading post, and as a result, it boasts a charming historic French district that you may visit.
  
  
• Luang Prabang -Several Buddhist temples may be found in Luang Prabang, such as the golden Wat Xieng Thong from the 16th century and Wat Mai, which used to be the home of the leader of Lao Buddhism.
  
  
• Bokeo Nature Reserve – You can stay in tree houses at the park, giving you a bird’s-eye view of the forest canopy, and you can engage in exciting jungle activities like zip-lining and swinging. Together with the famous gibbons, the park is home to elephants, bears, tigers, buffalo, and hundreds of different species of colorful birds.

POPULAR TOURS IN LAOS:

MACAU (Visa-Free for 30 days)

When planning your visit to Hong Kong, do not forget to include Macau in your itinerary.

Thousands of tourists visit Macau each day, mainly from mainland China and neighboring regions. The standard of living in Macau has as a result grown significantly and is now on par with some European countries. The tourist industry has also diversified – instead of casinos, Macau is also promoting its historic sites, culture, and cuisine.

MUST SEES

• EXPLORING THE RUINS OF SAINT PAUL – The 17th century Jesuit church looks beautiful during the day but is a sight to behold at night. Sit with your loved ones at the fa-ade and enjoy the experience of the most quintessential things to do in Macau at night. However, make sure to visit the ruins during the daytime as well to explore the museum.
  
  
• VISITING THE VARIOUS CHINESE TEMPLES – Macau is full of ancient Chinese temples which are dedicated to the Buddhist, Taoist, and Chinese Folklore faiths. The A-Ma Temple, Lin Fung Temple, I Leng Temple, and Na Tcha Ancient Temple some of the best places to visit in Macau. They are among the most impressive temples and attracts pious devotees from across the world. When in doubt about what to do in Macau, explore the heritage Chinese temples.
  
  
• STROLLING THROUGH TAIPA VILLAGE – Located near the Cotai Strip, the historical Taipa Village is one of the best preserved area and offers an authentic flavor of this otherwise glamorous city. A popular part of the Macau city tour, the Taipa Village has pedestrianized alleys, where one can enjoy long walks as they browse through the temples, museums, and souvenir shops.
  
  
• VISIT AT THE VENETIAN – The seventh largest building in the world, The Venetian Macau is a luxury hotel and casino resort, which is hard to miss for travellers. The hotel architecture replicates the famous canals and architectural icons in Venice, and staying a night at The Venetian is amongst the most sought after experiences of a Macau city tour. Spend a night at the worlds largest casino and get an experience of luxury like never before.

POPULAR TOURS IN MACAO:

MALAYSIA (Visa-Free for 30 days)

Malaysia is a nation in Southeast Asia that has territory on both Borneo Island and the Malay Peninsula. The beaches, rainforests, and blend of Malay, Chinese, Indian, and European cultural influences make it famous. Colonial structures, bustling commercial areas like Bukit Bintang, and skyscrapers like the recognizable, 451-meter-tall Petronas Twin Towers may all be found in Malaysia’s capital, Kuala Lumpur. Filipino citizens are permitted a 30-day visa-free stay.

MUST-SEES:

• Petronas Twin Towers – The most popular tourist attractions in Kulala Lumpur, the Petronas Twin Towers are the tallest twin structures in the world. With a whopping 88-storeys, these feature Skybridge- the double-decker connecting structure between the towers along with the headquarters for Petronas Company and other offices.
  
  
• Langkawi Cable car is also known as the Sky Cab claims to be the steepest cable car ride in the world; that takes visitors at a height of 708 meters up in the sky, above the sea level. The cable car carries passengers to Mount Mat Cincang – Langkawi’s second highest peak and thus is considered as one of the must-visit places to see in Langkawi.
  
  
• The Aquaria KLCC is said to be the world’s largest aquarium, holding over 5000 freshwater and marine creatures, which include massive arapaimas, giant groupers, garfishes and many more. Some of the major attractions of the aquarium are the scary tiger sharks, bright coral fishes, lethal sea snakes, seahorses, and blue rays.
  
