In a rare bit of good news for international travellers, India and the Philippines are making it much easier to visit one another. Indian tourists are no longer need a visa to enter the Philippines, and in return, travellers from the Philippines will get free e-visas to visit India. It’s a two-way travel upgrade that’s been long overdue.
Visa-Free Entry for Indian Travellers
Indian passport holders can now visit the Philippines without applying for a tourist visa. You’ll be allowed to enter visa-free for up to 14 days, making it easier than ever to explore islands like Palawan or take a culture-packed trip to Cebu.
Here’s what you’ll need to enter without a visa:
- A passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your departure date
- Proof of confirmed hotel booking or accommodation
- Evidence of sufficient funds to support your stay
- A return or onward ticket
Free e-Visas for Philippine Nationals
On the other side, India will roll out free electronic visas (e-Visa) for Philippine nationals. This move effectively removes a financial and administrative barrier, encouraging more tourists from Southeast Asia to explore India’s rich cultural spread, from the Himalayas to Hampi.
Direct Delhi–Manila Flights Start This October
Connectivity is getting a boost too. Air India will launch direct flights between Delhi and Manila starting October 1, 2025. These will be the first non-stop flights between the two countries.
Here’s the schedule:
| Flight | Sector | Departure | Arrival |
|---|---|---|---|
| AI 2362 | Delhi-Manila | 13:20 | 22:40 |
| AI 2361 | Manila-Delhi | 23:40 | 03:50 (+1) |
- Frequency: 5 times a week (Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday, Sunday)
- Aircraft: Airbus A321neo
- Cabin classes: Business, Premium Economy, Economy
The new route is designed to cut travel time and support growing demand for tourism, business, and student travel. Until now, most travelers had to deal with long layovers via Bangkok, Singapore, or Kuala Lumpur.
A Strategic Shift, Not Just Tourism Talk
These announcements came out of a high-level meeting in New Delhi between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
The two countries formally elevated their relationship to a strategic partnership, which is diplomatic speak for “we’re taking each other seriously now.”
Improving ease of travel is central to that strategy. By removing bureaucratic roadblocks and adding direct air links, both governments are signaling a push toward tighter economic and cultural ties.
75 Years of India–Philippines Relations
This year marks 75 years of diplomatic relations between the two countries. To mark the occasion, Modi and Marcos unveiled a joint commemorative postage stamp, a quiet but symbolic nod to the deepening partnership.
Why This Matters
- For Indian travelers, this makes the Philippines one of the most accessible international beach destinations.
- For Filipinos, India just became cheaper and easier to visit, with cultural, medical, and spiritual tourism likely to benefit.
- For both, it’s a win for trade, education exchange, and business travel.
Expect more collaborations to follow, not just in tourism, but across tech, security, and economic sectors.
Bottom line: If you’ve been putting off a trip to the Philippines or India because of visa hassles or awkward flight connections, those excuses are about to expire.
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