India, Philippines Launch Visa-Free Travel & Direct Flights in Historic Strategic Partnership Boost

In a major diplomatic milestone, India and the Philippines have announced sweeping travel-friendly measures, including visa-free entry for Indian tourists to the Philippines and free e-visas for Filipinos visiting India. The announcement came during Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s state visit to India, where he and Prime Minister Narendra Modi formally elevated bilateral ties to a strategic partnership.

Game-Changing Travel Initiatives

Prime Minister Modi welcomed the new chapter in Indo-Philippine relations, stating:

“It is a matter of pleasure that today we have decided to elevate our relations to the status of a strategic partnership. A comprehensive action plan has also been formulated to translate the potential of this partnership into results.”

President Marcos Jr. echoed the enthusiasm, announcing visa-free entry privileges for Indian tourists and praising India’s move to grant free e-visas to Filipinos.

“We welcome the resumption of direct flights from October this year and renewed our commitment to expanding such air connectivity,” he said.

Direct Delhi–Manila Flights from October

Starting October 1, 2025, Air India will launch direct flights between Delhi and Manila, the first such service linking the two capitals. The route will operate five times a week (Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday) using Airbus A321neo aircraft in a three-class layout—Business, Premium Economy, and Economy.

This move is expected to boost tourism, business, and diaspora travel, connecting two fast-growing regions more efficiently than ever.

A Tourism & Cultural Boost

The new visa and flight measures are expected to dramatically enhance tourism, education, and cultural exchange. With the Philippines’ natural beauty and India’s rich heritage, both countries aim to make travel smoother, more affordable, and more attractive for citizens on both sides.

Celebrating 75 Years of Diplomatic Ties

The announcements come as India and the Philippines mark 75 years of diplomatic relations. To celebrate, PM Modi and President Marcos Jr. released a joint commemorative postage stamp, symbolizing the depth and future promise of bilateral cooperation.

This strategic upgrade and landmark travel agreement mark a turning point in India–Philippines relations, with a shared vision for greater connectivity, mutual growth, and stronger people-to-people ties.