Philippines grants visa-free travel for Indian nationals
Indian nationals can now travel to the Philippines visa-free, the Department of Foreign Affairs announced.
These privileges aim to boost tourism arrivals in the country from India.
According to the arrangement, Indian nationals may enter the country without a visa for a non-extendible and non-convertible period of 14 days for tourism purposes.
They must present a valid passport, confirmed hotel accommodation or booking, proof of financial capacity, and a return ticket.
Those holding a valid and current American, Australian, Canadian, Schengen, Singapore, or United Kingdom visa or residence permits may stay in the country without a visa for 30 days for tourism.
"These updated visa-free privileges for Indian nationals may be availed of at any Philippine port of entry, and are not convertible to a visa-based stay or other admission status categories. Indian nationals must also not have any derogatory record with the Bureau of Immigration in order to be admitted into the country without a visa," the DFA said.
Indian nationals in the Philippines for long-term visits and non-tourism activities must still apply for a visa at a Philippine Embassy or Consulate. Applications can be made through the official Philippine e-visa website.
According to the Department of Tourism, nearly 80,000 Indian nationals visited the Philippines in 2024, a 12% increase compared to the previous year.
"We see tremendous potential in India's outbound tourism market, and we are committed to making the Philippines a top destination for Indian tourists," Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco said in a news forum in January.
Meanwhile, Filipinos need to apply for a visa to visit India.
Bit by the travel bug? Cebu Pacific is offering as low as P188 one-way base fares to local and international destinations until June 10.
