FAQ
Passports
Travel Document
Affidavit of Support/Letter of Invitation
Visa Upon Arrival Program of the Philippine Bureau of Immigration
Extension of Philippine Entry Visa
Pag-IBIG Fund Membership
PhilHealth
Work Permit and Visa
Dual Citizenship
Certificate of Legal Capacity to Contract Marriage (CLCCM)
Registry of Filipino Nationals
Special Power of Attorney
Report of Birth
Report of Marriage
NBI Clearance
Travel Tax Exemption
Waiver of Exclusion Ground (WEG)
Passports
Q. I have a green Philippine passport, which is expiring in four months. When can I renew it?
A. You do not have to wait for the expiry date of your passport especially when it has less than 6 months’ validity. This is because for purposes of travel abroad, international civil aviation regulations require passports to have at least 6 months’ validity beyond the intended period of stay in the country of destination. In view of this, Philippine passports may be renewed six (6) months before their expiry date. Green and maroon(machine readable) passports that have not yet expired will remain valid and will be honored by immigration authorities worldwide until their stated expiry dates. In case of emergency, the Embassy may renew an unexpired green or maroon passport for another two (2) years. However, the passport holder shall be required to apply for a new ePassport at the same time.
Q. I lost my passport while shopping at Siam Paragon. What are the requirements if I want to apply for a new passport?
A. The requirements in applying for the replacement of a lost passport are as follows:
1. Police report (if the police report is in Thai language, it should be with English translation.)
2. Affidavit of Loss (and payment of a separate notarial fee of Baht 1,125.00).
3. Duly filled-out passport application form.
4. One (1) passport-size photo ID with plain light blue background
5. Passport replacement fee of Bt 6,750.00.
There is a clearing period of fifteen (15) days. After 15 days and the Embassy has not received any negative information from the office that issued the passport (i.e., DFA-Manila, Regional Consular Office, or another Philippine Embassy or Consulate) preventing the issuance of a new passport to the applicant, the latter shall return to the Embassy to have his photo, fingerprint, and signature electronically taken using the new ePassport machine.
Q. I need to renew my passport as well as that of my wife. I also want to apply for a new passport for my newborn child. How much is the passport renewal fee? How much is the passport fee for my child? Can I file the passport application for my entire family?
A. The passport renewal fee is Baht 2,700. The passport fee for your child is also Baht 2,700. However, before you can apply for a passport for your new-born child, you have to first file a report of birth at the Embassy. The requirements for Report of Birth are as follows:
▪ Four sets of duly-accomplished Report of Birth form (a copy may be downloaded from the Philippine Embassy website, www.philembassy-bangkok.net, under consular services - downloads).
▪ Personal appearance of at least one parent (Note: If the child is illegitimate, the mother shall file the report of birth).
▪ One (1) colored passport-size photo of the child.
▪ Thai birth certificate of the child translated into English and duly authenticated by the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
▪ Copy and 4 photocopies of the marriage certificate of the parents.
- If the marriage was solemnized in the Philippines, the marriage certificate must be duly authenticated bythe National Statistics Office (NSO) and the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA)-Authentication Division.
- If the marriage was solemnized under Thai law, the marriage certificate must be accompanied by an English translation and duly authenticated by the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs. (Note: The marriage must also have been previously reported to the Embassy.)
▪ Report of Birth processing fee of Bt1,125.00
Both your wife and child must personally appear at the Embassy because their photos and signature and fingerprint (of your wife) have to be electronically taken using the Embassy’s new ePassport machine.
Q. I recently got married to my Thai boyfriend in Phuket under Thai law. What is the procedure if I want to use my married name in my Philippine passport?
A. First, report your marriage to the Embassy then apply for passport amendment (for green passports only). For ePassport holders to change from single to married surname, they must apply for a new e-passport. The requirements for Report of Marriage are as follows:
1. Thai marriage certificate translated into English and duly authenticated by the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs;
2. Original and copy of both your passports’ personal data page and visa pages;
3. Duly accomplished Report of Marriage Form (4 sets); and
4. Payment of the processing of Baht 1,125.00.
The requirements for passport amendment (for green passport holders only) are as follows:
(1) Duly filled-up application for passport amendment;
(2) Payment of the processing fee of Baht 900.00; and
(3) Copy of your marriage certificate in Thai with official English translation, registered with the Amphur and duly authenticated by the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs).
Q. I was advised by the Embassy that my new passport is ready for pick-up. I was also told to bring my old passport and present it to the Embassy for cancellation when I claim my new passport. Will my old passport be returned to me after it is cancelled by the Embassy? I will need my old passport back because my visa is stamped in it.
