How I Renewed My Philippine Passport...Fast and Easy!

The laziness in me kicks in! I have been planning to renew my passport since November last year, but I was too lazy to even make an appointment online. Kaloka, diba?! Anyway, my hubby needs me to send my renewed passport, not a photocopy, but the real passport. My “last-minute” attitude truly sucks! I fell into panic because my passport already expired last February 2!  I even went to a couple of agencies to seek assistance to get my passport renewed quicker or less than the normal 7-day rush processing. But nah, they no longer offer that. Most agencies offer at least 9-12 day processing time-frame, and it cost more. Well I’m glad I changed my mind and processed everything on my own. 

Let me share with you my passport renewal experience at DFA NCR – SM Megamall Satellite office. Please note that whatever works for me, not necessary means that it would also work for you. I am particularly referring to documents and ID’s.

Step One: Check the requirements for passport renewal.

Before anything else, I did make sure I do have all the necessary documents needed to confirm my identity (click here to read the list of valid IDs and documents). Renewal is easier than getting a new passport, requirements aren't too complicated as well. But to make sure I won’t miss a single thing, I took all the documents and ID’s that I have. I have made at least 2 copies of each. Note that they won’t entertain you if you don’t have photocopies of your documents and ID’s. 

P.S. The lady who entertained me only asked for my passport and 2 valid ID's. Since I only have a postal ID, which that isn't included in the list of the Government-issued ID’s, I submitted 2 old company ID’s instead. She took the photocopies, and returned the original copies to me.  

Step Two: Scheduled my appointment online.

Walk-ins are not allowed. A confirmed appointment is required (here)! I filled in all the required information correctly. The good thing is we can select DFA Satellite offices nearest our place of residence or place of work for our convenience. I chose DFA NCR-SM Megamall. A registration and confirmation was sent to my email together with a link to print my application form – I printed out all 3 pages, 2 copies of each. In case you can’t find the confirmation email, check your spam folder. Make sure to print the confirmed completed-appointment form, you have to present it at the front desk to confirm your appointment.

P.S.  The DFA will not entertain applicants without valid appointments EXCEPT senior citizens, infants and minors below 1 year old, person with disability and OFWs. For OFWs, sufficient proof must be submitted such as a valid employment contract or OEC.

Step Three: Proceed to DFA office on your appointed time and date.

My appointment was at 3:30pm. I went there at 2pm. I thought I was too early, but I was allowed to get in, and I was entertained right away.

P.S. I would advice that you get an early appointment. Show up at least 30 minutes before your scheduled appointment. Do not forget bringing all your requirements including your printed appointment confirmation and also, observe proper dress code. No chaperon is allowed for applicants with ages 18 years old and above.

I gave my printed application form at the APPOINTMENT COUNTER - all 3 copies. They scanned the bar-code from my form to confirm my appointment. They gave me a piece of paper with a check list to follow. 

Next is the PROCESSING AREA. I had all my documents ready, both original copies and photo copies as they will ask for both when you get to the counter. I gave the requirements to the lady, she asked me if I prefer regular (Php950) or express processing (Php1, 200). I chose express as I need to send my passport to Daniel as soon as possible. 

Payment is at the CASHIER'S COUNTER. The passport costs Php950 (approximately $21) for regular processing (15 to 25 days) and Php1200 (approximately $27) for rush processing (7 to 10 days).

ENCODING SECTION is the last step. This is for the image and data capturing.  Oh let me tell you, this part is pain. I was in line for about 3 hours I guess.

You can get your passport delivered to you, but this is optional. If you'd wish to do this, just pay the required fee of Php150.00 at the DELIVERY COUNTER. This is done so you can have the passport delivered to your home during the release date without the need to return to the DFA office.

P.S. I have seen few people that were told to come back because their requirements are not complete. Make sure you have all your complete documents with you before going to DFA to AVOID delays.