DFA Passport Renewal: Tips and Trick For Expert Guide

Getting your passport renewed at the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) doesn’t have to be complicated. As someone who recently went through the process, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make your renewal experience smooth and hassle-free.

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Processing Fees and Timeframes

Processing Type	Fee (PHP)	Processing Time	Best For
Regular	950	15 working days	Non-urgent renewals
Express	1,200	7 working days	Urgent travel needs
Courtesy Lane	950	7-10 working days	Senior citizens, PWDs

Overview of Passport Renewal Processing Fees and Timeframes

What You Need to Know Before Starting

The DFA has made significant improvements to their passport renewal system. You can now complete most of the process online, making it more convenient than ever. Understanding the processing times and fees helps you plan better for your renewal.

DFA Office Operating Hours

Day	Regular Hours	Cut-off Time
Monday-Friday	8:00 AM – 5:00 PM	4:00 PM
Saturday	8:00 AM – 2:00 PM	1:00 PM
Sunday	Closed	Closed

DFA Office Operating Hours and Cut-off Times

Basic Requirements for Passport Renewal

Before heading to your appointment, make sure you have these essential items:

Your current/expired passport with one photocopy of the data page
Printed online appointment confirmation
Completed application form
Valid ID with photocopy

Valid IDs Accepted by DFA

ID Type	Validity Requirement	Additional Notes
SSS ID	Must be valid	Digital version not accepted
Driver’s License	Not expired	Both physical and digital accepted
UMID	Must be valid	Original required
Postal ID	Must be valid	Latest version only
Professional ID	Must be valid	PRC-issued only

List of Valid IDs Accepted by DFA

Note: If you want to reschedule your DFA Appointments Click on this link: Rescheduling Dfa appointments

Step-by-Step Renewal Process

Visit the “DFA” official website.

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Click on the “Schedule an Appointment“.

Please click on “Start Individual Appointment“.

Enter the “Site Location” detail.

Please select a “Country“.
Please select a “Region“.
Please select a “Site”.

Select the [Date and Time].

Select from the available dates and times. Early morning appointments usually have shorter wait times. Dates highlighted in green are open for booking, while dates in red are unavailable.”

Enter your “Personal Information”.
Click on “I agree/Malinaw sa akin”.

Provide your “Phone Number” and “Mobile Number.”
Enter your “Email Address” and confirm it.
Fill in your “Last Name,” “Given Name,” and “Middle Name.”
Choose your “Date of Birth” and “Gender.”
Select your “Civil Status” and “Birth Legitimacy.”
Indicate your “Country of Birth,” along with the “Province” and “City.”
Click the “Next” button.

Enter your Phone number, Email Address and Name etc.

Father and Mother Information

Provide the “Last Name,” “Given Name,” and “Middle Name.”
Choose the “Country of Citizenship.”
Please press the “Next” button.

Enter your “Application Information.”

Choose the application type as “Renewal.”
Enter your “Old Passport Number.”
Input the “Date of Issue” of your passport.
Specify the “Issuing Authority.”
Select “Basis of Philippine Citizenship.”
Choose “Foreign Passport Holder.”
Enter the “Emergency Contact Person” number and your “Contact Number.”
Click on the “Next” button.

Step Provide your “Contact Information.”
Enter your “Current Address.”
Input your “City” and “Country.”
Specify your “Occupation” and “Office Number.”

Select a “Processing” type.
Choose a “Payment” method.

Please choose your process type and payment method

Special Cases and Additional Requirements For Married Women Using Their Husband’s Surname

You’ll need to bring your PSA Marriage Certificate. However, if you’re keeping your maiden name, no marriage certificate is required.

For Lost or Damaged Passports

Additional requirements include:

Police report
Affidavit of loss
Birth Certificate from PSA

Payment Methods Available

Method	Processing Time	Additional Fee
Credit Card	Instant	Varies
Debit Card	Instant	None
Over the Counter	24-48 hours	Varies by bank
E-wallet	Instant	Varies

Overview of Available Payment Methods and Their Details

Note: If you want to cancel your DFA Appointments Click on this link: Cancelling Dfa Appointments

Tips for a Smooth Renewal Process

Arrive 30 minutes before your appointment
Wear proper attire (no sleeveless tops or collarless shirts)
Remove any jewelry or accessories before the photo
Bring exact payment amount if paying at the DFA office
Keep your documents organized in a clear folder

DFA Satellite Offices

Metro Manila Locations

List of all DFA offices within Metro Manila and their specific features.

Provincial Locations

Information about DFA offices in various provinces and their accessibility.

Emergency Passport Renewal

Qualifying Situations

Understanding what constitutes an emergency for expedited processing.

Required Documentation

Additional documents needed for emergency passport renewal.

Tips for Different Scenarios

For OFWs

Special considerations and requirements for Overseas Filipino Workers.

For Senior Citizens

Priority lanes and special assistance available.

For PWDs

Accessibility features and special accommodations.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

During Booking

Common errors people make when scheduling appointments.

During Application

Mistakes that could delay your passport processing.

Tracking Your Application

Online Tracking

How to check your passport status through the DFA website.

SMS Updates

Setting up mobile notifications for application updates.

FAQs

You can renew your passport up to one year before its expiration date.

Your payment will be forfeited, and you’ll need to book a new appointment.

Yes, just bring both your old and new passport when traveling.

Regular processing takes 15 working days, while expedited processing takes 7 working days.

No, personal appearance is required for biometrics and photo capture.

Fees. Ordinary Passports cost 250,000 UGX. Express Processing Fee an extra 150,000 UGX paid separately in a bank.

Applicants will only be able to secure a confirmed appointment after paying at the following payment centers: Bayad Center, EcPay, PeraHub, Robinsons Business Center and Department Stores, Waltermart Department Store, 7-Eleven, USCC Western Union and Villarica Pawnshop.

Conclusion

Renewing your Philippine passport might seem daunting, but with proper preparation and understanding of the process, it can be straightforward. Remember to book your appointment early, prepare all requirements, and follow the guidelines carefully.