4 Easy Steps To Get A Philippine Passport

We all have travel goals! While it is true that there are a lot of beautiful places and breathtaking views here in the Philippines, I’m sure that most of you are aiming to visit other countries if money and time is not an issue. I remember watching travel shows and the excitement it gives me whenever I see beautiful places abroad.

Traveling to other countries is a good way to distress. Aside from visiting famous landmarks and trying out local delicacies, having a taste of their culture and learning about their history are some of the reasons why your travel is worthwhile. This is not to say that our own country is not worth visiting. It’s just that, it feels good to learn and see something new once in a while.

It's tempting to complete your travel bucket lists especially with all the cheap tour packages being advertised on social media. While it sounds fun and exciting, there are important things to take note before you go and book your plane tickets and hotel accommodation. First things first, be ready with your passport!

Still confused and don't know where to start? Let me give you 4 steps to get your passport:

1.Schedule your appointment online

To get your passport appointment, you can visit www.passport.gov.ph/appointment to get your schedule. Fill out the online form with the correct details and choose the DFA site you wished to visit. Choose your appointment date and time. The key here is to be patient and check all locations near you for you to be able to secure an appointment.

2. Print the duly accomplished application form

Once you have successfully secured your appointment, you will receive an email confirmation. Read everything carefully and double check to make sure all the details are correct. Print the form and bring it on your appointment date.

3. Prepare passport requirements

A few years back, getting a passport is tedious with so many things that you need to bring to DFA. With the online processing system, completing your passport requirement is now less complicated. Aside from the printed form, you will need a valid ID for identification purposes. If you are already a holder of Philippine Passport, don't forget to bring the old one on the day of your visit to DFA.

4. Go to the DFA office on your appointment date

Be mindful of time and don't be late on your appointment day. With so many people wanting to get a passport, finding a schedule online can be challenging so once you secure your schedule, make sure to be present on the said day. Go to the DFA site at least 30 minutes before your scheduled time. Minors, senior citizens, pregnant and PWD have a special lane to make it easier for them to go through the entire process. Give the printed application form and check all the details for the last time. Pay the required fee (which is relatively more expensive during Saturdays), have your photo taken, do the biometrics including your signature and wait for your claim stub. To make it more convenient, courier services are available to deliver your passports right to your doorsteps with a minimal fee.

It usually takes 7-10 business days to get your passport. Philippine passport has a validity of 10 years but for minors, it needs to be renewed every 5 years. The reason being is that minors don’t go through biometrics and don’t affix their signature just yet.

And now that you have your passport, you can start visiting your dream destinations! Just remember to take good care of your passport wherever you go because it contains all your important details. Get a passport holder or passport wallet to prevent its pages from being damaged and always keep it with you! In case of lost, always report it to the authority to have it replaced the soonest possible time.