Good news to my fellow Filipinos! Clearing immigration at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) is now faster and easier. Instead of waiting in long lines for a manual interview, eligible Filipino travelers can use the automated Immigration eGates at NAIA Terminals 1 and 3 to clear border control in under 30 seconds.
Who Can Use the eGates?
To qualify for the self-service lanes, you must meet these basic requirements:
- Age & Document: You are a Filipino citizen aged 18 or older with a valid Philippine ePassport (at least 6 months before expiration).
- Travel Status: You are traveling solo and have a clean immigration record (no derogatory records or pending cases).
- Category (For Departures): All adult Filipinos can use the arrival eGates. For departures, eGates are open to frequent travelers, registered OFWs (with valid OEC/Balik-Manggagawa records), and first-time immigrants with a CFO certificate.
- Note: Children, passengers traveling with minors, and wheelchair users must still use the regular manual counters.
3 Simple Steps to Pass Through
- Register on eTravel: Fill out your eTravel form online within 72 hours before your flight. Make sure your details are complete and accurate.
- Scan Your Passport: Remove any hats, face masks, or sunglasses. Place the photo page (bio-page) of your passport flat on the scanner. You do not need to scan your boarding pass.
- Look at the Camera & Go: Step forward and look directly at the screen for a quick facial recognition scan. Once the glass gate opens, walk right through.
Good to Know Before You Fly
- No More Stamps or Stickers: The system is completely paperless. Your arrival or departure record will be sent straight to the email address registered on your eTravel account.
- Backup Plan: If the machine has trouble reading your passport or face, do not panic. Just step aside and an immigration officer will immediately assist you at a manual counter.
