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Philippine Passport

What is a Philippine Passport?

A Philippine passport is an official travel document issued by the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) to Filipino citizens. It serves as proof of identity and nationality, allowing the holder to travel internationally and seek assistance from Philippine embassies and consulates abroad.

The Philippine passport is a powerful document that grants visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to numerous countries around the world, making it an essential document for Filipinos who wish to travel, work, or study abroad.

Why Do You Need a Philippine Passport?

A Philippine passport is necessary for:

  • International travel
  • Proof of Filipino citizenship
  • Identification for various international transactions
  • Working or studying abroad
  • Seeking assistance from Philippine embassies and consulates when traveling

Requirements for First-time Passport Applicants

For Adults (18 years old and above)

Core Requirements:

  1. Confirmed Online Appointment

  2. Schedule an appointment through the DFA website

  3. Personal appearance

  4. The applicant must appear in person at the DFA office on the scheduled appointment date

  5. Accomplished Application Form

  6. Fill out the application form completely and accurately

  7. Original and photocopy of Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) Authenticated Birth Certificate on Security Paper

  8. For married females using their spouse's last name, also present original and submit photocopy of PSA Authenticated Marriage Contract on Security Paper or Report of Marriage

  9. Local Civil Registrar Copy is required if PSA Birth Certificate is not clear or cannot be read

  10. Valid ID with one (1) photocopy

  11. Acceptable IDs include:
    • Philippine Identification Card
    • Driver's License
    • SSS/GSIS UMID Card
    • PRC ID
    • Voter's ID
    • Senior Citizen ID
    • School ID (for students)
    • And other government-issued IDs

Supporting Documents (if applicable):

For Late Registered Birth Certificate: - If registered at least ten years ago, no additional documents needed - If registered less than ten years ago, submit IDs that pre-date the late registration or current IDs with NBI Clearance

If No Birth Certificate or Report of Birth: - For those born after 1950: File for late registration with Local Civil Registrar first - For those born on or before 1950: Submit PSA Authenticated Certificate of No Birth Record and Affidavit of Two Disinterested Persons

For Married Women with Dissolved Marriage: - Submit annotated PSA Marriage Certificate stating the marriage has been dissolved, or - Court Order dissolving the marriage with Certificate of Finality

For Applicants with Discrepancies in Documents: - Submit appropriate supporting documents to explain or correct discrepancies

For Dual Citizens: - Original PSA Birth Certificate/Report of Birth - Original Identification Certificate issued by Philippine Foreign Service Post or Bureau of Immigration - Original and photocopy of foreign passport - Government-issued IDs

For Minors (below 18 years old)

Core Requirements:

  1. Confirmed Online Appointment (if applicable)

  2. Children 7 years old and below do not need an appointment and can use the courtesy lane with their parents and minor siblings

  3. Accomplished Application Form

  4. Personal Appearance of minor applicant and either parent or authorized adult companion

  5. Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) Birth Certificate

  6. Local Civil Registrar Copy may be required if PSA Birth Certificate is not clear

  7. Marriage Certificate (if only one parent is accompanying the child)

  8. If parents are unmarried, an Affidavit of Support and/or Consent from the mother is required if she is not accompanying the child

  9. Passport or Valid Government-issued ID of either parent with one photocopy

  10. School ID (if applicable)

Supporting Documents (if applicable):

If No PSA Birth Certificate/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 copy of Report of Birth or first indorsement from Consular Records Division

If Not Accompanied by Parent/s: - Special Power of Attorney designating the minor's companion - Passport or Valid Government-issued ID of authorized adult companion

If Not Traveling with Parent/s: - DSWD clearance and Affidavit of Support and Consent from parent/s - Passport or Valid Government-issued ID of authorized adult companion

Application Process

Step 1: Schedule an Appointment

Visit the DFA Passport Appointment System to schedule an appointment. Select your preferred DFA office, date, and time slot. Fill out the required information and confirm your appointment.

Step 2: Prepare the Required Documents

Gather all the necessary documents based on your situation (first-time applicant, renewal, etc.). Make sure to have both the original and photocopies of required documents.

Step 3: Pay the Processing Fee

The regular processing fee is PHP 950, while expedited processing costs PHP 1,200. Payment can be made through authorized payment centers indicated during the online appointment process.

Step 4: Visit the DFA Office on Your Appointment Date

Arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled appointment. Bring your appointment confirmation, requirements, and payment receipt.

Step 5: Application Processing

At the DFA office, you will go through the following steps: - Verification of documents - Data encoding and biometrics capture (photo, fingerprints, and signature) - Final verification

Step 6: Passport Release

You can choose to have your passport delivered to your address (additional fee applies) or pick it up personally at the DFA office. Regular processing takes 10-15 working days, while expedited processing takes 5-7 working days.

Passport Fees

  • Regular Processing (10-15 working days): PHP 950
  • Expedited Processing (5-7 working days): PHP 1,200
  • Additional fee for passport delivery: Varies by location

Passport Validity

The Philippine passport is valid for 10 years for adults (18 years and above) and 5 years for minors (below 18 years old).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my passport before it expires?

Yes, you can renew your passport at any time. However, it's recommended to renew it at least 6 months before expiration, as many countries require passports to be valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned stay.

What if I can't get an online appointment?

DFA occasionally opens additional appointment slots. You can also check for appointment slots in other DFA offices that might be less busy. For urgent travel needs, you can request for an expedited appointment by submitting proof of urgency.

Can I apply for a passport if I'm abroad?

Yes, you can apply at the nearest Philippine Embassy or Consulate. The requirements and procedures may vary slightly, so it's best to check their official website or contact them directly.

What if there are errors in my passport?

If you notice errors in your passport, report them immediately to the DFA office where you applied. Corrections are free of charge if the error was made by the DFA. If the error was due to the applicant's mistake, a fee may apply.

Can I use my old passport while waiting for my new one?

If you're renewing your passport, the DFA will cancel your old passport during the application process. However, if you need to travel urgently, you can request to have your old passport returned temporarily, but it will have limited validity.