Philippine Passport vs Indonesian Passport: Full 2026 Comparison
The Philippine and Indonesian passports are two of the most important Southeast Asian travel documents, used by over 400 million people combined. Both benefit from ASEAN-wide visa-free access within Southeast Asia. However, their global access -- particularly to the Americas and Europe -- differs in ways relevant to the large Filipino and Indonesian diaspora populations.
Philippines
Indonesia
Quick Answers
Which is stronger -- Philippine or Indonesian passport?
The Indonesian passport is stronger in 2026: approximately 78 countries visa-free/VOA (Henley rank ~69) versus the Philippines'' ~70 (rank ~76). Indonesia has been gaining passport strength faster, aided by its growing diplomatic relationships as one of Southeast Asia''s largest economies.
Do Filipinos and Indonesians have ASEAN visa-free access?
Yes. Both are ASEAN member states. ASEAN nationals have visa-free access to each other''s countries under the ASEAN Agreement on the Movement of Natural Persons and bilateral arrangements. Filipino and Indonesian nationals can travel freely within ASEAN (with some limitations for specific countries within the bloc).
Which passport is better for the Gulf?
For Gulf travel (UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait), both nationalities require visas and/or eVisas. Saudi Arabia tourist eVisa (SAR 535) is available to both. UAE tourist visa is required for both. Neither passport has a clear advantage in the Gulf -- access rules are the same.
Which passport is better for Latin America?
The Philippine passport is significantly better for Latin America. The Philippines has strong historical ties with Spanish-speaking Latin American countries (both former Spanish colonial territories). Filipino nationals can visit Brazil, Peru, Ecuador, Colombia, and several other Latin American countries visa-free. Indonesian nationals generally require prior visas for these destinations.
Key Destinations: Philippines vs Indonesia Passport
| Destination | Philippines | Indonesia |
|---|---|---|
| All ASEAN nations | Visa-Free (ASEAN) | Visa-Free (ASEAN) |
| UAE | Visa Required | Visa Required |
| Saudi Arabia | Tourist eVisa (SAR 535) | Tourist eVisa (SAR 535) |
| Schengen | Visa Required | Visa Required |
| UK | Visa Required (GBP 115) | Visa Required |
| USA | B1/B2 Visa Required | B1/B2 Visa Required |
| Japan | Visa Required | Visa Required |
| South Korea | Visa Required | Visa Required |
| Brazil | Visa-Free (30 days) | Visa Required |
| Peru | Visa-Free | Visa Required |
| Ecuador | Visa-Free | Visa Required |
| China | Visa Required | Visa Required |
| India | eVisa Required | eVisa Required |
| Turkey | Visa Required | Visa-Free / eVisa |
Key Indonesian Advantages
- Turkey: Indonesian nationals have easier access to Turkey (visa-free or eVisa). Filipino nationals require a full embassy visa for Turkey.
- Broader Middle East access in some nations: Indonesia has specific bilateral arrangements in parts of the Middle East not available to the Philippines.
- Overall higher Henley rank reflects broader global access across Africa and parts of Asia.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Filipinos visit Indonesia without a visa?
Yes. As ASEAN members, Filipino nationals can visit Indonesia visa-free under ASEAN bilateral arrangements. Filipino nationals can also use the Indonesia eVOA (IDR 500,000) at major international airports. ASEAN visa-free arrangements are generally separate from the eVOA program.
Can Indonesians visit the Philippines without a visa?
Yes. Indonesian nationals can visit the Philippines visa-free for up to 30 days, with the option to extend at the Bureau of Immigration. This is both an ASEAN benefit and a general Philippines visa-free policy for most nationalities.
⚠ Data note. Passport access figures are approximate per early 2026 Henley Passport Index. They include visa-free and visa-on-arrival access. Always verify current requirements for specific destinations before booking.
Last reviewed: February 2026 · About · Report inaccuracy