The passport renewal process for seafarers is now more convenient for OFWs and Seafarers. Last August 2017, President Rodrigo Duterte signed into law Republic Act 10928 which provides a 10-year validity of our Philippine passport.
This move also gives priority to OFWs and Seamen when applying for or renewing their passports.
The law came into effect last January 01, 2018, so that the Philippine embassies and consular offices abroad can make necessary adjustments to the new system. Consider yourself lucky if you renew your passport anytime this year.
Actually, there are many steps, processes, and requirements for your passport renewal process. You can check them out on the Department of Foreign Affairs website but it will only confuse you. This article eliminates that confusion and simplifies the renewal of your Philippine passport.
This guide is written for seafarers as we have slightly different privileges when it comes to passport renewal. So now fellow seamen, here’s how to renew your ticket to the world.
1. Passport Renewal Requirements for Seafarers.
Within one year from the last disembarkation:
- Valid Passport
- Valid Seaman’s Book/ SIRB and SRC ID (latest embarkation/ disembarkation with arrival stamp). Present a Sea Service Certificate if no entry has been made.
More than one year from last disembarkation, first timers, from inter-island, and local fishing boats:
- Same requirements above.
- Valid Contract of Employment (Verified by POEA)
- Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC)
2. Appearance.
Go to any DFA Consular Offices either within or outside Metro Manila. For offices outside Manila, you can finish your appointment in less than 30 minutes because of the low volume of applicants. Metro Manila is usually fully packed with applicants. Don’t forget to bring your requirements.
In my case, I was in DFA Aseana. But most of the tips and tricks here are applicable to any Consular Office. Ask the Reception if you have more questions.
IMPORTANT SIDENOTE: Seafarers Have Special Treatment!
Whenever there is a very long line at a certain gate, always go to the guard or person in charge of that area. Try to ask something related to your appointment and don’t forget to mention that “YOU ARE A SEAMAN”.
You will immediately get in front of the queue and have your passport renewal process quick and convenient.
3. Processing
The Processing Section had a very long line starting on the ground floor. I applied the “Ninja Moves” above and quickly got in front of the line. It took me less than 7 minutes in this section.
Present your Application Form. The processor will punch your old passport to make it invalid. If you have valid visas (Schengen Visa, US Visa, etc.) don’t tell them to punch it as this will also get invalidated.
4. Cashier
Pay the corresponding amount stated below.
- Php 1,200.00 for expedite (6 working days within Manila and 7 working days outside Manila).
- Php 950.00 Regular Processing (12 working days within or outside Manila).
- Optional: Php150.00 for delivery but may vary upon location. (Payment Delivery Counter)
- Php 350.00 penalty additional fee for Lost and Mutilated ePassports.
- Additional 15 business days clearing period for Lost Valid Passports.
5. Encoding
This is where you take your picture, do some digital thumb marks, and verify if all the details input in their system are correct. Review, look closely, and confirm if all the data entered is accurate. Make sure that all the information entered is accurate to avoid future inconveniences in your passport renewal process.
You will be given a queue number. Just wait until it is presented on the TV screen above. Then go to the corresponding booth appearing with your number on the screen.
That’s it pansit! After completing the biometrics, you just have to wait for the release date which is written on your receipt.
15 WORKING DAYS LATER…
6. Releasing
To those who opted for a delivery service, you have to wait for your new Philippines Passport to arrive in your home. To those who didn’t, you must return to the consular office where you renewed your passport and present the receipt to the Releasing Section.
The waiting time here is about fifteen minutes. Always double-check your new passport if the details written are correct before leaving.
And that’s how you renew your passport. The first 5 steps last about 35 minutes and releasing is fifteen.
After renewing your passport, you can go and also renew your Seaman’s Book or Seaman’s Identification and Record Book (SIRB) if you already had an appointment schedule taken online. Then when you are home or during night-time, you can Create Your POEA e-Registration Account.
Creating Your POEA e-Registration profile can be a huge hassle sometimes. To save hours of headaches and frustrations, you might also want to read my post on POEA e-Registration Problems, Errors, and How to Fix Them.
Share with a friend who wants to have a quick passport renewal experience.
May the winds be in your favor.
