I have just renewed my Philippine passport last Monday at the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Manila and I’m happy to report that the whole thing just took about two (2) hours. Yes, you read that right—2 hours! For me, that’s quite amazing considering that the last time I had my passport renewed back in 2008, it took me two freaking harassing visits to the DFA, with each visit taking me about half a day so that was a total of 1 whole day of my life (plus the hassle of going there twice)! This time, I step foot in the DFA building at 7 AM and I was done by 9 AM!!
While the DFA website outlines the process so simply in its “What to Expect” section, it actually involves more instructions, tips, preparation, and strategies than just 10 steps, ESPECIALLY if you want to maximize the system and get your passport in 2 hours or less. So while the system is designed to be efficient, you can still end up wasting a day of your life in the DFA building or having a bad experience (like this blogger) if you don’t prepare well!
This post specifically applies to those who will renew their passport through DFA Manila and not through any other consular office, whether in the Philippines or abroad. This post does not tackle applications involving lost passports and to applications deemed by the DFA as “emergency cases”, which may or may not result in a shorter processing time.
The information contained in this post is accurate as of the date of publication and based on the DFA’s website specifically dedicated for passport applications at http://www.passport.com.ph/ (“DFA website”). Thus, the information herein can change without prior notice or updates. Please be sure to confirm all details and information directly with the DFA and/or the DFA website before applying for or renewing your passport.)
I’ve divided the whole passport renewal process into three parts:
Part 1) passport appointment system;
Part 2) preparation of documents; and
Part 3) personal appearance.
A. APPOINTMENT OPTIONS
The general rule is that you have to set an appointment for your passport renewal (unless you fall under those exempted under the courtesy lane, which I will not discuss in this post).
How to set your appointment using DFA’s online passport appointment system through http://www.passport.com.ph/set-appointment:
*Take note that the earliest time you can set an appointment for renewal is at most 1 year before the expiration date of your current passport. My passport was only valid until April 17, 2013. I went on the online appointment system on March 15, 2012 and set my appointment on May 21, 2012. The Bureau of Immigration requires a passport with at least 6 months validity for us to travel abroad. Since I also need to obtain a visa for my next international destination, I had to renew my passport way before the 6 months prior to my current passport’s expiry date.
Do not wait until you’re about to leave for a trip before renewing your passport. I’ve encountered so many applicants desperately pleading and finding ways to have their passports issued or renewed because of an upcoming trip. This will only stress you out and make you prone to mistakes. Again, the earlier the better. As soon as you reach the 1 year period before your passport expires, renew it. Remember, you cannot renew your passport before the 1 year period. Extension of the validity of present passport is a different application which can only be availed of in certain circumstances (for more information on that process, click here or here).
*There are blog posts that indicate that there are applicants who were still able to get an earlier slot. Some may cancel or reset their appointments. Try refreshing the web page and/or relogging (going back to “Set An Appointment” page). Just in case you missed it, check also if you fall under those eligible for courtesy lane or emergency cases.
3. Photocopy of pages showing latest Bureau of Immigration departure and arrival stamps
4. Original E-Passport Application Form (do not affix your signature on the application yet)
*If you have an MRP but the birth place stated on your passport is not specific (for example, “NCR” instead of “Quezon City”, then you also need to bring your original birth certificate issued by the National Statistics Office (NSO) and its photocopy. Mine was already specific so I didn’t need this anymore.*For minor applicants who are MRP holders, photocopy of birth certificate is also required.
Here are the essential documents required for other types of passports aside from the original & photocopy of your E-Passport Application Form:
- Old passport and photocopy of passport pages 1,2,3, 4
(amendment). The pages showing latest Bureau of
Immigration departure and arrival stamps.
- Original valid ID.
- Birth Certificate from NSO in Security Paper (SECPA)
- Negative Birth Record from NSO if born 1950 & below and
Joint Birth Affidavit from Two Disinterested Persons;
and supporting document showing complete Middle Name
- Present passport and photocopy of pages 1,2,3 (amendment) and last page.
- The pages showing latest Bureau of Immigration departure and arrival stamps.
- Photocopy of Birth Certificate for minor applicants.
- For illegitimate minor, personal appearance of mother is required.
B. SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS
- Marriage Contract
- PRC / IBP ID
- Land Title
- Driver’s License
- Government Service Record
- Digitized SSS-ID
- School Form 137 or Transcript of Records with Dry Seal
- Other documents that show full name and birth details of applicant and/or citizenship
- Voter’s Registration Record from COMELEC Intramuros
- Baptismal Certificate w/ Dry Seal
- Seaman’s Book
- Income Tax Return (Old)
As a general rule (and if you are undergoing the “ordinary” passport application being detailed in this post), personal appearance is required for all passport applicants.
So that you will not get confused with the numbering, I have designated the steps in the application proper below according to the numbering as designated by the DFA of its own process (so that Step 1 is Verification and the “last” step is Step 3 for Encoding/Enrolment). Anything that comes before these steps, I have designated as “Preliminaries” and the Passport Delivery Service still comes after Step 3.
WHAT TO BRING:
1. Essential documents
2. Supporting documents
3. Cash for passport fees: P950.00 for regular processing (15 working days) or P1,200.00 for rush processing (7 working days). This processing fee already includes your passport photo (unlike in previous passports where you had to have your picture taken in studios and incur added expense)
4. Cash for courier service: P120.00 (if you will avail of this service, which I suggest you do!)
5. Ballpen
6. Fan (because it can get hot in the outside waiting area)
7. Cash for miscellaneous/emergency stuff, like photocopying (available at the compound/outside waiting area) or for affidavits (there are affidavit and notarial services in the building but ideally, you should already have prepared these documents if they’re required!).
*Food and drinks are not allowed inside the DFA building
 |
| DFA Counter for Affidavit and Notarial Services. Located at the back, near the processing windows for agencies |
WHAT TO WEAR:
You don’t need to wear blazers or even collared shirts or look too formal (unlike in previous passports where they had specifications on the collar and the color of the shirt). I saw girls wearing high heels and closed shoes, which I thought were really not a good idea since there will be some standing up and walking around involved.
If you are wearing contact lenses, be sure they’re clear and not the colored ones or else you will be asked to remove them during the photo taking. If you are wearing earrings, you will also be asked to remove them.
Please be guided by this photo posted at the DFA entrance. No sleeveless shirts, shorts, and mini skirts.
What I wore:
HOW TO GET THERE:
The DFA’s Office of Consular Affairs (dedicated solely for passport application processing) is located at ASEANA Business Park, Bradco Avenue corner Macapagal Boulevard, Paranaque City.
It is easy enough to find. Coming from EDSA Pasay, cross Roxas Boulevard then turn left on the first corner.The DFA building is located to your left.
Directly in front of the DFA is a Shell station with a McDonald’s.
ARRIVAL TIME:
The email sent to me by DFA after I set my appointment stated:
“Your appointment is on Mon, May 21, 2012 from 08:00 am to 08:30 am.
Please make sure you arrive at the DFA at 07:30 am.
You will be expected to arrive for your appointment at exactly 30 minutes before your schedule.
Even if you arrive early, you will not be entertained until 30 minutes before your appointment.
If you arrive late, you will need to secure another appointment for another day.”
