How to Apply for an ACR I-Card for Foreign Nationals in the Philippines

Introduction

The Alien Certificate of Registration Identity Card (ACR I-Card) is a mandatory identification document issued by the Bureau of Immigration (BI) of the Philippines to foreign nationals who are lawfully admitted and staying in the country for a period exceeding 59 days. Governed primarily by Commonwealth Act No. 613 (the Philippine Immigration Act of 1940), as amended, and various BI administrative orders, the ACR I-Card serves as proof of registration and legal status. It incorporates biometric data, enhancing security and facilitating immigration processes. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the application process, eligibility criteria, required documents, procedures, fees, renewal, replacement, and related legal implications within the Philippine context.

Failure to obtain or renew the ACR I-Card can result in administrative penalties, including fines, deportation, or denial of future entry, underscoring its importance for compliance with Philippine immigration laws.

Legal Basis and Purpose

The ACR I-Card is rooted in Section 10 of the Philippine Immigration Act of 1940, which requires all aliens to register with the BI upon arrival or change of status. Implementing rules are detailed in BI Memorandum Circulars, such as those on alien registration and the Unified Reportorial Requirements. The card's purpose includes:

• Verifying the holder's identity and immigration status.
• Facilitating transactions with government agencies, banks, and private entities.
• Enabling tracking for national security and public order.
• Serving as a prerequisite for certain privileges, such as opening bank accounts, obtaining driver's licenses, or engaging in employment.

The BI has modernized the system with biometric features since 2011, aligning with international standards under the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).

Eligibility Criteria

All foreign nationals, except those exempted, must apply for an ACR I-Card. Eligibility is determined by the duration and purpose of stay:

1. Non-Immigrants: Including tourists (under visa waiver or 9(a) visa), students (9(f)), pre-arranged employees (9(g)), treaty traders/investors (9(d)), and special non-immigrants (e.g., under Republic Act No. 8756 for economic zones). Required if stay exceeds 59 days.

2. Immigrants: Holders of 13(a) (spouse/child of Filipino), 13(b) (child born abroad to immigrant parents), 13(c) (natural-born Filipino returning), 13(d) (child born to immigrant mother), 13(e) (former Filipino returning), 13(g) (former natural-born Filipino), and quota/non-quota immigrants under Commonwealth Act No. 613.

3. Special Categories: Refugees, stateless persons, and those under executive issuances like Special Resident Retiree's Visa (SRRV) or Special Investor's Resident Visa (SIRV).

Exemptions:

• Diplomatic personnel and their dependents accredited by the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA).
• International organization officials (e.g., UN, WHO) with immunity.
• Transit passengers not leaving the airport.
• Crew members of vessels/aircraft with short layovers.
• Children under 14 years old (though they may still need registration).

Foreign nationals must possess a valid visa or entry stamp and not be subject to exclusion grounds under Section 29 of the Immigration Act (e.g., criminals, subversives).

Required Documents

The BI requires original and photocopies of documents, submitted in person or through authorized representatives. Core requirements include:

1. Application Form: BI Form 2014-08-012 (ACR I-Card Application), downloadable from the BI website or obtained at BI offices.

2. Passport: Valid for at least six months beyond the intended stay, with photocopies of bio-page, latest admission stamp, and visa (if applicable).

3. Visa Documents: Proof of visa issuance or extension, such as BI order or stamp.

4. Photographs: Two (2) recent 2x2 inch colored photos with white background.

5. Biometric Data: Captured during application (fingerprints, photo, signature).

Additional documents based on category:

• For Immigrants: Marriage certificate (for 13(a)), birth certificate, or proof of Filipino citizenship ties.
• For Non-Immigrants: Employment contract (9(g)), school acceptance letter (9(f)), or investment proofs (9(d), SIRV).
• For SRRV Holders: Philippine Retirement Authority (PRA) endorsement.
• For Dependents: Proof of relationship (e.g., birth/marriage certificates).

If documents are in a foreign language, they must be translated into English and authenticated by the Philippine embassy/consulate or apostilled under the Hague Convention.

Application Procedure

Applications are processed at BI Main Office in Manila or satellite offices nationwide. The process involves:

1. Pre-Application Preparation:

   • Secure necessary visa/extension if stay exceeds initial admission period.
   • Gather documents and pay fees in advance.