A. The Embassy will return your old passport to you after canceling it.
Q. I am a Filipino teacher in Bangkok. I have been working here for almost two years. This December, I plan to visit my fiancé in Timbuktu and after that proceed to Manila for a one-month vacation with my relatives. However, I noticed that my passport is expiring in 5 months. I have already booked a ticket for Timbuktu. Can I travel using my passport? What can you advise me since I do not want to cancel or forfeit my plane ticket?
A. International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) regulations require that a passport must have at least six months beyond the period of intended stay in the country of destination. Because of this, it is very likely that you will not be allowed to board your flight. One solution to your problem is if you are holding a green passport, the Embassy can extend its validity for another two years. The fee for the extension of your passport’s validity is 900 Baht. However, if you apply for extension of the validity of your green passport, you will be asked to apply for a new ePassport at the same time.
Q. I work in Thailand. My work permit will expire in June 2011. I plan to visit my relatives in the Philippines in December 2011. However, my passport will expire in February 2011. Can I travel with only 2 months left in my passport’s validity? Will I not have any problem with Philippine and Thai immigration authorities?
A. You may not have a problem entering the Philippines with only 2 months left in your passport’s validity. However, Thai Immigration might not allow your entry into Thailand because of your passport. This is because of International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) regulations requiring that passports must have at least six months validity from the date of the holder’s intended date of arrival in his/her place of destination.
Our suggestion is for you to renew your passport before you travel in December, or have its validity extended. If you are holding a green passport, the Philippine Embassy can extend its validity for another two years. The passport extension fee is Baht 900.00. However, if you apply for extension of the validity of your green passport, you will be asked to apply for a new ePassport at the same time.
Q. I have been hearing about the Philippine ePassport. What is an ePassport?
A. An ePassport is a passport which features microchip technology. An integrated circuit (chip) within its pages contains the data that are essential in verifying the identity of the passport holder. These data include the personal data found on the data page of the passport, the biometrics of the passport holder, the unique chip identification number, and a digital signature to verify the authenticity of the data stored on the chip.
The chip technology allows the information stored in an ePassport to be read by special chip readers at a close distance.
Q. What are biometrics?
A. Biometrics are the unique and measurable physical characteristics of an individual that include face recognition, fingerprints, and iris scan. The Philippine Electronic Passport (or Philippine ePassport) uses the digital image of the passport photograph that can be used with face recognition technology to verify the identity of the passport holder. It captures the fingerprints of the passport holder, for identification using the Automated Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS).
Q. What are the special features of the Philippine ePassport?
A. The Philippine ePassport allows information stored on the chip to be verified with the information visually displayed on the passport.
It uses contactless microchip technology that allows the information stored on the chip to be read by special chip readers at a close distance.
It contains an integrated photograph of the holder, a digitized secondary photo, and an electronic print of the holder’s signature.
It contains overt and hidden security features such as Invisible Personal Information (IPI), letterscreen, microprinting, and UV reactive ink, among others.
Q. What is the difference between the existing maroon machine readable passport (MRP) and the ePassport?
A. An MRP contains a machine-readable zone (MRZ) printed in accordance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standard. It is capable of being read manually and with the use of a machine.
An ePassport has an embedded IC chip where the photograph and personal information of the bearer are stored in accordance with ICAO specifications. These information can be read by chip readers at close distance. An ePassport also contains an MRZ.
Q. What are the advantages of the Philippine ePassport?
A. The ePassport is highly secure, hence avoids passport reproduction and tampering. The ePassport database is enhanced with AFIS that guards against multiple passport issuances to the same person and enhances impostor detection. It facilitates fast clearance of travelers at immigration checkpoints. Moreover, ePassports enable their holders to use automated border clearance or “E-gates”, automated issuance of boarding passes, and faster travel arrangements with airlines. For countries, the use of electronic passport also provides better border protection and security.
Q. Why do we have to use ePassports now?
A. The ePassport is the world standard in travel documents. As member of ICAO, the Philippines has an international obligation to enhance the security of its travel documents.
The issuance of ePassports will allow the Philippines to offer world-class consular services to its nationals.
Countries have greater confidence and acceptance of the ePassport since it is enhanced with biometric technology.
Q. How much does an ePassport cost?
A. The ePassport costs Baht 2,700.00 versus Baht 2,250.00 for Machine Readable Passport (MRP).
Q. Why is the ePassport more expensive than the MRP?
A. The ePassport is more expensive than the MRP because of the added security features factored into its production. Comparative prices of ePassports from different countries, however, show that the cost of the Philippine ePassport is among the lowest in the world.