Note that the email stated that “even if you arrive early, you will not be entertained until 30 minutes before your appointment.” THIS IS NOT TRUE. Once again, I will emphasize: THE EARLIER, THE BETTER. My appointment was at 8 AM. I was in the area by 6:30 AM, had breakfast in McDonald’s and entered the DFA gate at 7 AM so I was able to start my application even if I was 1 hour early. There were already more than 30 people ahead of me in the 8 AM line located at the tented waiting area (within the compound but outside the main, airconditioned building). And there were even already people lined up for the 8:30 AM appointments!
So it’s not completely accurate that if you arrive early, you will not be entertained. This will really depend on the number of people already inside the main building. Since the main building can still accommodate more applicants aside from those with 7 AM slots, then the applicants already in line (even if they have later slots like 8 AM or 8:30 AM) will already be permitted to go inside to start the application process.Again, this is the advantage of setting your appointment early.
I really regretted not picking the 7 AM slot, which was still available when I set my appointment online (I thought then that it was too early for me). If I had done so, I would have been there at 6 AM and I’m pretty sure that it will take me just 1 hour tops to complete the whole process. Since my appointment was at 8 AM, it took me 2 hours. So, you can do the math and most likely, each hour later than 7 AM will also add another hour to your processing time.
UPON ENTERING THE GATE:
Only those with confirmed appointments will be allowed to enter the DFA gate.
Upon entering Gate 2 of the DFA building, expect the following:
1. The security guard will check the date and time of your appointment printed on the top portion of your application form.
2.You will be led to the Verification and Validation counter, where DFA personnel will verify your appointment by scanning the bar code on the top right portion of your application form. You may also be asked to present a valid ID at this counter.
3. Sit at the waiting area designated for your time slot located under the tents right outside the main building.
DFA personnel selects the batch that will be allowed to go inside the main building to start Step 1 according to the number of benches. For example, in my 8 AM slot, the first 4 benches were the first ones allowed inside while the next batch was the next 3 benches. So if you’re in the leftmost side of your bench, check if you can still squeeze yourself in at the previous bench because sitting on a bench further back may increase your waiting time!
B. APPLICATION PROPER
Step 1. Processing
Since the main processing area seemed full already, I was led towards the back of the building towards another area, where processing of applications done through travel agencies are usually done (processing for travel agencies is done in the afternoons, I think but there are news reports that this has been discontinued? Not sure about this). This was a good thing I guess since this was a smaller area and so there were less people ahead of me in line.
The “first step” in the application proper is called “processing”, where you will proceed to a window and DFA staff will check your application form and the completeness of your documents. As I mentioned above, I was only asked to give my essential documents (photocopies of certain passport pages) and there was no need for me to give supporting documents. I was assigned to the guy at Window 6.
After checking my documents, the DFA staff filled in details in my official receipt and asked me if I was availing of regular or rush processing. I chose rush processing which means my passport will be ready by May 30. He asked me if I have any flight scheduled prior to May 30 and since I have none, he then punctured the cover of my passport as well as the main page with the picture/details and rendered it void.
He then handed me back my application form, essential documents, and the filled-up official receipt.
Step 2. Payment
After processing, proceed to the 2nd floor for payment. This is the fastest step in the process.
Step 3. Encoding/ Enrolment
After paying, be sure to proceed right away to this counter. Show your application form to get your queue number. The encoding/enrolment step usually involves the longest waiting time in the process so it’s important to get your number right away. My number was 1184 and I waited about 40 minutes for my number to be flashed on the screen (the numbers in yellow on the screen correspond to the queue numbers ready for enrolment while those numbers in red are the corresponding booth numbers).
This is the step where data from your application form will be scanned, certain details will be manually encoded by the staff, your right and left thumb mark will be scanned, your digital signature captured, and where your picture will be taken.
While waiting, you can read a book, tinker with your smartphone, or retouch your makeup (at least take off shine and powder your face).
SHORTCUT TIP: Another great idea to shorten your whole processing time is to proceed to the PASSPORT DELIVERY SERVICE area (to the left of the enrolment/encoding area) and pay for your courier service already so that you don’t have to go through this after you’re done with step 3 (see letter C below for details). When the DFA staff announced that it was alright to do this before actually doing step 3, my number was already nearly up so I decided to just wait for my step 3 to finish.
Even if there are so many enrolment/ encoding counters, applicants tend to be “bottle necked” in this process since some applicants take their time with their photo taking and some even request for another shot. I didn’t bother to have my picture retaken since the harsh, fluorescent lighting in that area was hopeless. Unlike previous passport pictures, the e-Passport’s picture is quite “cropped” which will result in a very tight, close-up shot of your head.
Here are the DFA’s guidelines for photo capturing:
“Your Pose
Your frontal pose looking directly at the camera lens and
showing your full face must be used. Rotation or tilting of the head
either in an up/down or left/right direction must be avoided. The mid
points of the mouth and the bridge of the nose should lie on an
imaginary vertical line in the center of the image.
Expression
Your expression should be neutral with both eyes open and mouth
closed. There should be no hair covering the eyes. Contrived
expressions such as raised eyebrows, squirting or frowning are not
acceptable.
On Smiling
When having their photos captured, applicant may smile, but
without showing their teeth and gums. The ‘Mona Lisa’ smile is
recommended.
Eyeglasses/ Contact Lenses
Eyeglasses should always be removed before capturing the applicant’s photo.
The use of contact lenses for medical reasons is accepted,
provided that the contact lenses do not change the applicant’s true eye
color. Therefore, applicants are advised to take off their contact
lenses before having their photos captured.
Ears Should Be Visible
As much as possible, both ears of the applicant should be visible.
Earrings/ Hair Accessories
As much as possible, both ears of the applicant should be visible.
Infants
Infants or very small children who are unable to support
themselves should be assisted by either parent or their guardians.
Hands, arms, etc., used to support the child should not be visible.
High-chair for minor applicants may be used, if needed.”
The DFA staff will then print out a paper with some of your details and will ask you to go over the sheet for final correction. Once she gives you your official receipt, you’re done!
C. PASSPORT DELIVERY SERVICE
The passport delivery service area is located next to the encoding/enrolment area and right before the exit so you won’t miss it. Pay the P120 delivery fee at one table then proceed to the “encoding” area where they will get your official receipt, scan it, ask you if you want your passport to be delivered to your office or residence, then finally, issue you your shipper’s receipt. I guess they will return your official receipt when they deliver the passport. Since my issue date is May 30, I was told I can expect my passport to be delivered 1 day later, on May 31. (I will post the pictures of my e-Passport here as soon as I receive it). (UPDATE: Delivery fee is now P150.00)
If you don’t want your passport delivered, you can pick it up at the DFA. But for P120, why even go back? I don’t even know how to do it and didn’t even ask since it’s just more convenient to have it delivered. I’ve had my previous passport delivered by courier and it was safe and reliable that way. But I guess for some who can’t wait the extra day (like for those with rush trips), picking their passports up personally at the DFA may be their only option.
After this step, IT’S FINALLY DONE.
UPDATE: Some of the commenters to this post have asked about damaged/mutilated or lost passports. If you need to submit affidavits, send me an email at thesunsetgoddess@gmail.com or editor@sunsetgoddessmanila.com and I will send you sample affidavits for your reference.
