PH grants visa-free privileges for Indian tourists

Metro Manila, Philippines - The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) announced that the Philippines has granted visa-free privileges for Indian tourists starting Sunday, June 8.

In an advisory on Saturday, June 7, the DFA said the move is in line with the department’s aim of enhancing tourism arrivals from India.

Under the updated visa policies, Indian nationals may enter the country without a visa for a non-extendible and non-convertible period of 14 days for tourism purposes.

The tourist should be able to present a passport valid for at least six months beyond the contemplated stay, a confirmed hotel accommodation or booking, proof of financial capacity, and a return or onward ticket to the next country of destination.

DFA said Indian nationals holding valid and current American, Japanese, Australian, Canadian, Schengen, Singapore or United Kingdom (AJACSSUK) visas or residence permits may also enter the Philippines without a visa for a non-extendible period of 30 days for tourism.

They should also be able to present a passport valid for at least six months beyond the contemplated stay and a return or onward ticket for their flight out of the country.

“The updated visa-free privileges for Indian nationals may be availed of at any Philippine port of entry, and are not convertible to a visa-based stay or other admission status categories,” the DFA advisory states.

Indian nationals must also not have any record with the Bureau of Immigration in order to be admitted into the country without a visa.

Meanwhile, those transiting in the Philippines or entering the country for long-term visits and non-tourism activities are required to apply for an appropriate visa at a Philippine Embassy or Consulate in their country or origin, place of legal residence, or any country that requires entry visas for Indian nationals.