Q. What other countries use ePassports?
A. ePassports are already being used in more than 60 countries worldwide. In ASEAN, besides the Philippines, five other (5) countries are already issuing ePassports (Singapore, Brunei, Malaysia, Thailand and Cambodia). In the future, all countries are seen to switch to the ePassport due to the increasing need for efficient and better border security.
Q. Can I continue using my old passport, which is still valid?
A. Yes, you may continue using your old passport (MRP or maroon and non-MRP or green) until its expiry. However, it is good practice to make sure your passport is valid at least six months before your intended date of travel to avoid any inconvenience.
Q. Will there be additional requirements needed for the processing of ePassports?
A. The requirements for ePassport processing will remain the same as those for the MRP. However, personal appearance is required for the taking of biometrics (i.e., fingerprints, photo, and signature).
Q. Can existing holders of the maroon passports (machine readable pasports-MRP) simply surrender their passports and have them converted to an ePassport?
A. Holders of MRPs can have their passport cancelled and apply for ePassport if they so wish. However, they must pay the passport fee of Baht 2,700.00.
Q. Where can I apply for an ePassport?
A. You can apply for an ePassport at the Philippine Embassy in Bangkok or at DFA in Manila or in any of the DFA’s Regional Consular Offices when in the Philippines.
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Travel Document
Q. What is a Travel Document? What are the requirements for its issuance?
A. The Embassy issues travel documents to Filipino nationals in Thailand to enable their direct, one-way travel to the Philippines. The issuance of a Travel Document is allowed only in emergency/critical cases (e.g., in the case of a Philippine national who lost his/her passport and needs to immediately return to the Philippines due the death or sudden illness of a relative). A travel document cannot be used as a short-cut in complying with the requirements for the renewal of a passport or the replacement of a lost passport. The requirements for securing a Travel Document are as follows:
▪ Duly notarized Affidavit of Loss.
▪ Original copy and photocopy of police report (if the report is in Thai language, it should be translated into English before submitting the same to the Embassy).
▪ Photocopy of lost passport or, in lieu thereof, any documentary proof of Philippine citizenship (e.g. PRC license; Philippine driver’s license);
▪ Duly accomplished passport application form;
▪ Duly accomplished application for Travel Document (2 sets);
▪ Three (3) passport-size color pictures.
▪ Processing fee of Bt1,350.00
Q. I lost my passport while shopping at Emporium Suites. I need to return to the Philippines immediately because my grandmother is gravely ill. Can I apply for a Travel Document in lieu of a passport so that I can travel to the Philippines right away?
A. Yes, you may apply for Travel Document in lieu of a new Philippine passport at the Embassy.
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Affidavit of Support/Letter of Invitation
Q. I want to invite my cousin in the Philippines for a one-week visit of Bangkok. Someone told me that I need to give my cousin an Affidavit of Support/Letter of Invitation duly authenticated by the Philippine Embassy in Bangkok or else the Philippine Immigration will not let her depart for Bangkok. Is an Affidavit of Support really necessary? If I send an Affidavit of Support/Letter of Invitation, is my cousin guaranteed of clearing the Bureau of Immigration and departing for Bangkok? How much is the authentication fee?
A. In a letter dated 11 October 2010 of the Philippine Bureau of Immigration to the Philippine Embassy in Thailand, the Bureau said “an authenticated affidavit of support/guarantee/sponsorship is not necessarily required but many Filipino travelers resort to this when they cannot otherwise show either their personal capacity or that of their sponsor to shoulder the costs of the trip.” The Bureau further stated that “having an authenticated affidavit of support/guarantee/sponsorship has to be read and carefully assessed, as authentication only guarantees due execution by the affiant [of the affidavit] and does not guarantee its contents.” Commenting on a recent case whereby the Bureau refused a Filipino female traveler to depart for Bangkok despite presenting a duly authenticated affidavit of support executed by her supposed sponsor in Thailand, the Bureau said the sponsor was not able to present proper identification documents which could have fully established his relationship with the female traveler.
Based on the explanation given by the Bureau of Immigration, it is clear that an affidavit of support/guarantee/sponsorship, though authenticated by the Philippine Embassy in Bangkok, is not a guarantee that the holder thereof can leave the Philippines. Invoking its powers to properly enforce the provisions of Republic Act 9208, also known as the “Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act of 2003,” the Bureau of Immigration reserves the right to prevent a Filipino traveler from leaving the Philippines despite the presentation of a duly authenticated affidavit of support/guarantee/sponsorship.
The authentication fee is Baht 1,125.00.
