Reporting period for foreign nationals to close Mar. 1

IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the immigration reminder?  The annual reporting period for foreign nationals in the Philippines started Jan. 1 and will last until Mar. 1. All foreign nationals holding an Alien Certificate of Registration Identity card must report to the main Bureau of Immigration office in Manila or to their nearest participating branch office during the two-month period beginning Jan. 3.

• Implementation time frame: Jan. 1 to Mar. 1.
• Visas/permits affected:  ACR I-cards.
• Who is affected:  All foreign nationals holding valid ACR I-cards.
• Business Impact: Non-compliance may result in fines or cancellation of the registration.
• Next steps: All ACR I-card holders, unless exempt from registration, should plan to register in person within the time frame listed above.

Background: Foreign nationals who hold ACR I-cards are required to report to the appropriate Bureau of Immigration office every year during the first two months of the year. ACR I-card holders should be prepared to provide (1) their original ACR I-card, (2) a valid passport, and (3) payment of the annual report fee (PhP310 or about US$5.92). Certain ACR I-card holders are exempt, including people under the age of 14, people 65 years old or older, and those who are mentally or physically incapacitated and have obtained the required written exemption.

Analysis & Comments: Foreign nationals are encouraged to submit their annual reports as early as possible to avoid the rush before the Mar. 1 deadline.

Source: Deloitte LLP. Deloitte LLP is a limited liability partnership registered in England and Wales with registered number OC303675 and its registered office at 1 New Street Square, London EC4A 3HQ, United Kingdom.