BI reminds foreigners: Secure ECC before leaving

Foreign nationals leaving the Philippines should first secure an emigration clearance certificate (ECC) to avoid being denied departure.

 

The Bureau of Immigration issued this reminder after noting about a third of foreign travelers were denied departure because they failed to present ECCs.

 

“It is unfortunate that we have to deny the travel of our foreign friends, but we have to implement the law,” BI spokesperson Elaine Tan said.

 

Citing airport statistics, she said foreign nationals who failed to present their ECCs comprised 33 percent of travelers denied departure.

 

Under Section 22-A of the Philippine Immigration Act, a foreign national about to leave the Philippines temporarily or permanently should seek clearance from the BI Commissioner.

 

This seeks to ensure the foreign national has no pending obligation with the Philippine government.

 

On the other hand, Tan warned against fixers.

 

“We likewise warn our foreign friends against fixers who issue fake and fraudulent ECCs to unsuspecting victims. We encourage them to file the ECCs by themselves or through accredited agents listed in our website www.immigration.gov.ph,” she said.

 

Regular ECCs

 

The BI said foreign nationals required to secure regular ECCs include:

 

 

The BI said those with valid immigrant or non-immigrant visas who intend to return to the Philippines may secure the ECC at the airport. They should pay a fee of P1,210.

 

But Tan said additional fees may be charged if the foreign national is found to have arrears.

 

Applications

 

Meanwhile, the BI said applications for regular ECCs shall be filed three days before departure and shall be valid for one month upon issuance.

Requirements include:

 

Regular ECCs may be secured at the BI main office in Intramuros and in its offices in Batangas, Cagayan de Oro, Cebu, Clark, Legazpi, Tacloban, Tuguegarao, Davao, SM North Edsa, and Sta. Rosa. —Joel Locsin/KG, GMA News