Standard travel tax in the Philippines is PHP 1,620 for economy class and PHP 2,700 for first class. It applies to outbound international flights from the Philippines. Reduced rates apply for dependents, students, and OFWs’ spouses and children.
| Passenger Type | Economy Rate (PHP) | First Class Rate (PHP) |
|---|---|---|
| Regular Passenger | 1,620 | 2,700 |
| Dependent (below 12) | 810 | 1,350 |
| Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) | Exempt | Exempt |
| Student (Certified) | 1,300 | 2,200 |
Source: Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA)
Who pays the travel tax in the Philippines?
All Philippine passport holders flying internationally from the Philippines must pay the travel tax. This includes tourists, returning residents, and dual citizens. Some foreign residents are also required to pay under certain visa classifications.
Included:
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Filipino tourists
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Returning overseas Filipinos (balikbayans)
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Dual citizens with Philippine passports
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Certain foreign residents (13A visa holders)
Who pays travel tax
Who is exempt from travel tax in the Philippines?
Exempt individuals include OFWs, foreign diplomats, and infants under two years old. Tax exemptions are granted under Republic Act No. 8042 and other legal provisions.
Travel Tax Exemption Categories:
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OFWs (RA 8042): Automatic exemption
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Infants (under 2 years): Automatically exempt
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Foreign diplomats and UN officials: With official documentation
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Official government travelers: Certified by relevant agency
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Foreign permanent residents (non-Filipino citizens): Under certain visa types
Apply for exemption via:
TIEZA’s Travel Tax Exemption System (TES)
When do you pay travel tax in the Philippines?
Travel tax is paid during ticket purchase, online via TIEZA, or at airport counters before departure. Most airlines integrate the fee into the ticket cost. Check if it’s included in your e-ticket receipt.
Payment Options:
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Integrated in airline ticket (automated in most cases)
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Via TIEZA website before departure
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At TIEZA counters in NAIA, Mactan-Cebu, Clark, and Davao airports
What are the travel tax rules in the Philippines?
The Philippine travel tax is mandated under Presidential Decree 1183 and enforced by TIEZA. It applies only to international departures from Philippine airports.
Key Rules:
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Applies to international air travel only
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Charged per passenger, per departure
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Non-refundable once flight departs
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Enforced by TIEZA (Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority)
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Exemptions require prior approval or valid documentation
Philippines travel tax desk
Who needs to pay travel tax in the Philippines if they are dual citizens?
Dual citizens with Philippine passports are required to pay travel tax. If traveling with a foreign passport, they may be exempt depending on entry classification.
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With Philippine passport: Yes, required
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With foreign passport: May be exempt, especially if not a resident
Travel Tax Payment Checklist
Before your flight, check:
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Is travel tax included in my ticket?
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Do I qualify for an exemption?
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Do I need to apply via TIEZA’s TES?
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Am I departing from a Philippine airport?
Travel tax payment steps
Common Travel Tax Scenarios (Examples)
| Scenario | Tax Obligation |
|---|---|
| OFW flying to UAE | Exempt |
| Filipino student flying to Japan | Reduced rate |
| Dual citizen (PH passport) flying to Canada | Must pay full tax |
| Tourist (US passport) with PH residence visa | Must pay full tax |
| Infant (1 year old) | Exempt |
What is the travel tax for children in the Philippines?
Children under 2 years are exempt. Children aged 2–11 years pay 50% of the standard rate. For example, economy travel tax for a child is PHP 810. Valid ID or passport is required to verify age.
Is travel tax included in airline tickets in the Philippines?
Yes, most international airlines include the travel tax in the ticket fare. Check your e-ticket receipt or booking confirmation. If not included, you must pay manually at TIEZA counters or online before departure.
Can you pay Philippine travel tax online?
Yes. You can pay online via TIEZA’s Travel Tax Payment System (TTPS). Accepted payments include credit/debit cards and e-wallets. After payment, download and print the official receipt for presentation at the airport.
Do foreigners pay travel tax in the Philippines?
Foreign tourists are exempt. However, foreign permanent residents (13A visa holders) must pay. The obligation depends on visa type and departure point. Always confirm with TIEZA or immigration authorities before departure.
Do OFWs pay travel tax?
No. Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) are automatically exempt from paying travel tax. This is protected under Republic Act 8042. Exemption applies to direct hires, agency hires, and documented workers with valid OEC.
How do I apply for a travel tax exemption?
Apply via TIEZA’s TES platform. Upload documents such as:
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Passport
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OEC (for OFWs)
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School certificate (for students)
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Official letter (for diplomats)
Approval usually takes 1–3 working days.
What is the reduced travel tax rate in the Philippines?
Reduced rate applies to qualified students, minors, and dependents of OFWs. For economy class, this ranges from PHP 300–1,300 depending on category. Supporting documents must be submitted through TIEZA for approval.
Is travel tax refundable in the Philippines?
Travel tax is non-refundable once used. If your flight is canceled or rebooked, you may apply for a refund through TIEZA with proof of non-departure. Refund processing usually takes 30–60 days.
Where is the travel tax counter at NAIA?
At NAIA Terminal 1, 2, 3, and 4, TIEZA counters are located near the airline check-in areas. Follow signage or ask ground staff. Always bring your passport and e-ticket for payment or validation.
