Immigration & Customs: Step-by-Step for Foreigners

How to get through security and paperwork without stress

After you reach the immigration hall, join the line marked Foreign Passports. Have your passport, completed arrival card, and return/onward ticket ready. Many nationalities receive a visa-free stay or visa on arrival, but officers may still ask a few simple questions about your length of stay, accommodation, and purpose of visit.

Once your passport is stamped, you’ll proceed down to the baggage claim area. Screens above each carousel show your flight number; if your luggage is delayed, staff at the airline counter beside the carousels can assist. After collecting your bags, you’ll go through customs—usually just a quick scan or visual check unless you declare items.

The important thing is not to rush. Keep your documents in one place, stay in the lanes, and follow the crowd flow. NAIA isn’t the most high-tech airport in the world, but the immigration process is clear and English is widely used by staff, which helps a lot for first-time visitors.

Quick immigration tips for foreigners

• Fill out your arrival card completely on the plane or before reaching the desk.
• Have your accommodation address ready (hotel or condo name + area, like “Makati” or “BGC”).
• Keep a screenshot of your onward or return ticket in case you’re asked to show it.

SIM Cards, Wi-Fi & Money: Get Set Up Before Leaving the Airport

Stay connected and avoid payment headaches

Right after customs, you’ll typically see counters for the main local networks like Globe and Smart. These airport booths offer tourist SIM packages that include data, calls, and sometimes local app bonuses. They are slightly more expensive than buying in the city, but the convenience and instant connectivity are worth it for most foreigners—especially when you need Grab right away.

Joshua’s tip: “A lot of foreigners don’t realize that the airport has legit SIM booths before baggage claim and then again right after customs. The ones inside are usually faster and less crowded. And when it comes to transport, I always tell people: if you’re new here, avoid the random taxi drivers offering rides the moment you step outside. Grab or the airport taxi queue is way less stressful.”

For cash, you’ll find ATMs and currency exchange counters in the arrivals area. ATMs often give better rates than exchange booths, but be mindful of your home bank’s international withdrawal fees. It’s smart to withdraw just enough for the first day or two—transport, food, and small purchases—while you get settled and explore better options in the city.

• SIM choice: Globe and Smart both offer solid coverage in Metro Manila; pick whichever booth has the shorter line.
• Payment mix: Keep a blend of cash, card, and digital payments (like GCash once you’re set up).
• Backups: Screenshot your condo or hotel booking in case you lose signal temporarily.

Transport Options from NAIA & Scams to Avoid

Safest ways to reach the city

Once you step out into the arrivals area, you’ll see a mix of official counters, taxi lines, and people offering rides. Ignore anyone who approaches you aggressively with “Taxi? Taxi?” the moment you exit. For first-time visitors, the easiest options are Grab (ride-hailing app), the airport coupon taxis, or official metered taxis from the designated queue.

Grab works well if you already have a SIM and data. There are specific pickup points outside each terminal where drivers meet passengers. Coupon taxis charge a fixed rate based on your destination (Makati, BGC, Ortigas, etc.), which can be slightly higher but predictable. Metered taxis can be fine too, as long as the driver turns on the meter at the start of the ride.

Scams to watch out for usually involve overcharging—either by refusing to use the meter, quoting a flat rate that’s much higher than normal, or adding “extra fees” when you arrive. If something feels off, politely decline and return to the official lines or use Grab instead.

Joshua’s perspective: “Guests often tell me that their biggest shock wasn’t immigration—it was the traffic as they left the airport. Some say it took an hour just to move a few kilometers, especially during rush hour. That’s why I advise arriving at night if you can. The drive to Makati or BGC is smoother, and your first impression of Manila feels a lot better.”

Smoothest Way to Reach the City (Makati, BGC, Ortigas, Manila Bay)

Match your arrival plan with your destination

Most foreigners stay in Makati, BGC, Ortigas, or Manila Bay on their first trip, and all are reachable within 20–45 minutes from NAIA when traffic is light. As a rule of thumb, Makati and Manila Bay are closest; BGC and Ortigas take a bit longer. If your flight lands during evening rush hour, expect longer travel times and plan accordingly.

Before you fly, save your accommodation details on your phone: building name, full address, and ideally a pin on Google Maps. Show this to your driver or Grab, and double-check the location on the map as you approach. Many condos have multiple towers or entrances, so knowing the tower name (and if there’s a specific drop-off point) will save you a lot of time.

Once you arrive at your condo or hotel, you’ll go through the usual check-in or lobby registration process. In many Manila condos, visitors and even guests staying in short-term rentals must present a valid ID at the front desk. Don’t be surprised if security is strict—that’s normal here and generally a good thing for your safety.

Quick arrival checklist for a stress-free first night

1. Connect to Wi-Fi or install a local SIM before leaving the terminal so you can book Grab and message your host.
2. Use Grab or official airport taxis, and avoid random drivers offering rides at the curb.
3. Have your condo or hotel name, tower, and address saved and ready to show your driver and building security.