Latest news with #E-Visa
India.com
28-05-2025
- India.com
Philippines Now Offers Visa-Free Entry For Indian Tourists In 2025: Everything You Need To Know
Visa-Free Entry For Indian Tourists: Indian travelers have a big reason to celebrate in 2025, The Philippines now offers new visa free entry options making it easier and faster to explore its tropical beauty. With white sand beaches clear blue waters and warm island culture the country is ready to welcome more tourists from India than ever before. The Embassy of the Philippines in New Delhi has confirmed that two new visa free categories are now active along with the existing E-Visa system. These new options are expected to boost tourism from India and help travelers enjoy quick scenic holidays without the long visa wait. 14 Day Visa Free Entry for Indian Tourists As of May 2025 Indian passport holders can visit the Philippines without a visa for up to 14 days. This visa-free entry is only for tourism purposes and is not extendable. You must leave the country within 14 days. To be eligible you need to meet the following requirements: 1. You must be traveling for tourism only 2. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your stay 3. You should have hotel booking or proof of stay 4. You must show return or onward flight tickets 5. You need to provide proof that you have enough money to fund your stay 6. You must not have any negative immigration history in the Philippines You can enter the country through major airports seaports and cruise terminals making it super easy for Indian tourists to plan a quick vacation. 30 Days in Paradise: Visa-Free Entry to the Philippines for Indian Residents of AJACSSUK Countries If you have a valid visa or permanent residence in countries like Australia, Japan, America, Canada, Schengen countries. In Singapore or the United Kingdom, you can stay in the Philippines for up to 30 days without a visa. This is a great option for Indian professionals and residents living abroad who want to take a break and enjoy the beautiful islands of the Philippines. To use this visa free entry you must follow these conditions Hold a valid visa or permanent residency from any of the AJACSSUK countries Your passport should be valid for 6 months beyond your stay You must have return or onward travel tickets You must have a clean immigration record in the Philippines This entry is also strictly for tourism and cannot be extended or changed into another visa type. E-Visa Still Available for All Other Travelers If you do not qualify for either visa free option you can still apply for the E-visa online. This is the 9a Temporary Visitor Visa It is a single entry visa valid for 30 days and can be applied through the official Philippine E-visa portal. For the E-visa you will need the following documents: A valid Indian passport A government issued ID and passport sized photos Proof of accommodation Return or onward travel booking Bank statement or other proof of financial support during your trip The E-visa process is simple and can be done from the comfort of your home. It is a trusted option for many travelers who want a longer stay or do not meet visa free rules. Why This Is Great News for Indian Tourists This new visa free policy gives more freedom and ease for Indian tourists who want to explore the Philippines. Whether you are visiting for a beach vacation a romantic trip or just to relax the new rules save time and effort. The Philippines is full of breathtaking places like Boracay Palawan and Cebu Each island offers a mix of nature fun and culture that is perfect for Indian travelers looking for something new. With simple rules fast entry and many flights from India the Philippines is quickly becoming a top choice for monsoon and winter travel in 2025. Travel smart enjoy the islands and say hello to easier travel between India and the Philippines this year.
Hindustan Times
25-05-2025
- Hindustan Times
Where to holiday this summer? Dubai vs Bangkok
Planning a long weekend holiday? Both Bangkok and Dubai are great options - short flights, great shopping, delicious food and even cheap accommodation. Bangkok is visa-free, so you can decide now, book the ticket, fill the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) and fly out. Dubai also has Visa on Arrival facility if you have a valid visa for the UK, the US, Canada, Australia (visa should be valid for at least 6 months from the date of arrival), otherwise an E-Visa takes about 2-3 days to process. In Dubai, alcohol is served only in licensed establishments; in Bangkok, it is available everywhere. The Thai Baht is cheaper than the UAE Dirham. Dubai can be very hot in summer, Bangkok is always humid and rain in always unpredictable. Would you choose Bangkok or Dubai for a quick holiday? Check the essentials and decide which city suits your holiday needs better. Visa: Thailand is visa-free country for Indian nationals. Visa on Arrival facility; you can also apply for an E-Visa. With a Tourist visa you can stay for a maximum of 60 days. Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) is mandatory for all visitors, regardless of their visa status, and needs to be applied online three days before the date of travel. Flights: There are several direct flight options from various Indian cities. Delhi-Bangkok return Economy flights cost around ₹18,000. Kolkata-Bangkok flights starts at around ₹15,000. Currency: Thai Baht (THB). 