Latest news with #EmbassyofthePhilippines
NDTV
04-06-2025
- Business
- NDTV
Visa-Free Travel: Philippines Introduces Visa-Free Entry For Indian Passport Holders. Details Here
Planning a trip to the Philippines? Thanks to recent visa policy changes, it is now more convenient for Indian nationals to visit. Known for its pristine beaches, clear waters, and volcanic landscapes, the country has become an increasingly popular destination for Indian travellers. And now, with relaxed visa rules, visiting this island nation is simpler. According to the Embassy of the Philippines in New Delhi, Indian passport holders are eligible for two types of short-term visa-free entry, each with specific eligibility requirements. Visa-Free Options Available As per the updated guidelines, two separate categories of visa-free entry have been introduced for Indian travellers, depending on their travel history and documentation: 1. 14-Day Visa-Free Entry Indian nationals travelling for tourism purposes are eligible for a 14-day visa-free stay. This provision allows short visits without the need for prior visa approval. Requirements: As per the official website of the Embassy of the Philippines, the following conditions must be met by Indian nationals seeking a 14-day visa-free entry: The purpose of travel must be tourism only. The passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the intended stay. Proof of accommodation in the Philippines (such as hotel bookings) must be provided. Proof of sufficient funds to cover the trip, such as bank statements or employment certificates, is required. A confirmed return ticket must be presented. The traveller should have no negative immigration history in the Philippines. 2. 30-Day Visa-Free Entry Indian nationals holding valid visas or permanent residency in certain countries can enter the Philippines without a visa for up to 30 days. This applies to individuals with valid documents from Australia, Japan, the United States, Canada, Schengen countries, Singapore, and the United Kingdom — collectively referred to as 'AJACSSUK'. Requirements: To be eligible for the 30-day visa-free entry, Indian nationals must meet the following criteria: Possess a valid visa or residence permit from any of the AJACSSUK countries. Have a passport valid for at least six months beyond the intended stay. Hold a confirmed return or onward ticket. Have no history of adverse records with Philippine immigration authorities. Note: The 30-day visa-free entry is strictly for tourism purposes. It cannot be extended or converted into another type of visa. Eligible travellers may enter the Philippines through major international airports, secondary gateways, or designated seaports. Indian nationals who do not meet the criteria for visa-free travel can still apply for an e-visa to visit the Philippines.
NDTV
04-06-2025
- General
- NDTV
Visa-Free Travel For Indians: Why The Philippines Deserves A Spot On Your Radar
Sometimes, the best travel stories come from places you never quite had on your list. The Philippines is one of those. This island nation has always had the stuff of daydreams - emerald rice terraces, powdery beaches and Spanish-era streets that still echo with stories. But for Indian travellers, it stayed just that: a daydream. Complicated visa processes and limited direct flights meant it often lost out to easier options. That has changed. Thanks to a recent move by the Embassy of the Philippines in India, Indian passport holders can now enjoy visa-free access for short-term stays, which means that island trip you have been putting off? It just got a lot more doable. Here Are 5 Things To Do In The Philippines That Belong On Your Travel List: 1. Soak Up The Sun In El Nido, Palawan El Nido feels like it belongs in a postcard your cousin sends and never stops talking about. Jagged limestone cliffs. Hidden lagoons. Water so clear it could be a mirror. Take a traditional banca boat to explore the Bacuit Archipelago, snorkel with schools of neon fish, or do absolutely nothing on Nacpan Beach. El Nido does not need selling—it sells itself. 2. Walk Through History In Intramuros, Manila History gets a serious glow-up in Intramuros, the walled city in central Manila. Built during the Spanish colonial era, it is a maze of cobbled alleys, 16th-century churches, and stone forts that have seen everything. Walk around San Agustin Church, stop by Fort Santiago, or try a bamboo bike tour if you are up for mixing heritage with a little cardio. 3. Feel The Pulse Of Cebu City Cebu City is where history and hustle shake hands. Visit the Basilica del Santo Niño, wander through local markets, and join a street food crawl that ends with grilled everything. From centuries-old churches to vibrant nightlife, Cebu proves that heritage and high energy do not have to be opposites. 4. Hike Through Living History At The Banaue Rice Terraces The Banaue Rice Terraces are not just scenic—they are ancient engineering marvels carved over 2,000 years ago and still used today. A trek through this UNESCO World Heritage site means jaw-dropping views and genuine encounters with local communities. Fuel up with a plate of pinikpikan and soak in a side of the Philippines that is quiet, earthy, and grounded. 5. Island Hop Through The Visayas Photo: Pexels The Visayas are not one island. They are a mood. From the postcard-perfect sands of Boracay to the underwater playgrounds of Bohol and the mystical stillness of Siquijor, there is no shortage of detours. Whether you are into diving, history, hammocks, or all of the above, this is your build-your-own-adventure territory. What Indian Travellers Should Know Before Visiting The Philippines: 1. When Is The Best Time To Visit The Philippines? Plan your trip between November and April. This is the dry season, perfect for island hopping, beach lounging, and avoiding sudden monsoon surprises. 2. What Should I Eat In The Philippines? Start with Adobo (a slow-cooked meat stew), then work your way through Sinigang (tangy tamarind broth), Lechon (roast pig), Pancit (stir-fried noodles), and Kare-Kare (a peanutty pork and ox tripe number). If you are feeling brave, say yes to Balut. Just once. 3. What Are The New Visa Rules For Indian Citizens? Indian nationals can now enjoy visa-free stays for 14 or 30 days, depending on which criteria they meet. If you do not qualify for visa-free access, the e-visa option is still available. Either way, travelling to the Philippines has never been easier. 4. What Should I Pack For The Philippines? Stick to breathable, light clothing - it is tropical, after all. Throw in a pair of walking shoes, something casual for evenings out, and swimwear - lots of it. So yes, you now have fewer excuses and more reasons to go. Whether you are into island life, culture, food, or history with a side of sea breeze, the Philippines is finally not just worth the hype—it is ready for you.
