Muscat – The Department of Foreign Affairs of Philippines has announced that Oman has officially waived the requirement for a negative HIV medical certificate for Filipino travellers entering the country under its 14-day visa-free entry programme.

This policy change follows strong representations made by the Philippine government to Omani authorities, which sought a reconsideration of the requirement to facilitate smoother travel. The Omani Embassy in Manila had previously clarified that the test mandate specifically affected those using the visa-free entry option and did not apply to overseas Filipino workers or those holding work visas.

This development is being welcomed as a positive reflection of the strong bilateral relations between the Philippines and the Sultanate of Oman. Travellers are still advised to ensure compliance with all other existing entry requirements imposed by Omani authorities.