Paul7878

I have a tourist visa and have been here for 2 years

My passport recently expired and is cancelled, and I have a new UK passport (it has no stamps within).

I took the old & new passport to the immigration satellite office in Cavite for my 2 monthly visa extension; they said I need to get the new passport “stamped” in Manila.

I have a senior citizen appointment at Immigration HQ in Manila next week.

For this “stamping” in Manila, does anyone know what docs/photocopies etc they need, how long it takes and the fee?

Philosophical 11

I cannot give you a definitive answer but I encountered this at the last place I was staying. I was told by BI ...the same as you, that I needed my last entry stamp transferred to my new passport. I was told loosely that the process is straight forward and cost is minimal. However if I was minded to do this I would bring all visa extension receipts and anything else that may be relevant. Basically it's just bonking the new passport with the last entry date into the Philippines.

However, although this is the official policy, many BI offices are just happy keeping the two passports together. Where I am now are not enforcing the official policy. I also understand that there is no problem when having to depart the Philippines with your two passports without transferring the last entry date..

You could check the BI website where there is an contact email address to answer your query. I always have had a quick and helpful response when I have contacted them previously.

Bealinehx

I restamped my passport at BI Intramuros in 2017. A straightforward process no money required.. As you are already going there next week I'm sure they will rest amp your new passport. If in doubt phone or email ahead.
Out of interest as I'm also a senior why are you going on a senior citizen related matter?

Paul7878

Thanks to you both.

When booking an appointment online, it asks senior citizens (over 60) to select the reason for the visit as "Senior Citizen" - grouped with PWD and Pregnant women.
I noticed many more appointment slots available for senior citizens, so I was following their instructions.
It does ask to have a senior citizen ID ready on arrival; I am not sure what this is. I assume any ID will be ok.

Do you think doing a restamping under the senior citizen category might be an issue, please?

Bealinehx

I missed the Senior Citizen part whenI made my 13A appointment. People are very helpful so not to get anxious. The only thing you need is patience.

Gazza-d

Although I'm sure it won't be a problem being over 60 may make you a senior, you as a foreigner you are not a senior citizen.

Bealinehx

Do you mean as a senior foreigner you cannot obtain a senior discount card? (Although we both probably know of some corrupt foreigners who do possess a senior card) Apart from that I have experienced all but good as being a senior foreigner.

Bealinehx

I forgot to add that the City of Marikina is treating be as a foreigner for the C-19 vaccinations. Second jab next Tuesday.

Raffin

Technically we may not be Philippine citizens but I think we are recognized as Senior Citizens here both generally by people and by the state, even if sometimes they forget us and we shouldn't get the discount card. We can get the new national ID card.

Bealinehx

R,
I see no logic in obtaining the national ID card when we have the ACR-I card. Oh sorry we are in the land of hyper bureaucracy.

Philosophical 11

It is llegal for a senior foreigner to use a Senior Citizens card. I assume possession is also illegal on the basis that it would be intended for use.

However well meaning authorities may well issue the card because they are ignorant of the legal requirements. This doesn't necessarily make the foreigner corrupt. However as far as ignorance of the rules is concerned, itis no excuse for the foreigner.

Bealinehx

P11,
All I have to say is that the foreigners that I know that possess a seniors card are not shy in greasing palms. I think you know the type, pompous and entitled.
Ignorance of the law is no excuse.

Gazza-d

I wish this forum had a like button

Raffin

Not mandated but if we ever applied a big duplication. Seems unlikely people not on long term visas would apply or even qualify. But I heard a lady from the PSA on the TV include us in the people who can get one. Just shows the ignorance even at a high level about us.

mikemike

The senior citizen appointment at bI makes sense for us foreigners as I cannot see why a philipine citizen would need to book with immigration. OFWs are seen by another department as are other philippines citizens who may be emmigrating