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very detailed! grabe nung isang linggo inabot kami jan ng 4 hours!
Gud pm po ung passport po ng asawa ko di p nadating dapat po ung july 26 p po ang nakalagay sa resibo na release,ano petsa n po ngaun.pls. reply po kailangan na po kc ung passport
Your best bet will be to call either the DFA or the courier company.
Thank you for this informative blog. I have a question though coz all of the appointment schedules are not available. Are there other options other than appointment online through this site https://www.passport.gov.ph/appointment/individual/schedule?
super bilis na nga magpa-renew ngayon unlike before. ako 1 hour and 15 minutes nakalabas na ng DFA, mas malayo pa nilakbay ko. It was a great morning with lesser crowd.
Goos tips! I always had to seel assistance from a family friend who has a travel agency whenever we need a passport or for renewals. But you’re tips are definitely handy. Thanks for sharing! =)
What is the name of the travel agency of your family friend? Because I’m in need of a reliable travel agency that could assist me in processing passport.
No need for collared shirt? Are you sure?
Yes, pretty sure. What you’re wearing will not even be visible in the photo because the passport photo will be a tight shot (only head will be visible). You may also call DFA hotline so that you can verify yourself 🙂 thank you.
Thank you so much for these tips! My family and I will have our passport renewed (husband and daughter, new applicants) and I hope we’ll also finish in 2 hours of less.
xo,
Miss-April.info
Hi there my concern lang ako regarding sa sleeveless top. Just to inform you last 2010 nag renew ako ng passport ko and the staff allowed me to have my picture taking for my passport while wearing a sleeveless. I am wondering if there will be a problem for that coz on November we will be having a company trip outside philippines. Pls enlighten me and thank you.
Hi. Please be guided by the picture above on DFA’s dress code. That’s posted right at the DFA entrance. So if you’re wearing a sleeveless shirt, the guards might not let you in. I don’t know about their policies in 2010 but in 2012, these were the rules in the DFA. In government offices like this, I think it’s better to be more cautious so if they say that they don’t allow applicants with sleeveless shirts to enter the building, then I would tend to follow that regulation. Anyway, is it really a hassle for you to wear a non-sleeveless top for your passport renewal? 🙂 I would think not 😉
hi! ask ko lang kung possible ba na magparenew ako ng passport within my 2weeks stay in manila? i mean diba meron silang express service for P1200 and after 7 days makukuha mo na passport mo. all i have to do is to secure my appointment date?
kung possible, ehdi magaling! kasi im thinking na umuwi nlng ng pinas to renew my passport, kaysa iprocess ko dito sa abroad, ang mahal ng bayad $100++ tapos will take 2 months minimum. so naisip ko magbakasyon nlng pinas at the same time renew ng passport.
Hi, Flou. Yes, that is possible and would be even better since it’s cheaper plus you get to go on a Philippine vacation while renewing your passport. Of course, this process assumes that you will be able to secure your appointment date within the two weeks that you’ll be in Manila. Please take note that DFA also now has mall-based consular offices, including Robinson’s Galleria and Megamall so it may be good to check appointments there first as they’re convenient and may have shorter lines/ more available appointment dates for you. Good luck!
Thanks sis! I think I will do that, mka bakasyon pko. 🙂
Hello, Sunset Goddess! Your account of the latest processing of DFA is very accurate as I myself accompanied my husband and 3 children to renew/apply for passports in 2011 and it was not as toxic as I remembered.
Now it’s my turn to apply for a renewal but I am in quite a pickle. We are scheduled to leave for Hongkong around 1st week of April but my appointment for renewal is on March 18, 2013. Will my passport arrive in time for our travel? I know, I know, it was foolish of me to have waited so long to renew but that is my current situation and I’d like to know if their promise of delivering the passport in 7 days is true. I chose the rush processing over the regular processing because of our travel schedule.
Thanks for your time.
Hi Pebbles. I think you have enough time from your appointment date March 18 to April, since rush processing of passports only takes seven (7) working days, so just count 7 working days from March 18 plus maybe 1 day for the courier to deliver the passport to you. If you’re really pressed for time and can’t waste even just 1 day, don’t avail of the courier delivery service and just pick up the passports at the DFA. I would also advise for you to try getting an earlier appointment date—remember that DFA is no longer offering its passport services just in DFA Aseana but also in several malls (like Megamall and Robinson’s Galleria). So even if you already have a March 18 appointment date, you can still try your luck getting an earlier appointment date in any of DFA’s consular offices. Good luck! 🙂
Thank you for replying so promptly! Unfortunately, DFA Aseana is the closest consular office to our house as I’m from Paranaque. I’ll just keep my fingers crossed! Thanks again, Sunset Goddess!
thanks so much. do you have any feedback on passport renewal in galleria?
Sorry, i’ve only tried DFA Aseana. I would think there are less people in galleria, although from a recent look at the slots for my brother’s passport renewal, it appears that there are more slots in Dfa aseana than the mall-base locations. Good luck!
Hi! Allowed ba ang rubbershoes for male applicants at dfa megamall? Thanks!
Yes, i think rubber shoes are allowed. The dress code refers more to length of skirts, shorts, etc. please don’t wear slippers. This also assumes that the dress code for aseana and megamall dfa are the same, which is a reasonable presumption to make 🙂
good day! this is my first time traveling outside the Philippines. so i don’t really know that you are supposed to renew your passport 6 mos prior to expiration. when i heard of it, i immediately book an appointment in the DFA. Will i received exactly the passport in 7 days( i indicate in the appointment “RUSH”)? MY appointment is march 14, 2013. when do you think i can expect my passport to arrived at my home? Im just having doubt whether it will be arriving on time. my travel would be on march 27, 2013.. thank you.. i really like your blog, very Precise, accurate and HELPFUL!
Hi, thanks for your comment. Yes, I have no reason to doubt their stated processing time as you can see from the post how very efficient DFA is. Good that you chose the rush type of processing. Do take note that this is 7 WORKING days, and not calendar days and there’s usually an EXTRA day for delivery (if you chose courier delivery instead of pick-up at DFA). My advice to you is to choose pick-up instead to avoid delays. Since your appointment is March 14, my count is that you will get your passport on March 26, just 1 day before your intended departure date! so you can’t afford the extra day of delay. Good luck 🙂
Hi. Is this process the same as applying for a new passport?
Thank you
Yes, the process is pretty much the same. The only difference is that the list of DOCUMENTARY REQUIREMENTS will be different for new passports—like you definitely need NSO-issued birth certificate and some government IDs. Please check out DFA’s website for the complete list of requirements. however, for the steps in the process, it’s the same.
Hi.. I failed to appear on my appointment date (renewal). What will be the consequences?
I don’t think you won’t be allowed to set another appointment. Just try setting another one up.
This is a great post! I would have come unprepared had I not read this post. Thank you! I totally thought that my maroon passport was actually brown. So I didnt bother reading the reqts for the maroon passport. The ones u graciously enumerated.
Ive always wanted to be a lawyer. Youre so xute in your summer get-up. I love the pink tutu skirt 🙂
Btw, today’s my passport renewal appt. Fingers crossed! Hope everything works out fine.
Thank you Jesse 🙂 If you still want to be a lawyer, it’s never too late 😉 Glad to have helped you out in your renewal appointment. I hope everything went well and you had an easy time.