  
• The Batu Caves is located in the Selangor region of Malaysia. It has one of the famous Hindu shrines. The shine is of Lord Murugan resides in these caves. A lot of tourists visit this place as it is a religious site. The natural beauty of this place is mesmerizing. 
  
  
• Penang Hill is one of the famous hill stations in Malaysia and a favourite tourist destination for honeymooners.

POPULAR TOURS IN MALAYSIA:

MYANMAR (Visa-Free for 14 days)

Myanmar (formerly Burma) is a Southeast Asian nation of more than 100 ethnic groups, bordering India, Bangladesh, China, Laos and Thailand. Yangon (formerly Rangoon), the country’s largest city, is home to bustling markets, numerous parks and lakes, and the towering, gilded Shwedagon Pagoda, which contains Buddhist relics and dates to the 6th century.

MUST-SEES:

• Shwedagon Pagoda: The Most Sacred Pagoda – Myanmar sightseeing is incomplete without a visit to the fabulous gilded Shwedagon Pagoda. It’s considered to be one of the most sacred pagodas in Myanmar. Over 2,000 years old, with hundreds of gold plates and more than 4,500 diamonds encrusting the top of the stupa, it’s an architectural wonder that will take your breath away. 
  
  
• Bagan – The ancient city of Bagan is perhaps one of the most interesting places in Myanmar. Over 2,000 Buddhist monuments dot the Bagan Archeological Zone that’s spread across 26 square miles. The best way to take in the entirety of this breathtaking city is to hop into a hot air balloon and fly over it. The rides take place in the wee hours of the morning. Carry a good camera so you can take photos of the monuments from above.
  
  
• Mandalay Palace – This is one of the best places to visit in Myanmar. The palace consists of a watchtower which you can climb and soak in the beautiful views of the city it offers. The most compelling thing about this palace is a pyramid which is made of gilt filigree built above the main throne of the palace. This is one of the important places to visit in Myanmar.

POPULAR TOURS IN MYANMAR:

SINGAPORE (Visa-Free for 30 days)

Another Asian nation that is popular to Filipinos is Singapore.

The little island of Singapore, which has the same name as its city, is located in Southeast Asia. Lonely Planet ranked Singapore as the world’s top travel destination in 2015.

Despite the small size of the nation, there are surprisingly many things to do and see while visiting the cities. Singapore is a thriving, wealthy city known for its skyscrapers, vibrant nightlife, tropical environment, and shopping opportunities. Despite its dense population, Singapore is a beautiful garden city with many parks and reserves.

MUST-SEES:

• In Singapore’s Central Area, next to the Marina Reservoir, is a nature park called The Gardens by the Bay that covers 101 hectares (250 acres). Three waterfront gardens make up the park: Bay Central Garden in Downtown Core and Kallang, Bay East Garden in Marina East, and Bay South Garden in Marina South. The Bay South Garden, which spans 54 hectares (130 acres) and was created by Grant Associates, is the largest of the gardens. The largest glass greenhouse in the world is in its Flower Dome.
  
  
• One of Singapore’s most well-known tourist destinations is Universal Studios. This is the spot for you if you’re seeking for an exciting experience and an adventure. For fans of movies and television, the theme park serves as a working production facility. Back then, Universal Studios was mostly known for its magnificent Studio Tour, which was barely more than a one-ride attraction. Nonetheless, Universal has made enormous efforts to turn this amusement park into an all-day attraction that will appeal to tourists of all ages.
  
  
• The Merlion Park – The Merlion’s body represents Singapore’s modest beginnings as a fishing community when it was known as Temasek, which has a root with the Malay term tasek (which means “lake”). Singapura, which translates to “lion city” in Malay, was Singapore’s original name.

Related Article: Things to see and to do in Singapore.

POPULAR TOURS IN SINGAPORE:

TAIWAN (Visa-Free for 14 days (extended until July 31, 2023)

Taiwan, or the Republic of China, is known as the “Heart of Asia” and is well known for many things, including its pineapple cakes. The nightlife in Taiwan is vibrant, and it is surrounded by hundreds of tiny islands and numerous lovely natural areas, such as coral reefs.

