Embassy of the Philippines - Consular & Other Services

CONSULAR OUTREACH PROGRAM

The Embassy/Consulate General conducts regular consular outreach missions to bring its various consular services to Filipinos residing in other states under its jurisdiction. The schedule of the Outreach Program is posted in the homepage of the Embassy’s/Consulate’s General website.

All applications in outreach missions are strictly by appointment only.

Applications and requests for appointment will only be accepted after the appropriate announcement for a particular outreach has been issued. All applications and requests for appointment received prior to the date of the announcement WILL NOT be processed.

Download: 2019 Consular Outreach Schedule

1. Virginia Beach, VA : 19-20 January 2019 - DONE

2. Miami, FL : 25-26 January 2019 - DONE

3. Haiti : 8-9 March 2019 - DONE

4. Port of Spain, Trinidad & Tobago : 11-12 March 2019 - DONE

5. British Virgin Islands : 14-15 March 2019 - DONE

6. US Virgin Islands : 16 March 2019 - DONE

7. Turks and Caicos Islands : 25-26 April 2019 - DONE

8. Cayman Islands : 28-29 April 2019 - DONE

9. Miami, FL : 2-3 May 2019 - DONE

10. Nashville, TN : 17-18 May 2019 - DONE

11. Jacksonville, FL : 3-4 August 2019 DONE

12. Orlando, FL : 6-7 August 2019 DONE

13. Miami, FL : 9-10 August 2019 DONE

14. Charleston, SC : 13-14 September 2019 DONE

15. Miami, FL: 15-16 November 2019 Read instructions here.

The opening of the Qless appointment system for the Miami FL outreach will be moved to 09 October 2019 at 9:00 AM. Read announcement here.

ALL INQUIRIES REGARDING CONSULAR OUTREACH MISSIONS SHOULD BE DIRECTED TO THE PHILIPPINE EMBASSY AT [email protected].

PASSPORT

Adult New Applicant

The Philippines has instituted the electronic passport (ePassport) system for all its citizens. The ePassport features microchip technology and a host of other security features thereby ensuring that Philippine passports are virtually tamper-proof. ePassport issuance is also compliant with the security standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). The Philippine ePassport has an integrated circuit (chip) within its pages containing data that are essential in verifying the identity of the passport holder. These include the personal biographical information found on the data page of the passport, the biometrics of the passport holder, the unique chip identification number, and a digital signature to verify the authenticity of the data stored on the chip. The chip technology allows the information stored in an ePassport to be read by special chip readers at almost every international port of entry.

The Embassy/Consulate General receives and processes applications for ePassports, which in turn is sent to the Department of Foreign Affairs in Manila for printing and issuance. Please allow 4 to 6 weeks for the entire process up to release of passport to applicant.

The Embassy/Consulate General advises all Philippine passport holders, whose passports are expiring within the next 6 months, to renew their passports if they intend to travel within the aforementioned period.

All Filipino citizens applying for passports with the Philippine Embassy/Consulate General will no longer need to submit photographs, as their picture, together with their fingerprints and signature, will be taken on-site. This means that all passport applicants, regardless of age, are henceforth required to appear personally.

To ensure entry to countries with strict dress codes, all applicants are required to wear decent clothing for passport photo capture. Plunging necklines, sleeveless clothing, spaghetti strapped tops, see-through tops, sando, tube tops, halters and the like are prohibited.

Earrings and colored contact lenses are not allowed during data capture.

Only immediate family members are allowed to get the passport in behalf of the applicant. Immediate family members include father, mother, brother, sister, spouse, and children of legal age.

- The passport will only be released to an immediate family member with proper authorization letter

- The passport of the minor applicant shall be released only to parents or adult siblings or to an authorized representative with Special Power of Attorney or Affidavit of Support and Consent

Passports unclaimed after one (1) year will be cancelled per Department Order No. 37-03.

Clients transacting at the Embassy in Washington DC may walk in and queue onsite, queue remotely, or schedule a specific time slot here https://kiosk.na1.qless.com/kiosk/app/home/10000000126.

Applicants for consular outreach missions must strictly follow instructions for securing appointments contained in the relevant outreach press releases.

A. CORE REQUIREMENTS:

Personal Appearance
Duly-accomplished Adult New passport application form, typed or printed legibly in black or blue ink
Original and One (1) photocopy of Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) Authenticated Birth Certificate on Security Paper; Married Females must also submit Original and One (1) photocopy of PSA Authenticated Marriage Contract on Security Paper or Report of Marriage
Proof that the applicant is not a US/Foreign citizen (Original and two [2] photocopies of any of the following: greencard, visa adjustment, notice of action, work permit)
Self-addressed return envelope, with appropriate stamps for express or priority mail with tracking numbers via US Postal Service, if Passport is to be mailed back. For applicants from the Caribbean Islands, pre-paid mailing envelope from DHL.
Applicable passport fees (non-refundable), payable in cash or money order made payable to "Embassy of the Philippines" (or "Philippine Consulate General", if application is made at one of the Philippine Consulates General in the U.S.). Personal checks and credit cards are not accepted.

B. SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS:

In addition to the core requirements, the following supporting documents will be further required in the following cases:

1. In case of Late Registered Birth Certificate:

If Birth Certificate was registered at least ten (10) years ago, application will be treated as a regular application, and no additional supporting documents will be required
If Birth Certificate was registered less than ten (10) years ago, applicant must submit IDs that pre-date the late registration
If applicant has no IDs that pre-date the late registered Birth Certificate, applicant must produce current IDs and National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Clearance

2. In case applicant has NO Birth Certificate or Report of Birth:

If applicant is born AFTER 1950:

Applicant must first file for late registration with the Local Civil Registrar or Consular Office with jurisdiction over the place where applicant was born. Applicant will then submit the original of the PSA authenticated late registered Birth Certificate with the requisite supporting documents and IDs that pre-date the late registration.

If applicant is born ON OR BEFORE 1950:

Applicant must submit original of PSA Authenticated Certificate of No Birth Record and Affidavit of Two Disinterested Persons attesting to the identity of the applicant.

3. If an applicant’s marriage has been dissolved and wants to revert to her maiden surname:

Applicant must submit the original of the annotated PSA Marriage Certificate (MC) or Report of Marriage (ROM) stating that the marriage has been dissolved; OR
Alternatively, if annotated MC or ROM from PSA is not yet available, applicant must submit a Certified True Copy of the Court Order dissolving the marriage and a Certificate of Finality from the court.

4. If applicant has lacking data in Birth Certificate or Report of Birth:

Applicant must submit proof of filing of supplemental report of correction from the Local Civil Registrar (LCR)

5. If applicant has discrepancy in data in Birth Certificate / Report of Birth and other documents¹

Discrepancy in first name:

Applicant must submit a copy of the petition and supporting documents for correction of first name filed with LCR or consulate

Discrepancy in other data:

Applicant must submit annotated Birth Certificate authenticated by PSA reflecting the corrected entry

¹If the discrepant data is in the BC, the applicant must submit annotated birth certificate authenticated by PSA reflecting the corrected entry. If the discrepant data s in the other documents, the BC will be followed.

6. If applicant is a Dual Citizen:

Original PSA authenticated Birth Certificate / Report of Birth and Original Identification Certificate issued by the Philippine Foreign Service Post (FSP) or the Bureau of Immigration (BI) and a photocopy
Government issued IDs (Philippine or from country of second citizenship)

7. If applicant is a Naturalized Filipino Citizen:

Identification Certificate of Naturalization from BI

8. If applicant obtained Filipino citizenship by Election:

Affidavit of Election of Philippine Citizenship
Identification Certificate of Election from BI

9. If applicant has been granted citizenship by Act of Legislation:

Certified true copy of the law granting citizenship
Foreign Birth Certificate authenticated by Philippine FSP

Note: The Philippine Embassy/Consulate General assumes no responsibility for any delay or loss in the mail, or while the documents are in the custody of the courier service. The applicant should note the tracking numbers of all envelopes used and submitted.

The Consular Officer reserves the right to require additional proof or documents from an applicant, to prove his/her citizenship or identity, and ensure accurate and complete personal data entries, pursuant to the Philippine Passport Law (R.A. 8239) and the Foreign Service Act. (R.A. 7157).

Adult Renewal Applicant

Earrings and colored contact lenses are not allowed during data capture.

Only immediate family members are allowed to get the passport in behalf of the applicant. Immediate family members include father, mother, brother, sister, spouse, and children of legal age.

- The passport will only be released to an immediate family member with proper authorization letter

- The passport of the minor applicant shall be released only to parents or adult siblings or to an authorized representative with Special Power of Attorney or Affidavit of Support and Consent

Passports unclaimed after one (1) year will be cancelled per Department Order No. 37-03.

Clients transacting at the Embassy in Washington DC may walk in and queue onsite, queue remotely, or schedule a specific time slot here https://kiosk.na1.qless.com/kiosk/app/home/10000000126.

Applicants for consular outreach missions must strictly follow instructions for securing appointments contained in the relevant outreach press releases.

A. RENEWAL of GREEN PASSPORTS, MAROON MACHINE READABLE PASSPORTS and any OLDER PASSPORTS (TREATED AS A NEW APPLICATION):

Personal Appearance
Most recent passport and copy of the data page
Duly-accomplished Adult Renewal passport application form, typed or printed legibly in black or blue ink
Original and One (1) photocopy of Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) Authenticated Birth Certificate on Security Paper; Married Females must also submit Original and One (1) photocopy of PSA Authenticated Marriage Contract on Security Paper or Report of Marriage
Proof that the applicant is not a US/Foreign citizen (Original and two [2] photocopies of any of the following: greencard, visa adjustment, notice of action, work permit)
Self-addressed return envelope, with appropriate stamps for express or priority mail with tracking numbers via US Postal Service, if Passport is to be mailed back. For applicants from the Caribbean Islands, pre-paid mailing envelope from DHL.
Applicable passport fees (non-refundable), payable in cash or money order made payable to "Embassy of the Philippines" (or "Philippine Consulate General", if application is made at one of the Philippine Consulates General in the U.S.). Personal checks and credit cards are not accepted.

B. RENEWAL OF e-PASSPORTS CORE REQUIREMENTS:

1. Personal Appearance

2. Duly-accomplished Adult Renewal passport application form, typed or printed legibly in black or blue ink

3. Current ePassport with two (2) photocopies of the data page

4. Original and two (2) photocopies of PSA authenticated documents that will support the change of name (if applicable)

Marriage Contract
Annotated Birth Certificate
Annotated Marriage Contract to show annulment/divorce/court ordered instruction
Death Certificate of Spouse

5. Proof that the applicant is not a US/Foreign citizen (Original and two [2] photocopies of any of the following: greencard, visa adjustment, notice of action, work permit)

6. Self-addressed return envelope, with appropriate stamps for express or priority mail with tracking numbers via US Postal Service, if Passport is to be mailed back. For applicants from the Caribbean Islands, pre-paid mailing envelope from DHL.