Very detailed and clear. Thank you very much for sharing this experience, i am so much enlightened.
You’re welcome 🙂
Hi great tips, question:can I still come to DFA without an appointment, I tried online appointment and the date options are too late for me, can I just come there and fall in line without an appointment? even if takes a whole day, thanks alot.
No. I think it’s very clear in the post and in the DFA’s instructions on its website that they will not entertain those who don’t have appointments, unless you are eligible to avail of the DFA’s courtesy lane, like senior citizens, infants, government officials, spouse or unmarried child of a government official. I think even an OFW with a valid employment contract may also avail of the courtesy lane. If you don’t fall under any of those categories, then you have to book an appointment like the rest of us 🙂 sorry.
Magandang umaga poh.
Kelangan poh ba talaga ng appointment para mkarenew?
Or maaari ding pumunta agad kahti walang appointment?
As I’ve stated in the post above: “The general rule is that you have to set an appointment for your passport renewal (unless you fall under those exempted under the courtesy lane)”. If you’re not a senior citizen, government employee (or a spouse or unmarried child thereof), infant, or OFW with a valid employment contract, then you MUST set an appointment.
Wow. Just wow. Amazing guide. Hope I can finish early on my appointment tomorrow at Megamall. Thanks for this.
Hi! My passport is valid until Oct. 2015. I would like to apply for renewal because my picture in the passport looks haggard. Will I be allowed? Thank you.
No. As stated in the post above: “*Take note that the earliest time you can set an appointment for renewal is at most 1 year before the expiration date of your current passport.”. So the earliest time you can renew your passport is October 2014. And the way you look in your passport is not really material–i mean who looks that good in their passport pictures anyway? 🙂
Hi ask kulang im in australia at ipa pa rush ko passport ko kc emergency to going back to philippines makykuha kuba agad yung passport ko,ang appt ko this coming Saturday,my question is kung ipa rush ko passport ko how long it takes thanks i need to know x
Hi Joy. Rush processing here in Manila merely takes seven (7) working days, which this blog post discussed. However, it’s different when the passport is issued abroad. Based on this information from the Philippine Consulate in Australia (see http://www.philippineconsulate.com.au/images/stories/Consulate/Form-Downloads/passports/eppt_flowchart.pdf), normal turnaround time for passport renewals is unfortunately 8-10 weeks as it appears that the actual passport is still produced over here in Manila. However, you may want to check with the consulate about rush processing and tell them about your emergency situation and they may be able to expedite your process. DFA considers the following scenarios listed here as emergency (http://www.passport.com.ph/info/requirements/for/emergency), which you can use as reference for your particular situation. In my experience, it won’t hurt to ask! Good luck!
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my passport expired in sept 2011 and i have just set an appointment this coming june 20 (i expect to travel around august 2013), but i didn’t indicate rush processing, can i still change it when i get to the dfa (i’m planning to go to dfa @ sm-manila)? how long do you think will it take to get my passport on regular processing? thanks!
Hi carol. Yes, you can still change it. Just indicate your preference at Step 1 (Processing), where they will confirm with you whether your processing is rush/express or regular. As indicated in the DFA’s passport website, regular processing will take 15 regular working days. since your passport is already expired, I’m not sure if your application will be considered a renewal or a new application. Please call DFA to confirm your documentary requirements for expired passport. Thanks and hope this helps 🙂
Hi. I read your post a couple of weeks ago before we went on our appointment and I’m coming back to share my passport horror story. 😀
My sister and I just renewed our passports this week. I was hoping we’d be done in 2 hours and arranged to be picked up at 10:15 am but the entire process took 5 1/2 hours! We have an 8 am slot so we arrived at a quarter to seven. We were let in early, around 7:20 – 7:30, but we finished at around 1:00 pm. Apparently, there are additional forms required of and steps to be taken by dual citizens. Fortunately, I thought to bring all IDs and documents with photocopies, just in case.
Additional documents required of us:
1. US Passport or other foreign passport;
2. Certificate of Dual Citizenship (issued by the Bureau of Immigrations);
3. Foreign or Philippine Birth Certificate;
4. School ID or latest enrollment form.
You will need the original and photocopies of all of the above. They asked for a Certificate of Naturalization, we didn’t have that and have no idea what that is at the time, so they let it slide.
So for us, it was:
1. Appointment Verification
2. Step 1 – Processing
3. A room in the 1st floor – I think it says Assistant Director on the door.
a. Collection of documents relating to dual citizenship.
b. Wait to be called for verification and then an interview.
c. Wait again for your original documents.
d. Then you will be given a document sort of confirming your eligibility to
receive a Philippine passport.
4. Back to Step 1 – Processing (shorter wait as we were told to go form a line in front of Window 1)
5. Step 2 – Payment
6. Step 3 – Encoding/Enrolment
7. Arranging for delivery.
Whew! Bring water, fan, a book and eat breakfast!
Wow, thank you ManhattanBaby for sharing your experience with us—good to know the additional documentation requirements for dual citizens like you. And I totally agree with eating breakfast! Thank you, I really appreciate it 😉
hi ms. sunset goddess first time ko po kukuha ng passport, is true po ba na kapag rush ang kinuha ko marerecive ko po ito within 7 days lang by delivery or mas ok kung pick up na sya tru office? do i need to bring photograp picture with white backgroud?
No, rush processing is 7 working days with the DFA plus allow 1-2 days for the delivery by the courier service. If you have a tight deadline, I suggest you opt to pick up your passport. But if you can afford to wait the extra 1-2 days, then the delivery option is more convenient. As for your question on the photo, please refer to what I’ve already said in the post above. They will take your picture in the DFA! Hope that helps. 🙂
Hi Ms.Sunset Goddess,
Your blog is very useful and detailed. I just have a question, I am currently in Afghanistan and my passport expires in April 2014. I was planning my vacation in November and renew my passport. There is another 5 months left before my passport to expire. In your opinion, is it can cause delays to renew my passport? I was concerned because I only have 17 days to stay in the Philippines and then I’ll also go back to my work.
Hi, thanks for your question 🙂 Is it possible for you to renew your passport in Afghanistan? You might want to try that as our Philippines consular services may already offer passport renewal there.
If you can only have your passport renewed here in Manila/Philippines, I confirm that you can have your passport renewed by November, since by that time, your passport will already have a validity of less than 6 months. Since your concern is if you can get your passport renewed within the 17 days that you’re here in the country, my suggestion is that you book your appointment at the earliest possible day in the 17-day period that you will be here. A few months before your arrival (2-3 months at least), book your appointment with the DFA already via online appointment. Then, select rush processing so that you can have your new passport 7 working days from your interview. But I think the most crucial step is for you to secure an early appointment, a date early enough in your 17-day stay here. good luck and let us know how it goes 🙂 Cheers!
Hi, i applied for renewal of my passport at Philippine Embassy Doha Qatar last July 14, 2013. mostly it takes 45 days for the renewal prior to receive the new passport… now i’m going home on August 2, 2013 with my old passport with extension till July 2014. i can’t wait my new passport here in Qatar due to urgent matter that i need to go home. is it possible to receive the new passport in the Philippines? The Embassy told me to contact the DFA and request to release my passport from there. could you please tell me how’s the procedure?
