Philippines: Payment methods & tips

All continents Asia Philippines

Travel money:

Prepaid Travel credit card

in Swiss francs (CHF)

For ATM cash withdrawals
For cashless payments in shops, restaurants, hotels, and online

ATM Search

Banknotes

in local currency

For minor expenses on arrival in country of destination

Local currency / ISO Code

Philippine peso PHP

Further Information

Import local currency
up to PHP 10'000.00

Import foreign currency
unlimited; USD 10'000.00 or more must be declared

Export local currency
up to PHP 10'000.00

Export foreign currency
limited to amounts imported and declared (minus exchange)

Credit cards

Use credit card with caution. Unauthorized use is widespread.

ATM Search

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Useful tips from our experts:

An additional charge per withdrawal may apply in this country.
Credit cards accepted in large cities. For more detailed information, please contact the credit card issuer.
Keep exchange and transaction receipts for reconversion.
Travelers are advised to take cash in US dollar (USD).
Prior to leaving the country, it is advisable to spend local banknotes or to exchange them back into hard currency. Exchanging PHP in Switzerland may cause problems and result in considerable exchange loss.

Practical Information:

Time difference with Switzerland

+ 7 h / + 6 h during our summer time

National language

Official language

Tagalog and English

Capital

Manila

Country code for calling Switzerland

00 41 (disregard '0' preceding Swiss area codes)

Voltage

220 volt / adapter recommended

Travel documents for Swiss citizens

Passport still valid 6 months or more after end of stay with visa (issued upon arrival at the airport), return or onward travel ticket and proof of sufficient funds for stays up to 30 days.
Extension available on site.
A visa is not required for stays up to 29 days in duration. A visa application must however be made for more than 30 days.

Swiss Embassy / Consulate

Manila, 24th Floor, Equitable Bank Tower, 8751 Paseo de Roxas, 1226 Makati City
Tel. +63 2 845 45 45

Opening hours

Banks

9.00 - 15.00 h (Mon - Fri)

Stores

9.30 - 20.00 h (daily)

Driving

Swiss driver's license accepted for car rentals.
International driver's licence recommended.
Minimum age for car rentals: 21 to 25 (varies by company).
Car rental with driver recommended.

Health situation

Do not drink tap water.
Mosquito protection advised.
Risk of dengue fever.
Risk of malaria in certain areas.
Vaccination against diphtheria, tetanus, hepatitis A, polio and measles recommended.

Other information

This country is in an active earthquake zone.

Security

Travelers who wish to travel to this country are advised to inquire about current traveler safety prior to departure.
High crime rate.
Travelers should pay close attention to their personal security.
Do not carry valuables (watches, jewelry, expensive cameras, etc.) on you.
Avoid demonstrations and large crowds.

Special legal regulations

Very strict laws to fight illegal drugs (up to life imprisonment).

Travel advice for Philippines.