7. Applicable passport fees (non-refundable), payable in cash or money order made payable to "Embassy of the Philippines" (or "Philippine Consulate General", if application is made at one of the Philippine Consulates General in the U.S.). Personal checks and credit cards are not accepted.

C. SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS:

In addition to the core requirements, the following supporting documents will be further required in the following cases²:

²Some cases will require the application to be treated as a New Application rather than a renewal

1. In case of a Lost VALID/EXPIRED ePassport (TREATED AS A NEW APPLICATION):

PSA Authenticated Birth Certificate on Security Paper plus two (2) photocopies
Married Females: Original PSA Authenticated Marriage Contract on Security Paper plus two (2) copies
Affidavit of Loss
Passport Fee of $150.00
A 15-day waiting period, on top of the 8- to 12-week processing period, will be imposed if the lost passport is still valid (unexpired) and if the passport was not issued by the Embassy/Consulate General where applicant is applying for replacement.

2. In case of renewal of frequently Lost Passport (TREATED AS A NEW APPLICATION):

PSA Authenticated Birth Certificate on Security Paper plus two (2) photocopies
Married Females: Original PSA Authenticated Marriage Contract on Security Paper plus two (2) copies
Police Report
Affidavit of Loss
Passport Fee of $150.00
A 15-day waiting period, on top of the 8- to 12-week processing period, will be imposed if the lost passport is still valid (unexpired) and if the passport was not issued by the Embassy/Consulate General where applicant is applying for replacement.
If applicant loses his/her passport more than three (3) times within a five (5) year period, applicant’s passport may only be renewed upon the expiry of the latest passport

3. In case passport has been mutilated or damaged (TREATED AS A NEW APPLICATION):

PSA Authenticated Birth Certificate on Security Paper plus two (2) photocopies
Married Females: Original PSA Authenticated Marriage Contract on Security Paper plus two (2) copies
Affidavit of Explanation
Applicant must surrender mutilated/damaged passport

4. In case applicant is a Dual Citizen:

Government Issued IDs (Refer to Valid Philippine Government Issued IDs or their secondary citizenship /residence counterparts)
Report of Birth OR Identification Certificate issued by the Philippine Consulate or the Bureau of Immigration, plus two (2) copies

5. In case applicant is a Naturalized Citizen:

Identification Certificate of Naturalization from BI

6. If case applicant is a Filipino citizen by Election:

Affidavit of Election of Philippine Citizenship
Identification Certificate of Election from BI

Minor New/Renewal Applicant³

Earrings and colored contact lenses are not allowed during data capture.

Only immediate family members are allowed to get the passport in behalf of the applicant. Immediate family members include father, mother, brother, sister, spouse, and children of legal age.

- The passport will only be released to an immediate family member with proper authorization letter

- The passport of the minor applicant shall be released only to parents or adult siblings or to an authorized representative with Special Power of Attorney or Affidavit of Support and Consent

Passports unclaimed after one (1) year will be cancelled per Department Order No. 37-03.

Clients transacting at the Embassy in Washington DC may walk in and queue onsite, queue remotely, or schedule a specific time slot here https://kiosk.na1.qless.com/kiosk/app/home/10000000126.

Applicants for consular outreach missions must strictly follow instructions for securing appointments contained in the relevant outreach press releases.

³There is no major disctinction between a new application or renewal application for Minors.

A. CORE REQUIREMENTS:

Personal Appearance of minor applicant and either parent or authorized adult companion
Duly-accomplished Minor passport application form, typed or printed legibly in black or blue ink
Original and One (1) photocopy of Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) Authenticated Birth Certificate on Security Paper; or Report of Birth
Passport or Valid Government issued ID of either parent
School ID (if available)
Current Passport of the applicant (for renewal only)
Proof that the applicant is not a US/Foreign citizen (Original and a copy of any of the following: greencard, visa adjustment, notice of action)
Self-addressed return envelope, with appropriate stamps for express or priority mail with tracking numbers via US Postal Service, if Passport is to be mailed back. For applicants from the Caribbean Islands, pre-paid mailing envelope from DHL.
Applicable passport fees (non-refundable), payable in cash or money order made payable to "Embassy of the Philippines" (or "Philippine Consulate General", if application is made at one of the Philippine Consulates General in the U.S.). Personal checks and credit cards are not accepted.

B. SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS:

In addition to the core requirements, the following supporting documents will be further required in the following cases:

1. In case applicant has NO PSA Birth Certificate or Report of Birth yet:

If born in the Philippines:

Certified True Copy of Local Civil Registrar Birth Certificate authenticated by PSA.

If born abroad:

Original Report of Birth or first indorsement from Consular Records Division.

2. In case applicant is not accompanied by the parent/s during the application process:

Applicant must submit a Special Power of Attorney executed by the parent/s designating the minor’s companion to assist in the application process. The Special Power of Attorney must be authenticated by the Philippine Embassy/Consulate if executed abroad
Passport or Valid Government issued ID of authorized adult companion.

3. In case applicant is not traveling with parent/s:

Applicant must submit Affidavit of Support and Consent executed by the parent/s. The Affidavit of Support and Consent must be Consularized by the Philippine Embassy/Consulate if executed abroad.
Passport or Valid Government issued ID of authorized adult companion.

4. In case applicant is an illegitimate child in custody of the Mother:

Personal Appearance of minor applicant and mother or authorized adult companion
PSA Birth Certificate
Passport or Valid Government issued ID of mother or authorized adult companion
If applicant is not accompanied by mother during the application process, applicant must submit a Special Power of Attorney executed by the mother designating the minor’s companion to assist in the application process. The Special Power of Attorney must be authenticated by the Philippine Embassy/Consulate if executed abroad.
If applicant is not traveling with the mother, applicant must submit Affidavit of Support and Consent executed by the mother. The Affidavit of Support and Consent must be authenticated by the Philippine Embassy/Consulate if executed abroad.

5. If the applicant is an illegitimate child and mother is deceased / absent and father is unknown:

Personal Appearance of minor applicant and adult guardian
PSA Birth Certificate
Passport or Valid Government issued ID of adult guardian
Affidavit of Guardianship

6. If the minor applicant is undergoing or has undergone the process of domestic adoption:

Personal Appearance of minor applicant and adoptive parent/s
PSA Birth Certificate
Passport or Valid Government issued ID of adoptive parent/s
Court Decree of Adoption
If applicant is not accompanied by adoptive parent/s during the application process, applicant must submit a Special Power of Attorney executed by the adoptive parent/s designating the minor’s companion to assist in the application process. The Special Power of Attorney must be authenticated by the Philippine Embassy/Consulate if executed abroad.
If applicant is not traveling with the adoptive parent/s, applicant must submit Affidavit of Support and Consent executed by the adoptive parent/s. The Affidavit of Support and Consent must be authenticated by the Philippine Embassy/Consulate if executed abroad.

7. If the minor applicant is undergoing or has undergone the process of foreign adoption / Inter Country Adoption Board (ICAB) adoption process:

Personal Appearance of minor applicant and ICAB representative
PSA Birth Certificate/PSA Certificate of Foundling
Endorsement from ICAB
Certificate of Child Available for Adoption/Deed of Voluntary Commitment
Placement Authority issued by ICAB
Certificate for Issuance of Passport issued by ICAB
Clearance for Inter Country Adoption
Child Study Report
DSWD Clearance

8. If the applicant is a foundling NOT for adoption:

Personal Appearance of minor applicant and adult guardian
PSA Certificate of Foundling
Passport or Valid Government issued ID of adult guardian
DSWD Clearance
Affidavit of guardianship

TRAVEL DOCUMENT

A travel document is a certification or identifying document containing the description and other personal circumstances of the bearer, which is issued in lieu of a passport and valid for one-way, direct travel to the Philippines. A travel document is issued to a Filipino citizen being sent back to the Philippines or who needs to urgently travel home but is unable to fully comply with the requirements for the issuance of a regular passport, at the time of emergency. Proof of urgency/emergency is needed.

REQUIREMENTS:

Duly-accomplished travel document application form, typed or printed legibly in black or blue ink, and notarized if application is sent by mail
Expired Philippine Passport
Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA, formerly NSO) Birth Certificate, if the passport is lost or the expired passport is the brown one. Applicant may apply for PSA Birth Certificate on-line at www.e-census.com.ph. (Please note Advisory from PSA website as of January 2018: Payment via credit card is temporarily unavailable due to some technical problems. Rest assured that we are working for immediate resolution. You may opt to pay via Banco De Oro's subsidiary offices and remittance partners that offer the Kabayan Bills Bayad.)
Proof that the applicant is not a US/Foreign citizen (Original and a copy of any of the following: green card, visa adjustment, notice of action) or that applicant has reacquired/retained Philippine citizenship under RA 9225 (Original and copy of dual citizenship certificate).
Affidavit of Loss, duly notarized by a local notary public, if application is sent by mail
Four (4) colored photos, 2” x 2”, taken within six months before the date of application, showing a clear front view of applicant’s face, with a white background. No sleeveless attire. Blurred or low quality photos are not accepted.
Self-addressed return envelope, with appropriate stamps for express or priority mail with tracking numbers via US Postal Service, or with pre-paid mailing envelope from private courier of choice (except FedEx), if Travel Document is to be mailed back.
Applicable processing fee (non-refundable), payable in cash or money order made payable to "Embassy of the Philippines" (or "Philippine Consulate General", if application is made at one of the Philippine Consulates General in the U.S.). Personal checks and credit cards are not accepted.

AUTHENTICATING DOCUMENTS MADE SIMPLER BY THE APOSTILLE

The Apostille Convention entered into force in the Philippines on 14 May 2019. Documents executed and Apostillized in Apostille countries, except for Austria, Finland, Germany and Greece, shall no longer be authenticated by the Philippine Embassy or Consulate.

Foreign Apostilles issued before 14 May 2019 shall be recognized in the Philippines on and from said date of entry into force of the Convention for the Philippines pursuant to Sections 99 and 320 of the Apostille Handbook.

Philippine issued Apostilles may be verified through this link: www.dfa.gov.ph/verify-apostille.

For Apostilles issued in another country, recipients may contact the Competent Authority concerned. Contact information of each country’s Competent Authorities is available in the Apostille Section of the Hague Conference website (https://www.hcch.net).

Attached is a list of basic information (FAQs) on the Apostille process in the Philippines. For more information about the Apostille process, please check the Apostille Handbook published by the Hague Conference on Private International Law (HCCH), an e-copy of which is available in this link: https://assets.hcch.net/docs/ff5ad106-3573-495b-be94-7d66b7da7721.pdf.

FAQs on Apostille

What is an Apostille and when do I need one?

An Apostille is a certificate that authenticates the origin of a public document. It is issued by a country that is party to the Apostille Convention to be used in another country which is also a party to the Convention.

On 14 May 2019, the Philippines will officially become a party to the Apostille Convention. Authentication is still required for all Philippine documents to be used abroad, but this time with an Apostille instead of an Authentication Certificate (“red ribbon”) as proof of authentication.

