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Having a passport is essential for Philippine citizens who plan to travel abroad for business, work, or leisure. A passport serves as a valid identification and proof of citizenship, and it allows the holder to enter and exit foreign countries legally. To ensure a smooth and hassle-free Philippine passport application or renewal, this blog lists the requirements, fees, and more.

The Basics of a Philippine Passport

Two Types of Passports

• ePassport: There is a chip sign or icon at the bottom portion of your passport’s front cover.
• Non-ePassport: It may be brown, green, machine-readable passports (maroon) or any older passports. It doesn’t have the chip sign or icon on your passport’s front cover.

Passport Validity

In accordance with Department Order No. 010-2017 or the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of Republic Act No. 10928 (2017), the Philippine passport has a ten-year validity period for those issued to Filipinos 18 years or older. Filipinos under 18 years will still be issued five-year valid passports.

Passport Fee

The rates for new applications and passport renewal are as follows:

• Regular – Php 950.00 (12 business days)
• Expedited – Php 1,200.00 (7 business days)
• Penalty for lost or mutilated ePassport – Php 350.00

Requirements for New Passport Application

Adult Applicants

If you are 18 years old or older and applying for a new passport, there are a few documents you need to present:

1. Confirmed Online Appointment
2. Accomplished application form
3. PSA-authenticated birth certificate on security paper (Note: The Local Civil Registrar copy is required if the PSA birth certificate is not clear.)
4. Any of the following IDs with one (1) photocopy:

• Social Security System (SSS) card
• Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) card
• Unified Multi-Purpose Identification (UMID) card
• Land Transportation Office (LTO) Driver’s License (Note: Student Permit in card format is accepted.)
• Other accepted IDs

1. If you are a married female applicant using your spouse’s last name, you will also need to present your PSA-authenticated marriage certificate on security paper or Report of Marriage.
2. Those who choose to keep their maiden name will not be required to provide a marriage certificate. However, you may still be asked to provide further DFA passport criteria.

Minor Applicants

If you are an applicant below 18 years old, the DFA passport application requirements include the following:

1. Confirmed Online Appointment
2. Accomplished application form
3. PSA-authenticated birth certificate on security paper (Note: The Local Civil Registrar copy is required if the PSA birth certificate is not clear.) 
4. School ID or Certificate of Enrolment containing the applicant’s photo and the school’s dry seal (if applicable)
5. Marriage Certificate is required if only one parent is accompanying the child
6. Passport or Valid Government issued ID of either parent with one (1) photocopy 

Other than the core requirements, some supporting documents may also be required. See the list of supporting documents here.

Requirements for Passport Renewal Application

Adult Applicants

The DFA recommends having a passport with at least seven to eight months of validity before your travel plans. That may entail renewing your passport at least ten months before its expiration date. 

However, you don’t need to have your passport renewed each time it expires unless you often go abroad or want to use it as your main form of identification.

Here are the application requirements for DFA passport renewal:

1. Confirmed Online Appointment
2. Accomplished application form
3. Current ePassport and photocopy of the data page
4. If you are a married female applicant who changed your last name, you must present the following:

• PSA- authenticated marriage certificate
• Annotated PSA birth certificate
• Annotated PSA marriage certificate to show annulment, divorce, or court-ordered instruction
• PSA death certificate (if applicable) of your spouse

Please note that if you opt to retain your maiden name, you are not required to present a marriage certificate. However, additional DFA passport renewal requirements may be requested from you.

Minor Applicants

Minors must be accompanied by either their parents, legal guardians, or authorized representatives when applying for a passport. 

Here are the documentary requirements for applicants below 18 years of age:

1. Confirmed Online Appointment
2. Accomplished application form
3. Current ePassport with photocopy of the data page
4. PSA-authenticated birth certificate on security paper (Note: The Local Civil Registrar copy is required if the PSA birth certificate is not clear.) 
5. School ID or Certificate of Enrolment containing the applicant’s photo and the school’s dry seal (if applicable)
6. Marriage Certificate is required if only one parent is accompanying the child
7. Passport or Valid Government issued ID of either parent with one (1) photocopy 

Also, be prepared in case the DFA requests additional supporting documents. See the full list of supporting documents here.

Philippine Passport Application Process

The Philippine passport application process involves the following steps:

• Schedule an online appointment with the DFA
• Personal appearance at the DFA consular office on the scheduled appointment date
• Submit your requirements
• Biometric data capture (photograph, fingerprints, and signature)
• Payment of passport fees (if not paid online)
• Wait for the release of the passport

Tips for a Successful Philippine Passport Application

To ensure a smooth passport application or renewal process, here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Make sure to bring all the necessary documents and supporting documents.
• Check the DFA website for the latest passport requirements and updates.
• Arrive at the DFA consular office on time.
• Double-check the accuracy of your personal information and biometric data.
• Avoid wearing any accessories or clothing that may interfere with the biometric data capture process.

Final Thoughts 

Obtaining a Philippine passport is the number one requirement for Philippine citizens who plan to travel abroad. To ensure a successful passport application or renewal process, it is important to comply with the Philippine passport requirements and follow the application process carefully. By doing so, you can obtain a valid passport and travel abroad with ease and convenience. – WhatALife!/Jayve

Source: (1), (2), (3), (4), (5)

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Also read: How to Apply for Philippine Passport in 2022