PH welcomes Indian tourists with new visa-free entry policy

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Starting today (June 8, 2025), Indian citizens can enjoy visa-free entry to the Philippines for tourism purposes.

Under the new policy, Indian passport holders may stay up to 14 days without a visa by simply presenting:

  • A passport valid for at least six months beyond the planned stay,
  • A confirmed hotel booking,
  • Proof of sufficient financial means, and
  • A return or onward travel ticket.

Indian nationals who already hold valid and current visas or residence permits from the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, Schengen countries, Singapore, or Japan (AJACSSUK) can stay in the Philippines for an extended period of up to 30 days visa-free under the same entry conditions.

PHOTO FROM THE PHILIPPINE EMBASSY IN INDIA

The visa-free privilege is non-extendible and non-convertible and can be availed at any Philippine port of entry, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free arrival experience for Indian travelers.For Indian visitors planning longer stays or non-tourism activities such as business, medical, or event participation, the Philippines offers convenient options such as the electronic visa (e-Visa) platform at evisa.gov.ph.

This landmark policy marks a significant step forward in strengthening the growing friendship between India and the Philippines.

Already, Indian tourist arrivals to the Philippines have been steadily rising—from 51,542 in 2022 to nearly 80,000 in 2024—and officials are optimistic the new visa-free scheme will boost arrivals by 30–40% over the next 12 to 18 months.

Tourism and industry leaders are confident that this initiative will make the country more competitive among Southeast Asian destinations and more accessible to India’s fast-growing community of travel lovers.

PHOTO FROM THE PHILIPPINE EMBASSY IN INDIA

With direct Air India flights between Delhi and Manila launching this October, travel between the two countries will be even more seamless.

Beyond tourism, India and the Philippines have been steadily deepening their bilateral ties. In 2023–24, bilateral trade reached $3.53 billion.