BI to foreigners: File annual report early to avoid crowds amid nCoV threat

MANILA, Philippines – The Bureau of Immigration (BI) on Sunday reminded foreign nationals registered with the bureau to file their annual report early to avoid crowds amid the threat of the novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV).

“There were barely any reportees during the first month of the reporting period,” said BI Commissioner Jaime Morente in a statement. “We encourage registered aliens to submit themselves early to avoid unnecessary crowds amidst the 2019-nCoV ARD scare.”

The 1951 Alien Registration Act requires all BI-registered aliens who are holders of immigrant and non-immigrant visas to make the annual report within the first 60 days of a calendar year. It covers foreigners who are living, working, or studying in the Philippines.

According to Morente, the annual reporting period will not be extended, and failure to make the report will warrant the imposition of fines and possible prosecution.

In filing their annual report, aliens must bring their passport and present their alien certificate of registration identity card (ACR I-Card). They also have to pay a 300-peso annual report fee and a 10-peso legal research fee.

Those who are currently abroad must make the report within 30 days from the date of their return to the country, provided they have valid re-entry permits.

For alien minors aged 14 years and below, it shall be the duty of their parent or guardian to make the report on their behalf. Likewise, senior citizens aged 65 years old and above and persons with disability are exempted from personal appearance and need only to submit a Special Power of Attorney for their representative.

Application forms, guidelines, and information on the conduct of the 2019 annual report can be downloaded from the BI website.