Philippines (PH)

Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay. Keep 2–3 certified copies — required for ACR I-Card, visa extensions, and most government transactions.

PSA (Philippine Statistics Authority) authenticated birth certificate required for Filipino spouses. Foreign birth certificates: the Philippines acceded to the Hague Apostille Convention in May 2019, so documents from Hague member countries need apostille only (DFA authentication is no longer additionally required for Hague-apostilled documents). Documents from non-Hague countries must be authenticated by the Philippine Embassy or DFA. Non-English documents require certified English translation.

Required for 13(a) spouse visa and other family-based residence applications. Foreign marriage certificates from Hague member countries need apostille only (post-May 2019 Philippines Hague membership; additional DFA authentication is not required). Non-Hague country documents must be authenticated by the Philippine Embassy. PSA-authenticated copy required if married in the Philippines.

Required for all foreigners staying more than 59 days. Issued by the Bureau of Immigration (BI). Must be renewed annually or upon visa change. Always carry with your passport. Failure to possess carries fines.

National Bureau of Investigation clearance — the Philippine equivalent of a police check. Required for employment, visa applications, and many government transactions. Valid for 1 year. Apply online at nbi.gov.ph.

Required for PRC (Professional Regulation Commission) licensure for regulated professions (engineering, medicine, accounting, nursing, etc.) and formal employment applications. Foreign degrees from Hague member countries require apostille (DFA authentication not additionally required post-May 2019); submit to PRC or CHED (Commission on Higher Education) for recognition. Non-English documents require certified English translation.

Required for Alien Employment Permit (AEP) application at DOLE (Department of Labor and Employment). Must be notarised. Foreign contract workers also need POEAvalidation (for OFWs returning).

Foreign driving licences valid for 90 days from arrival in the Philippines. After 90 days, must convert to a Philippine licence at LTO (Land Transportation Office). Some countries have no direct exchange — theory and practical test required.

Required for many visa types, SRRV application, and employment in regulated industries. Must be issued by an accredited Philippines-based clinic or hospital (Bureau of Quarantine-accredited for immigration purposes).

International Health Certificate (USDA APHIS Form 7001 or equivalent), rabies vaccination certificate (valid within 1 year), and rabies titre test results (for cats and dogs). Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI) import permit required at least 30 days before arrival.

Required for SRRV (Special Resident Retiree's Visa) application. Bank statements, pension slips, or certified income declarations. Apostille required if issued abroad.

BIR (Bureau of Internal Revenue) TIN is required for all economic activity. Foreigners with AEP must register for a TIN. TIN application made at the BIR Revenue District Office (RDO) covering your workplace or residence.