(PHILIPPINES) Indian tourists can now visit the Philippines without a visa for short stays, starting June 8, 2025. In a move to boost tourism and strengthen ties, the Philippines has granted visa-free entry to Indian passport holders, while India is offering free e-visas to Filipino travelers. These changes are already making travel between the two countries easier and more affordable, with immediate effects on tourism and business.

Key Details of the Philippines’ Visa-Free Entry for Indian Tourists
The new policy allows Indian tourists to enter the Philippines for up to 14 days without a visa. This stay is strictly for tourism purposes and cannot be extended or changed to another visa type. Indian travelers must arrive at any major airport, seaport, or cruise terminal in the Philippines and meet several entry requirements:
- 📋 Passport valid for at least six months beyond the intended stay
- 📋 Confirmed hotel or accommodation booking
- 📋 Proof of enough funds to cover the trip, such as bank statements or proof of employment
- 📋 Confirmed return or onward ticket
- 📋 No negative record with Philippine immigration authorities
- 📋 Purpose of visit must be tourism only
If an Indian tourist wants to stay longer or visit for reasons other than tourism, they must apply for the correct visa at a Philippine Embassy or Consulate or use the official Philippines eVisa portal.
Extended 30-Day Stay for Certain Indian Travelers
Some Indian tourists can stay even longer. If they hold a valid visa or permanent residency from the United States 🇺🇸, United Kingdom 🇬🇧, Canada 🇨🇦, Australia 🇦🇺, Schengen countries, Singapore 🇸🇬, or Japan 🇯🇵 (often called AJACSSUK countries), they can visit the Philippines for up to 30 days without a visa. The requirements are similar:
- 📋 Valid visa or permanent residence permit from one of the AJACSSUK countries
- 📋 Passport valid for at least six months beyond the stay
- 📋 Confirmed return or onward ticket
- 📋 No negative immigration record
- 📋 Tourism purpose only; non-extendable and non-convertible
This policy makes it easier for Indian travelers who have already been approved by these countries to enjoy longer visits to the Philippines.
India’s Free E-Visas for Filipino Tourists
In a reciprocal move, India will now offer free e-tourist visas to Filipino travelers. Before this change, Filipinos had to pay a visa fee of about PHP 5,970. Now, they can apply for an Indian e-tourist visa online at no cost. The exact start date for this free visa policy is expected soon, and travelers should check the official Indian eVisa portal for updates.
Filipino travelers must still complete the online application and meet all requirements, but the removal of the fee makes travel to India more affordable and attractive.
Why These Changes Matter
The new visa policies come after a 12% rise in Indian tourist arrivals to the Philippines in 2024, with nearly 80,000 Indian visitors. This growth is expected to continue, as online searches for travel from India to the Philippines jumped by 28% after the announcement. Travel platforms predict a steady 20–30% increase in demand in the coming months.
For the Philippines, India is now the 11th largest source of tourists. The Department of Tourism sees Indian travelers as a key market, especially as arrivals from other countries, like China, have slowed. By making it easier for Indian tourists to visit, the Philippines hopes to attract more visitors and support its tourism industry.
Background and Diplomatic Context
These visa changes were announced during President Marcos Jr.’s state visit to India, where both countries agreed to a strategic partnership. Thirteen agreements were signed, including a tourism cooperation program for 2025–2028. Direct flights between Manila and Delhi are set to begin on October 1, 2025, making travel even more convenient.
President Marcos Jr. said, “I reiterated the introduction of visa-free entry privileges and extended our invitation for more Indian tourists to visit the Philippines. I thank Prime Minister Modi in turn for the introduction of a scheme to grant visa free of charge to Filipino tourists traveling to India.”
Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco added, “The Department of Tourism has placed strategic focus on the Indian market, recognizing its vast potential—from enhancing connectivity and visa facilitation, to promoting travel experiences for Indian tourists.”
Practical Steps for Indian Tourists Visiting the Philippines
- ✅ Check passport validity: Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months after your planned stay.
- ✅ Book accommodation in advance: Immigration officers may ask for proof of where you’ll stay.
- ✅ Prepare proof of funds: Bring bank statements or other documents to show you can support yourself during your trip.
- ✅ Buy a return or onward ticket: You must show you plan to leave the Philippines before your allowed stay ends.
- ✅ Travel for tourism only: The visa-free entry is not for work, study, or other purposes.
- ✅ Know the rules: The 14-day or 30-day stay cannot be extended or changed to another visa type.
If you plan to stay longer or for reasons other than tourism, apply for the correct visa through the Philippines eVisa portal.
Practical Steps for Filipino Tourists Visiting India
- ✅ Apply for an e-tourist visa: Use the official Indian eVisa portal.
- ✅ Watch for updates: The free visa policy will start soon, so check the website for the latest news.
- ✅ Prepare documents: Make sure you have a valid passport, travel plans, and any other required documents.
- ✅ Travel for tourism: The free e-visa is for tourists only.
Wider Impact and Future Outlook
These visa changes are expected to bring more tourists, boost local businesses, and create jobs in both countries. Airlines, hotels, and tour operators in the Philippines and India are preparing for more visitors. The start of direct flights between Manila and Delhi will make travel faster and more comfortable.
The new policies also show a growing friendship between the Philippines 🇵🇭 and India 🇮🇳. Both countries are working together on tourism, business, and even defense. More high-level meetings and agreements are expected in the future, which could lead to even more travel opportunities.
Visa-Free and Visa-on-Arrival Options for Indian Passport Holders
According to the Henley Passport Index 2025, Indian citizens now have visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 59 countries and territories. This includes 30 countries that offer visa-free entry, such as the Philippines, Malaysia, Thailand, and Mauritius. There are also several countries where Indians can get a visa on arrival, like Indonesia, Cambodia, and the Maldives. The Indian passport now ranks 77th globally for travel access.
Type of Access | Number of Countries | Examples |
---|---|---|
Visa-Free Entry | 30 | Philippines, Malaysia, Thailand, Mauritius |
Visa on Arrival | 29 | Indonesia, Cambodia, Maldives |
Total Access | 59 | — |
Global Passport Rank | 77th | — |
What Travelers Should Remember
- ⚠️ Follow all entry rules: Immigration officers in both countries check documents carefully. Missing paperwork or past immigration problems can lead to denied entry.
- ⚠️ Plan ahead: Book flights and hotels early, especially with new direct routes starting soon.
- ⚠️ Stay informed: Check official government websites for the latest updates on visa policies and travel requirements.
Official Resources for Travelers
- 🌐 Philippines eVisa Portal: https://evisa.gov.ph/
- 🌐 Indian eVisa Portal: https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/
- 🌐 Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs: https://dfa.gov.ph/
- 🌐 Embassy of India, Manila: https://www.eoimanila.gov.in/
Conclusion and Next Steps
The new visa-free entry for Indian tourists and free e-visas for Filipinos mark a big step forward in making travel between the Philippines and India easier and more affordable. These changes are already increasing interest in travel, supporting tourism businesses, and bringing the two countries closer together.
Travelers should take advantage of these new rules by preparing all required documents, booking early, and staying updated through official channels. As reported by VisaVerge.com, these policies are expected to create lasting benefits for both countries’ tourism sectors and help more people experience the rich cultures and attractions each has to offer.
For more information on visa requirements and travel updates, visit the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs. This official site provides the latest details on entry rules, visa forms, and travel advisories for the Philippines.
By following these guidelines and using official resources, Indian and Filipino tourists can enjoy smoother, safer, and more enjoyable trips under the new visa policies.
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