Q. Is “show money” required by the Bureau of Immigration?
A. “Show money” is not generally required by the Bureau of Immigration. However, Bureau of Immigration agents may require proof of financial capacity (such as bank statement, certificate of employment and compensation, etc.) especially if a passenger is traveling outside the Philippines only for the very first time. In the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand, it is also stated that foreign nationals applying for a tourist visa must present evidence of adequate finance (20,000 Baht per person and 40,000 Baht per family).
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Visa Upon Arrival Program of the Philippine Bureau of Immigration
Q. What is the Visa Upon Arrival Program (VUAP) of the Philippine Bureau of Immigration? Is it similar to the Visa on Arrival program of Thailand?
A. The VUAP is a program designed by the Philippine Bureau of Immigration to attract more foreign visitors into the country to boost the Philippine economy. The Bureau originally conceived the Prearranged VUAP as a mechanism to facilitate the entry of foreign investors from visa-required countries intending to enter the Philippines.
Due to the positive response to the program, it has been expanded to include investors and tourists alike from visa-required countries.
Prior to the Pre-Arranged VUAP, visa-required foreigners seeking to come to the Philippines have to travel to the nearest Philippine Embassy or consular office in their country of origin to apply, process and secure their single entry visas. Under the VUAP, these foreigners are provided the option to only get in touch with their business chamber or a legitimate local association, to directly file their request with the Bureau of Immigration. Once the processing of all their documentary requirements are complete they are issued a confirmation letter from the Philippine Bureau of Immigration and they can get a single or as much as up to three (3) year multiple entry visa upon arrival in the Philippines depending on the nature of their application.
Foreigners find the alternative system offered under the VUAP as a more convenient and expeditious way for them to secure visa to come to the Philippines instead of having to travel to the nearest Philippine embassy.
In fact, because it was found convenient, the Philippine Department of Tourism requested that the program be also made available to the tourist sector. Even the Asian Development Bank (ADM) and the TESDA, also requested to avail themselves of the program. Hence the decision to open the Pre-Arranged VUAP to all visitors from visa required countries.
The Philippines’ VUAP is unlike that of Thailand where all a traveler needs to do is board a flight and, upon arrival in Thailand, apply for a visa at the port of entry.
Under the Philippines’ VUAP, one cannot just fly into the Philippines and apply for a visa at the port of entry. The traveler must get a PRE-APPROVED VISA ON ARRIVAL PERMISSION. The pre-approval is done or worked out by the traveler’s business contact or sponsor (supplier, customer or business associate) in the Philippines. The contact or sponsor will have to apply for the visa through the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) or any foreign chamber in the Philippines such as the Chinese Federation OR Indian Chamber of Commerce.
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Extension of Philippine Entry Visa
Q. I am aware that I can avail myself of the 21-day no visa privilege to enter the Philippines. However, I may need to stay longer than 21 days in the Philippines. Can I apply for extension of my stay? Where can I apply? How long can I extend and how much is the extension fee?
A. Foreign visitors entitled to the 21-day no-visa privilege can apply for extension of their stay in the Philippines for another 38 days right upon their arrival at the airport. This is an innovation introduced by the Philippine Bureau of Immigration to save concerned foreign visitors precious time that they would have otherwise spent going to the Bureau of Immigration office in Intramuros, Manila just to have their authorized period of stay extended. The visa extension fee is Three Thousand and Ten Pesos (PhP3,010.) (Reference: www.immigration.gov.ph)
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Pag-IBIG Fund Membership
Q. Can Filipinos working in Thailand who are not yet Pag-IBIG members apply for Pag-IBIG membership at the Philippine Embassy in Bangkok?
A. Pag-IBIG Fund does not have a representative or collecting office in Thailand. However, this is one of the programs that the Embassy is trying to work out with Pag-Ibig Fund. Hopefully, Pag-IBIG Fund will consider setting up a collecting or representative office in Bangkok in the near future.
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PhilHealth
Q. I want to apply for PhilHealth. My friends, who are also working in Thailand, want to continue with their PhilHealth contributions. Can I apply for PhilHealth and can my friends pay for the PhilHealth premiums at the Philippine Embassy in Bangkok?
A. Like Pag-IBIG Fund, PhilHealth does not have a collecting or representative office in Thailand. This is another project that the Philippine Embassy is working on. Hopefully, PhilHealth will consider setting up a collecting or representative office in Bangkok in the near future.
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Work Permit and Visa
Q. My employer cancelled my work permit after I resigned from my job. The immigration stamp in my passport shows that I am authorized to stay in Thailand until December next year. Can I continue staying in Thailand on the basis of my entry visa?
