The Bureau of Immigration (BI) launched Wednesday, July 12, its e-Services platform that will give the public access to its application forms, and an option to set appointments and submit applications online.
BI Commissioner Norman Tansingco said the digital platform will make immigration procedures for foreign tourists more efficient and convenient, allowing application submission for waiver of exclusion grounds for arriving unaccompanied minors, emigration clearance certificate, and dual citizenship under Republic Act No. 9225 online.
“They can now swiftly and securely complete their necessary immigration applications end-to-end online,” he said, adding that “apart from these transactions, we are also excited to launch the online visa waiver and the tourist visa extension.”
Tansingco said the temporary visitors’ visa extension or tourist visa extension is among the highlights of the platform, which is used by foreign tourists who seek to extend their stay in the Philippines.
“Our eServices allows our visitors to comply with their immigration requirements from the comfort of their own homes, hotels, or even by the beach. This would definitely aid in boosting tourism, which is one of the main thrusts of the President,” he said.
Meanwhile, the BI is also planning to establish green lanes for overseas Filipino workers and frequent travelers.
“Para mawala na ang yearbook at 10 birth certificate,” he said, referring to the documents asked from several travelers that have recently gone viral. –With reports from Karen Villanda-ag