Sorry, I really can’t answer your concern since it’s more of an internal DFA logistics concern, and not something to do with renewal in the Philippines. My suggestion is for you to call the DFA hotline at 556-0000 (Monday to Friday 8 AM to 5 PM only).My take on it is that the issuing office for your passport is DFA Qatar,and so they may have to make arrangements with DFA Manila for the processing of your passport here in Manila instead of in Qatar. Another possibility is that the passport is actually processed here in the Philippines and not in Qatar, and so it’s just a matter of tracing your passport here and having it released to you in Manila instead of in Qatar. Good luck!
Hi, my wife and new born baby’s pasports are ready for collection, I have 2 collection slips for them. Can I be the one to pick it up? I will also take my wife’s ID with me and my son’s birth certificate just in case. Thanks.
I would guess that you would need an authorization letter from your wife. Yes, bringing her ID is a great idea. 😉
Hi very helpful post..just want to ask lng are there any parking lots on the area po??i have my appointment this august..and ive been wondering if there’s a parking lot there?again thanks for your blog..
You can park at S&R, right next to DFA Aseana 🙂
hi po ask ko lang kasi ung appointement ko is sept 03, 2013 tapos ung time ko is 4:00pm what you think na ma suggest nyo na time arrival ko sa DFA..kasi taga pampanga pa ako..is it true din ba na ung rush is 7 working days?
You should be in DFA by 3 pm or earlier. And yes, rush processing is really 7 working days. Good luck!
Hi Goodmorning,,, poor me ngayon ko lang nabasa to pero so far mabilis talaga ang ASEANA DFA sa pag process, early rin ako pumunta, 2:30pm appointment but I arrived there 1:30pm, lucky me, I finished all of them 2:15pm…. pinili ko ang Rush Processing last Sept. 03, so it will be release by Sept. 12 which is also stated on my receipt but unfortunately ng bumalik ako, by Sept. 17 pa daw, yun lang ang disappointment ko kasi nagbayad ako ng rush processsing then eventually inextend pa. when I got home , I immediately call their hotline to know how cme it happened, they told me that they are not liable once there is a technical error in their systems like calamities, brown out and etc. and there’s no need for me to refund my express fee. its not important for me about the fees, what is important is their responsilities to provide us the accurate details so that its not hassle to us to come back there for nothing. Hope on Sept. 17 I could get my passport… ThaNK yOU
Good day.. I thanked God for having a detailed information like this regarding renewal of passport. Ask ko lang po, nag expire ang green passport ko nung October 2011 pa. And fortunately, may invitation ako for singapore this October 2013.. Is it possible pa ba na ma- renew passport ko kahit sobrang expired na? And same requirements pa rin ba kagaya ng sayo? Maraming salamat and God bless you always.
Thanks for such a complete post! Renewing my passport tomorrow, hope I get through it as fast as you did.
Thank you so much. This is very informative. Very helpful. 🙂
do they take your old passport when you renew your passport?
No, DFA personnel will only punch it with holes so that the old passport can no longer be used. But you get to keep it.
wow! thank you fors this. your blog is very informative. i appreciate it a lot! i hope there’ll be more people like you who wants to share their experience for purposes of helping others who will go through the same process. btw, how long did it take you to receive your passport from the day you applied? was the 7 days rush period accurate? thank you so much again!
Yes, 7 working days for rush processing is accurate. It could be less than 7 working days. Allow 1-2 working days for delivery.
Oh my! this is very INFORMATIVE and very DETAILED. THANK YOU SO VERY MUCH.This is a big help.God Bless.
ang galing mam! detailed hehe salamat po!
My passport got wet. June 2016 pa ang expiration. Can I set an appointment for renewal? Or do I still need an affidavit or something?
I am trying to set an appointment for April 02, 2014, but it won’t let me..Do you have any idea why? or it’s just too far from today? It says no slots available…though Nov. has still some slots available…thanks…
The same problem with me, I tried already to set an appointment this coming February but no available slots, then March, April, May…………….December always no available slots.
I think much better last 2005, just went there in DFA in the morning then after lunch, you can go home already
hi id like to ask if pwede pa ma renew pag expired na example jan 18 2014 expiration date..our appointment was set on feb 3 2014 will the processes be the same? thank you!!!!
OK lang siguro mag sleeveless, basta wag lang mag topless or bottomless.
You know what, yung naka pink on that signage, probably bakla. Haha! Love the subtle joke, it’s cool.
I renewed my passport at robinson’s galleria. It took me under 10 minutes to finish the process. Yes, 10 minutes. There’s no queue at all. Book your renewal on a saturday afternoon. Mine was at 4pm. Just to make sure, i arrived there at around 3 pm. They allowed me to go through the process even if it is not my scheduled time yet. I was already outside chatting with the security guards about how fast the process was at around 3:10 pm. But note that saturday transactions are considered “rush” already, that’s worth 1200. Paying extra 250 pesos for comfortable and hassle-free transaction is not bad at all in imho. This may not always be the case but i just heard from a close friend of mine that he renewed his passport also in galleria. Same story.
Wow that’s good for you! However, the issue with mall-based DFA outlets is usually they will have fewer slots available for each day compared to the main branch of DFA in Aseana.
hi mam thanks po sa blog nyo ^^
ask ko din po pala, uuwi ako sa march1 kaya isasabay ko na yung pag renew ng passport ko wich will expire this nov, I’m a bit confused lang po kc dual cit ako may mga additional requirements po ba?
thanks po, gbu…
Yes, there are additional requirements for dual citizens. Please refer to comment above. Thanks.
hi mam.. tanong ko lang po if may ways ba to rush my passport kasi badly needed ko na yung passport ko for visa application para maprocess na yung employment contract ko,,, nakapagrenew na ko pero kelangan ko ng makuha ng mas mabilis may paraan pa ba?
hello. ask ko lang if you got your receipt back? was it in the delivery too, with your passport? thanks! 🙂
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Hello, anyone can answer. I have a schedule for passport renewal sa Galleria this April 16, I already confirmed it and printed out my appointment copy, but after a week, my sister tried her luck to get me an earlier date by redoing the online application process, but when she got to the part where you’re going to choose the appointment date she did not continue anymore because there’s no early dates available. So, is my April 16 schedule still valid then? This is my first time to do it online and I am just so worried, I have to leave the country next month so I badly need it renewed soon. Please reply
Yes, original appointment date will still be valid.
Hi! Just want to ask if you have an idea on how to change my passport that had been badly wet. Will it be renewal or lost? Because I’ve scan through it there’s no choice for a damaged one. Thank you so much.
Technially, renewal but you have to submit an Affidavit of Mutilation of Passport and supporting documents as if it’s a new passport application. Email me if you need a sample of the affidavit.
actually i need notorized affidavit of retrieval and notorized affidavit of explanation regarding issuance of travel document. i lost my passport in the US and then recently got back my passport.
Hi Lon! As advised in my reply to your comment below, please make sure you have your documents (affidavits) notarized before you go to the DFA, for good measure, in case the notary public late is late or unavailable. This statement above was in reply to comment regarding wet passport. Cheers!