A. No. The cancellation of your work permit automatically carried with it the cancellation of your entry visa. This means you have to exit Thailand immediately and re-enter the country with a new entry visa.
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Dual Citizenship
(Reference: www.immigration.gov.ph)
Q. I have been hearing about dual citizenship. What is it all about? Who may apply for dual citizenship?
A. Dual citizenship is a privilege granted to natural-born citizens of the Philippines who have lost their Philippine citizenship by reason of naturalization in a foreign country to reacquire or retain their Philippine citizenship.
Q. Who may apply for dual citizenship?
A. Under Republic Act. No. 9225, also known as the Citizenship Retention and Reacquisition Act of 2003, only natural-born citizens of the Philippines who have lost their Philippine citizenship by reason of their naturalization as citizens of a foreign country may retain/reacquire their Philippine citizenship.
Q. How does one prove that he or she is a natural-born Filipino?
A. A former natural-born citizen, who was born in the Philippines, shall submit the NSO-authenticated copy of his or her birth certificate.
A former natural-born citizen, who was born abroad, shall present a copy of the Report of Birth issued by the Philippine Embassy or Consulate and, in applicable cases, the original copy of the Birth Certificate by competent foreign authorities.
Q. What is the procedure in applying dual citizenship and what documents are required?
A. The procedure is as follows:
1. Applicant shall present a copy of his/her Birth Certificate issued or duly- authenticated by the National Statistics Office (NSO) in Manila.
2. Applicant accomplishes form entitled “Petition for Dual Citizenship and Issuance of Identification Certificate (IC) pursuant to RA 9225” and attaches three (3) 2”x2” photographs showing the front, left side and right side views of the applicant.
3. Applicant submits duly-accomplished petition to the Philippine Consulate/ Embassy together with the photos, birth certificate and a valid ID. (Note: applicants who are married and who wish to use their married names must submit a copy of their marriage certificate).
4. Applicant pays a processing fee of US$ 50.00 and is assigned a schedule for his/her oath of allegiance before a consular officer. Applicant takes his/her oath.
5. Applicant is given the original copy of his notarized oath of allegiance together with an Order of Approval issued by the Philippine Consulate General.
6. The Philippine Embassy/Consulate General forwards to the Bureau of Immigration in Manila the petition, oath, order of approval, and other supporting documents for issuance of an Identification Certificate.
7. The Bureau of Immigration issues an Identification Certificate (IC) and forwards it to the applicant through the Philippine Consulate General.
Q. Where do I apply for re-acquisition of Philippine Citizenship if I am in the Philippines?
A. A former natural-born Filipino citizen who is already in the Philippines and registered with the Bureau of Immigration shall file a petition under oath to the Commissioner of Immigration for the cancellation of the Alien Certificate of Registration (ACR) and issuance of an Identification Certificate (IC) as the case may be, under RA 9225.
A former natural-born citizen who is already in the Philippines but has not registered with the BI within 60 days from date of arrival shall file a petition under oath to the Commissioner of Immigration for the issuance of an IC under RA 9225.
Q. Where do I apply for re-acquisition of Philippine Citizenship if I am overseas?
A. A former natural-born citizen who is abroad but is a BI-registered alien shall file a petition under oath to the nearest Philippine Embassy or Consulate for evaluation. Thereafter, the Embassy or Consulate shall forward the entire records to the Commissioner of Immigration for the cancellation of the ACR and issuance of an IC under RA 9225.
A former natural-born citizen who is abroad and is not a BI-registered alien shall file a petition under oath to the nearest Philippine Embassy or Consulate for the issuance of an IC under RA 9225.
Q. What is the Oath of Allegiance?
A. The Oath of Allegiance is the final act that confers Philippine citizenship. It reads as follows:
"I,________________, solemnly swear that I will support and defend the Constitution of the Republic of the Philippines and obey the laws and local orders promulgated by the duly constituted authorities of the Philippines, and I hereby declare that I recognize and accept the supreme authority of the Philippines and will maintain true faith and allegiance thereto, and that I impose this obligation upon myself voluntarily without mental reservation or purpose of evasion."
Q. Is the conferment of Philippine citizenship under RA 9225 subject to administrative review?
A. The conferment of Philippine citizenship under RA 9225 is not subject to affirmation by the Secretary of Justice. However, Philippine citizenship may be revoked by competent authority upon a substantive finding of fraud, misrepresentation or concealment on the part of the applicant.