What's On
29-05-2025
- What's On
No visa, no hassle: Philippines now easier to visit for Indian citizens
It's time to pack your bags; we are off to the Philippines… The Embassy of the Philippines in New Delhi has announced two distinct visa-free entry categories for Indian passport holders. 14 days in paradise Indian citizens can now enjoy a visa-free stay in the Philippines for up to 14 days, exclusively for tourism purposes. This entry is non-extendable and cannot be converted into any other visa category. Eligible travellers must meet the following criteria: Tourist vibes only: This entry is for tourism purposes. Passport check: Your passport should be valid for at least 6 months after your planned departure date. Where you staying? Make sure you've got your accommodation booked and confirmed. Show me the money: You'll need proof that you can fund your trip — think recent bank statements or an employment certificate. Return flight, sorted: A confirmed return or onward ticket is a must. Clean record: You shouldn't have any negative immigration history in the Philippines. One-time entry: This visa-free entry isn't extendable and can't be converted into any other type. Airport-ready: It's valid for entry through major international airports (like Manila, Cebu, etc.). 30 days in paradise If you're an Indian citizen and already hold a valid visa or residency from any of these countries: Australia, Japan, USA, Canada, any Schengen nation, Singapore, or the UK — you're in for a treat. You can now enjoy up to 30 days of visa-free entry to the Philippines! All you need? A valid visa or residence permit from one of the above countries. Perfect for a tropical escape, spontaneous getaway, or beach-hopping adventure, now's the time to book those flights and say hello to island life! Also read: Trendsind Studio, the first Indian restaurant in the world to receive 3 Michelin stars Image: Unsplash > Sign up for FREE to get exclusive updates that you are interested in
NDTV
27-05-2025
- NDTV
Philippines Is Now Visa-Free For Indian Passport Holders. See Details
The Philippines is the latest country to introduce visa-free entry for Indian nationals. The Philippines, known for its turquoise waters, white sand beaches and volcanic landscape, is increasingly becoming a sought-after travel destination among Indian tourists. And now, with more streamlined visa procedures, getting there has become much easier. According to the Embassy of the Philippines in New Delhi, Indian visitors can now benefit from two types of short-term visa-free entry, each with distinct eligibility requirements. According to the updated rules, two separate visa-free entry categories have been introduced for different groups of Indian travellers: 14-day visa-free entry Indian citizens can stay in the Philippines for up to 14 days for tourism without applying for a visa. However, this category is strictly non-extendable and cannot be converted into another visa type. Eligibility and key requirements Any Indian citizen visiting the Philippines exclusively for tourism. Passport valid for at least six months beyond the stay. Proof of confirmed accommodation (such as hotel bookings). Evidence of sufficient funds to cover expenses during the stay (for example, bank statements or employment certificates). A confirmed return or onward ticket. No negative immigration history in the Philippines. Enhanced 30-day visa-free entry This type of visa offers a more generous 30-day visa-free stay for Indian nationals who already hold valid visas or permanent residency permits from certain key countries, such as Australia, Japan, America, Canada, Schengen states, Singapore, and the United Kingdom. Key requirements Proof of a valid visa or residence permit from countries collectively referred to as "AJACSSUK". Passport valid for at least six months beyond the stay. Confirmed return or onward ticket. No derogatory record with Philippine immigration authorities. Notably, Indian travellers who don't meet the visa-free eligibility can continue using the e-visa route. The 9(a) Temporary Visitor Visa, available through the official e-visa portal, allows a 30-day single-entry stay. The e-visa system requires applicants to register on and provide the following documents:
