How to Renew Your Philippine Passport in Washington D.C

Renewing your Philippine passport is a crucial step for Filipino citizens residing in the Washington D.C. metropolitan area and surrounding jurisdictions covered by the Philippine Embassy. This comprehensive guide, drawing from official sources, will walk you through the entire process, from preparing your documents to receiving your new passport.

Key Considerations Before You Begin

Before embarking on your passport renewal journey, keep these vital points in mind:

• Appointment is Mandatory: The Philippine Embassy in Washington D.C. operates strictly by appointment. Walk-ins are generally not accommodated for passport renewals.
• Personal Appearance Required: You must physically appear at the Embassy for biometric data capture, including your photograph and fingerprints.
• No Onsite Services: The Embassy does not provide photocopying or printing facilities. Ensure all your documents are photocopied and organized before your appointment.
• Processing Time: Allow ample time for processing. New passports are typically mailed out within six to eight weeks from the date of your appointment. Plan your renewal well in advance of any travel.

Step-by-Step Guide to Philippine Passport Renewal in Washington D.C

Step 1: Secure Your Online Appointment

The first and most critical step is to book an online appointment through the official DFA Passport Online Appointment System.

1. Access the Appointment System: Visit www.passport.gov.ph or navigate to the “Passport” section on the Philippine Embassy in Washington D.C.’s official website.
2. Select Location: Choose “Washington, D.C.” as your preferred processing location.
3. Choose Date and Time: Select an available date and time slot that works for you. Be prepared that popular slots may fill up quickly.
4. Complete Application Form: The system will typically provide an application form with your appointment confirmation. Fill this out accurately.
5. Print Confirmation: Print a copy of your confirmed online appointment, as you will need to present this at the Embassy.

Step 2: Prepare All Required Documents

Thorough preparation of your documents is paramount to a smooth renewal process. Bring original and one (1) photocopy of each document, unless otherwise specified.

Core Requirements for E-Passport Renewal (if no changes to biographical data):

• Confirmed Online Appointment: Your printed appointment confirmation.
• Accomplished Application Form: The form generated during your online appointment booking.
• Current Philippine Passport: Your most recent e-passport (maroon with chip logo). Provide a photocopy of the data page.
• Proof of Philippine Citizenship: One original and one photocopy of current proof, such as:
  • Permanent Resident (Green) Card
  • Visa
  • Work Permit
  • Dual Citizenship Identification Certificate
• Self-Addressed Stamped Envelope:
  • For US Residents: One self-addressed USPS Priority Mail Flat Rate Envelope with USD 10.10 stamps and tracking numbers.
  • For Caribbean Residents: One pre-paid self-addressed courier label.
• Payment: The processing fee for a standard e-passport renewal is $60.00 USD. Acceptable payment methods are:
  • Cash
  • Credit/Debit Card (Note: A 4% convenience fee may apply)
  • Money Order made payable to “Embassy of the Philippines“
  • Personal checks are NOT accepted.

Additional Documents (If Applicable):

• For Change of Name (due to marriage, annulment, or Philippine court order):
  • Original and one photocopy of PSA-issued documents supporting the name change, such as:
    • Marriage certificate / Report of Marriage
    • Annotated birth certificate
    • Annotated marriage contract to show annulment/divorce/court order
    • Marriage and death certificate of spouse (if applicable)
  • Important: If your marriage occurred outside the Philippines, you must first report your marriage to the appropriate Philippine Embassy or Consulate. The name on your passport will follow the name on your PSA documents.
• For Lost Passports:
  • Police Report (in English)
  • Notarized Affidavit of Loss (in English – this can sometimes be notarized at the Consulate for a separate fee).
  • One colored passport-size (4.5cm x 3.5cm) photo with a plain white background.
  • The processing fee for a lost passport is $150.00 USD.
• For Mutilated/Damaged Passports:
  • Original and one photocopy of the Philippine passport data page (if available).
  • One original notarized Affidavit of Destruction/Mutilation.
  • The processing fee for a mutilated passport is $60.00 USD.
• For Dual Citizens (especially if renewing e-Passport for the first time after re-acquiring Philippine Citizenship):
  • Original and photocopy of Dual Citizenship Documents issued by any Philippine Foreign Service Post or Dual Citizenship Identification Certificate issued by the Philippine Bureau of Immigration.
  • Original, readable PSA/NSO Birth Certificate, plus a photocopy.

Step 3: Attend Your Embassy Appointment

On your scheduled date, head to the Philippine Embassy in Washington D.C.

• Location: The Consular Building is located at 1617 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington D.C. 20036.
• Dress Code: Dress in proper attire with a collar and sleeves.
• Biometrics Ready: Be prepared for biometric capture. This includes removing eyeglasses, contact lenses, facial piercings, heavy makeup, eyeliner, and false eyelashes for your photo. Maintain a neutral facial expression with a closed mouth, ensuring your ears and forehead are visible.
• Organized Documents: Have all your original documents and their photocopies readily available for the consular officer.
• Payment: Present your payment for the passport renewal fee.

Step 4: Receive Your New Passport

After your appointment, the Embassy will process your application and mail your new passport to the address provided on your self-addressed stamped envelope.

• Delivery Time: Expect your new passport to arrive within six to eight weeks from your appointment date.
• Verification: Upon receiving your new passport, immediately check all personal details (name, date of birth, etc.) for accuracy.
• Signature: Sign the third page of your new passport booklet.
• Safeguard Copies: Make several photocopies of your new passport’s data page. Keep one copy at home and carry another separately when you travel. Note down your passport number, date of issue, date of expiry, and place of issue for your records.

Important Reminders and Tips

• Plan Ahead: Begin the renewal process at least nine (9) months before your current passport expires, especially if you have upcoming international travel plans. Many countries require passports to be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay.
• Official Website: Always refer to the official website of the Philippine Embassy in Washington D.C. (philippineembassy-dc.org) for the most up-to-date requirements and announcements. Requirements can change, so it’s best to verify before your appointment.
• Accuracy: Ensure all information on your application form and supporting documents is accurate and consistent. Discrepancies can cause delays.
• No Expedited Processing: The Philippine Embassy in Washington D.C. does not offer expedited passport processing.
• Contact Information: For specific inquiries or urgent concerns, you can reach the Consular Section of the Philippine Embassy in Washington D.C. at consular@phembassy-us.org.