Philippine Travel Tax Refund

Had a canceled flight or found out you don’t need to pay the Philippine travel tax? You can still get your Philippine Travel Tax Refund. Even if your air ticket is non-refundable, you can get your money back. This guide gives you an easy, end-to-end solution to claim your refund.

Learn the steps, documents needed, and where to go — from SM Mall of Asia counters to airport refund centers. This 2025 update helps Filipino citizens, permanent residents, and international travelers save time and money.

What Is the Philippine Travel Tax Under Presidential Decree 1183?

The Philippine Travel Tax is a levy under Presidential Decree 1183. It applies to people leaving the Philippines. This tax supports tourism development managed by TIEZA (Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority). Most of the time, the travel tax is already included in your air ticket.

You can also pay it online through the TIEZA website using a debit card, credit card, or at accredited retailers. The travel tax covers Filipino citizens, permanent residents, and some foreigners, depending on how long they stayed in the country.

How Much Is the Philippine Travel Tax?

The amount depends on your ticket type and category. Business Class passengers pay more than those in Economy. To know the exact rates and VAT inclusions, check the official TIEZA website or your airline ticket. This keeps your payment clear and helps you avoid issues at departure.

Here’s an article that discusses more travel tax and terminal fees.

Who Can Get a Philippine Travel Tax Refund?

Anyone can get a Philippine travel tax refund if they are eligible and apply within two (2) years from the date of payment.

1. Passengers with Unused Tickets

• Passport
• Airline Ticket with Travel Tax Payment or Official Receipt (Passenger and Airline Copy)
• Fare Refund Voucher or Certification from the Airline that your ticket was unused or non-rebookable

2. Downgraded Tickets (Business Class to Economy)

If you were downgraded from Business Class to Economy, you can get the difference.

• Passport
• Airline Ticket or Official Receipt of Travel Tax (Passenger Copy)
• Airline Certification confirming the downgrade or flight manifest copy

3. Non-Immigrant Foreign Nationals Staying Less Than a Year

Tourists or foreigners staying less than a year don’t need to pay the tax. If it was charged, you can apply for a refund.

• Passport or Bureau of Immigration Certification with your status and date of arrival
• Airline Ticket or Official Receipt of Travel Tax (Passenger Copy)

4. Qualified for Travel Tax Exemption

This covers Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), diplomats, and government employees on official travel.

• Passport
• Airline Ticket or Official Receipt of Travel Tax (Passenger Copy)
• Supporting Documents showing the exemption

5. Qualified for Reduced Travel Tax

This applies to minors, spouses, or children of OFWs who meet the eligibility rules.

• Passport
• Airline Ticket or Official Receipt of Travel Tax (Passenger Copy)
• Supporting Documents showing the relationship

6. Double Payment of Travel Tax

If you paid the tax twice for one trip, you can get a refund.

• Passport
• Airline Ticket or Official Receipt of Travel Tax (Passenger Copy)

7. Undue or Erroneous Travel Tax

If you were charged wrongly, you can apply for a refund.

• Passport
• Airline Ticket or Official Receipt of Travel Tax (Passenger Copy)

Steps to Claim Your Philippine Travel Tax Refund

Step 1: Prepare Your Documents

Before visiting a Travel Tax Center, prepare all documents. If you’re not the payee, bring a Special Power of Attorney (SPA). If claiming for a minor, include the child’s birth certificate.

Step 2: Fill Out the TIEZA Refund Form

Download and print the form from the site. Fill in all the required details before you go.

Step 3: Submit Your Application

Go to the TIEZA Office or an airport counter. You can also submit at SM Mall of Asia refund centers for faster service.

Step 4: Wait for Processing

Refund processing usually takes up to three (3) working days. If you qualify, you can get a same-day refund at select airport counters.

Step 5: Claim Your Refund Check

Once approved, get your refund check. Deposit it into your bank account or request an uncrossed check if you need cash.

Travel Tax Centers and Retailers

You can go to the TIEZA Central Office, airport counters, or retailers, like those in SM Mall of Asia, Cebu, and Davao. Always bring valid IDs and make sure your papers are complete.

Hassle-Free Philippine Travel Tax Refund

Getting a Philippine Travel Tax Refund is simple. With complete papers and proof of payment, you can get your money back fast. This helps Filipino citizens, foreigners, and permanent residents recover what they paid.

Every refunded peso from this levy adds to your next trip. Prepare early, and enjoy a stress-free departure with more savings for your next adventure.

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