Philippines Welcomes Indian Tourists with New Visa-Free Entry from May 2025

Philippines Welcomes Indian Tourists– In a significant move to bolster tourism and strengthen bilateral ties, the Philippines has introduced a new visa-free entry policy for Indian nationals, effective from May 2025. This initiative aims to simplify travel procedures and attract more Indian tourists to the Southeast Asian nation.

Key Highlights of the New Visa-Free Policy

1. 14-Day Visa-Free Entry for Indian Tourists

Indian citizens can now enjoy visa-free entry into the Philippines for up to 14 days, provided they meet the following criteria:

• Possession of a valid or unexpired visa or permanent residence permit from any of the following countries: United States, Japan, Australia, Canada, Schengen Area countries, Singapore, or the United Kingdom.
• A passport valid for at least six months beyond the intended stay.
• A return or onward ticket to the next destination.
• No derogatory record with the Philippine Bureau of Immigration.

This 14-day visa-free stay can be extended by an additional seven days, allowing a maximum stay of 21 days.

2. 30-Day Visa-Free Entry for Certain Indian Nationals

Indian travelers holding valid visas or permanent residency from the aforementioned countries are eligible for a 30-day visa-free stay in the Philippines.

3. E-Visa Option for Other Indian Travelers

For Indian nationals who do not meet the visa-free criteria, the Philippines offers an e-visa system for the 9(a) Temporary Visitor Visa. This e-visa allows for a single entry and a stay of up to 30 days. The application process is entirely online, requiring submission of necessary documents and payment of a processing fee of approximately ₹3,500. Processing typically takes about seven working days, but applicants are advised to apply at least 10-15 days in advance.

All travelers, including Indian nationals, must complete the  eTravel registration within 72 hours before their flight to the Philippines. Upon registration, a QR code is generated, which must be presented upon arrival for verification.

This policy change is expected to significantly ease travel for Indian tourists, promoting increased cultural exchange and tourism between India and the Philippines. By simplifying entry requirements, the Philippines positions itself as an attractive destination for Indian travelers seeking new experiences in Southeast Asia.