Q. Can my foreign spouse also become a Filipino citizen under RA 9225?
A. No, the law does not apply to the foreign spouse (or to any foreign national, for that matter, who does not fall under the definition of a natural-born Filipino citizen.) He/she has the following options if he/she wishes to reside permanently in the Philippines: (a) apply for naturalization; (b) apply for a permanent resident visa. But in case of a foreign woman married to a Filipino, she has to apply for the cancellation of her Alien Certificate of Registration (ACR).
Q. Can my children also acquire Philippine citizenship under RA 9225?
A. According to Section 4 of RA 9225 (Derivative Citizenship), the unmarried child, whether legitimate, illegitimate or adopted, below eighteen (18) years of age, of those who re-acquire Philippine citizenship under this Act may also acquire Philippine citizenship provided they are included in the original petition of their parents.
A married child, although a minor, cannot therefore be included in the petition of his/her parent.
Q. After I have re-acquired Philippine citizenship, can I apply for a Philippine passport?
A. Yes, and so can the minor children who are deemed to have acquired Philippine citizenship under RA 9225. You would need to comply with the requirements for first-time passport applicants.
Q. What rights and privileges will Philippine citizens under RA 9225 enjoy?
A. Those who retain or reacquire their Philippine Citizenship under RA 9225 shall enjoy full civil and political rights and be subject to all attendant liabilities and responsibilities under existing laws of the Philippines and the following conditions:
Those intending to exercise their right of suffrage must meet the requirements under Section 1, Article V of the Constitution, Republic Act No. 9189, otherwise known as “The Overseas Absentee Voting Act 0f 2003” and other existing laws.
The right to vote or be elected or appointed to any public office in the Philippines cannot be exercised by, or extended to, those who are candidates for or are occupying any public office in the country of which they are naturalized citizens and/or those who are in active service as commissioned or non-commissioned officers in the armed forces of the country which they are naturalized citizens.
Those seeking elective public office in the Philippines shall meet the qualifications for holding such public office as required by the Constitution and existing laws and, at the time of filing of the certificate of candidacy, make a personal and sworn renunciation of any and all foreign citizenship before any public officer authorized to administer an oath.
Those appointed to any public office shall subscribe and swear to an oath of allegiance to the Republic of the Philippines and its duly constituted authorities prior to their assumption of office: Provided, they renounce their oath of allegiance to the country where they took that oath;
Q. Having reacquired Philippine citizenship, can I now acquire land and other properties or engage in business?
A. As provided for under the 1987 Philippine Constitution, a Filipino citizen is entitled to purchase land and other properties and engage in business. This right would now be vested upon former natural-born Filipinos who have re-acquired Philippine citizenship under RA 9225.
Q. Can I now reside in the Philippines? For how long?
A. Having reacquired your Philippine citizenship, you can reside in the Philippines for as long as you want without having to apply for entry visa and paying immigration fees. You can even choose to retire or permanently settle in the Philippines. As a Filipino citizen, you are subject to duties and other obligations imposed on other ordinary Filipinos, such as paying the necessary community tax residence and other tax liabilities in accordance with the tax laws of the Philippines.
Q. Once I re-acquire Philippine citizenship will I be required to renounce my other citizenship?
A. No, the Act does not require one to renounce his or her other citizenship.
Q. Will I now be required to pay income tax and other taxes? Am I exempt from paying the travel tax?
A. In accordance with existing laws, income earned in the Philippines is subject to the payment of tax. Filipinos who re-acquire citizenship and opt to reside and work in the Philippines will pay the income tax due at the end of each fiscal year. They are also subject to other obligations and liabilities, such as the community tax and residence tax.
Countries routinely forge bilateral agreements in order that their respective citizens who earn income overseas do not pay income tax twice.
On the other hand, Filipinos who have re-acquired Philippine citizenship, but residing permanently overseas, also enjoy tax exemptions extended to Filipino citizens permanently residing in other countries, the OFWs and their dependents.
Q. Having re-acquired Philippine citizenship under this Act, am I allowed to practice my profession in the Philippines?
A. Under the law, those intending to practice their profession in the Philippines shall apply with the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) (or Supreme Court in case of Lawyers) for a license or permit to engage in such practice.
Q. If I need to get more details on the rules and procedures for the implementation of RA 9225, which government office do I contact in the Philippines?
A. Under Administrative Order No. 92 Series of 2004 dated 12 January 2004, the Bureau of Immigration has been designated as the government agency in charge of formulating the rules and procedures for the implementation of Republic Act No. 9225. The contact details of Immigration Commissioner are as follows: Office of the Commissioner, Bureau of Immigration, Magallanes Drive, Intramuros, Manila, Philippines. (Tel. No. (63)2 527-3265 / Fax No. (63-2) 527-3279)
Q. I am an American citizen having been born to Filipino parents in the United States. I am currently residing in Thailand. I will be relocating to the Philippines in January next year and would like to apply for dual citizenship. Am I qualified to apply for dual citizenship? Can I apply for dual citizenship at the Philippine Embassy in Bangkok?