Hi! i have the same problem as Chi, just want to ask if i still need to make an appointment? I have a scheduled flight in 4 weeks. thanks 😀
Hi! i have the same problem with Chi! just want to ask if i still need to have an appointment with the passport renewal? I will be travelling in 4 weeks and i need the passport badly. thanks
Hi Macky, yes, you still have to have an appointment for renewal of mutilated/damaged passport. If your situation falls under one of the EMERGENCY scenarios listed by the DFA here http://www.passport.com.ph/info/requirements/for/emergency, then you can proceed to the DFA without any appointment. As already mentioned, you can also renew your passport without any appointment if you are eligible to avail of DFA’s courtesy lane (see: http://www.passport.com.ph/info/requirements/for/courtesylane). You will need to submit an affidavit of mutilated passport. Email me at editor@sunsetgoddessmanila.com if you want a sample copy. Good luck!
Why i can’t get an appointment on my selected date “Slots is not available”
Then it simply means that the slot is not available and you have to choose another slot/date!
Thanks for taking the time to do this very informative and quite detailed post! Very much appreciated!
Thanks for your post …very helpful!
I just want to ask what time the notorial services open?
Hi Lon! Thanks. Notarial and photocopying services should be open at the same time that DFA Aseana is open. However, for good measure, if you really need to have certain documents notarized, then you should have them notarized before you go for your passport appointment so that in case the notary is not available on that particular date and time of your appointment, your whole application process won’t be delayed. Cheers!
Your guide on passport renewal which you did 3 years ago is still very helpful to this. I was not keen about photocopying some pages of my old passport thinking I may not need them. But here I am, already waiting for encoding and picture-taking because I followed exactly what you wrote about requirements. Reason why I photocopied was I saw you got your old passport issued 3 weeks after mine. Thank you, Sunset Goddess!
Jen
You’re very much welcome!! Your comment reminded me to update this post on passport renewal to reflect current fees and procedures. Do let me know if you experienced substantial changes from the steps in this post with your recent renewal experience. Thanks!
Hi Judy,
Done after 45 minutes. SM Megamall staff are very organized and friendly. Nothing’s changed, fees still the same but delivery dates are longer because of what they call “transitioning”. I didn’t inquire about it. Rush takes 10 days from 7. Regular, now 20 days from 15.
Jen
Hi Sunset Goddess,
If i’ll renew my passport can i still use the old one (more than six months before expiry) while waiting for the new one?
thanks a lot.
Yes, you can since your current passport still has more than 6 months before it expires. During the processing of your documents, the DFA personnel will ask you whether you will still use your old passport while waiting for your new passport. If not, then they will punch holes into the cover of your old passport. Just make sure you indicate to the DFA personnel that you will be traveling during the 2-weeks or 1-week (if rush) period while your new passport is being processed so you can still bring home your current passport. Happy travels!
hi! thank you so much for all the information! big help ito since i will be renewing my passport on Saturday. may i ask also, is there a specific size of the paper used for photocopying i.e. A4, short or long bond paper? thanks in advance!
Hi Apple, you’re welcome. The specific sizes of paper for photocopying does not matter. Good luck!
hello! finished renewal of my and my kids’ passport last Saturday at SM Manila. finished in less than an hour! i think less talaga ang tao pag Saturday kaya lang automatic na considered rush ang processing so you pay P1,200. have to say i was very satisfied with their service. everyone was courteous.
Thanks for the tip Apple! 🙂
Hi Sunset Goddess,
Thank you for this helpful post. I am scheduled to renew my passport on August 24th because I followed your advise to get the earliest slot and the available was on that day from now, which is 7:30. I look forward to have a less stressful appointment because usually, I allot a whole day for this kind of transaction to avoid any inconvenience with my schedule. So again, thank you!
Thanks Lea Rose. Do let me know how your passport appointment went!
It went well, we were late 15 minutes but the security still allowed us to enter. there were not much people in there and it was raining. We stayed and get done in an hour. Thank you so much!
Hi po, regarding po sa renewal my passport expired on august 2016, but i plan to go vacation on march 2016 for 1 month if God permit, and i decide po na jan nlang sa manila ko i renew kaysa sa abroad. im from misamis oriental OFW. ilang days po pag ipadeliver yung passport manila to Laguindingan Misamis Oriental?
Hi Sherly. I would guess that there would only be a maximum of 7 days for provincial deliveries on top of the usual 7 working days processing (for rush). Anyway, I did call the DFA passport appointment hotline for you at (632) 737-1000 to confirm and the agent confirmed that it will depend on the courier you choose at the DFA appointment center but usually it will just take an additional 2 to 3 calendar days for delivery to Mindanao (on top of the 7 working days for rush processing). My own suggestion, for good measure, is for you to pay the extra fee for RUSH processing since you’re an OFW and it’s better to have the passport with you sooner, rather than later. If you set the appointment in DFA Aseana, you will have a choice of couriers (DHL, LBC, 2Go, etc.) while in the DFA passport centers in SM Malls, usually the courier is only LBC. So, for good measure, I suggest you set an appointment in DFA Aseana so you also have more choices with the courier (although based on experience, LBC really has the widest coverage nationwide, but it may differ depending on your province.) Hope that helps! Let me know how else I may help you! Cheers!
Hi Sunset Goddess, I’m a newly married and my Passport will expire on September 2017, my questions is do i need to update my Status on Passport from single to Married right away? I will travel to Qatar with my wife on December 2015. If I will not update it will I be having a problem though I have our Marriage Contract with me but my status in my Passport is Single? Thank You.
Your question is so timely for me personally because I’m getting married and have also been researching my passport renewal options/ change of status after I get married 🙂 To answer your question, NO, you don’t need to update/change your passport to reflect your marital status per se, unless you have special circumstances to consider, such as visas and visa applications. For example, in your case, your marital status may be relevant when you apply for a visa for Qatar and Qatar may require that your legal name (which I assume will be your married name) match the name on your passport. Take note that under Philippine law, women do not need to adopt the name of their husbands but of course, what usually happens is women do adopt the names of their husbands (for practical reasons including having the same last name as your future children).
If you intend to adopt the surname of your husband, then for good measure, change your status on your passport as soon as you can, preferably before you travel. I checked with DFA and we can change our passport status from single to married even if our passport is not yet expiring within 1 year. You just need to follow the requirements and procedure for renewal of passports, plus submit your Marriage Contract in Security Paper issued by the National Statistics Office (NSO) or Certified True Copy of MC issued by the Local Civil Registrar and duly authenticated by NSO. Hope this helps! Good luck.
Thank you. It helps a lot. I will tell my wife to change her status. How about me? Do I need also or just wait for the renewal? Thanks again.
Hi Aj, Sorry, I thought you were the wife! 🙂 You don’t need to update your status (passport does not indicate if you’re married or single). Only married women need to update due to change in name. Good luck! Let us know about your experience on updating marital status for your wife.
Hi Sunset Goddess, thank you for this very informative post.
I am an OFW based in Japan and I usually travel overseas as part of my work. Now, I only have two blank pages left in my passport so I need to renew it soon. I have trips lined up so my plan is to renew in the Philippines for faster processing. I don’t have an appointment so I’m hoping I could use the lane for OFWs you’ve mentioned in your post and use my employment contract as a proof. However, my contract is written in Japanese language only, do you think they will accept this? Also, I plan to have my birth date and birth place corrected when I renew my passport. Do you know if there are additional requirements besides the ones listed for normal renewal?
