The e-Travel System to be Implemented Today at International Airports Nationwide
The Bureau of Customs (BOC) and the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) are set to implement the e-Travel System today at international airports across the country. This unified and simplified digital data collection platform aims to provide each passenger with a single QR code for seamless travel clearance.
Passengers will need to present the QR code to a Customs officer for clearance upon arrival or before departure. Additionally, passports must be presented to immigration officers for e-Travel registration confirmation.
Inbound and outbound passengers can fill out the electronic Customs Baggage Declaration Form (e-CBDF) and electronic Currencies Declaration Form (e-CDF) on the e-Travel website or by downloading the eGovPH application within 72 hours before arrival or departure.
Arriving passengers must fill out the e-CBDF, while passengers carrying local or foreign currencies beyond the allowed threshold must fill out the e-CDF.
Strict rules will be implemented by the BOC for the cross-border transfer of currencies. Individuals bringing foreign currency exceeding $10,000 or equivalent into or out of the Philippines are required to declare the entire amount in the e-CDF. For Philippine currency, the limit is set at P50,000. Beyond this limit, passengers must have a written authorization from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) and declare the full amount in the e-CDF.
The BSP only allows the cross-border transfer of local currency above the limit for specific purposes, such as testing, calibration, or configuration of money counting machines and currency awareness. Failure to comply with the rules may lead to confiscation by Customs authorities.
It is important to note that the BSP does not issue a written authorization upon arrival or after confiscation of excess peso. Passengers are advised to adhere to the guidelines set by the BOC and DICT to ensure a hassle-free travel experience.