1 THB = 2.62 INR What to see/do: Lumphini Park. Shop at Chatuchak Weekend Market (with 15,000 stalls, it's among the largest outdoor markets in the world), What Pho (houses the country's largest reclining Buddha, a 150-foot long sculpture), The Grand Palace. Shop in Chinatown. The Jim Thompson House. IconSiam (houses 7,000 brands, more than 100 restaurants). Benchakitti Park. Talat Noi Street Art. Wat Arun, an iconic Buddhist Temple. Pak Khlong Talat (24-hour flower market). What/where to eat: Soi Nana (Bangkok's best bar-hopping street). Manohra Dinner River Cruise. Street food at Rattanakosin (Old Town). Must eat Pad Thai, Thailand's 'national dish'. Fine dining at Gaggan Anand, Suhring, and Sorn. Mango & sticky rice at Ban Khun Mae and Eathai. Vegetarians/vegans head to Veganerie, Bonita Bonita Cafe & Social Club, and Sarvana Bhawan. Try Thai coffee. Must do: A day-trip to Ayutthaya, the former capital of Thailand. Where to stay: Siam and Pratunam are in the heart of the city centre and very close to biggest shopping centres, including MBK, Siam Paragon, Platinium, Central World and Palladium. Museums, parks, shops and markets are in the Sukhumvit district and the Skytrain is very easily accessible. Silom area is lined with various bars, nightclubs, restaurants; if you like the buzz of the city, stay in Khao San Road (metro or Skytrain not available in this area, you'll have to take a bus, taxi or Tuktuk). Chinatown has affordable accommodation while the historic Rattanakosin area is for those interested in Buddhist temples. Tips: Bangkok's pavements can be dangerous. Watch out for uneven streets and sidewalks. Street food can be very spicy; if you are chilli-intolerant, ask before ordering. Smoking marijuana in public is not legal. Covered shoulders and knees is the general requirement to enter temples. Use the BTS and MRT as much as possible for transport. Be careful while crossing streets. Do not get into a taxi/tuktuk without meters. Do not speak against the monarchy or Buddhism. Do not wear dresses/tees with Buddha prints. If you have a Buddha tattoo, cover it. Do not step on Thai currency, it is illegal. Visa: Single entry visa is valid for 60 days from the date of issue and 14 or 30 days from the date of entry (depending on the type of visa applied for). The multiple entry 5-year tourist visa enables tourists to enter the UAE multiple times on self-sponsorship and remain in the country for 90 days on each visit, and can be extended for further 90 days. For 5-year multiple entry visa, a bank balance of US$ 4,000 or its equivalent in foreign currencies during the last six months is mandatory. Flights: There are several direct flight options from various Indian cities. Delhi-Dubai return Economy flights cost around ₹25,000. Currency: United Arab Emirates Dirham (AED). 1 AED = 23.16 INR What to see/do: Standing 828metre high,Burj Khalifais the tallest building in the world, go to the observationdeck at levels 124 and 125 for an incredible view of the city. Take time out for the Dubai Fountain, one of theworld's largest choreographed fountaindisplays (check timings). Traditionalabraboatride at Dubai Creek. Walk around, Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood in Bur Dubai, one of the oldest neighbourhoods in the city. Shop at Dubai Mall. Go skydiving with Skydive Dubai. Walk the clear glass bridge walkway at Dubai Frame. Kite Beachis the perfect place for watersports lovers. City Walkoffers European-style pedestrian streets alongside a host of shopping and entertainment options. Spend an afternoon at Dubai Miracle Garden, the world's largest natural flower garden. Museum of the Future. Where to eat Emirati food: Aseelah (Radisson Blu Hotel), Logma (Dubai Mall), Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU) in Al Fahidi neighbourhood), Al Fanar Restaurant & Cafe (do not miss their shorbat adas,a delicious and delicately-spiced lentil soup), Siraj (Souk Al Bahar), Al Khayma Heritage Restaurant (do not miss their Beid wa tomat (local-style scrambled eggs), dango (spiced chickpeas) and balaleet (sweetened vermicelli with egg)). Must do: A day trip to Hatta, a mountain town. Where to stay: Hotels in Downtown Dubai at the foot of Burj Khalifa are expensive; if you want to see traditional Dubai, stay in Deira and Bur Dubai, two neighbourhoods separated by Dubai Creek. If like the sea, choose Jumeirah and Umm Suqeim districts; JBR and Dubai Marina house almost all major international hotel chains (of the two, JBR is comparatively more expensive); Trade Centre district is a convenient option while Al Barsha is ideal for low-budget travellers. Tips: Public display of affection (PDA) is frowned upon. Holding hands is acceptable, but kissing and hugging in public areas is not permitted. It is illegal for unmarried couples to cohabit, even in hotel rooms. Alcohol is served in licensed establishments only and is prohibited in public areas. It is customary to offer a little extra payment in restaurants, but tipping certainly isn't compulsory. Dressing conservatively is appreciated in Dubai's historic neighbourhoods and places of worship. There are specific requirements for entering a mosque, like wearing clothing that covers shoulders, arms and legs – and headscarves for women. Use or possession of illegal drugs is strictly prohibited. Check tax tags attached to the back of your sales receipts. For tax refunds, validate these tags when you leave Dubai.
