You’re about to travel.
Or maybe you need a valid ID.
But there it is—your passport is about to expire.
Before you rush to renew, let’s slow down a bit.
Thanks to Republic Act 11593, adult passports are now valid for 10 years.
This law saves you from renewing every five years, as long as you’re 18 years old or above.
If you’re under 18, your passport is still valid for 5 years.
Renewing your passport is not just about bringing an ID and falling in line.
There are steps, rules, and timelines you need to follow—especially if your passport is expired, damaged, or lost.
Do You Really Need to Renew Right Now?
Start here.
Check your passport’s expiration date.
If you have less than 6 months left, most countries and airlines may not let you travel.
You don’t need to wait until it’s fully expired.
It’s safer to renew 6 to 9 months before it expires, especially if you have upcoming travel.
If your passport is still valid and you don’t need to travel soon, you can wait.
There’s no need to rush just because RA 11593 now offers 10-year validity.
Renew when it makes sense for your plans.
Step 1: Book Your DFA Appointment Online
No walk-ins allowed.
You must set an appointment through the DFA Passport Appointment System.
Here’s how:
- Go to passport.gov.ph
- Choose the nearest DFA site
- Pick your schedule
- Fill out your information carefully
- Print your confirmation page and application form
Tip: Slots can fill up fast, especially in metro areas.
If you’re flexible, try checking DFA offices outside the city.
Step 2: Prepare the Requirements
This part depends on your situation.
For regular passport renewals (adult applicants):
- Your current ePassport
- Photocopy of the data page
- Printed appointment form
- Valid ID (original and photocopy)
If there are changes in your name or civil status:
- Bring PSA-issued documents like a marriage certificate, CENOMAR, or annotated birth certificate
For minors (below 18 years old):
- Birth certificate from PSA
- Valid ID of parent or guardian
- School ID of the minor (if applicable)
- Proof of guardianship (if not a parent)
Lost passport?
- Police report
- Affidavit of loss
- Valid IDs
- Additional verification documents as advised by DFA
Don’t forget to dress appropriately.
No sleeveless shirts, spaghetti straps, or distracting hairstyles.
The passport photo is taken at the site.
Step 3: Pay the Fees
There are two types of processing:
Regular processing
- ₱950
- Takes 12 to 15 working days
Express processing
- ₱1,200
- Takes 6 to 7 working days
You can pay online or at select payment centers.
Make sure to keep the receipt and bring it on your appointment day.
If you’re getting a passport for your child, fees are the same, but validity is only 5 years.
Step 4: Go to Your Appointment
Arrive at least 30 minutes early.
Bring all your original documents and photocopies.
Expect three steps:
- Document verification
- Payment (if you haven’t paid yet)
- Photo capture and biometrics
Once done, they’ll give you a claim stub or delivery option form.
If you chose delivery, make sure someone is home to receive it.
If you’ll pick it up, follow the date on your receipt.
Step 5: Wait for Your Passport
This is the easy part—just wait.
Delivery usually takes a few days after processing is complete.
You can also track it online through the courier’s website.
For pickup, bring your claim stub and one valid ID.
Check your passport right away for any errors.
If you find any mistake, report it to DFA immediately.
What to Know about the 10-Year Validity
Many people are asking:
Do I automatically get 10 years if I renew today?
Yes, if you’re 18 years old or older at the time of application.
What about kids and teens?
Passports for minors below 18 years old are still valid for only 5 years, as stated in RA 11593.
Can I renew my passport even if it still has 2 years left?
Yes, but you’ll have to surrender the old one.
The unused years won’t be added to the new one.
Will my visa be transferred to the new passport?
No, but you can still carry your old passport with a valid visa when you travel.
Make sure the visa is not expired.
How RA 11593 Changed the Game
Before this law, adult passports expired every 5 years.
That meant more expenses, longer lines, and last-minute stress.
RA 11593 doubled the validity to 10 years for adults.
It also reduced the strain on DFA offices and made passport renewals less frequent.
But the law still protects children by keeping the 5-year rule for minors.
Why? Because kids change fast.
Their appearance might not match their photo after a few years.
So even though it’s a longer wait between renewals now, there’s still a strong system in place.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use my passport as a valid ID even after it expires?
No, most offices will not accept an expired passport as valid identification. - How early can I renew my passport before it expires?
You can renew it as early as one year before expiration, but most people do it 6 to 9 months early. - Can I renew my passport if I have a pending legal case?
It depends. DFA may need additional documents or clearance if legal matters affect your travel. - What if I missed my DFA appointment?
You’ll need to reschedule through the DFA system. Your payment may not be refunded.
Conclusion
Keep your passport in a safe, dry place.
Avoid bending, tearing, or laminating any part of it.
If you lose your passport, report it right away.
Delays in reporting can lead to trouble, especially if someone uses your identity.
Always check the travel requirements of the country you’re visiting.
Some countries ask for more than just a valid passport.
If you’re a frequent traveler, consider tracking your renewals and visa dates on your calendar or planner.
And most importantly, don’t book a flight before getting your new passport.