The Bureau of Immigration (BI) announced on Thursday its decision to halt the issuance of arrival stickers to Filipino passengers utilizing e-gates at airports, effective April 1, 2024.
In an advisory, BI stated, “Consistent with the Bureau’s mandate to deliver effective and efficient immigration service, all are hereby informed of the discontinuance of arrival stickers for Filipino passengers processed through E-GATES at all international ports of entry effective 01 April 2024.”
The BI clarified that Filipino passengers will now receive their arrival confirmation via the email address provided in the eTravel system. However, they retain the option to request a BI arrival border stamp if desired.
“Notwithstanding, the Bureau of immigration Arrival Border Stamp may be affixed onto the Philippine Passport by the Immigration Officer (IO) assigned at E-Gates upon request,” the advisory highlighted.
Passengers were also advised to register on the eTravel system at least 72 hours prior to their travel to expedite the process.
“For speedy processing, passengers are enjoined to register at or update their information in the eTravel System at least seventy-two (72) hours prior to the intended travel,” the BI concluded.