A. If you were born after 1973 or 1986, you are actually a Filipino citizen from birth such that there is no need for you to apply for dual citizenship. All you need to do is apply for a Philippine passport provided, however, that your parents have reported your birth to the Philippine Embassy or Consulate with jurisdiction over your parents' residence at the time of your birth.
If your parents reported your birth, then you should be able to obtain a copy of your Philippine birth certificate from the National Statistics Office in Manila. With a copy of your birth certificate, you can then apply for a Philippine passport at the Philippine Embassy in Bangkok.
However, if your parents did not report your birth, this (the report) can be belatedly done by your parents or an authorized representative at the Philippine Embassy or Consulate with jurisdiction described above.
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Certificate of Legal Capacity to Contract Marriage (CLCCM)
Q. I want to inquire about how to obtain this affidavit or affirmation of freedom to marry since my fiancé (who is also a Filipino) and I are planning to get married here in Thailand. How do I apply for this affidavit?
A. You are actually referring to the Certificate of Legal Capacity to Contract Marriage (CLCCM), which Filipino nationals getting married abroad are required to apply for at the Philippine Embassy with jurisdiction over the country or place where they intend to marry.
The requirements for securing a CLCCM are as follows:
1. Personal appearance of both parties at the Embassy;
2. If one or both of the contracting parties is/are between 18 and 21 years old, an "Affidavit of Consent" executed by the parents of the contracting parties should be presented to the consular officer.
3. If one or both of the contracting parties is/are between 21 and 25 years old, a written proof of parental advice should be presented to the consular officer.
4. Certificate of No Record of Previous Marriage from the NSO and duly authenticated by the Department of Foreign Affairs.
5. Certificate of Live Birth from the NSO and duly authenticated by the DFA.
6. Photocopy of the data page of the applicants' Philippine passports.
8. Two witnesses above 21 years old, preferably a male and a female, to be present during the solemnization of the marriage.
9. Processing fee of Bt 1,125.-
The CLCCM will be issued on the same day if filed before 4:00 p.m. The solemnization of marriage can then be performed within the Embassy premises by a consular officer on a date arranged by the contracting parties.
If the other contracting party is a foreign national, only the Filipino national needs to personally appear and apply for a CLCCM at the Embassy. The foreign national will have to secure his/her Certificate of Capacity (or its equivalent document) from his/her own Embassy or consulate in Thailand.
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Registry of Filipino Nationals
Q. Can you please tell me whether my friend’s name, Sharon Palikpik, is in the Embassy’s database of Filipino nationals in Thailand? Sharon left for Thailand on June 12, 2010 because according to her, she wanted to celebrate her birthday with our Thai friends at Siam Paragon.
A. Unfortunately, although the Embassy encourages everyone to do so, not all Filipinos arriving in Thailand call the Embassy to report their arrival and give their contact details in case of emergency. Because of this, the Embassy is unable to provide you information about Ms. Palikpik.
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Special Power of Attorney
Q. I live in Phuket and work as an English teacher in one of the local schools.
I need a Special Power of Attorney (SPA) for my son who is in the Philippines. Can I apply for the SPA by email or fax? I can send you a copy of my passport and my son's passport. I can also send the payment via Western Union.
A. Sorry, but personal appearance is required for purposes of applying for a Special Power of Attorney at the Embassy. You must bring with you your passport and photocopy of its personal data page. The processing fee is Baht 1,125.00.
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Report of Birth
Q. My wife recently gave birth to our 14th child in Phuket. What shall we do so that our child will have a Philippine birth certificate?
A. You will have to report the birth of your child to the Philippine Embassy in Bangkok. The requirements for reporting your child’s birth are as follows:
1. Personal appearance at the Embassy of at least one parent (Note: If the child is illegitimate, the mother shall file the report of birth);
2. Four (4) sets of duly accomplished Report of Birth Form (4 copies);
3. One (1) passport-size colored ID of the child;
4. Birth certificate of the child with official English translation and duly authenticated by the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs;
5. Original and 4 copies of the marriage certificate of the parents. (If the marriage was solemnized in the Philippines, the marriage certificate must be duly authenticated by NSO and DFA. If the marriage was solemnized under Thai law, the Thai marriage contract must be accompanied by an English translation duly authenticated by the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs.)
