The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said it has formally raised concerns with the Embassy of Oman in Manila over a requirement for Filipino travelers to present a negative HIV medical certificate, urging its removal.
In a statement issued April 17, 2026, the DFA said it has made “strong representations” on the matter, particularly for Filipinos entering Oman under visa-free arrangements.
“The Department of Foreign Affairs has made strong representations with the Oman Embassy in Manila for the removal of the negative HIV medical certificate requirement for all Filipino travellers to Oman,” the DFA said.
The Omani Embassy, according to the DFA, clarified that the requirement applies only to tourists availing of visa-free entry, and not to Filipinos holding work visas.
“The HIV certificate applies only to tourists availing of the visa-free entry to Oman, and not to those who were issued work visas,” the embassy said, as relayed by the DFA.
The requirement is now under review by Omani authorities, with a meeting scheduled to discuss the policy.
“The Embassy added that this requirement is currently being seriously reviewed by the Omani government, and that a meeting next week is set to discuss the matter,” the DFA noted.
Despite the issue, the Philippine government expressed optimism that the matter will be resolved soon.
“The DFA expects a positive outcome given the good and strong relationship between the Philippines and Oman,” it added.
Strong bilateral ties
The Philippines and Oman have maintained diplomatic relations since 1980, with cooperation spanning labor, energy, and trade. The relationship has also expanded into emerging areas such as tourism, food security, fisheries, and critical minerals, following recent high-level meetings between officials from both countries.
Oman has long been a key destination for Filipino workers in the Middle East, with around 45,000 to over 50,000 Filipinos currently living and working in the Gulf state, based on recent Philippine government and diplomatic estimates.
Filipinos in Oman are employed across a wide range of sectors — from domestic work and hospitality to healthcare, engineering, education, and skilled technical jobs — making labor mobility a central pillar of bilateral ties.
The issue of travel requirements comes amid ongoing efforts by both governments to strengthen cooperation and ensure the welfare and mobility of Filipinos, particularly as Oman continues to play a role in regional stability and the safety of overseas workers in times of crisis.