Pack Your Bags: India Is Removing The Application Fee For Tourist Visas

Yep, Filipinos will soon be able to apply for Indian tourist visas at no cost. And the announcement? It came straight from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi after a bilateral meeting with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

The initiative is part of both countries' plan to "facilitate greater people-to-people exchanges," with a focus on boosting tourism.

"I reiterated the introduction of visa-free entry privileges and extended our invitation for more Indian tourists to visit the Philippines," President Marcos said during the state visit.

He added, "I thank Prime Minister Modi in turn for the introduction of a scheme to grant visa free of charge to Filipino tourists traveling to India."

ICYDK, Filipinos have to pay around ₱5,970 for an Indian tourist visa, according to the Embassy of India in the Philippines. 

While the exact date for implementation hasn't been announced as of writing, this move will save time (and bucks) for Filipinos who are dreaming of visiting India.

And there's more good news! As part of the agreement to promote tourism and strengthen ties between the two countries, direct flights between Delhi and Manila are finally happening. (And TBH, a long time coming!)

A few weeks ago, Air India confirmed that it will begin offering direct flights starting October 1, 2025. In a press release, the airline announced that its Airbus A321neo will operate the Manila–India route five times(!) a week.

"Air India's service to Manila will operate five days a week—on Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays—using the airline's Airbus A321neo aircraft, featuring a three-class cabin configuration that offers the choice of Business Class, Premium Economy Class, and Economy Class to travelers," Air India announced.

So if India has been sitting high on your travel bucket list, it's time to start planning because your dream trip is about to get a whole lot closer.