In a significant move to bolster tourism, the Philippines has announced that Indian nationals can enter the country without a visa for tourism purposes starting June 8, 2025. This initiative aims to attract more visitors from India, which saw a 12% increase in tourist arrivals in 2024, totaling nearly 80,000 travellers.
Visa-Free Entry Details
Under the new policy, Indian passport holders can enjoy a visa-free stay in the Philippines for up to 14 days. Additionally, those possessing valid and current visas or residence permits from the United States, Japan, Australia, Canada, Schengen countries, Singapore, or the United Kingdom are eligible for a visa-free stay of up to 30 days.
Entry Requirements:
- To avail of the visa-free entry, Indian travelers must:
- Hold a passport valid for at least six months beyond the intended stay.
- Present confirmed hotel accommodation or booking.
- Provide proof of sufficient financial means for the duration of the stay.
- Have a return or onward ticket to the next destination.
This policy is non-extendible and non-convertible, emphasizing short-term tourism visits.
Boosting Bilateral Tourism
The Philippines’ Department of Foreign Affairs stated that this visa-free privilege is part of the country’s efforts to enhance tourism arrivals from India and strengthen bilateral relations. Despite the growth in Indian tourist numbers, they still represent a small fraction of the over five million travelers who visited Southeast Asia last year.
With this new visa-free policy, exploring the Philippines’ pristine beaches, vibrant cities, and rich cultural heritage has become more accessible for Indian tourists.
