Getting an Alien Certificate of Registration Philippines is a must. This guide will help you understand the process in 2025. And soon, you’ll get your valid Alien certificate of registration identity card!
Living or working abroad requires documents. You must prove strong ties to your home country. Learning how to deal with culture shock also helps.
This is true for expats and registered foreign nationals. It also applies to US work visa holders who may face re-entry issues. Temporary student visa holders must also comply with the rules.
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What is an ACR I-Card?
The ACR I-Card is a microchip-based ID. It is issued by the Bureau of Immigration (BI). The card proves your immigrant status. It also shows your signature, ETA, and visa type. Your latest admission will be recorded, too.
You need it for visa applications and renewals. It is also required when opening a bank account. The card helps you follow labor laws.
It is part of the yearly report for foreign nationals. You must also comply with the annual report. This is part of improving immigration processes and security protocols.
Who Needs an ACR I-Card?
Foreign nationals staying in the Philippines for over 59 days must get one. This includes holders of immigrant and non-immigrant visas.
Tourist visa holders and Temporary visitor visa holders are also covered. Even long-term work visa holders will need it. This includes those with H-1B or EU Blue Card visas. Permanent resident visa holders are also needed.
Have travel health insurance before extending your stay. It protects you while you visit popular tourist destinations.
Color Categories
- Permanent Residents – Light Yellow
- 13 Quota
- 13(a), 13(b)
- 13(c), 13(d)
- 13(e), 13(g)
- RA 7919, EO 324, PD 730
- MCL-07-021
- MCL-08-003
- Native Born – Bronze
- Special Non-Immigrant – Dark Purple
- 47(a)(2), 47(b)
- EO 758
- PD 1623
- PD 1034
- RA 8756
- Worker – Blue
- 9(g)
- Pre-arranged employee
- Employee transfers
- Probationary Resident – Light Purple
- 13(a)
- Temporary Resident Visa
- MCL-07-021
- Voluntary Registrant – Red
- Ecozone Visas
- Balikbayan
- SIRV, SRRV
- Tourist – White
- Tourists staying more than 59 days
- SWP, SSP
- Student – Aqua Blue
- Section 9(f)
- Student visas
- Temporary student visas apply
- Treaty Trader – Gray
- Section 9(d)
- Gratis – Green
- 47(b)
- CA 613
- RA 7837
Documents for ACR I-Card Issuance (2025)
- ACR I-Card Application Form
- Checklist of documents
- Copy of your passport bio-page
- Copy of visa page with latest arrival stamp
- Two 2×2 ID photos with a white background
For New Applicants
- BOC Order of Approval
- Student visa approval
- Photocopy of official receipt
For Late Filing (Paper-Based Holders)
- Letter of explanation
- Original ACR
- Copy of ICR or Native-Born Certificate
- Fingerprint section
- Affidavit of Undertaking
- Photocopy of the new passport
Voluntary Applicants
Examples are actors and cultural workers. Partner Daniel Brown of Hardman & Associates is also included.
Partner Marius Tollenaere is another key contact for voluntary applicants.
- A letter with the reason for applying
- Agency ID:
- PRA, BOI
- PEZA
- Law Society
- Marriage Certificate or Birth Certificate
- Old ACR (if you have it)
Bring an external hard drive to back up papers.
Fees for ACR I-Card
I-Card Fee: USD 50 (or in pesos)
Express Lane Fee: PHP 500
How to Apply for an ACR I-Card
- Collect your documents.
- Visit your designated BI office, like Intramuros.
- Submit documents.
- Pay the fees. Keep your receipt.
- Get your biometrics done:
- Camera photos
- Fingerprinting
- Wait for approval. Show your stamped passport.
- Pick up your card. It’s valid for one year.
It helps economic growth. And it also includes skilled workers.
Always stay alert for fraud. Make sure you comply with the new entry requirements.
Before anything else, make sure to have a document organizer to keep your papers in one place.
Renewing Your ACR I-Card
Who Should Renew?
- Expired cardholders
- Foreigners age 14 and above
- Those with a new visa or changed status
- Persons under the Alien Registration Act
Documents to Submit
- Filled-out form
- Checklist
- ACR I-Card
- Passport copies
Reissuance of ACR I-Card (2025)
Who Can Apply?
- Those with expired cards
- Those with lost or damaged cards
- Those updating their name or address
- Applicants with technical errors
- Ex: wrong username
Documents Needed
- Filled-out form
- Checklist
- Original ACR
- Passport copies
- Certified BOC visa copy
- Certified ACR or ICR
Additional Documents Based on the Case
- Lost: Letter, Affidavit, Police Report
- Damaged: Proof of payment
- Name Change: Court Order, birth record
- Citizenship or Nationality: Legal proof
- Address Change: Barangay Certificate and ACR
- With Criminal Records
Process to Renew or Reissue
- Check documents.
- Visit a BI office.
- Ask for an Order of Payment Slip.
- Pay the applicable fees.
- Get the official receipt.
- Submit it.
- Wait for approval.
- Claim your card on a Friday or Monday.
These steps help ensure your eligibility. The card supports:
- Global immigration systems
- Skilled professionals
- Multinational companies
- Ministry of Labour
This is important for those who need work authorization. It includes applicants for the EU Blue Card or H-1B visa. Challenges may also affect future policy.
This article is for informational purposes only. Good luck with your renewal applications. Safe travels!
FAQ
A permanent resident can later apply to become a Filipino citizen. The Philippines also allows dual citizenship. This is helpful for foreigners.
Green card holders should only stay outside the US for a while. Do not stay outside the US for more than one year.
Foreigners staying in the Philippines for more than 59 days need an ACR I-Card. This applies to those under a temporary visitor’s visa.
About the Writer
Hey, I’m Lyza! I once was a person who just imagined going to places “one day” but decided to pursue my dreams. My first travel abroad was in Japan, solo, last 2018, and fell in love with the journey since. I’m aiming to visit 10 countries before turning 30 and 2 new places in the Philippines every year. Besides traveling, I love organizing trips, photography, reading, and making new friends. Follow my adventures through my Instagram.