After authentication (Apostillization) by DFA-OCA, as Competent Authority, there is no more need for authentication (legalization) by the Foreign Embassies or Consulates except for non- Apostille countries and those that objected to the Philippine accession.

In which countries does the Apostille Convention apply?

The Apostille Convention only applies if both the country where the public document was issued and the country where the public document is to be used are parties to the Convention. For the updated list of all “Apostille Countries,” please visit this link: https:/Avww.hcch.net/en/instruments/conventions/status-table/?cid=41

Aside from countries that have not acceded to the Apostille Convention, the Philippine Apostille will not yet apply to Austria, Finland, Germany and Greece. Documents from and to such countries will still require legalization by the concerned Embassy or Consulate.

What do I do if the country where I need to use my public document is not an Apostille Country?

By 14 May 2019, DFA-OCA will issue Apostille Certificates to all documents submitted for authentication. If your public document is to be used in a country where the Apostille Convention does not apply, you should contact the Embassy or Consulate of the country where you intend to use the document in order to find out what your options are. This usually means that you need to present your documents to the said country’s Embassy or Consulate in the Philippines for its authentication/legalization.

You may also ask the intended recipient of your document whether an Apostille is necessary in your particular case.

To which documents does the Apostille Convention apply?

The Philippine Apostille will apply to the same types of documents that are subject to authentication by the DFA prior to the effectivity of the Apostille Convention in the Philippines.

Pageiof4 Moreover, an Apostille may never be used for the recognition of a document in the country where that document was issued. Apostilles are strictly for the use of public documents abroad. Thus, if your document is to be used in the Philippines, it cannot be submitted to the DFA for authentication/Apostillization.

What is the benefit of an Apostille and how is it different from the Authentication Certificate ("Red Ribbon")?

The Apostille streamlines the whole authentication procedure of documents for use abroad resulting to more convenience, less cost and processing time for the applicants. Before Apostille, a Philippine document to be used abroad needs a Certification by the relevant government agency or office, Authentication by the DFA and Authentication (Legalization) by the Embassy of the country of destination.

With the Apostille, the aforementioned document will no longer require legalization by the Foreign Embassy if the country of destination is already a Member of the Apostille Convention (or an “Apostille Country.”) Once Apostillized, the document can be validly used in any and all Apostille Countries.

The Apostille Convention also establishes conditions that are more conducive to foreign investment thereby improving the country’s global competitiveness. It makes it easier for companies to start up a business in a foreign country such as the Philippines. More direct investments in the Philippines mean more jobs for the Filipinos.

I am an Overseas Filipino, how will the Apostille Convention affect me?

Just as Philippine documents for use in Apostille countries will no longer need to pass through another authentication by the foreign embassies in Manila after they have been authenticated (Apostillized) by the DFA-OCA, foreign documents from Apostille countries will only need Apostillization by the host government for them to be validly used in the Philippines or in another Apostille country. (Note: DFA-OCA will not authenticate/Apostillize all types of foreign documents.)

There shall be no change in the authentication process in non-Apostille countries and in Austria, Fintand, Germany and Greece.

What if I still want my document, executed in an Apostille country, to be authenticated by the Philippine Embassy?

By 14 May 2019, Philippine Embassies/Consulates shall no longer authenticate documents originating from Apostille countries. Such documents will still need the Apostille from the host government but not the authentication by the Philippine Embassy/Consulate.

Embassies and Consulates are not authorized to issue an Apostille. However, Philippine Embassies/Consulates shall continue to provide acknowledgement and jurat services to walk-in applicants regardiess of whether the origin of the document is an Apostille country or not.

What are the effects of an Apostille?

Just like the Authentication Certificate (or “red ribbon”), an Apostille only certifies the origin of the public document to which it relates: it certifies the authenticity of the signature or seal of the person or authority that signed or sealed the public document and the capacity in which this was done.

An Apostille does not certify the content of the public document to which it relates.

An Apostille may never be used for the recognition of a document in the country where that document was issued — Apostilles are strictly for use of public documents abroad. Thus, DFA- OCA will not issue an Apostille for documents that will be used in the Philippines.

If the recipient of my Apostille wants to verify my Apostille, what should I suggest?

Each Apostille Country is required to keep a register in which it records the date and number of every Apostille it issues, as well as information relating to the person or authority that signed or sealed the underlying public document. Recipients may contact the Competent Authority identified on the Apostille and ask whether the information on the Apostille corresponds with the information in the register.

In order to verify a particular Apostille, recipients may contact the Competent Authority. Contact information for the Competent Authorities, including phone numbers and website information, is available in the Apostille Section of the Hague Conference website: https://www.hcch.net/en/instruments/conventions/authorities 1/?cid=41.

Issued Philippine Apostilles may be verified through this link: www.dfa.gov.ph/verify-apostille. You may also scan the QR Code on the Apostille, using your smartphone, for a quick access to the verification link.

For questions/clarification, please send an e-mail to [email protected] or call +1-202-467-9319.

CIVIL REGISTRY

Solemnization of Marriage

Consular Officers are authorized to solemnize marriages between two Filipinos of the states under the jurisdiction of the Embassy/Consulate General. Please check the Consulate Finder or the Consulates Link for the states covered by the Embassy/Consulates General in the U.S. In view of the infrequency of need for this service, applicants for solemnization of marriage are advised to just call the Embassy/Consulate General concerned for the requirements.

Report of Marriage between Filipinos or a Filipino and a Foreign National

The marriage of a Filipino should be reported to and registered with the Philippine National Statistics Office through the Embassy/Consulate General having jurisdiction over the locality where the event took place. Please check the Consulate Finder or the Consulates Link for the states covered by the Embassy/Consulates General in the U.S.

BASIC REQUIREMENTS:

Four (4) original duly-accomplished Report of Marriage Contracted Abroad form, typed or printed legibly in black or blue ink, signed by both husband and wife. Wives should indicate their maiden name as the last name. If submitting by mail, the completed forms must be notarized.
Covering letter (handwritten or typed), addressed to the Consular Section, indicating service/transaction requested and telephone number or email address for contact details
One (1) original or certified true copy and four (4) photocopies of the Marriage Record (original will be returned)
One (1) original or certified true copy and four (4) photocopies of the Marriage Certificate or Contract (original will be returned)
Four (4) photocopies each of the passports of both spouses
Four (4) photocopies of additional proof of Philippine citizenship of the Filipino spouse/s (greencard, valid visa, notice of action, work permit, dual IC)
One (1) original or certified true copy and four (4) photocopies of the birth certificate/s of Filipino spouse/s.
Notarized affidavit explaining the reasons for delayed registration if ROM is filed more than a year after marraige
Self-addressed return envelope, with appropriate stamps for express or priority mail with tracking numbers via US Postal Service, if Report of Marriage is to be mailed back. For applicants from the Caribbean Islands, pre-paid mailing envelope from DHL.
Applicable processing fee (non-refundable), payable in cash or money order made payable to "Embassy of the Philippines" (or "Philippine Consulate General", if application is made at one of the Philippine Consulates General in the U.S.). Personal checks and credit cards are not accepted.
For applicants residing in U.S. territories or other countries within the jurisdiction of the Philippine Embassy, applicants should enclose a treasurer’s, manager’s or certified check issued by a local bank that has a corresponding bank in the U.S. (the US National Bank Association is not a correspondent bank), payable to the courier of choice, in U.S. dollars, to cover cost of mailing, and a corresponding self-addressed courier’s address label. Personal checks are not accepted.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

A. IF FILIPINO SPOUSE WAS PREVIOUSLY MARRIED AND DIVORCED, OR PREVIOUSLY MARRIED AND MARRIAGE WAS SUBSEQUENTLY ANNULLED

One (1) original or certified true copy and four (4) photocopies of the Judicial Decree of Divorce or Annulment (original will be returned)

Note: Article 26 of the Family Code of the Philippines or Executive Order No. 209 (as amended by E.O. No. 227, promulgated on 27 July 1987) provides that:

All marriages solemnized outside the Philippines, in accordance with the laws in force in the country where they were solemnized, and valid there as such, shall also be valid in this country, except those prohibited under Articles 35, 37 and 38.

Where a marriage between a Filipino citizen and a foreigner is validly celebrated and a divorce is thereafter validly obtained abroad by the alien spouse capacitating him or her to remarry, the Filipino spouse shall have capacity to remarry under Philippine law (underlining and highlighting supplied.)

B. IF THE FILIPINO SPOUSE IS A WIDOW / WIDOWER

One (1) original or certified true copy and four (4) photocopies of Death Certificate of deceased spouse (original will be returned)

C. OTHER REQUIREMENTS

The Consular Officer reserves the right to require additional proof or documents from an applicant, to prove his/her citizenship or identity pursuant to the Philippine Passport Law (R.A. 8239) and the Foreign Service Act. (R.A. 7157)

Report of Birth of Child Born Abroad of Filipino Parents

The birth of a Filipino should be reported to and registered with the Philippine National Statistics Office through the Embassy/Consulate General having jurisdiction over the locality where the event took place. Please check the Consulate Finder or the Consulates Link for the states covered by the Embassy/Consulates General in the U.S.

REQUIREMENTS:

Four (4) original duly-accomplished Report of Birth application forms, typed or printed legibly in black or blue ink, with the portion for witnesses duly-filled out when applying by mail. Forms should be notarized if submitting by mail.
Covering letter (handwritten or typed), addressed to the Consular Section, indicating service/transaction requested and telephone number or email address for contact details
One (1) original or certified true copy and four (4) photocopies of Birth Certificate (original will be returned)
One (1) original and four (4) photocopies of PSA Marriage Certificate (if married in the Philippines) or approved Report of Marriage (ROM, if married abroad) of the parents (original will be returned)
If parents were not married at the time of child's birth:
1. Affidavit of Admission of Paternity (AAP) executed by the Father, if the father is willing to acknowledge paternity;
2. Affidavit to Use the Surname of the Father (AUSF);
  1. Executed by the Mother, if the child is below 7 years old
  2. Executed by the child and attested by the mother, if the child is between 7 and 17 years old
  3. Executed by the child, if the child is 18 years old and above
- The AAP and the AUSF shall be executed in person before a Consular Officer in four (4) originals. If sent by mail the documents should be processed according to the procedure for authentication.
One (1) original or certified true copy and four (4) photocopies of parents' passports
One (1) certified true copy and four (4) photocopies of proof of Philippine citizenship of both/either parent, as appropriate, at time of birth of the child, such as permanent residency, valid visa, work permit, dual citizenship certificate, or U.S. Naturalization Certificate of parent(s)
If the child was included in a parent's approved petition for re-acquisition of Philippine citizenship, four (4) photocopies of Order of Approval or Petition for Reacquisition of Philippine Citizenship, indicating the name of the child as a minor-beneficiary of the parent's reacquisition of Philippine citizenship
Notarized affidavit explaining the reasons for delayed registration, if Report of Birth is filed more than a year after the child is born
Self-addressed return envelope, with appropriate stamps for express or priority mail with tracking numbers via US Postal Service, or with pre-paid mailing envelope from private courier of choice (except FedEx), if Report of Birth is to be mailed back.
Processing Fees (non-refundable):
- $25.00 for Report of Birth
- $25.00 for AAP
- $25.00 for AUSF
- $25.00 for Certificate of Registration of Legal Instrument for those executing AAP and/or AUSF
  - Payable in cash or money order made payable to "Embassy of the Philippines" (or "Philippine Consulate General", if application is made at one of the Philippine Consulates General in the U.S.). Personal checks and credit cards are not accepted. An additional service fee of $10 per document will be charged for requests for expedited release.
For applicants residing in U.S. territories or other countries within the jurisdiction of the Philippine Embassy, applicants should enclose a treasurer’s, manager’s or certified check issued by a local bank that has a corresponding bank in the U.S. (the US National Bank Association is not a correspondent bank), payable to the courier of choice, in U.S. dollars, to cover cost of mailing, and a corresponding self-addressed courier’s address label. Personal checks are not accepted.

