NEW DELHI, Aug 6: India will soon offer free e-visas to Filipino tourists, in a move aimed at strengthening bilateral relations and boosting tourism between the two countries. The announcement was made Tuesday by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi following a bilateral meeting with Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr, who is currently on a five-day state visit to India.

The initiative is expected to encourage greater people-to-people exchanges, complementing the planned resumption of direct flights between India and the Philippines in October 2025. India’s visa policy shift mirrors the Philippines’ earlier move to grant visa-free entry to Indian nationals beginning June this year.

President Marcos welcomed India’s gesture, thanking Prime Minister Modi and encouraging Indian travelers to explore the Philippines. “I thank Prime Minister Modi for the introduction of a scheme to grant visa free of charge to Filipino tourists traveling to India,” Marcos said.Beyond tourism, both leaders also reaffirmed their shared commitment to maritime security and regional cooperation in the Indo-Pacific.

They highlighted ongoing efforts and past collaborations, including India’s rescue of Filipino seafarers attacked by Houthi rebels earlier this year. “We recognize India’s influence as a first responder in this critical area,” Marcos said. “Our two countries have high stakes in the future of the Indo-Pacific region—and in the world.”