New Delhi (Staff Correspondent): There is a big relief and exciting news for Indians thinking of visiting the Philippines. Now entry to the Philippines has become visa-free for Indian passport holders. This is considered an important step towards promoting tourism and strengthening India-Philippines relations.
According to the Philippines Embassy in New Delhi, two types of short-term visa-free entry options have been introduced for Indian travelers. The eligibility conditions for both these options have been set differently.
1. 14-day visa-free entry: Exclusively for tourists
Now any Indian citizen can stay in the Philippines for 14 days without a visa for tourism purposes only. However, this stay is not extendable and cannot be converted to any other visa category.
Eligibility and Documents Required:
– Must be an Indian citizen
– Passport valid for at least 6 months after the end of the trip
– Proof of hotel booking or other accommodation
– Proof of sufficient funds (such as bank statement or job certificate)
– Confirmed return ticket
– No negative immigration record
2. 30-Day Visa-Free Entry: Exclusive for International Travelers
If you have a valid visa or permanent residence permit from the US, UK, Canada, Australia, Japan, Singapore or any Schengen country, you can stay in the Philippines visa-free for up to 30 days. This option is placed under the AJACSSUK visa category.
The conditions and requirements are the same as the 14-day option, but for this category you must have a valid visa or residence permit from one of the above countries.
If you have to stay longer than 14 days? e-Visa is an option
Indian nationals who are not eligible in these visa-free categories or who wish to stay in the Philippines for more than 14 days can apply for a 9(a) temporary visitor visathrough the e-Visa portal.
How to apply for e-Visa?
Portal: [https://evisa.gov.ph]
Documents required:
1. Passport (validity of at least six months)
2. Government-issued ID
3. Recent passport size photograph
4. Proof of hotel or other accommodation
5. Return or onward travel ticket
6. Bank statement or financial proof (covering the cost of stay)
This visa-free entry initiative for Indians by the Philippines will play a vital role in promoting tourism, cultural exchange and people-to-people ties. If you are looking for beaches, islands, volcanoes or a unique culture, now is the perfect time to visit the Philippines – and that too without worrying about visas.