The Consular Officer may require additional proof or documents from applicant to determine the child’s citizenship, identity, or eligibility for registration of birth under Philippine laws.

Report of Death and/or Consular Mortuary Certificate

The death of a Filipino should be reported to and registered with the Philippine National Statistics Office through the Embassy/Consulate General having jurisdiction over the locality where the event took place. Please check the Consulate Finder or the Consulates Link for the states covered by the Embassy/Consulates General in the U.S. Consular.

Mortuary Certificates are issued when remains or the cremated remains of a deceased (Filipino or foreigner) are to be transported to the Philippines.

REQUIREMENTS:

Five (5) originals of the duly-accomplished Report of Death application form, typed or printed legibly in black or blue ink, signed by the representative (if deceased is a Filipino citizen). Form should be notarized if submitting by mail.
One (1) original copy and (5) photocopies of the Certificate of Death issued by the State Department of Health;
One (1) original and five (5) photocopies of notarized certificate issued by the Mortuary Director that the body was properly embalmed or cremated, and that the casket contains only the body of the deceased (for human remains only);
One (1) original and five (5) photocopies of the Certificate of Cremation issued by the Crematory (for cremated remains only);
One (1) original and five (5) photocopies of the Certificate of No Contagious Disease issued by the State Department of Health (for human remains only);
One (1) original and five (5) photocopies of the Burial Transit Permit (for human remains only);
Six (6) copies of the Itinerary, to include full flight details and mode of transportation;
Name, address, and contact number of the receiving funeral parlor in the Philippines (for human remains only);
Six (6) photocopies of the deceased’s identification card or passport;
Six (6) photocopies of identification documents (passport, driver’s license, etc.) of the person who will travel with the urn (for cremated remains only);
Self-addressed return envelope, with appropriate stamps for express or priority mail with tracking numbers via US Postal Service, or with pre-paid mailing envelope from private courier of choice (except FedEx), if Consular Mortuary Certificate is to be mailed back.
Processing fee in the amount of fifty dollars ($50.00), if Filipino, and $25.00 if US citizen,, payable in cash or money order made payable to "Embassy of the Philippines" (or "Philippine Consulate General", if application is made at one of the Philippine Consulates General in the U.S.). Personal checks and credit cards are not accepted. Payments are non-refundable. An additonal service fee of $10 per document will be charged for requests for expedited release.
For applicants residing in U.S. territories or other countries within the jurisdiction of the Philippine Embassy, applicants should enclose a treasurer’s, manager’s or certified check issued by a local bank that has a corresponding bank in the U.S. (the US National Bank Association is not a correspondent bank), payable to the courier of choice, in U.S. dollars, to cover cost of mailing, and a corresponding self-addressed courier’s address label. Personal checks are not accepted.

If deceased is no longer a Filipino citizen, reduce the number of photocopies by two (2) for requirements # 2 - 10 and omit item # 1.

DUAL CITIZENSHIP

Republic Act 9225 otherwise known as the Citizenship Retention and Reacquisition Act of 2003 (more popularly known as the Dual Citizenship Law) enables former natural-born Filipinos who have become naturalized citizens of another country to reacquire/retain their Philippine citizenship by taking an oath of allegiance to the Republic of the Philippines before a Philippine Consular Officer. Upon reacquiring their Philippine citizenship, they shall enjoy full civil, economic and political rights as Filipinos.

Under the principle of derivative citizenship, unmarried children below eighteen (18) years of age, whether legitimate, illegitimate, or adopted, of former Filipino parents who reacquired their Philippine citizenship under this law, may also be deemed Filipino citizens, if they are included in the parent’s application for reacquisition of Philippine citizenship.

However, there is another kind of dual citizenship, which is not covered by the law. This pertains to a dual citizen by birth: A child born in the United States when either parent was still a Filipino citizen is considered to be a dual citizen from birth (if born on or after January 17, 1973).

Dual citizens who wish to apply for a Philippine passport will need to make a separate application and submit the requirements as specified in "passport for dual or newly-registered PH citizens" link on the left.

Application for reacquisition of Philippine citizenship

REQUIREMENTS:

Submit the original and one duplicate copy of the following required documents to apply for reacquisition of Philippine citizenship:

One (1) original and one (1) photocopy of the duly-accomplished Dual Citizenship application form, typed or printed legibly in black or blue ink
Original and Copy of Philippine Birth Certificate issued by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA)
Copies of Philippine and U.S. Passports (originals to be presented before the oath taking, when applying by mail)
Copy of Marriage Certificate/Contract, (original to be presented before the oath taking, when applying by mail)
Copy of U.S. Naturalization Certificate (original to be presented before the oath taking, when applying by mail)
Four (4) colored photos, 2” x 2”, taken within six months before the date of application, showing a clear front view of applicant’s face, with a white background. No sleeveless attire. Blurred or low quality photos are not accepted.
Applicable processing fee (non-refundable), payable in cash or money order made payable to "Embassy of the Philippines" (or "Philippine Consulate General", if application is made at one of the Philippine Consulates General in the U.S.). Personal checks and credit cards are not accepted.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS for Derivative Citizenship

Ensure that the appropriate portions on page 2 of the Dual Citizenship application form are filled up
Duplicate original or certified photocopy of the birth certificate of the children and their non-Philippine passport
Three (3) identical colored photos, 2” x 2”, taken within six months before the date of application, showing a clear front view of applicant’s face, with a white background. No sleeveless attire. Blurred or low quality photos are not accepted.
Applicable processing fee (non-refundable), per derivative child, payable in cash or money order made payable to "Embassy of the Philippines" (or "Philippine Consulate General", if application is made at one of the Philippine Consulates General in the U.S.). Personal checks and credit cards are not accepted.

The applicant will be informed of the date for the oath taking before a Consular Officer at the Embassy/Consulate General. Prior to taking his/her oath, the applicant will be required to sign the Oath of Allegiance prepared by the Embassy/Consulate General. The applicant will receive his/her original copy of the notarized oath of allegiance, together with the Order of Approval, Petition for Reacquisition of Philippine Citizenship and Identification Certificate issued by the Embassy/Consulate General, after the oath has been administered.

If the applicant is a Bureau of Immigration registered alien, he shall surrender the original ACR and ICR/CRTV, or in its absence, an affidavit explaining the loss of said documents for transmittal to the BI.

Applicants scheduled for oath-taking are requested to come dressed in at least decent casual attire, which does not include sleeveless shirts (for men), tank top, spaghetti strapped or mid-riff blouses (for women), shorts of any kind, and slippers.

Rights and privileges

Once you reacquire/retain your Philippine citizenship, you will again enjoy full civil, economic and political rights under existing Philippine laws.

Among these rights are:

The right to travel with a Philippine passport.
The right to own real property in the Philippines.
The right to engage in business and commerce as a Filipino, and
The right to practice one’s profession, provided that a license or permit to engage in such practice is obtained from the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC), or the Supreme Court in the case of lawyers.

You may also vote in Philippine national elections (for President, Vice President, Senators and sectoral representatives) by overseas/absentee ballot in accordance with the provisions of the Overseas Absentee Voting Act of 2003.

You will enjoy all other rights and privileges enjoyed by Filipino citizens.

Implication on taxes

Income Tax

Under the Comprehensive Tax Reform Program of 1997, incomes earned abroad by Filipinos from 1998 onwards are no longer taxable. Hence, all Filipinos abroad, including those who have reacquired their Philippine citizenship, have been exempted by the Philippine Government from paying Philippine income tax on incomes earned abroad.

Incomes earned in the Philippines, however, will be subject to Philippine income tax.

Travel Tax

Travel Tax exemption is being granted to dual citizens departing the Philippines and returning to the United States whose arrival is stamped on the Philippine passport and whose stay does not exceed one (1) year, the same privilege accorded to Filipino permanent residents abroad. For this purpose, a Travel Tax Exemption Certificate (TIEZA Form 354) is issued upon presentation of both the Philippine and U.S. passports. Processing fee of Php 200.00 is collected for every certificate issued.

Those whose arrival is stamped on the U.S. passport need not secure the exemption certificate for they are not covered by the Travel Tax pursuant to Section 1 of PD 1183 as amended. Provided that their immigration status in the Philippines is as temporary visitors and not as permanent resident.

Dual citizens whose stay in the Philippines exceed one (1) year will pay the travel tax irrespective of which passport they are using for travel.

Residency requirement

Residency in the Philippines is NOT a requirement for those who reacquire Philippine citizenship.

Visa requirement for foreign spouse and/or children when traveling to the Philippines

As long as the foreign spouse and children travel with the Balikbayan, they will be entitled to a visa-free entry to the Philippines for a period of one (1) year.

Note: Documents submitted which are in a foreign language must have an official English translation.

Certified True Copy of Dual Citizenship Certificate

Applicants that completed their reacquisition/retention of Philippine citizenship under RA 9225 through the Embassy in Washington DC in 2011 or later may request for certified true copies (CTC) of their dual identification certificates for a fee of USD 25.

Applicants from years prior to 2011 may request for an Embassy certification confirming the details of their dual citizenship also for a fee of USD 25.

In addition to the payment, applicant must present a valid identification card. If a representative is filing the request on applicant’s behalf, an authorization letter from the applicant and copy of applicant’s valid ID must be presented.

VISA

Nationals of a number of countries with which the Philippines maintains diplomatic relations, including the United States, may avail themselves of visa-free entry into the Philippines, provided their stay will not exceed 30 days. Please contact the Philippine Embassy/Consulate General for information on which countries are extended this privilege.

US citizens who wish to stay more than 30 days in the Philippines and nationals of countries who are not extended the 30-day visa free privilege should apply for a visa before traveling to the Philippines.

Returning Balikbayans or former Filipinos may also enter the Philippines without a visa and stay for a period of one (1) year, provided that they have a passport valid for 6 months beyond the intended stay in the Philippines, a roundtrip ticket, and proof of former Philippine citizenship (e.g. old Philippine passport or PSA-authenticated birth certificate). Foreign spouses and their minor children may avail themselves of this privilege if traveling with the Balikbayan.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)

1. How long can I stay in the Philippines based on my visa?

The period indicated under “Valid From” to “Valid Until” are the inclusive dates during which the visa holder may enter the Philippines.

