The Cost of Passport in the Philippines: A Comprehensive Look at the Fees and Charges
In the Philippines, obtaining a passport is an essential step for any citizen who wishes to travel abroad for leisure, work, or study. The passport serves as a vital identification document that allows individuals to enter and exit foreign countries. However, beyond the importance of the document itself, many Filipinos also wonder about the cost associated with obtaining a passport in the country.
Passport fees in the Philippines vary depending on the type of application, processing time, and additional services requested by the applicant. In this article, we will take a deep dive into the cost of obtaining a passport in the Philippines and explore the fees and charges associated with the process.
Basic Passport Application Fees
For first-time passport applicants or those applying for passport renewal, the basic processing fees are as follows:
Regular Processing (15 working days): Php 950.00
Express Processing (7 working days): Php 1,200.00
Rush Processing (3 working days): Php 1,500.00
It is important to note that these fees are for the processing of the passport application alone. Additional services such as the issuance of an electronic passport (e-passport), passport delivery, and other special processing requests may entail extra charges.
E-Passport Issuance
The e-passport is a more secure and advanced version of the traditional passport, featuring a biometric chip that stores the passport holder’s personal information. The e-passport is recommended for frequent travelers or those going to countries that require advanced security features in travel documents.
The issuance of an e-passport in the Philippines entails an additional fee of Php 950.00 on top of the regular processing fee. This means that for applicants opting for an e-passport and regular processing, the total fee would amount to Php 1,900.00.
Passport Delivery Service
To enhance convenience for passport applicants, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) offers a passport delivery service for those who prefer to have their passports delivered to their doorstep. The delivery service fee varies depending on the applicant’s location within the Philippines:
Within Metro Manila: Php 150.00
Outside Metro Manila: Php 200.00
The passport delivery service is optional, and applicants can choose to pick up their passports personally at the DFA office or through an authorized representative.
Special Processing Requests
In some cases, passport applicants may have urgent travel plans or specific requirements that necessitate special processing of their passport application. The DFA accommodates special processing requests for an additional fee, as follows:
Lost Expired Passport: Php 350.00
Late Registered Birth Certificate: Php 200.00
Marriage Certificate: Php 350.00
Additional Requirements for Minors: Php 150.00
Correction of Clerical Error: Php 200.00
These special processing fees may vary depending on the specific circumstances of the applicant’s case. It is essential to consult with the DFA or a passport assistance service provider to determine the exact fees applicable to the special processing request.
Passport Fees for Foreign Nationals
Foreign nationals residing in the Philippines or those applying for a Philippine passport through naturalization or recognition are subject to different passport fees compared to Filipino citizens. The passport fees for foreign nationals are as follows:
Regular Processing (15 working days): Php 1,200.00
Express Processing (7 working days): Php 1,500.00
Rush Processing (3 working days): Php 1,800.00
Foreign nationals may also opt for an e-passport for an additional fee of Php 950.00. The passport delivery service and special processing fees for foreign nationals are the same as those for Filipino citizens.
Overall, the cost of obtaining a passport in the Philippines varies depending on factors such as processing time, type of application, and additional services requested by the applicant. It is essential for applicants to plan ahead and consider their specific needs and circumstances when applying for a passport to ensure a smooth and efficient process.
In conclusion, while the cost of obtaining a passport in the Philippines may seem daunting to some, it is a necessary investment for those who wish to explore opportunities beyond the country’s borders. By understanding the fees and charges associated with the passport application process, applicants can make informed decisions and prepare accordingly for their travel plans.