2. Submission:

   • Visit a BI office during business hours (typically 7 AM to 5:30 PM, Monday to Friday).
   • Submit the application form and documents at the ACR I-Card window.
   • Undergo biometric capturing (fingerprinting, digital photo, electronic signature).

3. Payment:

   • Pay fees at the cashier. Express Lane fees apply for faster processing.

4. Processing Time:

   • Standard: 2-3 weeks.
   • Express: 1-2 weeks (additional fee).
   • Applicants receive a claim stub with a tracking number.

5. Claiming the Card:

   • Return to the BI office with the claim stub and original passport.
   • The card is released upon verification.

For new arrivals, registration must occur within 60 days of entry if stay exceeds 59 days. Online pre-registration is available via the BI e-services portal for certain categories, allowing document upload and appointment scheduling.

Special procedures apply for minors (parent/guardian accompaniment), incapacitated individuals (representative with power of attorney), or group applications (e.g., corporate employees).

Fees and Charges

Fees are subject to periodic adjustment via BI orders. As of the latest guidelines:

• Basic ACR I-Card Fee: PHP 2,500 (approximately USD 50).
• Annual Report Fee: PHP 300 (included in initial application if applicable).
• Express Lane Fee: PHP 500-1,000.
• Legal Research Fee: PHP 10.
• Alien Registration Fee: PHP 1,000 (one-time for new registrants).

Additional charges for extensions, amendments, or special visas. Payments are in Philippine Pesos, via cash or manager's check. Overstaying or late registration incurs fines starting at PHP 200 per month.

Renewal and Validity

The ACR I-Card validity aligns with the visa duration:

• Tourists/Non-Immigrants: Up to 1-2 years, renewable with visa extension.
• Immigrants: Indefinite, but requires annual reporting.

Renewal process mirrors initial application, submitted 60 days before expiration. Required documents include old ACR I-Card, updated passport, and proof of continued eligibility. Failure to renew leads to "overstaying" status under Section 37(a)(7) of the Immigration Act, with penalties up to PHP 500,000 and deportation.

Replacement and Amendments

• Lost/Damaged Card: Report to BI within 72 hours, submit affidavit of loss, police report, and pay replacement fee (PHP 1,000 + basic fee).
• Amendments: For name changes, address updates, or status changes (e.g., marriage), submit supporting documents and pay PHP 500-1,000.
• Cancellation: Upon departure or status termination, surrender the card to BI at the port of exit to avoid future entry issues.

Annual Reporting Requirements

Under BI rules, all ACR I-Card holders must report annually in person during the first 60 days of the year (January-February) at BI offices. Requirements: ACR I-Card, passport, and PHP 310 fee. Exemptions for minors under 14, seniors over 60, or those with disabilities (via representative). Non-compliance incurs fines and potential blacklisting.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Violations are administrative offenses under the Immigration Act:

• Non-Registration: Fine of PHP 200-2,000, possible detention/deportation.
• Overstaying: Fine per month, up to PHP 500,000, and exclusion from re-entry.
• Falsification: Criminal charges under Revised Penal Code (falsification of public documents), imprisonment up to 6 years.
• Employing Unregistered Aliens: Penalties on employers under labor laws.

Appeals can be filed with the BI Board of Commissioners, then the Department of Justice, and courts as a last resort.

Special Considerations

• COVID-19 Adjustments: BI has issued extensions and waivers during pandemics, check current advisories.
• Dual Citizens: Former Filipinos reacquiring citizenship under Republic Act No. 9225 may cancel ACR I-Card upon oath-taking.
• Integration with Other Agencies: ACR I-Card links to SSS, PhilHealth, and Pag-IBIG for social services.
• Data Privacy: Biometric data is protected under Republic Act No. 10173 (Data Privacy Act), with BI as the personal information controller.

Conclusion

The ACR I-Card is an essential tool for foreign nationals to maintain legal residency in the Philippines, ensuring compliance with immigration regulations while enabling access to services. Applicants are advised to consult the BI website or legal counsel for updates, as procedures may evolve. Timely application and adherence to requirements prevent legal complications and support a seamless stay in the country.