Planning a trip to the Philippines? New visa-free entry rules benefit Indian Nationals

Travel to the Philippines has become easier for Indian tourists following recent changes to visa regulations. The country now offers two new short-term visa-free entry options alongside an existing e-visa system, according to the Embassy of the Philippines in New Delhi.

These updates are expected to support growing travel interest from Indian visitors, drawn to the Philippines’ beaches, islands, and landscapes.

Two visa-free entry options available

As of May 2025, Indian citizens can enter the Philippines without a visa under two categories, depending on their eligibility.

1. 14-Day visa-free entry
This allows Indian nationals to visit the Philippines for tourism for up to 14 days without applying for a visa.

Eligibility and requirements include:

• Purpose of travel must be tourism only
• Passport must be valid for at least six months beyond intended stay
• Proof of confirmed accommodation
• Evidence of funds to cover the stay (e.g., bank statements or employment certificate)
• Confirmed return or onward ticket
• No negative immigration record in the Philippines

This entry type is not extendable and cannot be converted into any other visa. It is valid through major international airports, secondary airports, and seaports, including for cruise passengers.

2. 30-day visa-free entry

Indian citizens holding valid visas or permanent residency from certain countries; collectively referred to as AJACSSUK, are now allowed a 30-day visa-free stay in the Philippines. These countries are:

• Australia
• Japan
• America
• Canada
• Schengen countries
• Singapore
• United Kingdom

Requirements include:

• Valid AJACSSUK visa or residence permit
• Passport with at least six months’ validity
• Return or onward ticket
• No immigration issues in the Philippines

Like the 14-day entry, this stay is non-extendable and tourism-only.

E-visa still available

In addition to visa-free options, Indian nationals may apply for a 9(a) Temporary Visitor Visa through the Philippine e-visa portal. This visa allows a 30-day stay and is single-entry.

Documents required include:

Valid passport
Government-issued ID
Passport-sized photographs
Accommodation proof
Return or onward travel ticket
Proof of financial means

The application processing takes up to seven working days, travellers who plan to stay beyond the visa-free period must apply for the appropriate visa at the Philippine Embassy or consulate.