Indians choosing to take a trip to Southeast Asia mostly end up either in Bali, Thailand, or Vietnam. However, beyond the hyped-up Southeast Asian destinations, there is one country that is severely underrated – the Philippines. In a major milestone, traveling to the Philippines has now become visa-free! Yes, you heard it right! The Philippine Embassy in New Delhi announced that Indians can now travel to the Philippines without a visa. If you too are planning a trip to this tropical paradise, here’s all the information you need!
Two Ways Of Entering Philippines Visa-Free
As per the confirmation by the Philippine Embassy in New Delhi, Indians traveling to Philippines can enter the country visa-free under two categories:
Category 1: 14-Day Visa-Free Entry
Indian nationals can enter the country visa-free for a total of 14 days. They’ll be granted visa-free entry only if the intent of the trip is for tourism. Here are all the required criteria for Indian travelers to get a 14-day visa free entry:
- Intent of travel: Tourism only
- Valid passport for at least six months beyond intended stay
- Return tickets or tickets showing onward journey
- Proof of confirmed accommodation
- Bank statements or employment certificate
- No negative immigration record in the Philippines
Note that this type of visa is not convertible to any other type of visa. This means that if you’re traveling to the Philippines for business purposes, you must apply for a visa. This 14-day visa-free entry for Indians for tourism purposes is applicable at international airports as well as seaports.
Category 2: 30-Day Visa-Free Entry
You can get a 30-day visa-free entry to the Philippines, however, the requirements are different from those for a 14-day visa-free entry. For that, Indian citizens must hold valid visas or permanent residencies from certain countries collectively referred to as AJACSSUK. These countries are mentioned below:
- Australia
- Japan
- America
- Canada
- Schengen countries
- Singapore
- United Kingdom
However, even if you hold a valid visa or permanent residency from these countries, you must meet certain requirements stated below:
- Valid AJACSSUK visa or residence permit
- Valid passport for at least six months beyond intended stay
- Return tickets or tickets showing onward journey
- No negative immigration record in the Philippines
Philippines E-Visa
Since 28 October 2024, Indians have been able to apply for an e-Visa to enter the Philippines. This visa can be applied for remotely or online at the evisa.gov.ph portal 24/7. Even though the Philippines has announced visa-free entry to Indians under specific conditions, you can still apply for an e-Visa. It is applicable if your intent for travel is tourism/leisure, business, medical treatment, training, conferences and meetings, or sports events. Here are all the documents needed to do the same:
- Valid passport
- Government-issued ID
- Passport-sized photographs
- Accommodation proof
- Return tickets or tickets showing onward journey
- Proof of financial means
Summing Up
With the Philippines going visa-free, it is expected that more and more Indian travelers will make their way here for travel. The Philippines is known for its stunning white sand beaches, plenty of historical sites, rice farms, delicious cuisine, karaoke culture, and warm hospitality. So, if the Philippines seems like the country where you’ll enjoy the most, why not book your tickets already? After all, the Philippines is now visa-free!
