India-Philippines Travel Just Got Easier: Visa-Free Entry & Direct Flights Explained

If you’ve been daydreaming of visiting India from the Philippines, or enjoying a tropical getaway in the Philippines from India, you’re in for a treat. India-Philippines travel just got a whole lot simpler and more exciting. Thanks to new visa-free rules and upcoming direct india to philippines flight routes, planning your trip is now much smoother. Read on—it’s all laid out, step by step, so you end with a clear picture and zero confusion.

1. Visa-Free Entry & Free e-Visas

For Indian Travelers to the Philippines

Good news first: Starting June 8, 2025, the Philippines now welcomes Indian tourists visa-free for up to 14 days for tourism purposes. If you hold a valid visa or residence permit from the US, Australia, Canada, Schengen countries, Singapore, or the UK, you’re eligible to stay for up to 30 days. This is a win for India-Philippines travel fans—it means you can just pack your bags and go, with no visa hassles.

You’ll still need a passport valid for at least six months beyond your stay, proof of hotel booking, and a return or onward ticket. That’s it—easy peasy.

For Filipino Travelers to India

India has responded in kind. On August 5, 2025, Prime Minister Modi announced that e-visas for Filipino tourists will now be free—no more visa fees for leisure visits. This move is aimed at encouraging more India-Philippines travel, making India more welcoming for visitors from the Philippines.

If you’re planning to apply, do it through India Visa Online for a smooth, official, and safe process.

Now, whether you plan a beach holiday in Palawan or an adventure through India’s cultural heartlands, the visa process is no longer a barrier.

2. Direct Flights Between Delhi and Manila

Remember those long, complicated flights with stopovers? Not anymore.

Starting October 1, 2025, Air India will offer non-stop flights between Delhi and Manila, five times a week: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday. These flights will use Airbus A321neo aircraft and come with three cabin classes: Business, Premium Economy, and Economy. This is a great leap forward for India-Philippines travel—no more tiring layovers, just direct access between two bustling capitals.

Air India is the only carrier offering this direct connection right now, making it a truly unique route.

3. Why This Matters So Much

You might wonder: why is this such a big deal? Let’s put it simply:

Easy Planning: No embassy visits, no visa fees—just apply and travel.
Cost Savings: Free e-visas mean more affordable trips for Filipino visitors.
Time Savings: Direct flights cut journey time and reduce fatigue.
More Connection: Easier travel encourages family visits, cultural exchange, and tourism. That deepens bonds and understanding between our peoples.

Whether you’re a student planning to study abroad, a couple on vacation, or someone visiting family, these changes make India-Philippines travel accessible in a way it has never been before.

4. Helpful Tips for Your Trip

Here are tips to keep your journey smooth:

Make sure your passport has at least six months’ validity.
Stay wIf you’re from the Philippines, use India Visa Online for your e-visa application.
If you’re heading to the Philippines from India, enjoy the visa-free entry, but carry your valid passport and proof of booking.
Book your India-to-Philippines flight early, especially after October when direct flights start.
within the 14-day visa-free window, or 30 days if eligible because of other visas or permits.
If you’re stuck or unsure about anything, Contact Us—we’ll point you to trusted guidance or help you with resources.

5. Extra Context: Why Now?

These changes don’t happen by chance. India and the Philippines are celebrating 75 years of diplomatic ties. As part of a new strategic partnership, both countries agreed on visa-free travel and direct flight plans to deepen their bond.

Tourism from India to the Philippines was already growing—nearly 80,000 Indian visitors in 2024, a 12% increase—but still a small share of Southeast Asia’s travelers. These new policies aim to change that.

Moreover, travel interest surged—online searches from India for trips to the Philippines jumped 28%, especially among couples and first-time travelers.

In Summary

2025 marks a new era for India-Philippines travel:

India grants free e-visas to Filipinos—making entry easier and cheaper.
The Philippines welcomes Indian tourists visa-free—a smooth entry for short trips.
Direct Delhi–Manila flights start in October—quick, comfortable, and convenient.

All this means more togetherness, more culture, more adventure—and all without confusing visa steps or flight headaches.

If you’re hoping to explore India’s temples or the Philippines’ beaches, now is the time. Any questions or need help planning? Contact Us—we’ll guide you every step of the way.

Your next great journey is just around the corner. Let’s make it happen!