The “Period of Stay” indicates the continuous period of authorized stay in the Philippines which commences from the date of arrival in the Philippines. This may extend beyond the period of validity of the visa, depending on the date of arrival in the country.

2. Can I stay longer than the authorized period of stay on my visa?

Yes, you may extend your stay in the Philippines through the Philippine Bureau of Immigration. You will find information on how to extend your stay in the Philippines on this page: https://www.immigration.gov.ph/faqs/extensionofstay

To illustrate: Dave Semartates may enter the Philippines any time from 18 December 2017 to 17 December 2018. Assuming he enters on 14 December 2018, he may stay for 59 days until 10 February 2019. Should he decide to extend his stay for another month, he can apply with the Bureau of Immigration seven (7) days prior to the expiration of his valid stay.

Non-immigrant Visa

9(A) Temporary Visitor’s visa
9(B) Transit
9(C) Seaman
9(D) Treaty Traders
9(E) Foreign Government Official
9(F) Student
9(G) Pre-Arranged Employees

Of the above, the most frequently-applied for visa at the Embassy are the 9(a) Temporary Visitor’s Visa, 9(c) Seaman’s Visa, and the 9(e) Foreign Government Official Visa.

For inquiries regarding the other non-immigrant visa types, applicants may call the Embassy/Consulate General concerned. Please check the Consulate Finder or the Consulates Link for the states covered by the Embassy/Consulates General in the U.S.

Applicants may check the Philippine Bureau of Immigration website to check if they need to apply for a visa.

9(A) Temporary Visitor’s Visa

REQUIREMENTS:

Actual passport of applicant (valid at least 6 months from return date) and one (1) photocopy of the data page
Duly-accomplished Non-Immigrant Visa application form, typed or printed legibly in black or blue ink, and notarized if sent by mail
Travel Itinerary (applicant must be a holder of a roundtrip/onward flight ticket out of the Philippines)
One (1) colored photo, 2” x 2”, taken within six months before the date of application, showing a clear front view of applicant’s face, with a white background. No sleeveless attire. Blurred or low quality photos are not accepted.
Proof of Financial Capacity (photocopy of latest bank statement and an employment certificate from the employer indicating position and salary, or affidavit of support), for Tourist Visa (for pleasure only).
Letter from employer or sponsor of the trip, indicating its specific purpose or nature and length of stay (inclusive dates) in the Philippines, for Tourist Visa (for business only).
For minor visa applicants (below 18) traveling on their own, affidavit of support and guarantee from either parent, as well as photocopy of parent's bank statement.
Self-addressed return envelope, with appropriate stamps for express or priority mail with tracking numbers via US Postal Service, or with pre-paid mailing envelope from private courier of choice (except FedEx), if Passport with Visa is to be mailed back.
Visa fee, according to fee schedule below (non-refundable), payable in cash or money order made payable to "Embassy of the Philippines" (or "Philippine Consulate General", if application is made at one of the Philippine Consulates General in the U.S.). Personal checks and credit cards are not accepted. An additonal service fee of $10 per document will be charged for requests for expedited release.

For nationals of countries with visa agreement with the Philippines:

Single entry valid for three (3) months US$ 30.00
Multiple entry valid for six (6) months US$ 60.00
Multiple-entry valid for twelve (12) months US$ 90.00

For nationals of countries without visa agreement with the Philippines:

Single entry valid for three (3) months US$ 40.00
Multiple entry valid for six (6) months US$ 80.00
Multiple-entry valid for twelve (12) months US$ 120.00

Waiver of Exclusion Ground (WEG) for Certain Minors

As a rule, minors, who are under 15 years of age and unaccompanied by or not traveling with a parent to the Philippines, are generally excluded from entering the Philippine ports of entry. To avoid exclusion before arrival at Philippine ports, the minor’s parent/s or guardian needs to submit an Affidavit of Request, Consent and Guarantee for the Issuance of Waiver of Exclusion Ground, duly-authenticated/acknowledged by the Embassy/Consulate General, to the Bureau of Immigration authorities at the port of entry and pay the waiver fee of P3,120.00 for each unaccompanied minor.

To have the Affidavit of Request, Consent and Guarantee duly-authenticated/acknowledged by the Embassy/Consulate General, please refer to the procedures and requirements for private documents under the Authentication/Acknowledgment link. In addition to the requirements enumerated, please include a copy of the Report of Birth of child, if born abroad, or a copy of the PSA Birth Certificate, if born in the Philippines, or a copy of the Birth Certificate issued by the Department of Health or the Office of Vital Statistics, if born in the U.S. (originals to be presented), as well as a photocopy of the data page of the passport of the child.

For US citizens and citizens of countries with 30-day visa free privileges who intend to stay longer than 30 days, please see requirements for 9(A) Temporary Visitor’s Visa. Except for #6, all visa requirements apply. Proof of financial capacity will be the burden of the parent/s or guardian and not the child.

9(C) Seamen

Actual passport of applicant (valid at least 6 months from return date) and one (1) photocopy of the data page
Duly-accomplished Non-Immigrant Visa application form, typed or printed legibly in black or blue ink, and notarized if sent by mail
Travel Itinerary (roundtrip ticket not necessary)
One (1) colored photo, 2” x 2”, taken within six months before the date of application, showing a clear front view of applicant’s face, with a white background. No sleeveless attire. Blurred or low quality photos are not accepted.
Letter from Shipping Company
Crew List
Self-addressed return envelope, with appropriate stamps for express or priority mail with tracking numbers via US Postal Service, or with pre-paid mailing envelope from private courier of choice (except FedEx), if Passport with Visa is to be mailed back.
Visa fee of $20.00 (non-refundable), payable in cash or money order made payable to "Embassy of the Philippines" (or "Philippine Consulate General", if application is made at one of the Philippine Consulates General in the U.S.). Personal checks and credit cards are not accepted.

9(E) Foreign Government Officials

Holders of diplomatic and official U.S. passports who will be traveling to the Philippines on official business for a stay not exceeding 30 days no longer need to apply for a diplomatic or official visa with the Philippine Embassy. However, U.S. government officials must possess passports that are valid for at least six months beyond the contemplated period of stay in the Philippines and a return ticket to the U.S. or to their next country of destination.

Actual passport of applicant (valid at least 6 months from return date) and one (1) photocopy of the data page
Duly-accomplished Non-Immigrant Visa application form, typed or printed legibly in black or blue ink, and notarized if sent by mail
One (1) colored photo, 2” x 2”, taken within six months before the date of application, showing a clear front view of applicant’s face, with a white background. No sleeveless attire. Blurred or low quality photos are not accepted.
Letter from US government agency requesting issuance of visa or Note Verbale from US State Department
Self-addressed return envelope, with appropriate stamps for express or priority mail with tracking numbers via US Postal Service, or with pre-paid mailing envelope from private courier of choice (except FedEx), if Passport with Visa is to be mailed back.
Visa fee – gratis

Special Non-Immigrant 47(A) (2) visa

Actual passport of applicant (valid at least 6 months from return date) and one (1) photocopy of the data page
Two copies of duly-accomplished Non-Immigrant Visa application forms, typed or printed legibly in black or blue ink, and notarized if sent by mail
Four (4) colored photos, 2” x 2”, taken within six months before the date of application, showing a clear front view of applicant’s face, with a white background. No sleeveless attire. Blurred or low quality photos are not accepted.
Letter from Foundation or Institute stating that the applicant is connected with such program, which is approved by the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs
Two (2) copies of the Medical Examination Report (FA Form No. 11) duly-accomplished by a licensed physician whose signature must be notarized, and which should not be more than six (6) months from date of application
Chest X-ray negative, standard size or in CD (preferable), to be presented to the Embassy and hand carried to the Philippines
Certificate of No Police Record from place of residence of applicant (original and one photocopy)
Self-addressed return envelope, with appropriate stamps for express or priority mail with tracking numbers via US Postal Service, or with pre-paid mailing envelope from private courier of choice (except FedEx), if Passport with Visa is to be mailed back.
Visa fee – gratis

Immigrant Visa

A non-quota immigrant visa may be granted to the spouse and unmarried children under 21 years of age of Philippine citizens (13A) and to former Filipinos who have already acquired foreign citizenships including their spouse and unmarried minor children (13G).

13A and 13 G visa holders are eligible to apply for duty-free shipment to the Philippines.

Processing time for 13A and G visas is two (2) weeks after complete submission of requirements.

13(A) Visa

REQUIREMENTS:

Actual passport of applicant (valid at least 1 year from date of application) and one (1) photocopy of the data page
One (1) original and one (1) photocopy of the duly-accomplished Immigrant Visa application form, typed or printed legibly in black or blue ink
Four (4) identical colored photos, 2” x 2”, taken within six months before the date of application, showing a clear front view of applicant’s face, with a white background. No sleeveless attire. Blurred or low quality photos are not accepted.
One (1) original and one (1) photocopy of documentary evidence to prove spouse's Philippine citizenship and to show applicant's relationship to the Philippine citizen, i.e., Philippine passport and PSA marriage certificate (original will be returned). PSA Marriage Certificate must be presented if Report of Marriage is not available.
Medical Examination Report, duly-accomplished by a licensed physician, which should include his contact details, and which should not be more than six (6) months from date of application, together with laboratory reports (original and one photocopy).
Chest X-ray, negative, standard size, or in CD (preferable), to be presented to the Embassy and hand carried to the Philippines.
Certificate of No Police Record from place of residence of applicant (original and one photocopy)
One (1) original and one (1) photocopy of evidence of sound financial status (e.g. proof of real property, investment/s, bank certification, pension, or notarized Affidavit of Support from a relative in the Philippines, with attached documents to substantiate declaration or claim)
Personal appearance for interview
Self-addressed return envelope, with appropriate stamps for express or priority mail with tracking numbers via US Postal Service, or with pre-paid mailing envelope from private courier of choice (except FedEx), if Passport with Visa is to be mailed back.
Visa fee of $150.00 (non-refundable), payable in cash or money order made payable to "Embassy of the Philippines" (or "Philippine Consulate General", if application is made at one of the Philippine Consulates General in the U.S.). Personal checks and credit cards are not accepted.