MUST-SEES:

• TAIPEI 101 – The former world’s tallest skyscraper may no longer retain the record, but it is still one of Taiwan’s most spectacular structures and is definitely worth a visit. An extraordinary feat of engineering, the 728-ton mass damper that protects the structure from the island’s frequent earthquakes can be observed from various locations around the structure.
  
  
• NATIONAL PALACA MUSEUM – The National Palace Museum provides a glimpse into imperial China’s past since it is home to one of the largest collections of Chinese imperial antiquities. The government of Chiang Kai-Shek saved the several thousands of objects on exhibit as they evacuated mainland China during the Cultural Revolution.
  
  
• ALISHAN SCENIC MOUNTAIN AREA – The mountain railway in Alishan is a favorite of both domestic and international travelers. The mountain’s summit, where there are numerous short hiking routes that make for great photo possibilities, is where the train winds its way.
  
  
• DRAGON AND TIGER PAGODAS – Both local and foreign travelers frequently visit Alishan’s mountain train. The mountain’s summit is reached by a winding railway ride that passes by numerous short hiking trails that make for amazing photo opportunities.
  
  
• SHILIN NIGHT MARKET – There are several night markets spread out around the nation, but Shilin Night Market is one of the most well-known and accessible. The best street cuisine is available in an amazing variety, and the shops and stalls are brimming with deals.

Related Article: Fun things to do in Taiwan

POPULAR TOURS IN TAIWAN:

THAILAND (Visa-Free for 30 days)

Southeast Asia includes the nation of Thailand. It has tropical beaches, lavish royal palaces, historic ruins, and elaborate temples with Buddha statues, much like the Philippines. The renowned temples of Wat Arun, Wat Pho, and the Emerald Buddha Temple coexist among canalside neighborhoods and an ultramodern metropolis in the capital of Bangkok (Wat Phra Kaew). The crowded beach towns of Pattaya and Hua Hin are nearby.

MUST SEES:

• RAILAY BEACH – The province of Krabi is home to some of Thailand’s most well-known beach resorts, with Railay topping the list as one of the most beautiful. With its white sand, turquoise water, and the impression that you’ve found a piece of paradise even before your feet touch the sand, Railay is widely regarded as one of the best beaches in the nation. Between Krabi town and Ao Nang, you may take a boat to the island. The journey on a long-tail traditional boat is equally as magical as what you’ll find when you arrive at the shores.
  
  
• KOH PHI PHI – The Phi Phi Islands are among Thailand’s most well-known tourist destinations for a reason: the crystal-clear waters, the fine sand, and the spectacular views that never end. You can rent a kayak to get here or hire a small wooden boat to take you there to get to Phi Phi Don, the biggest and only island that is continuously inhabited. Monkey Beach is arguably one of the most entertaining locations on Koh Phi Phi, where you’ll practically come face to face with a lot of macaques waiting to steal your lunch.
  
  
• THE GRAND PALACE, BANGKOK – Even if your main goals for your trip to Thailand are to laze on a beach and consume as much Massaman curry and pad Thai as you can, you’ll undoubtedly spend at least a day or two in Bangkok. There are many sights and activities to enjoy in the city, but the Grand Palace should be at the top of your list. This is the top tourist destination in the city, and it is astounding in terms of both its historical importance and craftsmanship.
  
  
• WALKING STREET, CHIANG MAI – Every tourist to Thailand looks forward to finding affordable, delectable cuisine, and Chiang Mai’s Sunday Night Walking Street has enough of both. In this market, vendors provide a wide variety of delights, including the well-known pad Thai and chicken satay as well as samosas, fried bananas, sweet roti, and fresh fruit drinks.

MOST POPULAR TOURS IN THAILAND:

Considering visa policies might change at any time, it is best to check the specific embassy websites of the countries you intend to visit for the most up-to-date information.

Budget Airline Companies

Filipino passport holders can always turn to budget airlines for reasonable travel, and occasionally to flag carriers for the newest deals and low tickets. The following are well-known low-cost airline providers:

• AirAsia
• Cebu Pacific Air
• Scoot Airlines
• Tiger Air
• Jetstar Airways
• Jeju Air

There are also numerous travel aggregator websites and travel metasearch engines online that can help Filipinos determine which airline companies offer the cheapest airfare at the time of their search.