I plan to go back to the Philippines twice, the first one is for application and the next is one for passport pick up.
Hi, for good measure, get in touch with the Japanese embassy and ask who is their recognized official translator then have your employment contract translated from Japanese to English.
If you plan to correct your birth date and birth place, then you will have to show proof like the correct birth certificate ( I assume the correct birth date and birth place details are already reflected in your NSO issued birth certificate. Otherwise, you have to undergo a correction of entry process involving your Local Civil Registrar and the NSO). I would also guess you will need to submit an Affidavit of Discrepancy to the DFA. Send me an email so I can send you sample affidavit. Good luck!
Ask ko lang po halimbawa nakapag-set na ako ng appointment tapos mag try ulit ng panibagong appointment automatic po ba na macacancel yung naunang appointment?
Yes, it’s automatic.
Ofw po ksi ako,bakasyon lang ako ngayon dito sa pinas,ang rules po kc s kung san ako ngwobngwowork 1yr. before ma expire yung passport dpat iparenew na para -renew ng visamakapagnggpa-appointment po ako at ang nakuha kong slot is sept.16. Worried lang akpoakbaka ksi madelay eh balik po abpokobroad is oct. 2. Advice lang po ano po ba magandang gawin. yung passport ko po kc ma eexpire na sya sept.2016,which is saktong time sana na marenew n sya ngayon pero ntatakot ako na bka nga madelay at hindi umabot ng oct. 2
Can you please send an email to editor@sunsetgoddessmanila.com and explain your exact situation? Where are you located as OFW? Apparently there is a delay now in processing by the DFA (rush processing can take up to 15 days). You may also call 737-1000 (DFA passport hotline) to verify current wait times.
Hi I would like to ask if Saturday is considered as a working day for them? I have a scheduled appointment on August 29 @3pm and I have a scheduled flight on September 15 2015.
It says on the DFA website na 10days processing po yung rush processing.
Makukuha ko po ba yung passport ko before Sept 15 if ever I’ll have it rushed?
Thank you! 🙂
Kindly check with DFA. Technically, Saturday is not a working day. But only DFA can finally determine if it’s counted as such if they really have work on Saturdays. Thanks!
Hi. I was told by the travel agency that I need two valid IDs and my original passport to be able to request for the passport renewal. I really hope this is not true as I don’t have any valid ID for now except my passport. They also told me that postal ID won’t be accepted. I hope you can give me the best advice. Thank you
Sis pano po if d nakarting sa appointment? Okay lang ba pumunta pa din kahit 2 days late na?
Hi Miss Sunset ask ko lang po sana. How if sa DFA marquee mall pampanga ako nag renew pede kaya sa main DFA Manila kunin yung passport ko?30 working days kc dito sa Pampanga eh gusto ko sanang makuha ng mas maaga passport ko need it badly po eh…Thank you
No, you have to claim it where you applied. Another option is to have it couriered to your home or office.
Will it be possible for me to get a passport for 3 days only because I am planning to have my vacation on February and my boss is giving me 7 days vacation only from Taiwan to Philippines.As soon as I reached Manila I want to renew my passport because it will be expired on October 26,2016.The reason why I want to renew it is that I am going to apply in Canada and I want it to be renewed in the Philippines during my 7 days vacation.Thanks and waiting for your reply.
It is always 7 days rush processing. I’ve had my passport renewed upon endorsement of a Philippine Senator (so no need for appointment since I was eligible for courtesy lane) and it still took 7 working days. The only kind of passport with less than 7 working days processing is DIPLOMATIC passport. This is really the procedure I’m afraid.
Hi good day. Thanks for the very informative blog regarding phil passport application. Two thumbs up. I am having a vacay next year april 2016 and i am planning to renew my passport. Can i renew my passport even if it is still valid until October 2017? I am from nz and want to renew it in ph since it has faster processing time. Is it possible to renew it even if it is still valid for 1 year and 6 months? Thanks
Already pointed out in post and other comments—you can renew your passport at most 1 year from expiry. If more than a year, I suggest you contact DFA about your situation and ask if you can be allowed to renew despite validity of more than 1 year. Call 730-1000 for more information. Good luck.
Good day,
I’m an ofw and just found out that passports should have a validity of 6 months prior to departure . I’m planning of coming home this Christmas and will depart after new year which makes my passport “invalid” having 5 months and a week remaining prior to departure. If I applied here at the consulate in Osaka Japan , I guess I won’t receive it in time since it takes 4 weeks or so to get it back . My plan is to renew it at DFA Manila this December , however I already have my return ticket and I don’t think they can release my new passport before I depart. My question is , is it possible to still use my old passport and leave the country and just request for a letter or stamp from DFA to prove I have applied for a new one? Thank you so much … God bless
Lahat po ba ng branches ng dfa nag accept ng ofw lane?for passport renewal?
Yes!
FOR THE RENEWAL, DO THEY NEED TO GET MY OLD PASSPORT?
FOR THE RENEWAL, DO THEY NEED TO GET MY OLD PASSPORT? I MEAN DO I HAVE TO LEAVE IT THERE FOR DAYS..
No. They just ask you to present your old passport. Then, they will punch a hole through the cover so that you will not be able to use the old passport anymore. If you need to travel in the interim period between your application and the release of the new passport, DECLARE it to the DFA officer.
Thank you for the very detailed information. My passport will expire May 2017 and I learned from you that I can renew it a year before it’s expiry. One question is – do they have OFW lane in DFA Aseana?
Yes they have OFW in DFA Aseana! IN fact they have courtesy lane for OFWs in other branches as well, such as Megamall. Good luck!
Hi good afternoon po mag apply po aq ng visa q at need q ang passport number.pero ang passport is already expired last January 10,2016. At kanina lang aq nakapag appointment and my schedule is April 07 pa.there is any possibility ba na ma move ng mas maaga ang appointment q.at ang passport ba carries the same passport number ba pag renewal?please reply.salamat!
Your NEW, RENEWED passport will NOT Have the same number as your old passport. You cannot apply for a visa as usually, embassies will require passports to have at least SIX months validity. So, your only option is to get a passport renewal appointment schedule at an earlier date. Some suggestions: check schedules of other passport processing centers (your best bet will be DFA Aseana since they have more slots), or you can try checking from time to time with the DFA online passport system if there is an earlier slot that opened. Another option to consider is, just wait for new passport before applying for your visa. Since you did not say in your question whether this is for employment purposes, I also don’t know if you are an OFW. If you are (with POEA papers, etc.), then you will be entitled to avail of the OFW lane, which means, NO NEED FOR YOU TO GET AN APPOINTMENT. So, please clarify the purpose of your visa. PLEASE BE MORE SPECIFIC with your question. You may also email me at editor@sunsetgoddessmanila.com. Hope that helps
Hi,
Just curious what they’ll do sa current passport ko during the application process. Will they retain it or ibabalik din kaagad after they checked it on that day. I still need my passport pa kasi to travel before marelease ang new passport.
Looking forward to your response and thanks for your time.
You just have to inform them that you will be using your passport while they are processing your new one. They allow that.
Helllo Sunset Goddess, ive read you were endorsed by a senator. I’ll try my luck with our Congressman would you know what below means?
