How to Use the DFA Online Passport Appointment System

No passport yet? This guide is for you! Learn how to use the DFA online passport appointment system. It helps you apply for a Philippine passport. We also listed all the requirements.

Many Filipino tourists are now traveling more. Some are visiting Eritrea. Others explore the floating village of Makoko. This is because of social media and airline seat sales.

Traveling and working can be hard to balance. If you want to start your digital nomad life, check out our eBook “The A-Z on Becoming a Digital Nomad.” It has tips, guides, and hacks.

Now, more countries accept Philippine Passport holders. Some allow visa-free, e-visa, or visa-on-arrival entry. They made the online service to make things easier and more organized.

Getting a Philippine passport is also helpful. You can use it as a valid ID. Just read about the online appointment system here.

Things to Remember for Online Application

1. You need a DFA online appointment for new or renewed passports. Only those who qualify for the courtesy lane do not need one.
2. Booking an appointment date is FREE. If they ask for money, they are not part of the DFA. Only use the official site.
3. Bring original documents and photocopies.
4. You can book for yourself or your group on available dates.
5. If no time slots show up, refresh the site. A new appointment slot is added often.
6. Each DFA branch releases slots at different times.
7. All applicants must appear in person.
8. Arrive no more than 30 minutes before your scheduled time.
9. Remove jewelry and colored contacts before your photo.
10. Only minors and those who qualify may bring someone with them.

Requirements for New Passport Application

Most of the requirements for adults and minors are the same. However, there are some important differences.

For All Applicants (Adults and Minors)

1. Confirmed DFA Online Appointment through the website. Children under 7 may use the courtesy lane.
2. Completed application form.
3. Personal appearance.
4. PSA Birth Certificate or Local Civil Registrar copy (if PSA copy is unclear).
5. Valid ID and photocopy (parent’s ID for minors; applicant’s ID for adults).

Extra Requirements for Adults

• If married, bring Marriage Certificate (PSA or Record of Marriage).
• Valid ID examples: SSS / GSIS / UMID, Driver’s License, PRC ID, OWWA E-Card, Postal ID, School ID, etc.

Extra Requirements for Minors

• Child’s School ID (if available).
• If only one parent is present, bring the Marriage Certificate.
• If the mother is not present, submit an Affidavit of Support. You can also bring a Consent (authenticated if from abroad).

Requirements for Passport Renewal (for ePassports)

1. Confirmed DFA online appointment.
2. Fill out the application form.
3. Personal appearance.
4. Current passport and a copy of the info page.
5. PSA papers to show name changes (if any):
   • Marriage Contract
   • Birth Certificate
   • Court documents for name change
   • Spouse’s Death Certificate

** Married women keeping their maiden name don’t need a Marriage Contract.

Requirements for Passport Renewal (for Non-ePassports)

** Non-ePassports are the brown, green, or any older passports.

1. Confirmed online appointment.
2. Completed application form.
3. Personal appearance.
4. Current passport
5. A copy of the info page.
6. Documents for name changes (if needed):
   • Marriage Contract
   • Birth Certificate
   • Court papers for annulment or divorce
   • Spouse’s Death Certificate
   • Valid ID with a copy

Who Can Use the Courtesy Lane?

• Senior citizens (60+) with one family companion
  Bring proof of joint travel.
• Person with disability and one companion.
• Solo parents with a valid ID and kids
• Pregnant women.
• Children aged 7 and below with their parents
• OFWs (land or sea-based) with proof:
  – Valid IDOLE card
  – Job contract
  – Valid work visa
  – Seaman’s book with a border stamp in the past 12 months

Note: OFWs can go to the Courtesy Lane at the DFA Aseana or other consular offices.

How to Schedule Online Passport Appointment

1. Visit the site.

Click “Schedule an Appointment Online.” Accept the terms.

Choose “start individual appointment” or “start group appointment.”

2. Choose Region and Site

Pick your region and country. Details like the address will show.

3. Pick a Date and Time

Choose your appointment slot. You have 15 minutes to finish this step.

4. Enter Your Personal Information

Fill in your details. Then fill in your family details.

Choose your application type. Say if you’re a foreign passport holder. Add an emergency contact.

5. Review and Confirm

Check everything you typed. Edit mistakes if needed.

Click Captcha and agree to the terms. Pick regular or rush.

Click “Proceed to Payment.” Save the reference code.

6. Send Your Payment

Pay at any of the following:

• Bayad Center
• 7-Eleven
• Western Union
• WalterMart
• Robinson’s
• Cebuana
• Villarica
• Others

Pay for each code. Keep your receipt.

9. Get Your Appointment Details

Check your e-mail after payment. Print everything from the appointment packet.

Print and bring the forms:

• Appointment form (with barcode)
• Reference number
• Two e-receipts

A first-time applicant has urgent travel needs. Consider getting travel insurance.

Check if expedited passport service is available. It can be at your nearest passport agency. It can also be at a consulate general.

Extra Requirements for Special Cases

Lost, Expired, or Frequently Lost Passport

• Treated as a new application.
• Bring all usual documents.
• Add:
  • Affidavit of Loss (English)
  • Police Report (if lost multiple times)
  • A ₱350 penalty
  • No need for a Birth Certificate if a copy of the passport is available
  • Add a 15-day clearing period if the valid passport is lost

Used or Lost Travel Document

• Treated as a new application.
• Bring the original travel document or Immigration record.
• Affidavit of Explanation.

Damaged or Mutilated Passport

• Bring the passport.
• Affidavit of Explanation.
• ₱350 penalty.

Dual, Naturalized, or Elected Citizen

• Online Appointment
• Valid ID.
• Identification Certificate or Report of Birth.

Minor Without Parents or Traveling Alone

• SPA approved by Embassy.
• Guardian’s valid ID.
• DSWD Clearance.
• Affidavit of Support and Consent.
• Parents’ ID or passport.

Illegitimate Child in Mother’s Custody

• Both mother and child must appear.
• Mother or guardian’s ID.
• If the mother is absent, bring SPA.
• DSWD Clearance.

** If the mother is gone or the father is unknown, the guardian must bring ID and an Affidavit of Guardianship.

Domestic or Foreign Adoption

• Child and guardian must go in person.
• PSA Birth Certificate.
• Valid ID.
• Court Decree of Adoption or ICAB documents:
  • Endorsement, Placement Authority, Certificate for Issuance
  • Adoption Clearance
  • Child Study Report
  • DSWD Clearance
  • Affidavit of Guardianship (if needed)

Foundling (Not Adopted)

• PSA Certificate (for foundling)
• Valid ID.
• DSWD Clearance.
• Affidavit of Guardianship.

DFA Passport Fees (2025)

• Regular: ₱950 (15 working days)
• Expedited: ₱1,200 (7 working days)
• Abroad: $60

Note: Processing time may vary. Provinces may take longer.

Final Thoughts

Getting a passport is a big step. Then follow the steps. It will help you avoid problems.

Bring a solar power bank and a portable mini fan for a smoother visit. Have a notebook to note down things to remember.

Be ready. The process will be easier!

FAQ