Filipinos bound for Oman face airline checks on HIV test requirement

An airline has reminded Filipinos traveling to Oman to obtain a certificate for HIV test before departure. 

On its website, Emirates listed the entry restrictions for Filipino passengers. 

“Nationals of Philippines must obtain a certificate of HIV test before departure. This does not apply to children,” it said. 

The Philippine Embassy in Muscat received reports of Filipino passengers being asked to present their travel documents. 

“Filipinos intending to travel to Oman are encouraged to directly coordinate with their airline for the latest travel requirements and guidance,” the embassy said. 

For tourists only

In a statement, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said it "made strong representations" with the Omani Embassy in Manila for the removal of the travel requirement.

"The Omani Embassy in Manila clarified that 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 DFA said.

"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," it added.

The DFA further said it is expecting "a positive outcome given the good and strong relationship between the Philippines and Oman." —LDF, GMA News