Philippines Goes Visa-Free for Indians: Travel Industry Shares Insights

In a significant move to boost tourism and strengthen bilateral ties, the Philippines has announced visa-free entry for Indian travellers, effective immediately. This welcome development allows Indian passport holders to visit the archipelago for up to 14 days without a visa, provided they meet certain conditions such as holding valid visas or residence permits from countries like the UK, US, Schengen states, Canada, Australia, or Japan. The initiative is expected to encourage more Indian tourists to explore the Philippines’ pristine beaches, vibrant culture, and unique heritage sites. It also reflects the growing cooperation between the two nations in promoting regional connectivity and economic collaboration.

Travel industry experts anticipate a surge in Indian footfall to destinations such as Boracay, Cebu, and Palawan, given the simplified entry process.  This visa exemption marks a positive step in positioning the Philippines as a more accessible and attractive destination for Indian holidaymakers and business travellers alike

Agoda has welcomed this positive development, and Gaurav Malik, Country Director India, Sri Lanka, and Nepal at Agoda, said, "The Philippines’ decision to grant visa-free entry to Indian travellers is a really positive move, which recognises India as a key market for tourism. The move also reflects Indian travellers’ growing interest in Southeast Asia as a whole. Time and again we have seen how removing friction at the border can play an important role in encouraging more visitors. This is set to further boost demand for the Philippines as a top travel choice."

Rajeev Kale, President & Country Head – Holidays, MICE, Visa, Thomas Cook India Limited said, “The Philippines’ announcement of visa-free entry for Indian nationals is a strategic move aimed at unlocking the potential of India’s powerful and rapidly growing outbound market. As a fresh and emerging hotspot in the short to mid-haul Southeast Asian corridor, the Philippines represents an attractive product and price proposition for  Indian travellers seeking diverse, immersive experiences – be it  Leisure, MICE or BLeisure segments. From the pristine beaches and island-hopping adventures of Boracay and El Nido, to the stunning coral reefs of Coron, Cebu’s vibrant marine life, and the buzzing nightlife of Angeles City –the destination offers an exciting blend of sun, sea, adventure, gastronomy, culture and shopping. At Thomas Cook, we welcome such visa- free announcements that open up the sector to a world of frictionless travel.”

SD Nandakumar, President & Country Head – Holidays & Corporate Tours, SOTC Travel  said, "With destinations like Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia and Sri Lanka witnessing accelerated demand  courtesy their free-visa regimes, the Philippines is the new entrant - building momentum to an era of smooth borderless travel. This visa-free access will create significant strategic advantage for the Philippines- a yet underleveraged destination and we see potential especially for travel hungry young India’s millennials, GenZ, couples, working professionals and adhoc groups of friends; equally our MICE segment. Our recent India Holiday Report 2025 reiterates that simplified visa processes and easy access are key drivers in India’s outbound story with 44% respondents more likely to visit countries offering simplified visa  processes like visa free, e-visa or visa-on-arrival options. Additionally, the destination's wildlife, adventure and outdoor sports holds  strong allure for India’s consumers. While connectivity is not yet direct, access offered by multiple low-carriers and full-service carriers are available via Air Asia, Scoot, Singapore Airlines, Cathay Pacific - not only from India's key metros but also Tier 2 & Tier 3 cities. To seize the opportunity, our product experts have already curated an attractive Philippines portfolio to appeal to varied segments and price points."

This visa-free move makes the Philippines an even more inviting and accessible destination for Indian tourists and business travellers alike.