13(G) Visa

REQUIREMENTS:

Actual passport of applicant (valid at least 1 year from date of application) and one (1) photocopy of the data page
Photocopy of Certificate of Naturalization (original to be presented)
One (1) original and one (1) photocopy of the duly-accomplished Immigrant Visa application form, typed or printed legibly in black or blue ink
Four (4) identical colored photos, 2” x 2”, taken within six months before the date of application, showing a clear front view of applicant’s face, with a white background. No sleeveless attire. Blurred or low quality photos are not accepted.
One (1) original and one (1) photocopy of documentary evidence to prove applicant’s former Philippine citizenship, as well as proof of legal relationship for foreign spouse and minor children, such as, birth certificate, Philippine passport, marriage contract (original will be returned)
Medical Examination Report, duly-accomplished by a licensed physician, which should include his contact details, and which should not be more than six (6) months from date of application, together with laboratory reports (original and one photocopy).
Chest X-ray, negative, standard size, or in CD (preferable), to be presented to the Embassy and hand carried to the Philippines.
Certificate of No Police Record from place of residence of applicant (original and one photocopy)
One (1) original and one (1) photocopy of evidence of sound financial status (e.g. proof of real property, investment/s, bank certification, pension, or notarized Affidavit of Support from a relative in the Philippines, with attached documents to substantiate declaration or claim)
Personal appearance for interview
Self-addressed return envelope, with appropriate stamps for express or priority mail with tracking numbers via US Postal Service, or with pre-paid mailing envelope from private courier of choice (except FedEx), if Passport with Visa is to be mailed back.
Visa fee of $150.00 (non-refundable), payable in cash or money order made payable to "Embassy of the Philippines" (or "Philippine Consulate General", if application is made at one of the Philippine Consulates General in the U.S.). Personal checks and credit cards are not accepted.

Certificate of Not the Same Person

According to the Philippine Bureau of Immigration:

Not the Same Person is a document issued to an individual attesting to the fact that s/he is not the person listed and/or included in the Hold Departure Order of the Bureau of Immigration, Watch List Order or Blacklist Order.

The requirements under visa issuance, visa extension, student desk, ACR I-card

Application Form duly, accomplished (VCU Form 2, available at www.immigration.gov.ph)
Photocopy of General Application Form, duly accomplished (BI Form No. RADJR 2012 from PIA)
Affidavit of Denial, duly notarized
Photocopy of the applicant’s passport (data page and travel stamp page)
One 2x2 ID picture
If applied by a representative, photocopy of valid ID

Walk-in Applicant (Airport Problems Excluded / Offloaded Passenger / DFA Derogatory)

Application Form, duly accomplished (VCU Form 2, available at www.immigration.gov.ph)
Court Clearance (cases within Metro Manila)
NBI Clearance (cases outside Metro Manila)
If either clearances No. 2 and 3 are not available, submit old certificate of Not the Same Person (if there is no additional names listed in the Derogatory records)
Affidavit of Denial, duly notarized
Photocopy of the applicant’s passport (data page and travel stamp page)
If applied by a representative, photocopy of valid ID

Out of the Country Applicant (former Filipino/Foreign National)

Application Form, duly accomplished
Download a “Not the same person application form” from the Bureau’s website at www.immigration.gov.ph or email the Bureau at to request an application form
Special Power of Attorney, duly notarized by the Philippine Embassy
Photocopy of the applicant’s passport (data page and travel stamp page)
Philippine National Bureau of Investigation Clearance, certifying that the applicant is not the person who is in the Derogatory List
Photocopy of representative’s valid ID

Balikbayan Program

Under the "Balikbayan Program" of the Philippines, the following persons are considered Balikbayans:

a Filipino citizen who has been continuously out of the Philippines for a period of at least one year from the date of last departure;
a Filipino Overseas Worker; and
a former Filipino citizen who had been naturalized in a foreign country and holds a foreign passport (original proof of former Philippine citizenship, such as old Philippine passport, birth certificate, or foreign naturalization papers showing Filipino nationality will be required).

Balikbayans are entitled to the following benefits:

travel tax exemption
visa-free entry to the Philippines for a period of one year from the date of arrival in the Philippines
duty-free shopping privileges up to US$1,500.00

Family members (spouse and children) of a Balikbayan who are holding foreign passports are also entitled to Balikbayan privileges, on the condition that they:

travel with the Balikbayan;
pay any applicable immigration fees; and
observe and comply with immigration rules and regulations.

(proof of affiliation may be required)

However, a Balikbayan who has acquired the citizenship of a country that falls under the visa-required nationals category per Philippine visa regulations, or his/her family member whose nationality also falls under the cited category, is not entitled to a Balikbayan privilege and is required to obtain an entry visa to the Philippines.

TRANSPORT OF PETS

NEW REQUIREMENTS AS OF 10 MAY 2018:

Import permit issued by the Philippines' Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI)
Health certificate issued by a United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) veterinarian or USDA-accredited veterinarian
Mandatory identification of pet dog or cat with ISO compliant microchip / RFID (radio-frequency identification)

IMPORTANT: Effective June 01, 2018, dogs and cats imported without the required identification will be declined entry and returned to its origin. All costs incurred will be shouldered by the importer.

PROCEDURES:

1. To obtain an import permit from the Philippines' Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI)

Go to https://www.intercommerce.com.ph/registrationbai.asp and fill out the form.

Applicant will be asked for a Username (email) and Password, which will be used to check the status of the application. The status could be: (1) for Endorsement (meaning the application is waiting for the signature of the approving authority); (2) Approved; (3) Rejected (the applicant will have to re-apply).

To check the status of the application, go to https://www.intercommerce.com.ph/home.asp or https://www.intercommerce.com.ph/login.asp?home=HOME. or go to https://www.intercommerce.com.ph then click WEBCWS then log in

If approved, click the reference number and it will bring applicant to the 3-page SPS permit. Print the permit and present this at the Quarantine station in the airport (Philippines).

Approval usually takes 1-2 days. Validity of the SPS permit is two months.

Please read the other requirements on the permit in order to import your pet(s), i.e., Veterinary Health Certificate and the updated Vaccination Record.

For the updated Vaccination Records, the following is needed:

DOGS: rabies vaccination and vaccination against distemper, leptospirosis, parvovirus, adenovirus type 2

CATS: rabies vaccination and vaccination against herpes, calicivirus, panleukopenia and feline leukemia

2. To obtain health certificate from US authority

Secure a health certificate for each pet from a United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) veterinarian or USDA-accredited veterinarian. The health certificate should be dated within 10 days before the date of arrival in the Philippines. The health certificate should certify that the animal is free from, and has not been recently exposed to, any dangerous or communicable disease, and that it has been given anti-rabies and other required inoculation.

3. On the Mandatary Identification of pet dog or cat with ISO compliant microchip/ RFID (radio-frequency identification)

The microchip number indicated in the import permit application submitted to BAI-Philippines and in the health certificate issued by USDA or USDA-accredited veterinarian should match the microchip number implanted in the animal.

NATIONAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION (NBI) CLEARANCE (from www.nbi.gov.ph)

REQUIREMENTS (for first-time applicants living/working abroad):

Secure a Fingerprint Card form from the Embassy (Office of the Police Attache)/Consulate and fill it up. For married women, please write your name in the following order: maiden surname (father’s surname), husband’s surname, first or given name, and maternal surname (mother’s family name).
Attach a colored 2” x 2” photograph, taken within three months before the date of application, showing a clear front view of applicant’s face, with a white background. No sleeveless attire. Blurred or low quality photos are not accepted.
Proceed to the police agency in your locality to have your fingerprints impressed (ROLLED IMPRESSION) on the appropriate spaces. The officer /person who “fingerprinted” you should sign his name and state his official designation on the space provided for the purpose on the card.
Have the Fingerprint Card form authenticated by the Secretary of State with jurisdiction over the police agency.
Present/Mail the Fingerprint Card for authentication by the Embassy/Consulate General. (please check the Consulate Finder or the Consulates Link for the states covered by the Embassy/Consulates General in the U.S.).
Self-addressed return envelope, with appropriate stamps for express or priority mail with tracking numbers via US Postal Service, or with pre-paid mailing envelope from private courier of choice (except FedEx), if authenticated Fingerprint Card is to be mailed back.
Authentication fee of $25 (non-refundable), payable in money order, bank draft, certified check or cashier’s check, and cash when personally applying. Personal checks and credit cards are not accepted.
Send authenticated Fingerprint Card to the NBI for issuance of clearance (please refer to sending instructions below).

Sending Instructions:

By Mail - Enclose Money Order in the amount of Php 200.00 or bank draft, which is negotiable in the Philippines, payable to the Director, National Bureau of Investigation, Taft Avenue, Ermita 1000 Manila, Philippines. The following are the accredited banks:

Philippine National Bank (PNB)
Hong Kong and Shanghai Bank Co. (HSBC)
ANZ – A New Zealand Bank
METROBANK
Bank of Philippine Islands (BPI)

Send to:

Mr. Francisco Donozo
Attn: Identification and Records Division - Mailed Clearance Section
National Bureau of Investigation
Taft Ave., Ermita 1000 Manila
Philippines

Through a Representative in the Philippines – Mail the accomplished form to your representative, along with a signed letter authorizing him/her to transact business on your behalf. Your relative may visit the office of the Electronic Data Processing Division (EDPD) in NBI Taft Avenue, Manila for further assistance.

Upon receipt of your clearance certificate, please examine it for the presence of the embossed NBI DRY SEAL at its lower left portion. The clearance is invalid without it. You must also affix your clear and properly taken THUMBPRINT on the space provided for on the clearance certificate with the assistance of any local police in your area before submitting it to the end-user.

REQUIREMENTS (for applicants living/working abroad renewing their NBI clearance, issued from 1998 onwards):

Original NBI clearance, with updated information for address and purpose of clearance indicated; otherwise, write “Same Data”, if none
For changes in name, date of birth or place of birth, duly-accomplished Fingerprint Card form, with photocopy of Birth Certificate or Marriage Certificate
One (1) colored photo, 2” x 2”, taken within three months before the date of application, showing a clear front view of applicant’s face, with a white background. No sleeveless attire. Blurred or low quality photos are not accepted.
Photocopy of your passport with date stamped proving your presence abroad
Send all of the above documents to the NBI, following the same SENDING instructions.

Note: If NBI clearance was issued prior to 1998, or you have lost your personal copy of the certificate, follow the instructions for First Time applicants from abroad.

RENEWAL OF PHILIPPINE DRIVER’S LICENSE

In accordance with Land Transportation Office (LTO) Administrative Order No. RIB-2008-011 Series of 2007, it is now possible for Filipinos abroad who hold an authentic Philippine driver’s license to renew their expired license through their authorized representative in the Philippines.

The following documents must be presented by the authorized representative of the applicant to LTO:

Original driver’s license and receipt (plus one photocopy of each);
Photocopy of Philippine passport (first page, visa page and pages showing departure from the Philippines and last arrival overseas);
Special Power of Attorney (SPA) from the licensee to the LTO requesting the renewal and authorizing a representative to renew the license on his / her behalf. The SPA must be authenticated by the Philippine Embassy or Consulate General (please refer to Authentication procedures and requirements in the list of Consular Services).

Applicants within the National Capital Region (NCR) or Metro Manila may apply for renewal at the License Section of the Central Office of the LTO in Quezon City.

Representatives who are outside of NCR may apply at the LTO field office of their choice.

NOTE: only an OFFICIAL RECEIPT will be issued by the LTO to those who apply for extensions on their driver’s license through a representative. A new ID-card can only be issued upon the arrival of the applicant at the LTO in the Philippines and compliance with all requirements for license renewal, including the biometrics capture, medical, vision and drug test.

