The Bureau of Immigration (BI) is not expecting a high number of arrivals despite allowing more foreigners to enter the country.

“Despite the inclusion of other categories, we are not expecting a major upsurge since the number of arriving passengers remain controlled,” BI Port Operations Division Chief Candy Tan said. 

Tan explained that arrivals will still be subjected to the maximum capacity of inbound passengers set by the National Task Force for coronavirus disease (COVID-19). 

Under the Resolution No. 98 of the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management Of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF), aliens with working visa, student visa, Special Visa for Employment Generation and Special Investors Resident Visa which were issued prior to March 20, 2020 will be allowed entry starting February 16. 

They were previously not included in the list of allowed foreigners to enter the country due to the travel restrictions implemented in March 2020.

The resolution adds that holders of Special Resident and Retirees Visa, and temporary visitor’s visa may also be allowed to enter, as long as they present an entry exemption document.

“Tourists would need to present a pre-applied entry exemption document. The entry exemption document may be requested from the DFA’s (Department of Foreign Affairs) Philippine posts abroad, subject to their assessment and approval,” Tan said.

Tan added that the visa free privileges of foreigners from 157 countries remains suspended.

“Those who wish to enter the country under a tourist status must secure an entry visa first,” said Tan. “Only those that fall under the balikbayan privilege may be granted visa-free entry."

A Balikbayan, by law, means a former Filipino, his or her spouse and children, and the spouse and children of a Filipino.

The BI also reminded all passengers that they are required to have a pre-booked accommodation for at least six nights in an accredited quarantine hotel or facility.