The Philippines has revised its visa-free entry rules for Indian nationals. The Philippine Embassy in New Delhi has announced that Indian tourists visiting the Philippines can avail of visa-free entry, subject to certain conditions.
The Department of Foreign Affairs of the Philippines maintains a list of eligible countries whose nationals may avail of visa-free entry to the Philippines, provided that they are holders of passports valid for at least 6 months beyond the contemplated period of stay. They must also possess return tickets to their country of origin or outward-bound tickets to their next country of destination.
Nationals from over 30 countries are allowed to enter the Philippines without a visa for an initial stay of 30 days. Countries that are allowed to enter the Philippines visa-free for a stay of 59 days based on existing agreements are Brazil an Israel.
Indian nationals traveling for up to 14 days are granted general visa-free entrance under the 14-day visa-free entry policy. This eliminates the need to apply for a visa in advance for tourism purposes.
This entry is just for tourism and cannot be converted into another form of visa. The 14-day visa-free entry may be extended by an additional 7 days for a maximum of 21 days ‘ stay. Entry is allowed through major international airports, secondary international airports, and seaports (including for cruise passengers).
14-day visa-free stay for Indian nationals is allowed if one holds valid visas or permanent residency permits from certain key countries. Indian citizens with valid visas or permanent residence from countries collectively referred to as ‘AJACSSUK’ includes Australia, Japan, America, Canada, Schengen countries, Singapore and United Kingdom.
One needs to have a proof of valid AJACSSUK visa or residence permit, passport valid for at least six months beyond the stay and a confirmed return or onward ticket.
Since 28 October 2024, the Philippine electronic visa (e-Visa) has been made fully available in India and may be applied for remotely and online at the 24/7 portal evisa.gov.ph. The e-Visa is a category 9(a) Temporary Visitor’s Visa and is thus exclusively for travel to the Philippines for purposes of short-term tourism or leisure; business; medical treatment; or participation in meetings, conferences, trainings or athletic events.