On Mon, Nov 7, the Australian Embassy in Manila warned travelers planning to visit Australia that they would not be allowed to enter without the required visa.
This after a hoax article posted on several social media sites claiming that “starting January 2017, Australia will no longer require visas for Filipinos visiting Australia for 90 days.”
The Australian Embassy in its website posted an alert notice saying to be able to enter Australia, Filipino visitors need to first secure an Australian visa.
“The Embassy is aware of a hoax/scam suggesting that visa-free options for Filipino nationals will be available from January 2017. This is a scam and potential travelers to Australia must have a valid Australian visa,” the warning stated.
The article being refuted by the Australian Embassy said that the Australian and Philippine Governments entered into a bilateral visa agreement, after a year of deliberation to simplify travel barriers between the two countries.
It suggested Filipinos intending to travel to Australia to visit its travel website for instructions on where and how to apply for a visa and the necessary requirements needed.
The same article said Filipino visitors only need to show return ticket and proof of funds amounting to Aus$2,000 (US$1,500) before they are allowed entry into Australia. It said the same privilege will be given to Australian visiting the Philippines. —Philippine News Agency (PNA)
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