Ruth Haines
The Philippines has multiple international airport outlets offering duty-free shopping, including at NAIA Terminals 1, 2, and 3, Kalibo, Davao, and Cebu-Mactan. Duty-free shopping in the Philippines is subject to certain conditions and limitations. For example, purchases must be made in US dollars or their equivalent in Philippine Pesos and other acceptable foreign currencies, including the Euro, British Pound, and Canadian Dollar. Credit cards such as Visa, Mastercard, and American Express are also accepted at duty-free shops. It is worth noting that duty-free shopping privileges may be subject to tax exemptions and are non-transferable, with certain restrictions on the types of goods that can be purchased tax-free.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Currencies accepted at duty-free shops in the Philippines | US Dollar, Japanese Yen, Canadian Dollar, Bahrain Dinar, Hong Kong Dollar, Euro, Philippine Peso, Australian Dollar, Swiss Franc, Singapore Dollar, British Pound, Saudi Riyal, Thai Baht, Brunei Dollar, South Korean Won, Chinese Yuan |
| Credit cards accepted at duty-free shops in the Philippines | Visa, MasterCard, Diners, AMEXCO, JCB, China Union Pay |
| Debit cards accepted at duty-free shops in the Philippines | Megalink, Bancnet, BPI |
| Duty-free shops in the Philippines that accept US dollars | International airport outlets at NAIA Terminals 1, 2, and 3, Kalibo, Davao, Laoag, Cebu-Mactan, Iloilo, Laguindingan-Misamis Oriental, and Clark-Pampanga |
| Off-airport duty-free shops in the Philippines that accept US dollars | Fiestamall- Parañaque City, Manila Ocean Park, Resorts World Manila, Embarcadero de Legazpi, Puerto Princesa City, Palawan, and Waterfront Hotel-Lahug, Cebu |
| Recommended currency for duty-free shopping in the Philippines | US Dollar |
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What You'll Learn
- US dollars and other foreign currencies are accepted at duty-free shops in the Philippines
- Credit cards, debit cards, and gift certificates are also valid payment methods
- Duty-free shopping is available at international airport outlets and off-airport stores
- The privilege is limited to specific traveller types, including Filipino and foreign nationals
- Duty-free purchases are subject to certain conditions and limitations
US dollars and other foreign currencies are accepted at duty-free shops in the Philippines
It is important to note that duty-free shopping privileges are typically non-transferable and may be subject to annual limits. For example, Regular Filipino Travelers and Foreign Individual Travelers are entitled to a tax-exempt maximum purchase of USD 1,000 within 48 hours of arrival. Additionally, certain items, such as cigarettes, liquor, and electronics, may have restrictions or duties and taxes applied.
When it comes to exchanging foreign currency in the Philippines, it is recommended to use authorized money changers or banks, especially in Manila. Outside the capital, there may be a limited number of facilities for exchanging foreign currency, and exchange rates may be less favourable. Therefore, it is generally advisable to carry Philippine pesos when travelling to other provinces or areas with limited access to currency exchange services.
In terms of duty-free shopping at airports, the Philippines has duty-free stores at various international airport outlets, including NAIA Terminals 1, 2, and 3, Kalibo, Davao, and Cebu-Mactan, among others. While US dollars are widely accepted at duty-free shops in the Philippines, it is always a good idea to have some local currency (Philippine pesos) on hand as well.
Additionally, it is worth noting that duty-free shops at airports may have different exchange rates for different currencies. In some cases, it might be more cost-effective to pay in US dollars or the local currency rather than using other foreign currencies. It is recommended to be aware of the price of items beforehand and to compare prices when shopping at duty-free shops to make informed purchasing decisions.
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Credit cards, debit cards, and gift certificates are also valid payment methods
The Bureau of Customs in the Philippines states that credit cards, debit cards, and gift certificates are valid payment methods for duty-free shopping. This applies to international airport outlets located at NAIA Terminals 1, 2, and 3, Kalibo, Davao, Laoag, Cebu-Mactan, Iloilo, Laguindingan-Misamis Oriental, and Clark-Pampanga.
For credit cards, the following international major credit cards are accepted: Visa, MasterCard, Diners, AMEXCO (American Express), JCB, and China Union Pay. Some outlets may also accept Elo Credit and Hipercard. It is always a good idea to check with the specific airport or duty-free store to confirm which credit cards are accepted.
When using credit cards, it is important to be aware of the exchange rates and any additional fees that may be incurred. While credit cards offer convenience, the dynamic exchange rates applied by credit card companies may result in slightly higher costs compared to paying in cash.
Debit cards are also a valid payment option, specifically those on the Megalink, Bancnet, and BPI networks. Similar to credit cards, it is advisable to confirm with the specific airport or duty-free store to ensure your debit card is accepted.
Additionally, duty-free stores in the Philippines accept gift certificates and store coupons as valid forms of payment. These can be great options if you want to give someone the gift of duty-free shopping or if you have received them as part of a promotion.
It is worth noting that while US Dollars are widely accepted at duty-free shops in the Philippines, using credit and debit cards provides an alternative method of payment, especially if you do not have the accepted foreign currencies on hand. However, do keep in mind that some stores may have purchase limits, such as a maximum of US$1000 per passenger at some arrivals stores.
