Your Guide to Philippine Passport Requirements
If you’re a Filipino citizen planning international travel, your Philippine passport is your key to the world. It proves your citizenship and allows you to enter other countries.
This guide provides a detailed overview of everything you need to know about obtaining a Philippine passport. We cover the requirements for first-time applicants, renewals, and even replacements for lost or stolen passports.
Inside, you’ll find information on:
- How to schedule your appointment
- The documents you’ll need to bring
- Passport fees
Plus, we’ll walk you through specific procedures for different types of applicants. Let’s get started!
Scheduling a passport appointment
To apply for a Philippine passport, you’ll need to book an appointment online through the Department of Foreign Affairs’ (DFA) Global Online Appointment System (GOAS). Passport appointments are always required.
New appointment slots are released every Monday at 4:30 PM, Philippine time. Because demand is high, you should book your appointment as far in advance as possible.
You must attend your appointment in person, regardless of your age. The DFA will collect your biometrics and verify your identity.
What are the general requirements for all applicants?
Applying for a Philippine passport means gathering a few essential documents. Here’s a rundown of the general requirements.
Valid Identification Documents
You’ll need to show a valid government-issued photo ID. Some common examples include:
- Driver’s License
- SSS/GSIS ID
- Voter’s ID
- Postal ID
- PRC ID
Originals are key. The Philippine government wants to see the original documents or certified copies. Make sure everything is readable, hasn’t been messed with, and contains consistent information.
Application Form
You’ll need to complete the official passport application form. You can usually download it from the Department of Foreign Affairs website. Fill it out carefully and honestly.
Accuracy matters. Passport applications must be complete, accurate, and authentic. Even small errors can slow things down or even get your application rejected.
What you need if you’re applying for an adult passport for the first time
Getting your first Philippine passport as an adult requires a few key documents. Here’s a breakdown:
- Birth Certificate: You’ll need the original, PSA-certified copy of your Birth Certificate (BC) or Report of Birth (ROB). If your birth certificate isn’t clear, bring a copy from the Local Civil Registrar (LCR) as well.
- Valid Government-Issued ID: Bring a valid government ID where the name matches the one on your birth certificate.
- Additional Supporting Documents: Be prepared to show other documents that prove your identity and citizenship. In some cases, you might need to provide an NBI Clearance.
- What if you don’t have a Birth Certificate? If you can’t provide a birth certificate, you’ll need to submit an affidavit explaining why, along with alternative documents that can help establish your identity.
What do I need to renew my Philippine passport?
Renewing your passport is pretty straightforward. Here’s what you’ll need:
General renewal requirements
- Your old passport. You’ll have to surrender your old passport when you get your new one. The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) recommends that you renew your passport at least nine months before it expires. That way, you won’t run into any issues with airlines or immigration officials who may not recognize a passport that’s about to expire.
- A valid government-issued ID. Make sure the name on your ID matches the name on your old passport.
e-Passport renewal vs. non-e-Passport renewal
If you’re renewing an e-Passport, the process is the same as the general renewal process. Just bring your old e-Passport and your valid ID.
If you’re renewing a non-e-Passport, you may need to provide some additional documents, depending on the age of the passport. Check with the DFA or the Philippine Consulate to see what’s needed.
Requirements for Specific Circumstances
Depending on your situation, you may need to provide additional documentation when you apply for or renew your Philippine passport. Here are some common scenarios:
Married Women
If you’re a married woman and want to use your married name on your passport, you’ll need to provide a PSA-certified Marriage Certificate (MC) or Report of Marriage (ROM). This is a requirement whether you’re applying for a new passport or renewing an existing one.
Be sure to tell the passport officer which name you’d like to have on your passport.
Dual Citizens and Naturalized Filipino Citizens
If you’re a dual citizen, you’ll need to provide proof of your dual citizenship, such as an Identification Certificate or Oath of Allegiance. You’ll also need to bring your valid foreign passport.
If you’re a naturalized Filipino citizen, you’ll need to present your Certificate of Naturalization along with other supporting documents.
Lost, Stolen, or Damaged Passports
If your passport has been lost, stolen, or damaged, you’ll need to submit an Affidavit of Loss or Affidavit of Mutilation explaining the circumstances. If your passport was lost or stolen, you’ll also need to provide a police report.
In these cases, you may also be asked to provide additional documents to verify your identity and citizenship.
Passport Fees and Processing Time
So, you’ve got your documents together. Now, how much will this all cost, and how long will it take?
Passport Fees:
- New passport or renewal: $60.00
- Lost ePassport: $150.00
- Lost (Brown, Green, older passport): $90.00
- Certification: $25.00
Payment Methods:
Remember that these fees are non-refundable. You can pay with cash, money orders, bank drafts, certified checks, or cashier’s checks.
Processing Time:
Expect to wait around 6 to 8 weeks to get your passport. However, processing times can change depending on where you apply and how many applications they’re processing at the time.
Passport Validity:
Good news! Philippine passports are valid for 10 years if you’re 18 or older. If you’re under 18, the passport is valid for 5 years.
In Summary
Before you book your flights, double-check your passport. Many countries require that your passport be valid for at least six months beyond the date you plan to return home.
It’s also important to remember that your Philippine passport is the property of the Republic of the Philippines and must be surrendered if the government asks for it back.
If you have questions or need help with your passport, be sure to provide accurate contact information when you apply. You can also check the website of the Philippine Consulate or Embassy in your area for the latest updates and information.