BI allows overstaying foreigners to extend stay in PH

PHOTO by ED LUSTAN / INQUIRER.net

MANILA, Philippines — Orders to leave given to foreigners who have overstayed their temporary visitor’s visas amid the COVID-19 pandemic have been temporarily suspended, the Bureau of Immigration (BI) announced Sunday.

“Pursuant to various resolutions from the IATF directing the public to exercise social distancing and minimize travel, and in the interest of public safety and welfare, we will be implementing this order as a form of regulatory relief for foreigners,” Immigration Commissioner Jaime Morente explained in a statement.

The directive will cover holders of temporary visitor’s visas who have reached the 24-month period maximum stay for visa-required nationals and a 36-month period maximum stay for non-visa required nationals as of March 1, 2020.

The relief shall also apply to holders of temporary visitor’s visas who have overstayed in the country starting March 1 regardless of the maximum allowance period.

However, concerned foreigners will still be assessed and will be required to pay immigration fees and penalties in lieu of the order.

Morente likewise said the order reciprocates the leniency of other countries for Filipinos who may also be experiencing a similar situation overseas.

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/MUF