PH REQUIREMENTS FOR MEDICAL MISSIONS

According to the Philippine Food and Drug Administration (FDA, formerly BFAD), any foreign organization intending to bring medicines and/or medical equipment to be donated or used during the conduct of medical missions must comply with the requirements of the Department of Health’s Bureau of International Health Cooperation (DOH-BIHC). DOH-BIHC shall then facilitate the issuance of a clearance from the FDA and the Bureau of Health Devices and Technology (BHDT) for the drugs, medical supplies and medical equipment, as the case may be.

REQUIREMENTS:

1. All applications for Foreign Surgical and Medical Missions (FSMM) shall be submitted to the Philippine Medical Association (PMA) who shall forward the same to the following professional groups copy furnished DOH. Click here to download application form (from PMA website, www.philippinemedicalassociation.org).

2. Each member of the foreign medical team must submit the following documents in applying for temporary license to practice during the duration of the mission. All documents must be in English or with English translation:

a. Valid/current license from country of origin, authenticated by the Embassy/Consulate (please refer to Authentication procedures and requirements in the list of Consular Services)

b. Board certification (specialty), authenticated by the Embassy/Consulate (please refer to Authentication procedures and requirements in the list of Consular Services)

c. Curriculum vitae, acknowledged by the Philippine Embassy/Consulate (please refer to Authentication procedures and requirements in the list of Consular Services)

d. Passport sized picture in four copies (taken within one year)

e. Application letter addressed to the President of PMA to contain the following information:

- Type of mission (medical, surgical or both)

- Duration of the mission and inclusive dates

- Names and specialties of the mission team members

- Written consent from the host local government executive (governor/mayor) and/or of the health facility where the mission will be conducted

f. The following are additional requirements if the foreign mission team members intend to bring drugs, and/or medicines, medical supplies and medical equipment to be donated or used during the mission:

- Itemized list of the items together with the quantity and the expiration dates for drugs and medicines

- Flight details

- Deed of donation authenticated at the country of origin (please refer to Authentication procedures and requirements in the list of Consular Services)

- Deed of acceptance from the host hospital/Local Government Unit (LGU)

- Drugs and medicines to be donated should have a shelf life of at least 12 months upon arrival in the country and the said medicine shall be used solely for the scheduled mission.

- Application must be submitted 60 days before the date of mission to facilitate clearance/s from DOH and other agencies.

g. Letter of certification from the sponsoring host organization (LGU or Non-Government Organization (NGO)) certifying the need and type of mission to be conducted. Cost of post-care mission of morbidities/mortalities arising from the mission will be shouldered as well by the host organization.

h. Proof of juridical entity (certified true copy of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) registration must be submitted.

i. Notarized letter of guarantee from both the medical mission group and the host organization assuming full responsibility for the outcome of the missions.

3. The PMA, upon receipt of all requirements, will forward the application to the concerned specialty societies for evaluation of credentials. The DOH will be informed immediately of the presence of drugs, medical supplies and medical equipment.

4. The DOH shall facilitate issuance of clearance by its FDA and BHDT for the above mentioned goods.

5. After the evaluation of the missioner's credentials by the concerned Specialty Society, the PMA shall send a letter of endorsement to DOH.

6. The DOH shall then endorse the documents to Professional Regulation Commission (PRC).

7. The PRC, after final review, shall issue the Special Temporary Permit to Practice to concerned foreign missioners.

8. The lead time for the processing of the application are as follows:

PMA - 2 weeks before the mission date
DOH - 1 week before the mission date
PRC - 3 weeks before the mission date

9. Post-mission report shall be submitted by the head of the foreign surgical and/or medical missions, concurred/noted by the President of the local component society of PMA, and/or specialty society and the LGU concerned, to the oversight agencies (DOH, PMA, PRC) 15 days after the completion of the mission. All records and audio-visual documents must also be submitted in triplicate form. The post-mission report should contain the following minimum basic information:

No. and age of cases seen
Diagnosis of patients
List of medicines distributed and surgical interventions done
Endorsements to the necessary health facilities (follow-up, further evaluation and management)
Morbidities and mortalities, if any

10. All materials submitted to the oversight agencies shall be the property of the Philippine counterpart and may not be used for advertisement, solicitation or medical publication without the written and expressed approval of the local medical society and/or specialty society of the PMA and the local counterpart. Any intellectual output as journal or publication must include the local physicians as senior authors.

11. Former Filipino Registered Health Professionals who are part of a Medical/Surgical Mission Team may practice their profession in the Philippines upon presentation of proof of valid and current PRC licenses. Otherwise, they have to renew their licenses upon submission of the following requirements (Presidential Decree No. 541):

Photocopy of current/valid passport (page 1 and the page showing the date of arrival in the Philippines)
Photocopy of PRC license and valid certificate of registration
License/Certificate of Registration in the adopted country or Certification of employment with letterhead indicating the job description within the definition of the applicant's profession
Four pieces of recent passport size pictures (taken within one year)
Payment of prescribed fees at PRC
Certificated of training and board certification (for specialists)
Application for Temporary Special Permit (PRC form 103-A)

12. Foreign Religious groups/missionaries practicing medicine in the country shall abide by the same requirements and adhere to the guidelines. These missioners who serve for longer period of time shall signify their intention to continue living in the Philippines to pursue missionary works. They shall secure Special Temporary Permit, which is to be renewed annually. The following must be submitted:

Certification for their congregation that the medical works are purely for charity purposes and with no remuneration involved whatsoever.
A certification from the congregation assuming the responsibility for any action of the said physician
The missionary should submit to PMA an annual mission report including a list of patients treated
The missionary is required to attend PMA or component societies' Continuing Medical Education (CME) related activities once a year to update their medical knowledge.
The missionary who conducted his missionary works in the province must coordinate with the PMA component society for proper identification and monitoring.

According to the DOH-BIHC, the Commission on Filipinos Overseas (CFO) may be contacted to assist organizers of foreign medical missions. The CFO’s contact details are:

Commission on Filipinos Overseas
Citigold Center, 1345 President Quirino Avenue,
Corner South Superhighway, Manila
Telephone Nos. (632) 561-8327, 552-4701
Fax No. 561-8332
Mobile Nos. (+63) 9175630773 / (+63) 9175630782
Email:

The DOH’s Revised Policies and Guidelines in the Conduct of FSMM may be found at www.doh.gov.ph (click on Doing Business > Medical Missions).

Below is the DOH’s complete text on the Procedural Guide for Shipping Medicines/Drugs for Medical Missions.

Pursuant to item VII, No. 3 (f) of the Joint Administrative Order No. 2009-0030, of the DOH, the PRC, and the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), the following are additional requirements if the foreign mission team members intend to bring drugs, and/or medicines, medical supplies and medical equipment to be donated or used during the mission:

Itemized list of the items together with the quantity and the expiration dates for drugs and medicines
Flight details
Deed of donation authenticated at the country of origin
Deed of acceptance from the host hospital/Local Government Unit
Drugs and medicines to be donated should heave a shelf life of at least 12 months upon arrival in the country and the said medicine shall be used solely for the scheduled mission
Application must be submitted 60 days before the date of mission to facilitate clearance/s from DOH and other agencies

With regard to the entry of drugs which need to be regulated by the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), please refer to the PDEA’s website at www.pdea.gov.ph.

Please be also informed that the donated medicines are subject to duties and taxes. These shall only be exempted from duties if these are consigned to government and private (primary and secondary) hospitals duly licensed to operated by the DOH, and welfare/relief dispensing organizations/agencies registered and/or accredited by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and registered with the SEC. Even if the donation is exempted from duties, it will still be subject to Value-Added Tax (VAT), which is computed at twelve percent (12%) of the total cost of shipment.

In securing duty-free clearance, the following documents must be submitted to the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) and the Department of Finance (DOF):

A. From the Donor:

Deed of Donation duly authenticated by the Philippine Embassy or Consulate;
Packing list of donated items. If medicines would be included in the shipment, kindly submit the itemized list of drugs and quantity to be donated indicating brand/generic name, dosage forms/strengths, batch/lot number, expiration date of at least one (1) year upon receipt, and name/address of the manufacturer; and
Shipping Documents (i.e. bill of lading). The original copy will be needed by the consignee/local counterpart in processing the release of donation.

B. From the Donee/Consignee:

Letter to the DOH-BIHC requesting endorsement to the FDA for the issuance of clearance.
The letter request should be submitted with the complete list of drugs and quantity to be donated, with the following information: brand/generic name, formulation (with English translation), dosage forms/strengths, batch/lot number, expiration date of at least one (1) year upon receipt, and name/address of the manufacturer.
Letter to the NEDA and DOF requesting for the issuance of duty-free clearance for the donation;
Duly notarized Deed of Acceptance;
Distribution plan for medicines;
Current and valid DOH License to Operate, if hospital
DSWD License to Operate and Certification of Accreditation, if non-government organization; and
FDA Certificate of Product Registration (for medicines)

The donee/consignee in the Philippines may apply for the clearances for the donated items. It is important that the name listed as donee/consignee in the deed of donation must be the same as that appearing in the shipping documents.

We suggest that the shipping of any donation to the Philippines should be withheld unless prior coordination with the donee/consignee has been made, and appropriate endorsements/clearances from government agencies have been secured.

OVERSEAS EMPLOYMENT CERTIFICATE ISSUANCE

The Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC), also known as exit clearance/pass, is a document certifying the regularity of recruitment and documentation of an overseas Filipino worker (OFW). It is presented to the immigration officer at the airport of exit in the Philippines. The OEC is issued thru the BM Online Processing System. An OFW applying for OEC should register in the system. Registration in the system requires an active e-mail address. To register, please go to https://bmonline.ph. The web page of the BM Online System displays the steps on how to use the online facility.

Upon registration, the system will indicate if the OFW is exempted from securing an OEC. If the OFW is (1) returning to the same employer; (2) returning to the same job site; and (3) has record in the POEA database, the system will display a confirmation message indicating that he/she is exempted from securing an OEC and payment of processing fee.

If the OFW is not exempted, the system will redirect him/her to the Appointment Page. The appointment system is a built-in feature of the BM Online Processing System for the following: (1) OFW with no POEA record or with discrepancy in his/her POEA record; (2) OFW who left as undocumented worker (e.g., tourist, dependent, student, etc.); (3) OFW who changed employer and/or jobsite; (4) OFW or his/her employer who is under watchlist; (5) OFW is returning to restricted country (i.e., where the Philippine government is enforcing deployment ban); and (6) OFW who is a former sea-based worker.