6. Payment of the processing fee of Baht 1,125.
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Report of Marriage
Q. My fiancé of 50 years and I recently got married in Phuket. We want to register our marriage with the Philippine government. What are the requirements for registering our marriage?
B. You must report your marriage to the Philippine Embassy in Bangkok. The requirements for reporting your marriage are as follows:
1. Thai marriage certificate translated into English and duly authenticated by the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs;
2. Original and copy of both your passports’ personal data page and visa pages;
3. Duly accomplished Report of Marriage Form (4 copies); and
4. Payment of the processing of Baht 1,125.00.
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NBI Clearance
Q. I recently interviewed for a teaching job in Bangkok. My prospective employer says I need to submit an NBI clearance from the Philippines. Can I apply for the clearance at the Philippine Embassy in Bangkok?
A. You can apply for the clearance at the Embassy. However, the Embassy will merely give you an NBI application form and take your fingerprints. (Note: There is no fee for the taking of your fingerprints.) After that, you will have to send the form, with your photo and fingerprints on it, to the NBI through a relative or friend of yours in the Philippines. Your relative or friend will submit your application form to the NBI and later receive the clearance on your behalf. Your relative or friend will then be the one to send your clearance to your mailing address in Thailand.
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Travel Tax Exemption
Q. Who are entitled to the travel tax exemption? What are the requirements if a person qualified wants to avail himself/herself of the exemption?
A. Pursuant to Section 2 of President Decree No. 1183, Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) are exempted from payment of travel tax which the Philippine Department of Tourism collects from every Filipino citizen traveling out of the country. The amount of the travel tax is PhP1,620.00. Executive Order No. 284, which amended PD 1183, extended the travel tax exemption privilege to Filipino residents abroad.
To avail oneself of the exemption, an applicant who is an OFW must submit the following:
1. Copy of personal data page and visa page of valid passport;
2. Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) issued by the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA; and
3. Certificate of Employment issued by the Philippine Embassy in the place of hire. For those directly hired, an employment contract authenticated by the Philippine Embassy.
Q. Related to the question above, what are the requirements for the issuance of a Certificate of Employment?
A. The requirements are as follows:
1. Copy of personal data page and visa page of valid passport;
2. Valid work permit or original copy of employment contract; and
3. Duly accomplished application form.
Q. How can a Filipino residing abroad avail himself of the travel tax exemption?
A. To avail himself of the exemption, a Filipino residing abroad must present the following documents upon arrival at a Philippine port of entry:
1. Documentary proof of the grant of permanent residency status by his country of residence, or
2. Certificate of Residency issued by the Philippine Embassy for those who have resided abroad for a period of 5 years without having been absent for more than 6 months in any one year, or appropriate entries in the passport establishing 5-year residency
Q. In relation to the immediately preceding question, what are the requirements for the issuance of Certificate of Residency?
A. The requirements are as follows:
1. Proof of residency in Thailand for at least 5 years;
2. Copy of personal data page and visa page of valid passport; and
3. Duly accomplished application form.
Waiver of Exclusion Ground (WEG)
Q. I am a minor traveling without my parents. Am I allowed to visit the Philippines alone?
A. Except for those who have already acquired lawful residence in the Philippines and those who have been issued reentry permit, Section 29 of the Philippine Immigration Act states that children under fifteen (15) years of age, unaccompanied by or not coming to a parent are classified as excludable. In order for them to be admitted into the Philippines they must secure Waiver of Exclusion Ground (WEG) from the Bureau of Immigration, upon proper coordination with the Department of Foreign Affairs.
Q. Who may apply for the WEG in my behalf?
A. Submit the affidavit of Request, Consent and Guarantee of any of the minor's parents and his birth certificate to the Head Supervisor of the Bureau of Immigration at the port of entry or at Window 1 Ground floor of the Main Office. Sworn statements or affidavits must be notarized.
Q. How can my relatives/guardians apply for WEG?
A. Submit the affidavit of Request, Consent and Guarantee of any of the minor's parents and his birth certificate to the Head Supervisor of the Bureau of Immigration at the port of entry or at Window 1 Ground floor of the Main Office. Sworn statements or affidavits must be notarized.
Q. What are the documents required for WEG?
A. Document required -
•Affidavit of support executed by the child's relative in the Philippines, if filed in the Bureau of Immigration in the Philippines.
•Affidavit of consent to travel and support executed by one or both parents or guardian, duly authorized or authenticated by officers at the Philippine Foreign Service Post.
•Photocopy of the data page of the passport.
•Authenticated Birth Certificate of the child.
Q. What is the processing time?
A. Three working days, provided all documents are in.
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