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Travel Safely: A Brief Guide to Philippine Passport Requirements

Get everything in order for your appointment



The COVID-19 pandemic affected people’s lives in more ways than one. To prevent the spread of the virus, authorities had to close establishments, impose travel bans and call for nationwide lockdowns. The prolonged restrictions severely impacted leisure industries, with the process of travel changed forever.


As the country adapts to the new normal, it’s good to know that people can now fly in and out of the Philippines. However, it’s important to be aware of the new travel requirements and processes. 


In case you need to fly abroad for work or personal matters, it would be best to have a clear idea of the current passport requirements. To make things easier for you, this guide will tell you everything about the Philippine passport application process.



Passport Requirements for Adult Applicants

For applicants 18 years old and above, here’s how to apply for a passport:


First-time applicants

The first step in the passport application process is the online scheduling of appointments. After your appointment has been confirmed, you will need to personally report to the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) branch near you to submit the following requirements:


  • Accomplished application form
  • Original copy and photocopy of Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA)-authenticated birth certificate on security paper
  • Valid ID and a photocopy of said ID


If your PSA birth certificate is blurred, you will need to submit a Local Civil Registrar copy of your birth certificate.


Note that applicants with no existing birth certificate or data discrepancy in their birth certificate must present additional documents. Additionally, dual citizen applicants must attach supporting forms with their application form. Finally, married females using their spouse’s last name must submit an original copy and photocopy of their PSA-authenticated marriage contract on security paper or their report of marriage.


Renewal applicants

Adult applicants who plan to renew their passports must likewise set an appointment online. Upon confirmation, they must personally report to the DFA to submit the following documents:


  • Accomplished application form
  • A valid ID together with a photocopy of said ID
  • Current passport, with a photocopy of the passport’s data page


Applicants who changed their names or had their names corrected through a judicial order must present an original, PSA-authenticated copy of the following supporting papers:


  • Annotated birth certificate
  • Marriage contract (if applicable)
  • Annotated marriage contract to show annulment, divorce, or court-ordered instruction (if applicable)
  • Death certificate of spouse (if applicable)


Additional requirements may also be needed from applicants who are dual citizens or naturalized citizens.


For lost or damaged passports

In case of a lost valid or expired passport, the applicant must set an appointment for a new application. In addition to the core requirements, the following must be submitted:


  • Original copy and photocopy of Affidavit of Loss written in English
  • For lost valid passports, original copy and photocopy of Police Report written in English


The applicant must also pay a penalty fee of ₱350.00. The DFA will implement a 15-day clearing period for lost valid passports.


In case of a mutilated or damaged passport, the applicant must schedule an appointment for a new application. They must also present an Affidavit of Explanation together with the damaged passport and pay a penalty fee of ₱350.00.



Passport Requirements for Minor Applicants

Here’s the passport application process for applicants under 18 years old:


First-time minor applicants

Minor applicants are also required to schedule an appointment online. Upon confirmation, the applicant must personally report to the DFA, accompanied by either a parent or an authorized adult companion. The following documents must be presented during the on-site appointment:


  • Accomplished application form
  • PSA birth certificate
  • School ID (if applicable)
  • Passport or a valid government-issued ID of either or both parents, with a photocopy of said ID
  • If only one parent is accompanying the child, the marriage certificate of the parents
  • If the parents are unmarried and the mother is not accompanying the child, a Special Power of Attorney executed by the child’s mother


Additional requirements may be needed if the applicant is a newborn or not accompanied by the parent(s) during the on-site appointment. In addition, if the minor is an illegitimate child, adopted child, or a foundling, supporting documents may need to be presented.


For passport renewal of minors

The application process for both first-time and renewal applicants is almost similar. The only difference is that renewal applicants are not required to submit a PSA birth certificate, but must attach their current passport and a photocopy of their passport’s data page to the application form.


For minors with lost or damaged passports

Lost valid or expired passports are treated as new applications. Hence, the applicant must present the core requirements, together with the following documents:


  • Original copy and photocopy of Affidavit of Loss written in English
  • For lost valid passports, original copy and photocopy of Police Report written in English


Mutilated or damaged passports are likewise considered as new applications, so applicants are required to submit the core requirements, the damaged passport, and an Affidavit of Explanation.


The Affidavit of Explanation, Affidavit of Loss and Police Report must be filed and signed by the parent(s), legal guardian or the person authorized by the parent(s) to accompany the minor applicant on the day of the on-site appointment. In addition to the papers required, the applicant must pay a penalty fee of ₱350.00.



Process Your Passport Application Safely

Although things are starting to get better, precaution is still necessary to protect yourself and your loved ones from COVID-19. In applying for a passport, be sure to follow the protocol for safe processing.


While waiting for your passport application approval, remember to continue to save money for your travel plans so you can make the most of your trips. And before boarding that plane, make sure to apply for a Globe roaming account so you can stay connected with your family and friends and be updated on the latest COVID-19 news wherever you are.



Art Matthew Ian Fetalver

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