COVID-19: Biometric requirement resumed

IMPACT – MEDIUM

The Philippine government has resumed its requirement that foreign nationals submit biometrics when applying for visa renewals and when registering under the Alien Registration Program (ARP).

Key Points:

• Philippine immigration authorities had previously exempted foreign nationals from the biometrics requirement to limit physical contact during COVID-19.
• Authorities recently reinstituted the requirement, citing the need to make sure records are complete and accurate.

Additional Information: Immigration authorities have resumed issuing emigration clearance certificates (ECCs) to foreign nationals who have been in the country for more than six months. Foreign nationals must retrieve their ECC from an authorized immigration office at least 72 hours before the foreign national’s departure.

BAL Analysis: The response to the COVID-19 pandemic continues to develop, and BAL will provide additional updates as information becomes available.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group. For additional information, please contact berryapplemanleiden@bal.com.

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