At the start of each year, the Bureau of Immigration (BI) in the Philippines welcomes a special season for foreigners holding long-term visas – the Annual Report. If you’re residing or working in the Philippines long-term, this yearly obligation is something you cannot afford to miss!
What Is the Annual Report?
The Annual Report is essentially a yearly “identity check-in.” It allows the Bureau of Immigration to verify your basic information and ensure your continued legal residency in the Philippines.
Who Needs to Report?
- Foreigners holding long-term visas, such as:
- Work Visa (9G)
- Spouse Visa (13A)
- Retirement Visa (SRRV)
- Student Visa (9F)
- Note: Short-term visa holders (e.g., tourist visas) and those currently outside the Philippines are exempt from this requirement.
When to Report?
- Report Period: January 1 to March 1 every year.
- Late Reporting: The deadline is strict, and late reporting is not allowed.
What Happens If You Miss the Annual Report?
Neglecting the Annual Report can lead to:
- Fines: A monthly penalty of approximately PHP 200, which will accumulate over time.
- Visa Issues: Failure to report may impact your visa renewal.
- Travel Delays: If you haven’t completed the report, immigration officers at the airport may require you to settle penalties and fees before departure.
How to Complete the Annual Report?
The process for the Annual Report is straightforward. Follow these steps to ensure compliance:
1. Prepare Your Documents:
- Valid passport with visa
- Alien Certificate of Registration (ACR I-Card)
2. Choose Your Method:
- In-Person: Visit the Bureau of Immigration or an authorized reporting center.
- Online: Schedule an appointment via the official BI website.
3. Pay the Fees:
- Standard Annual Report fee
- For online reporting, payments can be made via Gcash, Maya, or online banking. Once payment is completed, a confirmation email will be sent.
Pro Tip: If you’re unable to handle the process yourself, you may authorize a trusted agency to assist. However, ensure the agency is reputable.
What to Expect During the Process
In-Person Reporting:
Immigration officers may ask simple questions to verify your basic details, such as your entry date, current residence, etc.
Online Reporting:
An online interview with BI officers may involve confirming your personal information (e.g., birthdate, address). Depending on your visa type, they might also verify your employer or school details.
Tips for a Smooth Process:
- Questions are usually straightforward, so don’t overthink them.
- A polite and respectful attitude can help ensure a quick and easy process.
How Can FEILONG LEGAL Help You?
If you:
- Are unsure whether you need to report or which visa type you hold
- Don’t have time to handle the process
- Missed the reporting deadline and need help resolving penalties
Don’t worry! FEILONG LEGAL’s expert team is here to assist with:
- Document preparation and review
- Authorized representation for in-person reporting
- Guidance on addressing overdue reports and fines
Let us handle the details so you can avoid the hassle of dealing with immigration.
A Small Step, A Big Responsibility
As a legally residing foreigner in the Philippines, completing the Annual Report is not only a requirement but also a way to protect your residency status. Haven’t checked in yet? It’s time to act!
For any questions or assistance, contact FEILONG LEGAL. We’ll guide you every step of the way and ensure your rights are protected!