Foreigners reminded to report to BI until March 1

Immigration chief Ricardo David

MANILA, Philippines – The Bureau of Immigration on Monday reminded foreigners that they have until Friday (March 1) to make their annual report or be meted with administrative fines and possible deportation.

Under the Alien Registration Act of 1950, foreigners staying in the Philippines are required to report to the BI within the first 60 days of every calendar year.

Foreigners who are holders of immigrant or non-immigrant visa holders must make the annual report, unless exempt by law.

Immigration Commissioner Ricardo David Jr. said additional special annual report desks have been set up in the different BI offices to cope with the large number of aliens expected to beat the deadline.

David said they may also go to any of the Immigration field, satellite and extension offices nationwide to make their report.

As for aliens who are below 14 years of age or 65 years old and above, he said,  it shall be the duty of their parents or legal guardians or representatives to make the report on their behalf.

Atty. Ronaldo Ledesma, BI acting alien registration chief,  said that directory of BI offices where aliens can make their report can be accessed at the BI website at www.immigration.gov.ph.

Ledesma again advised foreigners to pay their annual report fees directly to the bureau’s cashiers and to demand an official receipt.

Aliens making the report should present their ACR identity card (I-Card) and certificate of residence and pay the annual report fee of P300 and P10 legal research fee.

“Old paper-based ACR shall be dishonored until an ACR I-Card is secured,” Ledesma added.