New Delhi / Manila, October 2025: A new travel chapter is opening for Indian tourists as the Philippines rolls out visa-free entry and prepares for direct flights from India. The move, aimed at boosting tourism and people-to-people exchange, is expected to make the island nation one of the next big destinations for Indian travellers in 2025 and beyond.

Visa-Free Entry for Indian Citizens

Indian passport holders can now visit the Philippines without a visa for up to 14 days for tourism purposes. Travellers need a valid passport (minimum six-month validity), return or onward ticket, confirmed hotel booking and proof of funds for their stay.

For those holding valid visas or residence permits from the US, UK, Schengen area, Japan, Canada, Singapore, or Australia, the stay can be extended up to 30 days. This initiative, effective since June 2025, marks a significant step in easing travel for Indian visitors.

Philippine officials said the decision reflects growing bilateral relations and the country’s efforts to attract more visitors from India — one of the fastest-growing outbound travel markets in Asia.

New Delhi–Manila Direct Flights

Complementing the visa reform, Air India has launched a non-stop Delhi–Manila flight service starting October 2025. The new route will operate three times a week, providing faster access to the Philippines’ pristine beaches, historic cities and tropical islands.

Travel analysts say the new connectivity could lead to a sharp rise in tourist traffic both ways. “Indians are increasingly looking for offbeat destinations beyond Thailand or Bali, and the Philippines offers a blend of affordability, beauty and cultural warmth,” said a senior travel expert based in Mumbai.

Tourism Cooperation Expands

India and the Philippines recently signed an Implementation Programme on Tourism Cooperation (2025–2028) to promote cultural exchanges, sustainable tourism, and joint marketing campaigns. The programme also includes collaboration between tour operators, airline partnerships and hospitality training.

Officials expect the annual number of Indian visitors to the Philippines — currently around 80,000 — to double by the end of 2026.

Why the Philippines Appeals to Indian Travellers

The Philippines, made up of more than 7,600 islands, offers something for every kind of traveller — from the white sands of Boracay and coral reefs of Palawan, to the bustling nightlife and shopping of Manila and Cebu. The country’s natural beauty, English-friendly environment and Indian-vegetarian-friendly cuisine are additional attractions for Indian tourists.

What Travellers Should Know

  • Visa-free stay: 14 days (extendable to 30 with select country visas)
  • Requirements: Valid passport, return ticket, hotel booking, proof of funds
  • Entry via: Manila, Cebu, and other designated airports/seaports
  • Flights: Air India non-stop service from Delhi to Manila from October 2025

Looking Ahead

With improved flight connectivity and easier entry norms, the Philippines is positioning itself as a major new destination for Indian travellers in Southeast Asia. For Indian families, honeymooners and adventure seekers, 2025 may just be the year to discover “It’s More Fun in the Philippines.”