Neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) are a group of infectious diseases caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites that primarily affect poor and marginalized populations in tropical and subtropical regions. These diseases, such as leishmaniasis, schistosomiasis, and mycetoma, are associated with high morbidity, physical disabilities, social stigmatization, and economic impact, perpetuating cycles of poverty and exclusion. The term “neglected” reflects the historically low investment in research, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention, which hinders the development of new therapies and control strategies, even though these conditions are largely preventable and treatable. In this context, photodynamic therapy (PDT) has emerged as an innovative alternative for the treatment of NTDs, especially given the limitations of conventional treatments, increasing drug resistance, and the scarcity of new pharmacological options. PDT is based on the activation of photosensitizers by light in the presence of molecular oxygen, generating reactive oxygen species capable of damaging cellular structures, thereby promoting microbial inactivation, or selectively destroying infected tissues. Advances have been observed in infections such as leishmaniasis, mycetoma, and some eumycoses, in which PDT acts directly on resistant parasitic and fungal structures, and can be combined with conventional drugs to amplify the therapeutic response. In chronic fungal infections, PDT can disrupt biofilms and reduce the local fungal burden, making it an attractive alternative in the context of emerging antifungal resistance. Although its use in Chagas disease, schistosomiasis, and arboviruses is still in the experimental phase, studies indicate its potential to inactivate infected blood as well as infective forms or vectors, expanding the scope of the technique. In addition to presenting a low risk of resistance development and predictability in environments with limited infrastructure, PDT has been standing out for innovations in photosensitizers, portable devices, and targeted delivery systems. Despite challenges related to protocol standardization, tissue heterogeneity, and costs, growing evidence indicates that PDT is a promising and versatile strategy for addressing NTDs.