“Endorsement from House of Representatives must be endorsed by DLLU before lodging their applications to Courtesy Lane”
I dont get what DLLU is kasi. I tried calling today kaso wala sumasagot sa phone ng DFA office. Will have business travel on March 14 and my passport is already expired 🙁
Thanks for your question. DLLU stands for the “Department Legislative Liaison Unit” of the DFA. Basically, you just have to pass through this unit to have your endorsement “verified”. Good lucK!
Last question…its hard to connect with DFA phone numbers. Would you know to whom should we address the endorsement letter? Thank you.
For good measure, why don’t you just address it to the DFA’s Department Legislative Liaison Unit?
Thanks Sunset Goddess 🙂 happy to know I did actually just that.
Hi Sunset Goddess! I’ve just had a problem now..ung husband ko kc nag re-new ng passport Feb.19 and he chose regular processing..Dadating samin ung passport by March 19 pa, unexpectedly biglang dumating ung post na hinihintay namin sa poea…and now need ng husband ko nung passport until March 3 lang..we’ve tried calling ung mga tel numbers na binigay nla pro wla kaming nakuha, we even tried sending them emails whith regards to our concern pro wla kami reply na makuha….Do you think possible pa din na mapa expedite ung releasing ng passport even pick-up nlang namin? Thanks.
I’m sorry if I was only able to reply now. But if I were in your shoes, and for the benefit of other people reading your question, what I would have done will be to go straight to the DFA office or mall branch where you processed your passport and request to upgrade the processing time of the passport. I always recommend to my readers to ALWAYS AVAIL OF THE RUSH PROCESSING, especially in your case where your husband is an OFW. Yes, it’s more expensive. But for the peace of mind and like in your case, much less stress and hassle, it’s worth paying the extra price. I hope your husband was able to claim his passport in time for his departure. Let us know how it went.
HI Sunset Goddes! napakainformative po ng post moh, karagdagang tanong lang, nagpaset ako ng appointment para magpaRenew para sa gf ko kz uuwi xa next month (May 13) unfortunately ang available lang na slot is June (so June 15 ang pinili nmin) kaso kelangan nyang bumalik by June 23, tanong lng, may way p kaya mapabilis makuha ung passport kahit rush na, dina kz aabot sa 7 working days eh….OFW po ung gf koh…thanks sa response in advance…..God Bless!!
OFW doesn’t need to set an appointment. Just show up in DFA with employment contract;
hi Sunset,
Just would like to ask if you surrendered your old passport? I want to know because i have a lot of travel stamps on my soon to expire (and soon to have no more blank pages) in my current passport. I think you get to keep your old passport, is that correct?
Yes you do! Unlike other countries (for example, France), we are not required to surrender our old passports. So you can get to keep it for posterity and souvenir’s sake! 🙂
oh sorry, i think i saw you responded to this same question before. thank you for responding. so i guess i get to keep my passport, also, i will be traveling while they are processing my passport. would need to keep it with me,
many thanks again
hello sunset goddess, im an ofw.. ask ko lang po. ang passport ko mag expire sept. 2017 pero pina renew ng employer ko sa kuwait dahil sa new rules nila na kelangan 2 years bago mg.expire passport. tsaka magawan ng visa.. anu po kelangan kung gawin para ma renew ang passport ko in a rush way.. thank you po.. god bless..
You can go directly to your Philippine consulate in Kuwait or if in the PHilippines, go to DFA and show your employment contract and tell them about your employer’s requirement.
Hi Sunset Goddess. Uuwi po kami sa pinas pero limited time lang. wala bang problema na kumuha agad ako ng balik manggagawa bago mag renew ng passport? Thanks.
It depends on your schedule. Book an online appointment as soon as possible.
Kudos to DFA-Megamall, we processed my 3 kids passport there (new application). Our appointment was at
3:00PM, but glad to share with your that we finished all by before 5:00PM.
I wanna ask how to renew po may pasport for 2hrs po kailangan po kc ng madalian turuan nyo lng po aq ng tamang proseso maraming salamat po
The steps are already in this post!
hi po, i ave a question regarding the last page of the passport which is the emergency contact information. Im planning to change the emergency contact info but im confused s it legal. and if so how.( is it possibe to cross out or use correction fluid)? thankyou
I would think a correction fluid or even putting paper over that page to reflect updated information will be alright. Most important thing that shouldn’t be tampered with is the first page with the PERSONAL INFORMATION and of course, the visa pages. Hope this helps.
Hello po, I would like to ask if I can use my old passport for international travel while waiting for my new passport (renewal) . I’m in abroad right now, but I am planning to renew my passport in Philippines while I’m on vacation. The problem is I have scheduled flight (for a side trip vacation) before the 7 working days released of new passport. Can I use my old passport for a time being?
Yes you can! You just need to specify it to the DFA personnel who will check your documents so that he or she won’t punch through the cover of your old passport.
Hello po..ask ko lng po kung ilang working days ptocessing ng renewal ng passport.ksi po ung friend ko nasa pilipinas po ngayon di sya makakuha ng oec nya sa poea ksi daw po 5months nlng ung passport nya maexpired na..required sa poea na before 6months dapat nakakuha na sya..kc flight na nya sa august 31 2016.. ask ko lang po kung may mabilis na paraan ng renewal ng passport..thank you
My passport is valid until Feb 2017. I checked the online appointment system, the slots are taken before Jan 2017. I have to submit a new passport to my new employer because they cannot process my visa without it. And it is delayed already. Is there any other way to process my passport without applying online?
If you are an OFW, you can show your employment contract and you will be able to avail of courtesy lane privileges. No need to set up online appointment. Good luck!
So nice to find someone with some unique thoughts on this subject. realy thanks for beginning this up. this website is one thing that is needed on the web, somebody with somewhat originality. useful job for bringing something new to the web!
Thank you. Your article is reassuring and helpful. For my e-passport renewal this week, I wasnt asked for additional ID and documents anymore, just the form, passport and photocopy of the first page was needed.
My passport and my husband passport will be expired in August next year (2018), then my daughter’s passport is expiring very soon which is this coming May 2017. I am planning to renew all our passport at the same time this end of the month in the Philippines during our 2 week vacation holiday for I am an OFW. Do I still need to book for an appointment even I’m an OFW and they are just my dependants? if so, that means I have to book for a group appointment and not for an individual appointment?
Thank you so much.
There is a courtesy lane for OFWs. There are also dedicated DFA mall outlets specifically catering to OFWs (check out DFA Robinsons). Be sure you have a copy of your POEA certificate with you as proof that you are indeed an OFW.
thank you so much for this post, sunset goddess! it really is super helpful with all the tips and im definitely gonna follow them in my next appointment! im just getting a bit paranoid because im gonna get my passport renewed on june 29, and i have a visa appointment on july 31. do you think aabot siya if i rush it? 🙂 im just getting really paranoid…hehe thank you!
Hi Sunset Goddess! Meron Lang pu akong taming regarding sa passport ko balak kupo kasing umuwi nang pinas by next month before Ma expire ang passport ko late renew napo ako mebabayaran puba pag late renew? Ngayon feb 8 2017 po expire nasa malaysia pu ako nag aaral at magkano po pag pina expedite yung bagong passport po nag aaral pukase ako dito sa malaysia do they need any other documents puba please reply po ..