ALL walk-in passport applicants who are eligible to avail of the courtesy lane will be accommodated in all consular offices nationwide starting today, March 16, according to the Department of Foreign Affairs.
DFA Undersecretary for Civilian Security and Consular Affairs Brigido Dulay said the move was due to the “great demand” for courtesy lane walk-in applications following the department’s previous announcement that it would open a courtesy lane in its Aseana Business Park Office in Parañaque City.
Dulay said those qualified to avail of the courtesy lane are senior citizens, pregnant women, solo parents, persons with disabilities, minors aged seven and below, and overseas Filipino workers.
Dulay said the DFA hopes to reach more Filipinos in need of passports, especially those in the provinces.
He added they should be fully vaccinated against the COVID-19 and should also present the following documents:
1. Senior citizens: senior citizen identification card (may be accompanied by one adult)
2. Pregnant applicants: proof of pregnancy (medical certificate)
3. Persons with disabilities: valid PWD identification card
4. Solo parents: valid solo parent identification card
5. Minors aged 7 years old and below (must be accompanied by a parent or a legal guardian): original and photocopy of Philippine Statistics Authority birth certificate of the minor while additional documentary requirements should be presented if minor is not accompanied by parents.
For OFWs with incoming employment abroad, Dulay said they must present one of the following: Valid Overseas Workers Welfare Administration E-card; valid employment contract; valid work visa; and seafarer’s identification and record book.
“The DFA-OCA strictly advises the public to make sure they meet the necessary qualifications to access the courtesy lane before visiting the consular offices to avoid any inconvenience,” the DFA said.
