Indian travellers now have more reasons to consider the Philippines, with two new visa-free entry options designed to boost tourism from India.

Effective May 2025, Indian passport holders can enter the Philippines without a visa under the following conditions:

#1 Option: Tourism-only

Open to all Indian nationals visiting for leisure, this option allows a stay of up to 14 days. It is non-extendable and not convertible to other visa types. Entry is permitted via all international airports, seaports, and cruise terminals.

Eligibility:

• Valid passport (at least six months beyond intended stay)

• Proof of accommodation and onward/return travel

• Sufficient funds

• No prior immigration violations in the Philippines

#2 Option: AJACSSUK visa/residency holders

Indian citizens with valid visas or permanent residency in Australia, Japan, America, Canada, Schengen countries, Singapore, or the UK can now stay for up to 30 days visa-free for tourism. This option is also non-extendable.

The e-visa system remains in place for travellers who don’t meet either visa-free criteria, allowing a 30-day stay under the 9(a) Temporary Visitor Visa.

India’s industry leaders welcome the move

“The Philippines represents an attractive product and price proposition for  Indian travellers seeking diverse, immersive experiences – be it  Leisure, MICE or BLeisure segment,” said Rajeev Kale, president & country head – Holidays, MICE, Visa of Thomas Cook (India).

Kale also applauded it as “a strategic move aimed at unlocking the potential of India’s powerful and rapidly growing outbound market.”

Meanwhile, SD Nandakumar, president & country head – holidays & corporate tours of SOTC Travel believes this will appeal to “travel-hungry millennials, Gen Z, working professionals and MICE travellers.”

“Visa-free access will create significant strategic advantage for the Philippines,” said Nandakumar, citing that 44% of Indians recently surveyed are more likely to visit countries with simplified visa processes.