How To Get A Philippine Passport

Machine-Readable Philippine Passport

Aside from the Driver's License, the Philippine Passport is one the most useful government issued ID in the Philippines. Being valid for five years, it is practical to get a passport long before you actually need it. Here are the steps to get your very own Philippine passport.

Steps in Obtaining Philippine Passport

1. Get your birth certificate from the National Statistics Office (NSO).

The NSO birth certificate is printed in secpa (security paper). You may either visit the NSO Office (East Avenue) or call their hotline at (02) 737-1111 to get your birth certificate. No, they won't honor your

2. Prepare valid identification cards (IDs). 

All government-issued IDs may be accepted, which includes drivers license, SSS ID, BIR (TIN) ID, PRC. For students, also bring your School ID. Bring additional supporting documents, or any other documents that have your full name, home address, and date of birth.

Valid Supporting Documents for Passport Application

• Marriage Contract
• Government Service Record
• School Record - Form 137
• Transcript of Records with Dry Seal of School
• Voters Registration Records from Comelec
• Baptismal Certificate with Dry Seal
• Seaman's Book
• NBI Clearance
• Income Tax Return from BIR

3. Secure an appointment with the DFA. 

Go to the website of DFA. Fill up the application form and choose from the list of available dates and time slot. Have this printed, as you will need to bring this on your scheduled appointment date. DON'T sign the application form yet, you'll need to sign it in front of DFA officer.

4. Photocopy your application form, IDs, and supporting documents. 

Bring at least two sets of photocopies. There are photocopying service within the compound of DFA new building in Manila, but queue is a bit long. Optionally, bring ballpen (at least two), tissue/towel, small umbrella, and fan. Remember, your passport is valid for 5 years so you must look at your very best when you have your picture taken.

5. Appear at the DFA office on your scheduled date and time

Preferably at least half an hour earlier. They usually allow applicants to enter the compound an hour earlier than their scheduled appointment. Dress appropriately.

6. Show your appointment form at the appointment counter

The appointment officer will verify that you are indeed scheduled to appear.

7. Get a queue number and wait for your turn. 

Your waiting time will depend on the number of open processing counters and the number of applicants. When your number is called, present the application form and the documents to the attending officer for verification.

8. Pay the Processing fee

After this, proceed to the payment counter located at the second floor. Pay the passport processing fee, which is 950 pesos for regular 25-day processing, or 1200 for expedited 15-day processing.

9. Pay for Delivery Service (Optional)

While waiting, you can pay at the passport delivery counter to have your passport delivered instead of going back to the DFA office for pickup. Although this is optional, it will be much more convenient for you. Delivery fee may vary according to distance; I paid 120 pesos to have mine delivered in UP Diliman. You may pay for the service prior to the data capturing part.

10. Data Capturing

Now, the final part Wait for your turn for data capturing, where your picture will be taken along with your signature. Remember, your passport is valid for 5 years. Make the best effort to look great in your passport photo.

Congratulations! You will now just wait for your passport to be delivered, or go back to the scheduled pick-up date in DFA office.