Indian nationals who are regular international travelers may now enter the Philippines and stay visa-free for 14 days, the Bureau of Immigration (BI) said.
But the BI said this privilege applies only to Indian travelers who are holders of a valid visa from the European Union (EU) or any of six other countries.
A BI news release said Commissioner Ricardo David Jr. issued a memorandum circular to the effect covering Indians who hold the EU’s Schengen visa, or a visa from the United States, Canada, Japan, Australia, Singapore, and United Kingdom.
“Indian nationals who avail of this scheme will be granted an initial stay of 14 days, which may be extended for an additional seven days,” David said.
Previously, Indian tourists must apply for an entry visa with a Philippine consulate in their port of origin before entering the country.
But David stressed the Indians cannot stay beyond 21 days, the maximum allowable period of stay in the country.
He added the new policy is based on a Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) circular issued last February which aims to draw more foreign tourists to the country.
The rules provide that aside from having any of the seven mentioned visas, an Indian traveler’s passport must be valid for at least six months.
He or she must have a return ticket or an onward ticket to the next country of destination.
Also, the Indian must have no derogatory record with the BI, National Intelligence and Coordinating Agency and the International Police (Interpol).
BI spokesperson Atty. Ma. Antonette Mangrobang, BI spokesperson said Indian tourists availing of the scheme may enter the country only via the three terminals of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA).
“Indian nationals admitted into the Philippines via this scheme cannot apply for conversion of their status to other visa categories,” Mangrobang said. — LBG, GMA News
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