Indian travellers now have more flexibility when visiting the Philippines, as the country introduces two new visa-free entry options alongside its existing e-visa system. The announcement, made by the Philippine Embassy in New Delhi, is expected to attract more Indian tourists to the country’s famous beaches and islands.
Starting May 2025, Indian passport holders can enter the Philippines without a visa under two specific categories, provided they meet the requirements.
The first option allows Indian citizens to stay in the Philippines for up to 14 days without a visa, strictly for tourism purposes. This short-term stay cannot be extended or changed into another visa type. Travellers can enter through major airports, seaports, and cruise terminals. To be eligible, travellers must have a passport valid for at least six months beyond their stay, proof of accommodation, a return or onward ticket, and documents showing they can support themselves financially. They must also have no negative immigration history in the Philippines.
The second visa-free option is for Indian citizens who hold a valid visa or permanent residency from Australia, Japan, the United States, Canada, any Schengen country, Singapore, or the United Kingdom—collectively known as AJACSSUK countries. These travellers can stay in the Philippines for up to 30 days without a visa. Like the 14-day option, this is also strictly for tourism and cannot be extended. Requirements include a valid AJACSSUK visa or residency, a passport with at least six months of validity, proof of onward or return travel, and a clean immigration record in the Philippines.
For those who do not qualify for either visa-free option, the existing e-visa system remains available. Indian citizens can apply for the 9(a) Temporary Visitor Visa through the official online platform. This visa allows a single-entry stay of up to 30 days. Applicants need a valid passport, a government-issued ID, passport-sized photos, proof of accommodation, a return or onward ticket, and financial documents to show they can afford the trip.
These changes are expected to make travel planning easier for Indian tourists and further strengthen tourism ties between India and the Philippines.
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