Philippines to allow visa-free entry for Indian tourists starting June 8

By ROY C. MABASA

The Philippines will begin allowing visa-free entry for Indian nationals visiting for tourism purposes, the Department of Foreign Affairs announced Saturday.

The new policy, which takes effect on June 8, 2025, is part of Manila’s efforts to attract more visitors from India, one of Asia’s fastest-growing outbound travel markets.

Under the revised rules, Indian tourists may enter the Philippines without a visa for up to 14 days, provided they meet several requirements.

These include holding a passport valid for at least six months beyond their intended stay, proof of confirmed hotel accommodation, financial capacity, and a return or onward ticket.

The DFA also introduced an extended visa-free option for Indian travelers who hold valid visas or residence permits from the United States, Japan, Australia, Canada, the Schengen Area, Singapore, or the United Kingdom — collectively known as AJACSSUK countries.

These travelers will be permitted to stay in the Philippines for up to 30 days without a visa, subject to the same entry requirements.

The visa-free entry, available at all Philippine ports of entry, is strictly non-extendible and non-convertible to other types of visas or immigration status. Indian nationals must also have no derogatory record with the Philippine Bureau of Immigration.

The DFA clarified that the new policy applies solely to tourism-related travel. Indian citizens seeking to transit through the Philippines or enter for long-term stays or non-tourism purposes must obtain the appropriate visa from a Philippine embassy or consulate.

Indian nationals who qualify may still apply for an electronic visa through the official portal at evisa.gov.ph, although e-visas remain non-extendible and non-convertible as well.

Tourism officials have identified India as a high-potential source market as the Philippines looks to revitalize its travel industry and strengthen economic ties with South Asia.

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