Applying for a visa can be a daunting task, especially when it concerns your child’s immigration status. If you’re an immigrant mother who gave birth to your child outside of the Philippines during a temporary visit, you may have questions about obtaining a visa for your little one.
Also read: A Comprehensive Guide: Step-by-Step Process for Applying for a Special Study Permit
It’s crucial to navigate the system with utmost care to ensure that your child can enter and stay in the country legally. While this process may seem overwhelming, take solace in the fact that many others have successfully gone through it before you. With the right information and guidance, you too can navigate this journey with confidence and achieve the desired outcome.
Why is it important to understand the rights of children born abroad?
- Protection: Understanding the rights of children born abroad ensures that they are protected under the law, regardless of their place of birth or nationality.
- Equality: It promotes equality by ensuring that children born abroad have the same rights and opportunities as children born in their home country.
- Citizenship: Understanding these rights helps determine the citizenship status of children born abroad, ensuring they have access to the benefits and privileges associated with their citizenship.
- Education: It enables parents and guardians to make informed decisions regarding the education of children born abroad, ensuring they receive a proper education that aligns with their rights and needs.
- Advocacy: Knowledge of these rights allows individuals and organizations to advocate for the rights of children born abroad, ensuring their voices are heard and their rights are protected.
Who is Eligible to apply?
- A child born outside the Philippines while the mother is on a temporary visit.
Where to Submit the Application?
- You may submit your application at the main office of the Bureau of Immigration.
What are the Requirements Needed?
Please carefully review the following checklist of documentary requirements for the conversion to a non-quota immigrant visa of a child born abroad to an immigrant mother. Before proceeding with the completion of the necessary documents, kindly read the provided General Instructions.
a. Checklist containing all the necessary documentary requirements.
- Submit a letter request addressed to the Commissioner from the petitioning mother, stating that the application and entry into the Philippines will be made within five (5) years from the date of the child’s birth.
- Complete the CGAF (BI Form CGAF-001-Rev 2) accurately.
- Provide photocopies of the applicant’s passport bio-page and the most recent admission stamp with valid authorized stay.
- Include photocopies of the petitioner/immigrant mother’s passport bio-page, visa implementation page, and the most recent admission stamp with valid authorized stay.
- Submit the child’s Birth Certificate.
- Obtain a BI Clearance Certificate.
- Include the original or certified true copy of the Bureau of Quarantine Medical Clearance if the applicant is a national of any of the countries listed under Annex “A” of Immigration Operations Order No. SBM-14-059-A and arrived in the Philippines on or after June 2014.
b. Application Form
BI FORM CGAF-001-Rev 2 CONSOLIDATED GENERAL APPLICATION FORM FOR IMMIGRANT VISA
c. Bring any additional information regarding the applicant’s children.
Also read: A Guide to Extending Your Long-Stay Visitor Visa (LSVVE): Step-by-Step Instructions
Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide
To apply, follow these steps:
Step 1: Obtain the CGAF form either from the Public Information and Assistance Unit (PIAU) at BI G/F Main Office or from the official BI Website.
Step 2: Submit the required documents for pre-screening to the Central Receiving Unit (CRU) or to the frontline officer or staff of other Immigration Offices authorized to process this transaction.
Step 3: Acquire the Order of Payment Slip (OPS).
Step 4: Pay the necessary fees.
Step 5: Submit a copy of the Official Receipt.
Step 6: Attend the scheduled hearing. Please refer to the Official Receipt for the hearing schedule and venue, as well as for Image and Fingerprint Capturing.
Step 7: Proceed to the Image and Fingerprint Capturing Counter of the Alien Registration Division (ARD) and submit the necessary requirements for the ACR I-Card application.
Step 8: Check the website for updates on the visa application status.
Step 9: If the application is approved, submit the passport for visa implementation.
Step 10: Once the ACR I-Card is approved, claim the ACR I-Card.
Please note that this information is subject to change, so it is advisable to refer to the official sources for the most up-to-date instructions.
How Much is the Cost?
- The cost is Php 7,870.00
- Additional fee for the ACR I-Card: 1 Year – + US $50
Note: Fees provided are updated as of March 06, 2014 are subject to change without prior notice.
Summary
Obtaining a visa for your child’s immigration status may appear daunting at first. It involves understanding your child’s legal rights, meeting eligibility criteria, and navigating the application process. However, it is essential to ensure your child’s lawful entry and stay in the country. By skillfully navigating this process, you can provide your child with the opportunity to thrive. This comprehensive overview equips you with the essential information needed to stay informed and take the necessary steps to secure your child’s immigration status.
