Philippines: Alien Certificate of Registration Identity Card Registration Due March 1, 2024

• Documentary requirements. Foreign nationals can appear at the Bureau of Immigration (BI)’s off-site venues at Robinson’s Place, Manila, SM Mall of Asia, Pasay City and/or any of the BI participating offices, with their original ACR I-Card or original paper-based ACR (as applicable) and an original valid passport.
• Online filing option. An online filing option is available to all registered foreign nationals in the Philippines who hold a valid visa (except those with paper-based ACR cards). This option is only valid during the annual reporting period before March 1, 2024.
• Pending ACR I-Card applications. Foreign nationals with pending ACR I-Card applications must comply with the AR requirement. They will need to present proof of their pending application (claim stub with official receipt).
• Exemptions from filing. Foreign nationals exempt from personal appearance requirement for the AR include those below the age of 14 or 60 or over; mentally and physical incapacitated individuals (if a Person With Disability identification card is presented); and pregnant women and unwell foreign nationals (if a Medical Certificate is presented).

To avoid delays to renewal applications or fines, Fragomen recommends that the AR registration be completed by March 1, 2024. Foreign nationals should notify their Fragomen immigration professional immediately if they require assistance.

The BI requires foreign nationals to file the AR to track their stay and immigration status changes, if applicable, in the Philippines.

This marks the first time AR reporting can be completed online, in line with the government’s aim to make BI services more accessible. We anticipate more online accessibility initiatives such as more online application filings with the BI in the near future.