Philippines Opens Doors to Indians with Visa-Free Entry – All You Need to Know

Indians can now travel to the Philippines visa-free. Here’s all you need to know about the new rules

Great news for Indian nationals planning a visit to the Philippines—travel just became easier! The Embassy of the Philippines in New Delhi has announced new visa-free entry options for Indian passport holders. As per the latest guidelines, Indian travellers can now take advantage of two short-term visa-free entry categories, each with distinct eligibility criteria.

1. 14-Day Visa-Free Entry (Tourism Purpose Only)

Indian citizens are now eligible for a visa-free stay of up to 14 days in the Philippines, strictly for tourism purposes. However, this short-term entry cannot be extended or converted into any other type of visa.

To qualify for this 14-day visa-free entry, Indian travellers must meet the following conditions:

• Must be visiting exclusively for tourism.
• Possess a passport valid for at least six months beyond the intended stay.
• Provide proof of confirmed accommodation (e.g., hotel bookings).
• Show evidence of sufficient financial means to cover expenses during the stay (such as bank statements or employment verification).
• Present a confirmed return or onward travel ticket.
• Have no negative immigration history in the Philippines.

2. 30-Day Visa-Free Entry for Eligible Indian Citizens

Indian nationals who hold a valid visa or permanent residency in specific countries are eligible for an extended 30-day visa-free stay in the Philippines. This applies to Indian citizens with valid documentation from the following countries:

• United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, Japan, Singapore, or any Schengen area country.

All documentation requirements for the 14-day visa-free entry also apply to this category. This provision is especially convenient for Indians residing abroad or those who frequently travel internationally.

3. Planning to Stay Beyond 14 Days Without Eligibility for Visa-Free Entry?

For Indian citizens who do not qualify for visa-free entry but wish to stay in the Philippines for more than 14 days, there is an alternative. You can apply for a 9(a) Temporary Visitor Visa via the official e-Visa portal.

Steps to Apply for the 9(a) e-Visa:

Applicants must register at evisa.gov.ph and submit the following documents:

1. A valid passport (with a minimum of six months’ validity).
2. A government-issued ID.
3. Recent passport-size photographs.
4. Proof of accommodation in the Philippines.
5. A return or onward travel ticket.
6. Financial documents to demonstrate sufficient funds for the duration of the stay.

These recent changes significantly ease travel restrictions and encourage tourism between India and the Philippines. Indian travellers are advised to thoroughly review eligibility and prepare all necessary documents before planning their trip.