NDTV
16-05-2025
- NDTV
Not Heading To Turkey Or Azerbaijan? These 5 Countries Have A Lot To Offer
Planning a summer trip is always exciting - shortlists get made, group chats light up, and flight prices are tracked like cricket scores. This year, many Indian families started their vacation planning the same way. But plans changed quickly after political headlines made their way into travel choices. Instead of going ahead with trips to Turkey or Azerbaijan, a lot of travellers are now looking elsewhere. The shift became clear in recent days. "Indian travellers have expressed strong sentiments over the past one week, with bookings for Azerbaijan and Turkey decreasing by 60 per cent, while cancellations have surged by 250 per cent during the same period," MakeMyTrip said in a statement on Wednesday. So, if you had Turkey or Azerbaijan on your radar, do not worry. There are other travel destinations that offer the same mix of warm hospitality, cultural depth, and photogenic spots. Here Are 5 Beautiful Countries To Visit If You Are Skipping Turkey And Azerbaijan: 1. Saudi Arabia Saudi Arabia is quickly turning into one of the most interesting countries for international holidays. With ancient sites, modern cities, and beautiful coastlines, it has a little bit of everything. Some must-visit places include the historical city of AlUla, the stunning tombs of Madain Saleh, the lively streets of Jeddah, and the luxury resorts along the Red Sea coast. Visa Processing Time: E-Visa for Indian citizens is usually approved within 24-48 hours Average Budget: Rs 1.2-1.8 lakh per person for a 7-day trip (excluding shopping) 2. United Arab Emirates (UAE) The UAE remains one of the top international destinations for Indian tourists. It has everything from shiny malls to desert dunes and traditional souks. Whether you are visiting with family or going solo, the experiences are endless. Check out Burj Khalifa, the musical Dubai Fountain, Ferrari World in Abu Dhabi, and the gold and spice markets in Old Dubai. 3. Georgia This scenic Eurasian country is ideal for Indian tourists looking for peace, history, and great food. Known for its wine culture, old churches, and mountain towns, Georgia offers the kind of slow travel many people enjoy. Wander through the pretty streets of Tbilisi, visit the hilltop Gergeti Trinity Church, explore cave cities like Vardzia and Uplistsikhe, and sip wine in Kakheti. 4. Greece If you had Istanbul on your list, Greece is an excellent backup plan. Think island towns with white walls, long coastlines, and meals full of Mediterranean flavour. It is rich in history too, from ancient Athens to the Acropolis. Go island-hopping to places like Aegina, Hydra or Paros, catch a sunset in Santorini, and try Greek dishes in cosy family-run restaurants. 5. Seychelles If your dream vacation involves clear blue water and quiet beaches, Seychelles fits the bill. While it is perfect for beach pictures, it is also a peaceful and quiet spot to just relax. Snorkel in coral reefs, walk rainforest trails, and visit UNESCO-listed sites like Vallee de Mai. Indian passport holders do not need a visa, and the short flight makes it an easy choice. While Turkey and Azerbaijan may be off the map this season for many Indian travellers, there are plenty of beautiful, safe, and culturally rich destinations ready to welcome you in 2025. Your summer travel plans are still looking very bright.
BBC News
28-01-2025
- Health
- BBC News
Nigeria goment increase daily feeding money of prisoners by 50%
Nigeria goment don increase di feeding money of prisoners by 50% daily. Pipo wey dey Correctional (Prison) facilities for Nigeria go now dey entitled to feeding rate N1,125 per day from N750 per day. Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo tell tori pipo for Abuja wen im bin dey do review of di agencies wey dey under am. Im say "difference go dey for di food wey inmates go dey chop now". Tori about di kain food wey inmates dey chop for prison na regular topic for di kontri. Di discussion begin draw serious attention for September 2024 wen local media bin report say di Controller General of di Nigeria Correctional Service, Haliru Nababa tok say na N750 goment bin allocate to feed each inmate per day while dem dey spend N800 evriday to feed each of di 900 dogs wey dey di service. E bad sotay pipo wey wan do charity work dey carry food items dey go donate for different Correctional centres across di kontri. Wit di high inflation wey Nigeria dey experience now and as food item mostly dey go up, e still dey hard to tell if dis N1,125 feeding money daily go fit give dem beta food to chop. Oda changes for Correctional Centres For di tok-tok oga Olubunmi do wit tori pipo for Abuja, e tok say one of di tins wey Correctional centres dey lack na medical personnel, and dem dey try to fix di problem sharp -sharp. "We realize say most of our Correctional centres no get doctors and medical officers, we approach Mr president wey don give approval say make we recruit 100 nurses and 50 medical officers to improve di wellbeing and situation of inmates for di correctional centres." Oga Olubunmi add say dem get low number of medical personnel for di correctional centres sake of say many of dem don retire and from now, dem go begin post medical officers to go do dia one year national service for Correction centres. "President Bola Tinubu also give approval for di National Youth Service Corps to dey post medical officers to correctional centres, so dat inmates fit get adequate medical care. Di interior Minister add say di National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) go also capture di biometrics of inmates. Inmate too go do biometrics and data capture for NIMC and na sake of security dem wan do am. E explain say in di last one year, no external attack or jail break happun for any correctional centre. "Suleja jail break happun sake of di old walls and Maiduguri prison own happun sake of di flood." Concerning oda commissions and agencies wey dey under di Ministry of Interior, many improvements go come, especially for di National Immigration Service wia dem go do contactless expansion wey go cover oda kontris. Electronic Visa (E-Visa), Passport personalisation centre, Passport centralisation.