A worker who is not exempted and redirected to the Appointment Page and is still in the United States or in any of the Caribbean countries/territories at the time of registration, may schedule an appointment with POLO-Americas: Washington, D.C. The scheduled appointment will allow POLO-Washington, D.C. to process the worker’s OEC. It is not necessary for the worker to appear personally at POLO-Washington, DC at the scheduled appointment. The worker, however, should mail to POLO-Washington, D.C. the following requirements: (1) signed copy of the BM Information Sheet generated by the system upon successful appointment; (2) POLO-verified employment contract; (3) copy of passport; (4) copy of work permit/visa or Notice of Action; (5) self-addressed/stamped/prepaid return envelope; and (6) payment of fees in US Money Order or US Bank Draft. These requirements should be received by POLO-Washington, DC before the scheduled appointment.

The schedule of fees are as follows: US$2 for OEC processing fee; US$10 for employment contract verification fee (this fee is required only if the employment contract has not been verified yet by POLO-Washington, D.C.); US$25 for OWWA membership fee (this fee is required only if the worker’s OWWA membership is already expired). Payment for OEC and verification fees should be made payable to the “Embassy of the Philippines” while payment for OWWA should be made payable to “OWWA”. Personal check or credit/debit card payment cannot be accepted.

The above-mentioned requirements should be mailed to the Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO), Embassy of the Philippines, 1600 Massachusetts Ave., NW, Washington, D.C., 20036. For inquiries, please contact +1-202-467-9426 or +1-202-887-5830 or email .

Once the OEC is processed, an e-mail will be sent to the worker confirming that his/her OEC is ready for printing. To print the OEC, the worker should log on to his/her BM Online Processing System account and click “Print OEC” under the “My Transaction Page”. Please note that the OEC is valid only for 60 days starting from the date of its issuance.

ON-SITE OWWA MEMBERSHIP ENROLMENT/RENEWAL

Membership in Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) is mandatory for all overseas Filipino workers (OFWs). All OWWA members are covered by life insurance and other social benefits implemented by OWWA. The On-Site Membership Program is an enrolment or registration scheme for OFWs who are in the work destinations. It shall cover the following:

OFWs whose OWWA membership had expired; and
OFWs who enroll as first-time members, provided they are gainfully employed overseas at the time of registration.

The following are the requirements for OWWA enrolment/membership renewal:

Copy of passport (page showing photo and personal data)
Proof of employment such as work contract/permit, employment offer, pay slip, certificate of employment from the company/employer, company identification card, and/or other relevant evidence of employment;
Accomplished OFW Information Sheet (See downloadable form); and
US$25 membership fee. Non-cash payment is limited only to US Money Order or US Bank Draft payable to "OWWA". Personel check or credit/debit card payment cannot be accepted.
Self-addressed/stamped/prepaid return envelope (if transcation will be done by mail)

If transcating by mail, please send the above-mentioned requirements to the Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO), Embassy of the Philippines, 1600 Massachusetts Ave., NW, Washington D.C., 20036.

For inquiries, please contact 1-202-467-9426 or e-mail .

EMPLOYMENT DOCUMENT VERIFICATION

The Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) requires that employment documents relative to the recruitment of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) and accreditation and registration of foreign principals/employers are verified by the Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO). The verification process is intended to validate the actual existence of the job and employer/staffing agency; and to ensure that the terms and conditions of employment of the OFW comply with the minimum standards of the POEA and that of the government of the country of destination.

For verification of individual employment contract, the following are required:

Original employment contract/employment offer with notarized signature of the employer. (Employer may use the POEA standard employment contract. See downloadable forms. Use Standard Contract for Various Skills for those hiring a professional or skilled worker or Standard Contract for Household Workers for those hiring a domestic worker);
Certified true copy of the valid work permit/visa or equivalent document (e.g., Form I-797);
Accomplished Employer’s Information Form (See downloadable forms. Use Employer’s Information Form for Business if the work permit/visa is under a business establishment/company or use the Employer’s Information Form for Individual if the employer in the work permit/visa is an individual);
Copy of valid commercial registration and business license (If the work permit is approved under a business establishment/company);
Copy of government-issued identification of the employer or authorized company representative signing the employment contract (e.g., passport, driver’s license, etc.); and
Payment of US$35 (This covers the verification fee of US$10 and authentication fee of US$25. Non-cash payment is limited only to US Money Order or US Bank Draft payable to “Embassy of the Philippines”. Personal check or credit/debit card payment cannot be accepted); and
Self-addressed/stamped/prepaid return envelope (if transaction will be done by mail).

If transacting by mail, please send the above-mentioned requirements to the Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO), Embassy of the Philippines, 1600 Massachusetts Ave., NW, Washington, D.C., 20036. Before sending the documents, concerned employer/authorized representative or worker is advised to contact POLO at +1-202-467-9426 or email .

For verification of documents for accreditation of foreign principal/employer, the following documents are required:

General Requirements:

Recruitment Agreement between the foreign principal/employer and the POEA licensed recruitment agency in the Philippines;
Job Order indicating the positions, the number of positions required and salary per position;
Copy of valid commercial registration and business license of the principal issued and authenticated by the chamber of commerce or a relevant government office, including information on business activities, number of years in operation and volume/size of current labor force (as may be applicable);
Master Employment Contract signed on all pages by the principal or his/her authorized representative; and
Contingency Plan (as may be applicable).

Additional Requirements (for foreign placement agency or FPA)

Business license or valid commercial registration of the actual employer hiring skilled overseas Filipino workers;
Master Employment Contract, signed jointly on all pages by the FPA and the actual employer or his/her authorized representative;
Manpower Request from the employer;
Service Agreement between the FPA and the employer;
Undertaking by the FPA/employer to monitor the employment of overseas Filipino workers and to submit a report of significant incidents relative thereto; and
FPAs hiring domestic workers shall be required to put up an escrow account with a bank authorized by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas to handle trust accounts, with deposit in the amount of Fifty Thousand United States Dollars (US$50,000.00). The escrow deposit shall answer for all valid and legal claims arising from violations of contracts of employment.

Additional Requirements (for staffing/sourcing company):

List of names and addresses of clients;
Manpower Request from clients; and
Service Agreement between the company and its clients.

Fees:

If hiring more than one Filipino worker: Verification Fee of US$30 per document plus Authentication Fee US$25 to cover for all documents.
If hiring only one Filipino worker: Verification Fee of US$10 per document plus Authentication Fee of US$25 to cover all documents.
Non-cash payment is limited to US Money Order or US Bank Draft payable to “Embassy of the Philippines”. Personal/company check or credit/debit card payment cannot be accepted.

If transacting by mail, include a self-addressed/stamped or prepaid return envelope and send all the above-mentioned requirements to the Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO), Embassy of the Philippines, 1600 Massachusetts Ave., NW, Washington, D.C., 20036. Before sending the documents, concerned employer/authorized representative is advised to contact POLO at +1-202-467-9426 or email .

IMPLEMENTATION OF POEA RULES ON DIRECT HIRING

The Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) prohibits the direct hiring of an overseas Filipino worker (OFW). Any employer desiring to employ an OFW is, therefore, required to course his/her recruitment through a POEA-licensed private recruitment agency in the Philippines.

The POEA, however, allows certain categories of employers to be exempted from the direct-hiring prohibition. Exempted employers are the following:

Members of the diplomatic corps;
International organizations;
Heads of State and government officials with the rank of at least Deputy Minister; or
Other employers as may be allowed by the Secretary of Labor and Employment, such as:
1. Those provided in (1), (2) and (3) who bear a lesser rank, if endorsed by the Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO), or Head of Mission (Ambassador or Consul General) in the absence of the POLO;
2. Employers of professional and skilled workers with duly executed/authenticated contracts containing terms and conditions over and above the standards set by the POEA. The number of professional and skilled workers that can be hired under this exemption is limited to five (5); or
3. Employers who are permanent residents in the host country and hiring a relative/family member in the Philippines.

Downloadable Forms:

OFW Information Sheet
POEA Standard Contact – Various Skills
POEA Standard Contract – Household Workers
Employer’s Information Form – Business
Employer’s Information Form - Individual

Consular & Other Services

List of Consular Services

Schedule of Consular Services and Fees

List of Other Services

Philippine Overseas Labor Office

CONSULAR OUTREACH PROGRAM

PASSPORT

Adult New Applicant

Adult Renewal Applicant

Minor New/Renewal Applicant³

TRAVEL DOCUMENT

AUTHENTICATING DOCUMENTS MADE SIMPLER BY THE APOSTILLE

CIVIL REGISTRY

Solemnization of Marriage

Report of Marriage between Filipinos or a Filipino and a Foreign National

Report of Birth of Child Born Abroad of Filipino Parents

Report of Death and/or Consular Mortuary Certificate

DUAL CITIZENSHIP

Application for reacquisition of Philippine citizenship

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS for Derivative Citizenship

Rights and privileges

Implication on taxes

Residency requirement

Visa requirement for foreign spouse and/or children when traveling to the Philippines

Certified True Copy of Dual Citizenship Certificate

VISA

Non-immigrant Visa

Immigrant Visa

Certificate of Not the Same Person

Balikbayan Program

TRANSPORT OF PETS

NATIONAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION (NBI) CLEARANCE (from www.nbi.gov.ph)

RENEWAL OF PHILIPPINE DRIVER’S LICENSE

PH REQUIREMENTS FOR MEDICAL MISSIONS

OVERSEAS EMPLOYMENT CERTIFICATE ISSUANCE

ON-SITE OWWA MEMBERSHIP ENROLMENT/RENEWAL

EMPLOYMENT DOCUMENT VERIFICATION

IMPLEMENTATION OF POEA RULES ON DIRECT HIRING

Consular & Other Services

List of Consular Services

Schedule of Consular Services and Fees

List of Other Services

Philippine Overseas Labor Office

CONSULAR OUTREACH PROGRAM

PASSPORT

Adult New Applicant

Adult Renewal Applicant

Minor New/Renewal Applicant3

TRAVEL DOCUMENT

AUTHENTICATING DOCUMENTS MADE SIMPLER BY THE APOSTILLE

CIVIL REGISTRY

Solemnization of Marriage

Report of Marriage between Filipinos or a Filipino and a Foreign National

Report of Birth of Child Born Abroad of Filipino Parents

Report of Death and/or Consular Mortuary Certificate

DUAL CITIZENSHIP

Application for reacquisition of Philippine citizenship

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS for Derivative Citizenship

Rights and privileges

Implication on taxes

Residency requirement

Visa requirement for foreign spouse and/or children when traveling to the Philippines

Certified True Copy of Dual Citizenship Certificate

VISA

Non-immigrant Visa

Immigrant Visa

Certificate of Not the Same Person

Balikbayan Program

TRANSPORT OF PETS

NATIONAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION (NBI) CLEARANCE (from www.nbi.gov.ph)

RENEWAL OF PHILIPPINE DRIVER’S LICENSE

PH REQUIREMENTS FOR MEDICAL MISSIONS

OVERSEAS EMPLOYMENT CERTIFICATE ISSUANCE

ON-SITE OWWA MEMBERSHIP ENROLMENT/RENEWAL

EMPLOYMENT DOCUMENT VERIFICATION

IMPLEMENTATION OF POEA RULES ON DIRECT HIRING

Minor New/Renewal Applicant³