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Duty-free shopping is available at international airport outlets and off-airport stores
- NAIA Terminals 1, 2, and 3
- Kalibo
- Davao
- Laoag
- Cebu-Mactan
- Iloilo
- Laguindingan-Misamis Oriental
- Clark-Pampanga
The following off-airport stores also offer duty-free shopping:
- Fiestamall- Parañaque City
- Manila Ocean Park
- Resorts World Manila
- Embarcadero de Legazpi
- Puerto Princesa City, Palawan
- Waterfront Hotel-Lahug, Cebu
Duty-free shopping is subject to certain conditions and limitations. For example, purchases must be made in US dollars or their equivalent in Philippine pesos or other acceptable foreign currencies. Other acceptable foreign currencies include the Japanese Yen, Canadian Dollar, Euro, and British Pound. Credit cards such as Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are also accepted at duty-free shops in the Philippines. It is important to note that duty-free shopping privileges may be subject to annual limits, and certain goods may be restricted or subject to duties and taxes.
When travelling to the Philippines, it is advisable to carry a sufficient amount of Philippine pesos, as outside of major cities, there may be limited facilities for changing foreign currency. ATMs are widely available in cities and major tourist areas but may not be present in more remote locations.
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The privilege is limited to specific traveller types, including Filipino and foreign nationals
The Philippines' duty-free shopping privilege is subject to specific conditions and limitations. Notably, it is restricted to particular traveller types, encompassing both Filipino and foreign nationals.
Traveller Types
Filipino citizens who have been continuously residing outside of the Philippines for at least a year from their last departure are eligible for duty-free shopping. This privilege extends to former Filipinos holding foreign passports and their immediate family members (spouse and children) travelling with them.
Duty-Free Shopping Conditions
Incoming passengers from foreign countries, including Regular Filipino Travellers and Foreign Individual Travellers, can take advantage of duty-free shopping. Balikbayans, Overseas Filipino Workers, and departing passengers with confirmed bookings to foreign countries are also entitled to this privilege. Additionally, diplomatic personnel and personnel of other governments and offices of international organisations are exempt from duties and taxes.
Payment Options
Duty-free purchases can be made in various acceptable tenders and foreign currencies, including US dollars, Philippine pesos, and other major currencies. Credit cards, debit cards, gift certificates, and store coupons are also accepted at duty-free outlets. It is important to note that duty-free shopping privileges are non-transferable and must be availed of personally by the passenger.
Purchase Limitations
Regular Filipino Travellers and Foreign Individual Travellers have a tax-exempt maximum purchase limit of USD 1,000, and purchases must be made within 48 hours of arrival. Minors are prohibited from purchasing certain items, such as cigarettes, liquors, and wines, electronics, and home appliances. Additionally, tourists buying home appliances and electronics may be subject to duties and taxes.
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Duty-free purchases are subject to certain conditions and limitations
Duty-free purchases in the Philippines are subject to certain conditions and limitations. Duty-free shopping is available at international airport outlets located at NAIA Terminals 1, 2, and 3, as well as in several other cities across the Philippines. The following are entitled to duty-free shopping:
- Incoming passengers from a foreign country who are Regular Filipino Travelers or Foreign Individual Travelers.
- Incoming Balikbayans and Overseas Filipino Workers.
- Departing passengers with confirmed bookings destined for foreign countries.
- Diplomatic personnel and personnel of other governments and offices of international organizations entitled to tax and/or duty exemptions.
Duty-free purchases must be made in acceptable tenders and foreign currencies, including cash in US Dollars, Philippine Peso, Euro, British Pound, and more. International major credit cards such as Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are also accepted, as well as debit cards, store coupons, and DFP gift certificates.
It is important to note that duty-free shopping privileges are non-transferable and may be availed of only once a year. Minors are not allowed to purchase cigarettes, liquors, wines, electronics, or home appliances. Tourists buying home appliances and electronics are subject to duties and taxes. Additionally, all arriving international passengers, except minors, may purchase a maximum of two units of cigarettes, liquor, and wine from duty-free shops within 48 hours of arrival.
To avail of the duty-free privilege, travellers may need a Tax Exemption Indorsement from the Department of Finance-Revenue Office. This covers personal and household goods, wearing apparel, goods of personal adornment, toilet goods, and instruments related to one's profession, excluding luxury items. Upon arrival, travellers must submit a Customs Baggage Declaration Form and may be subject to additional duties and taxes if they fail to declare dutiable goods.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can pay in US dollars at duty-free shops in the Philippines. Other acceptable foreign currencies include the Japanese Yen, Canadian Dollar, Euro, and British Pound.
Duty-free shops are located at the following international airport outlets:
- NAIA Terminals 1, 2, and 3
- Kalibo
- Davao
- Laoag
- Cebu-Mactan
- Iloilo
- Laguindingan-Misamis Oriental
- Clark-Pampanga
Duty-free shopping allows travellers to purchase goods without paying certain taxes, such as duties and VAT.
It is recommended to carry a sufficient amount of Philippine pesos when travelling to other provinces in the Philippines. Major credit cards, such as MasterCard and Visa, are accepted in most cities, but credit card acceptance is less reliable elsewhere.
Travellers aged 18 and over are permitted to bring into the Philippines, free of duties and taxes:
- 2 reams of cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250g of tobacco
- 2 bottles of liquor (each not exceeding 1L in volume)
- Personal effects up to a maximum value of PHP 10,000
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