7 Tips on how you can process your Philippine passport in less than an hour

Thanks to advancements in technology, the Internet, & satellite offices passport processing can now be done in less than an hour.  This is provided that you come prepared with the complete requirement s and that you come on time. Fixers have been reduced if not eliminated as forms are no longer handed out as you come in and there no one is hassling you for photo’s and stuff.

To get you started here are some reminders when renewing or trying to get a passport:

1. Complete and accomplish the application form. You can do this by visiting their website at:

       http://manila.passport.com.ph/choose-branch

       From here you will find the 6 satellite offices within Metro Manila. We chose DFA Alabang which is located inside Gaisano Mall within Alabang Town Center as this was the nearest office from our house.  DFA NCR - South (Metro Alabang) is open from 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM (Mondays - Saturdays). I suggest you take the 1st scheduled appointment and arrive there ahead of time as people tend to wake up late. Appointment schedules are set at 30 mins. intervals, this means that they will be letting in applicants inside the processing area every 30 mins. whether or not the preceding batch has already finished.  Long lines often form at the validation and number issuance area, but they get more organized once you come in.

2. Fill out application form completely, download and print with the appointment reference numbers.
3. Applicants will not be admitted at the entrance gate without valid appointment and application forms. Please don’t bring an entourage when getting a passport.  As much as possible only the person applying or renewing a passport must come to the office.  This goes for small children, as you need to have your picture taken along with the thumb prints.
4. Photocopy all the necessary documents before proceeding to DFA Alabang.

a.     Valid ID’s although 1 photo copy & original will do. Just bring a long and extra ID for good measure.  School age children are also required to present a photocopy & original ID.  A photocopy of the mothers ID is required for each child applying for a passport.

b.      NSO Birth Certificate original & Photocopy for new passport.

c.       Bring your NSO Marriage Certificate Original and Photocopy for families just in case.

d.    Bring other supporting government documents & ID’s just in case.

5. Here a more detailed list of requirements for your reference:

 https://www.dfa.gov.ph/index.php/site-administrator/passport-information/2013-04-04-06-48-32

6. Make sure to write your correct phone number on the application form.  This is very helpful, and believe me they really do call to inform you if you missed a requirement, forgot to sign a form, or recapture of pictures, thumb prints or signature.
7. Cost:

Php 1200 (Rush) – (Approx. 2-3 weeks) Please note that Saturday passport processing is considered a rush application.

Php 950 (Normal) – (Approx. 4-6 Weeks)

Php 120 – LBC Delivery

Php 1.50 Photo copy

My experience processing my families passport went relatively fast and smooth.  If I were to process my passport all by myself, I could have finished in less than an hour.  However, since We had 3 small kids it took us from 10 am to 12 noon, as We kept retaking the kids picture as it was quite a challenge making them sit still to get a decent picture.  Kudos to DFA Alabang’s Management and Staff for a job well done.