MANILA: The Bureau of Immigration (BI) has introduced a virtual option for the annual reporting of registered foreign nationals residing or working in the Philippines. This new system allows them to complete their annual report through an online platform.
According to Philippines News Agency, the virtual annual report system is designed to offer convenience while ensuring compliance with legal requirements. In a statement released on Saturday, Tansingco detailed that the process is entirely online, enabling foreign nationals to book, pay, and report from their homes. To use this service, applicants are required to visit the BI’s online services website at http://e-services.immigration.gov.ph to schedule their appointment.
The Virtual Annual Report initiative is part of the BI's efforts to modernize its laws and processes. The law mandates registered foreign nationals to personally report to the BI within the first 60 days of each year, submitting the necessary documents for the Annual Report.
In addition to the online option, foreign nationals can also choose to report in person at two designated malls in Metro Manila or at other BI offices nationwide for the 2024 Annual Report. The BI's head office in Manila has arranged for physical reporting at the 3rd Level Center Atrium of Robinsons Manila and the Government Service Express (GSE) Unit of SM Mall of Asia. These locations will be open for reporting from Mondays to Fridays, excluding holidays, between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m.
The bureau has specified the requirements for the annual report, including a fully completed online registration available on the BI’s e-services website. Foreign nationals must present their original valid alien certificate of registration identity card (ACR I-Card) with valid visas, as well as a valid passport.
The BI exempts certain groups from physically reporting, including foreign nationals under 14 years of age, those over 60, individuals who are mentally or physically incapacitated, pregnant women, and foreigners with medical conditions.