As more Filipinos are looking to travel abroad for work, leisure, or study, the demand for passports in the Philippines has been steadily increasing. With this surge in interest for travel, many are wondering how much is the passport in the Philippines and what the process entails.
The current cost of a Philippine passport is Php 950 for regular processing and Php 1,200 for expedited processing. This fee covers the cost of the passport book, as well as the processing and endorsement fees. The application process can be done either online through the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) website or in person at any DFA office or satellite office.
For those applying for a passport for the first time, they will need to bring the following documents:
1. Birth certificate issued by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) or a certified true copy of the birth certificate issued by the Local Civil Registrar (LCR).
2. Valid IDs with the applicant’s full name, photograph, and signature.
3. Marriage certificate for married applicants.
4. Supporting documents for applicants with discrepancies in their personal data.
5. Parental consent for applicants below 18 years old.
Once all the necessary documents are submitted, applicants will have their biometrics taken at the DFA office. This includes a digital photograph, electronic signature, and fingerprint scans. The whole process usually takes about 15-30 minutes, depending on the number of applicants at the DFA office.
After the biometrics are taken, applicants can choose whether they want to have their passport delivered to their home address or if they prefer to pick it up from the DFA office. The processing time for regular applications is around 12 working days, while expedited applications can be processed in as fast as 6 working days.
For those who need to renew their passport, the process is slightly different. The cost of passport renewal is the same as for first-time applicants, but the documents required may vary. Renewal applicants will need to bring their old passport, a photocopy of the data page, and supporting documents if there are any changes in personal data.
It is important to note that the validity of a Philippine passport is 10 years for adults and 5 years for minors. Once the passport expires, it must be renewed to continue using it for travel purposes.
For those who are looking to expedite their passport application, the additional fee for expedited processing is worth considering. This option is especially useful for those who have urgent travel plans and need their passport in a shorter amount of time.
Overall, the cost of a passport in the Philippines is relatively affordable compared to other countries, making it accessible for most Filipinos who wish to travel abroad. With the ease of online application and various DFA offices nationwide, getting a passport has become more convenient and efficient.
In conclusion, the passport is an essential document for Filipinos looking to travel abroad, and knowing the process and cost can help make the application process smoother and stress-free. Whether for work, leisure, or study, having a valid passport opens up a world of possibilities for Filipinos eager to explore beyond the borders of their homeland.
