Are you planning to travel abroad? One of the most important things you need to prepare is your passport. In this article, we will guide you on how to apply for a Philippines passport, the requirements, fees, and other essential information you need to know.
What is a Philippines Passport?
A passport is an official government-issued document that proves your identity and citizenship. It is required when you travel abroad and serves as your entry and exit permit in a foreign country. In the Philippines, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) issues passports to Filipino citizens.
Philippine passports are valid for ten years for adults and five years for minors. It contains essential information such as your name, photo, signature, and personal details such as your birthdate, place of birth, and nationality. It also has a unique passport number and a bar code that contains your biometric information.
Who is Eligible to Apply for a Philippines Passport?
All Filipino citizens are eligible to apply for a Philippine passport regardless of age, gender, or occupation. If you are under 18 years old, you need to be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian during the application process.
However, if you have criminal records, pending cases, or are on the Philippine immigration lookout bulletin, you are not eligible to apply for a passport.
How to Apply for a Philippines Passport?
There are two ways to apply for a Philippines passport: in person and online. Here are the steps for each method:
Applying in Person
Step 1: Prepare the requirements. You will need to bring the following:
- Original and photocopy of your PSA-issued birth certificate or certified true copy of your birth certificate issued by the Local Civil Registrar and duly authenticated by PSA.
- At least one valid government-issued ID with a photocopy (e.g. SSS ID, Voter’s ID, Driver’s License, PRC ID, etc.).
- If you are a married woman who wants to use your spouse’s surname, bring your PSA-issued Marriage Certificate or Certified True Copy of Marriage Certificate issued by the Local Civil Registrar duly authenticated by PSA.
- For minors below 18 years old: Personal appearance of either parent (if minor is a legitimate child) / of mother (if minor is an illegitimate child), or the legal guardian / authorized representative; and original and photocopy of the PSA-issued birth certificate or certified true copy of birth certificate issued by the Local Civil Registrar and duly authenticated by PSA. If minor is an illegitimate child, bring the Affidavit of Support and/or Consent executed by the mother. If minor is not traveling with either parent, a DSWD Clearance may be required.
Step 2: Set an appointment. You can schedule an appointment online or call the DFA hotline at (02) 8234-3488. Choose a convenient date and time for you to visit the DFA Consular Office.
Step 3: Proceed to the DFA Consular Office on your scheduled appointment. Bring all the requirements and your printed online application form. Pay the passport fee, and your biometric data (photo, fingerprints, and signature) will be taken.
Applying Online
Step 1: Visit the DFA Passport Appointment System website at https://www.passport.gov.ph/appointment and register for an account. Fill out the application form and choose the nearest DFA Consular Office for your appointment.
Step 2: Pay the passport fee online using your preferred payment method (e.g., credit card, over-the-counter cash payment, online banking, etc.). The fee will depend on the processing time you choose. Standard processing takes 12 business days (Php 950), while expedited processing takes six business days (Php 1,200).
Step 3: Print your online application form with the appointment reference number. Proceed to the DFA Consular Office on your scheduled appointment. Bring all the requirements and your printed online application form. Your biometric data (photo, fingerprints, and signature) will be taken.
How Much is the Philippines Passport Fee?
The cost of the Philippine passport will depend on the processing time you choose. Here are the fees:
- Regular Processing (12 business days): Php 950
- Expedited Processing (6 business days): Php 1,200
What are the Requirements for a Philippines Passport?
Here are the requirements for a Philippines passport:
- Personal appearance at the DFA Consular Office
- Duly accomplished application form (downloadable online or provided at the DFA Consular Office)
- Original and photocopy of your PSA-issued birth certificate or certified true copy of your birth certificate issued by the Local Civil Registrar and duly authenticated by PSA
- At least one valid government-issued ID with a photocopy (e.g. SSS ID, Voter’s ID, Driver’s License, PRC ID, etc.)
- If you are a married woman who wants to use your spouse’s surname, bring your PSA-issued Marriage Certificate or Certified True Copy of Marriage Certificate issued by the Local Civil Registrar duly authenticated by PSA
- For minors below 18 years old: Personal appearance of either parent (if minor is a legitimate child) / of mother (if minor is an illegitimate child), or the legal guardian / authorized representative; and original and photocopy of the PSA-issued birth certificate or certified true copy of birth certificate issued by the Local Civil Registrar and duly authenticated by PSA. If minor is an illegitimate child, bring the Affidavit of Support and/or Consent executed by the mother. If minor is not traveling with either parent, a DSWD Clearance may be required.
What is the Validity of a Philippines Passport?
A Philippine passport is valid for ten years for adults and five years for minors. However, it is advisable to renew your passport at least six months before it expires to avoid any inconvenience in your travel plans.
What Should You Do If You Lost Your Philippines Passport?
If you lost your Philippine passport, you need to report it immediately to the DFA. Here are the steps:
- Go to the DFA Consular Office and bring a valid ID
- Submit a police report or affidavit of loss from the police station where the loss occurred
- Fill out a passport application form and pay the corresponding fee
- Undergo the regular passport application process, which includes biometric data capturing and personal interview with a DFA officer
Conclusion
A Philippines passport is an essential document for every Filipino citizen who wants to travel abroad. By following the guidelines and requirements we provided, you can apply for a passport smoothly and efficiently. Remember to keep your passport safe and secure and renew it before it expires to avoid any inconvenience in your travel plans.
