The Philippines is a great travel choice for Indian travellers! One of the best perks is the updated visa policy of 2025, which says- Indians can now enjoy a visa-free stay for up to 14 days.
This makes planning a quick vacation on this island destination much easier and more affordable.
But before you pack your bags, it’s important to know the best time to visit, latest travel, visa, and entry rules- especially because they’ve recently changed in 2025. This guide will break everything down for you in a simple, step-by-step way.
In short, this guide will answer all your questions about Philippine visa requirements for Indians, including eligibility, documents, fees, processing times, and tips for a smooth trip.
Why Visit the Philippines?
The Philippines is made up of over 7,000 islands. Isn’t it amazing? Of course, it is, and that’s why it has many incredible places to visit for every kind of traveller
- Beach lovers: Boracay, Palawan, and Siargao are the most loved beaches. Not just these, there are many great beaches in the Philippines to explore.
Insider Tip: In case you want to visit Boracay, you can check out this guide on the best things to do in Boracay.
- Thrill seekers: Canyoneering in Cebu, diving in Apo Reef, hiking Mayon Volcano.
Insider Tip: Must explore the top things to do in Cebu as it’s a great place for thrill adventure lovers.
- City explorers: Manila’s Intramuros, Cebu City’s history, Davao’s markets
Insider Tip: The capital city- Manila, will amaze you with the list of its great activities for tourists.
- Culture enthusiasts: Colourful fiestas, Spanish colonial architecture, and delicious food.
And with the new visa rules, visiting the Philippines has become easier than ever for Indians.
Visa Policy for Indian Nationals (2025 Update)
As of 8 June 2025, the Philippine government has updated its visa policy to encourage more Indian tourists. Here’s what you need to know
Visa-Free Entry (14 Days)
Indian nationals can now enter the Philippines without a visa for tourism purposes for up to 14 days, provided that you
- Have a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay
- Show a confirmed hotel booking or accommodation proof
- Present proof of financial capacity (bank statements, salary slips, etc.)
- Have a return or onward flight ticket
- Have no derogatory record with the Philippine Bureau of Immigration
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30-Day Visa-Free Entry (AJACSSUK Visa Holders)
If you hold a valid visa or residence permit for any of these countries- the USA, Japan, Australia, Canada, the Schengen Area, Singapore, or the UK- you are allowed to stay visa-free for up to 30 days under the same conditions listed above.
In Which Cases, Do Indians Need a Visa?
If you wish to
- Stay longer than 14 or 30 days
- Travel for purposes other than tourism (work, study, business)
- Enter multiple times in a year
Then you must apply for a regular tourist visa or other relevant visa category through the Philippine Embassy in India.
Philippines Visa Fees for Indians
| Visa Type | Validity | Approx. Fee (INR) |
| Single-Entry Tourist Visa | 3 months | 3,520 |
| Multiple-Entry Tourist Visa | 6 months | 7,040 |
| Student Visa (9F) | Course Duration | 22,000 (varies by program) |
Tip: Always check with the embassy before applying, as fees may change based on exchange rates or policy updates.
Visa Processing Time
| Visa Type | Processing Time |
| eVisa (Tourism) | 7-12 working days for single-entry; 15-21 days for multiple-entry |
| Regular Tourist Visa | Around 8-10 working days |
| Special Visas (Student/Work) | It can take several weeks to months, depending on verification |
Start your application process well in advance, especially if you are applying for a student or work visa.
Required Documents Checklist
Keeping the documents ready and arranged before applying for a Philippines visa is really important. So, here’s a breakdown of what you will need as an Indian traveller:
For Visa-Free Entry
- Valid passport (6+ months validity)
- Hotel booking/accommodation proof
- Bank statements or proof of funds
- Return or onward flight ticket
- No adverse immigration record
For Regular Tourist Visa
- Completed visa application form
- Passport-sized photos
- Passport with at least 6 months’ validity
- Confirmed flight tickets
- Accommodation proof
- Proof of financial means
- Visa fee receipt
For Student Visa (9F)
- Application form + CGAF form
- Notice of Acceptance from the school/university
- Endorsement from the registrar
- Passport copies and recent photos
- Proof of funds to support tuition + living expenses
- Medical and police clearance (if required)
- Visa fees and ACR I-Card fee
Philippine Bureau of Immigration
Check the official website for visa guidelines, eTravel registration, visa waiver and extension options, and forms for longer stays.
Tourists can check their visa application status, verify approvals, and even learn how to avoid overstaying.
If you decide to stay beyond your initial 14- or 30-day visa-free period, the site guides you through the process of getting an extension or applying for an ACR I-Card (required for stays over 59 days).
In short, the BI website helps visitors follow immigration rules, easily extend their stay, and enjoy their time in the Philippines.
Philippine Embassy & Consulates in IndiaIf you require any travel, visa, or consular services, please visit the Embassy of the Philippines in India. New Delhi: 50-N Nyaya Marg, Chanakyapuri. You can also check the consular services at Chennai, Mumbai and Kolkata for easier access. |
Travel Tips & Safety Requirements for First-Time Visitors
- Currency: Philippine Peso (PHP)
- Language: English is widely spoken
- Transport: Use Grab (ride-hailing app) for safer travel in cities
- Connectivity: Buy a local SIM card at the airport for internet access
- Cultural Etiquette: Smile and greet locals, respect religious sites, and dress modestly in rural areas
- Travel Insurance: Highly recommended- it covers medical emergencies, flight cancellations, and theft.
- Safety Tips: Be aware of common scams, avoid displaying valuables, and follow local laws.
Conclusion
Visiting the Philippines from India has never been easier thanks to the new visa-free rules. This country has many incredible places to visit, starting from beaches, mountains, culture, and food, ensuring you have a memorable trip.
Just make sure you tick off all the document requirements, plan your trip within the allowed stay, and carry enough proof of funds and bookings to avoid hassles at immigration.
Ready to explore the Philippines? Start planning your Philippines itinerary, booking your flights and accommodation today- paradise is just a few hours away!
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Indian citizens need a visa for the Philippines?
Not for short stays! You can now stay visa-free for 14 days (or 30 days if you have a valid AJACSSUK visa/residence permit).
Can I extend my visa-free stay?
No. Visa-free entry is non-extendible. If you need a longer stay, apply for a tourist visa before travelling.
Is travel insurance mandatory?
Not compulsory but strongly recommended.
How much money should I show as proof of funds?
No fixed amount is published, but enough to cover accommodation, transport, and daily expenses is advised.
Can I convert a tourist visa to a student visa inside the Philippines?
Only if you entered with a tourist visa, visa-free entries cannot be converted; you must apply properly.
