Philippines Grants Visa-Free Entry To Indian Tourists From June 8
Under the revised visa policy quoted by the Filipino missions in the UAE, Indian passport holders can enter the Philippines without a visa for tourism purposes for up to 14 days, provided they meet the following requirements: a passport valid for at least six months beyond the intended stay, confirmed hotel accommodation or booking, proof of financial capacity and a return or onward ticket to another country.
The 14-day stay is non-extendible and non-convertible, meaning tourists must exit the country before the end of the two-week period.
However, Indian nationals holding valid and current visas or residence permits from the United States, Japan, Australia, Canada, Schengen states, Singapore or the United Kingdom (collectively known as AJACSSUK countries) are eligible for a visa-free stay of up to 30 days.
This 30-day stay is also non-extendible, and travellers must present a valid passport and a return or onward ticket.
Both categories require that the individual have no derogatory immigration record with the Philippine Bureau of Immigration (BI).
The advisory clarifies that the visa-free entry privileges apply only to short-term tourism. 'Indian nationals transiting in the Philippines or entering the country for long-term visits and non-tourism activities are required to apply for an appropriate Philippine visa at a Philippine Embassy or Consulate in their country of origin, place of legal residence, or any country that requires entry visas for Indian nationals,' the advisory pointed out.
The relaxed immigration policy is expected to benefit several Indian expats in the UAE.
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