So, you've ordered your ACR / I-Card? Don't wait forever to receive it.

Have you recently applied for an Alien Certificate of Registration (ACR / I-Card) or planning to apply? Make sure you understand the requirements and process.

Just like with many government-mandated processes in the Philippines, the exact details of the ACR / I-Card application process can vary overtime including between offices and even processing clerks.

If you don’t follow the process or have all the required / requested documents, you will experience delays.

Don’t wait forever!

Let us guide you through every step.

The basic process is:

1. Determine Whether You Are Required to Get an ACR-I Card

You must apply for an ACR-I Card if you are:

• Staying in the Philippines for more than 59 days, and

• Holding a visa type that requires it (e.g., tourist visa extension beyond 59 days, SRRV, 13A, SIRV, student visa, employment visa, etc.).

If you want to open a bank account or engage in certain other activities, it is also necessary to obtain an ACR.

The ACR is a credit-card-sized identification card issued by the Filipino government. There are several different ACR categories—each is a different color based upon the visa type or purpose of the ACR. For example, a less common variant is the red ACR for “voluntary registrants”; this is issued when the applicant isn’t required to obtain an ACR, but applies for one for the purpose of opening a bank account. See the official website for more information on the categories and colors.

2. Prepare Required Documents

Common documents include:

• Passport (original + photocopy)
• Latest visa or extension stamp
• Completed ACR-I Card application form
• Recent passport-sized photos (some BI offices take your photo onsite)
• Official receipt of visa extension (if applicable)

Exact requirements may vary depending on visa type.

The requirements needed for ACR-I Card can change. This is true of any Filipino government process. In fact, you may experience the requirements / documents vary depending on who you talk to inside the same office. It can be infuriating, but is must be accommodated if you want to achieve your goals.

3. Go to a Bureau of Immigration (BI) Office

You can apply at:

• The BI Main Office (Intramuros, Manila), or

• A BI field office that processes ACR-I Cards (not all do).

Arrive early — queues can be long.

4. File Your Application

At the BI office, you’ll:

• Submit your documents
• Fill out additional forms if required
• Have your biometrics taken (photo + fingerprints)
• Provide your signature digitally

5. Pay Government Fees

Fees vary based on visa type. You will receive an Official Receipt (O.R.) — keep this for pickup.

6. Wait for Processing

Typical processing time ranges from:

• 2–6 weeks for most visa types
• Longer during peak seasons or if BI requests additional verification

You can monitor status through the BI website or “follow up” at the office where you applied.

7. Claim Your ACR-I Card

Once approved:

• Return to the BI office where you applied
• Present your O.R. and passport
• Receive your ACR-I Card

8. Keep Your Card Valid and Updated

It must be renewed annually for most visa types

Update BI if you change address, marital status, employment, or visa status

More information can be found on the Philippines Bureau of Immigration website.

Thinking of Moving to the Philippines? Get Reliable Guidance.

Online communities are helpful for general questions. For anything important, you still need accurate, professional, and updated information. E636 Expat Services helps foreigners with:

• Residency and long term visas
• Bank account opening
• Health insurance guidance
• Real estate assistance
• Business setup
• Retirement planning
• A smooth and secure transition into life in the Philippines

If you want to move with confidence instead of relying on random comments online, we can guide you every step of the way.

Book a consultation with E636 and start your journey the right way.