As a Filipino expat living in the UAE, it is your responsibility to keep your Philippine passport up to date. The Philippine Embassy in Abu Dhabi is the main center for all your passport-related requirements, including initial applications and renewals.
Many Filipinos in Abu Dhabi visit the Philippine Embassy for important administrative tasks. The Embassy has simplified the process to make it easy for everyone. However, the procedure involves multiple steps, such as scheduling an appointment online and going to the embassy for biometric data capture.
Steps to Renew Your Philippine Passport
Most of all, the government services in the UAE are online, be it applying for visas or renewing passports. Let’s jump onto understanding the passport renewal process for Filipinos.
Step 1: Online Appointment Booking
Renewing your Philippine passport in the UAE is hassle-free thanks to the online portals provided by the Philippine Embassy in Abu Dhabi and other consulates. Simply fill out a form with your details and choose a suitable time slot. Book your appointment at least a year before your passport expires to avoid any last-minute issues.
Step 2: Document Preparation
After booking your appointment, ensure that you collect all the necessary documents. These include your original passport and a photocopy of its data page. If you’re in Abu Dhabi, one copy will suffice, but two copies are required in Dubai.
Additionally, make sure to have a photocopy of your visa. In exceptional cases, such as renewing a child’s passport, you may need to provide additional documents, such as a birth certificate.
Step 3: Embassy or Consulate Visit
When visiting the Philippine Embassy or consulate in Abu Dhabi, arrive 15 minutes early for security checks and formalities. You’ll be guided to a counter where your documents will be reviewed for completeness and accuracy.
Step 4: Payment Procedures
After the document review, you will be directed to the payment counter. The standard fee for renewing your passport at the Philippine Embassy in Abu Dhabi is AED 240. Additional fees may apply for specific services or in exceptional cases. You can pay fees in cash or through your credit or debit card at the counter.
Where to Renew Your Philippine Passport in the UAE?
Philippine Embassy in Abu Dhabi | Location: W-48, Street No. 8, Sector 2-23, Plot 51, Al Qubaisat, Abu Dhabi Timing: Sundays to Thursdays, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. |
Philippine Consulate in Dubai | Location: Villa 234-851, Beirut St., Al Qusais 3, Dubai Timing: Sundays to Thursdays, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. |
VFS Global Passport Renewal Center (PaRC) Abu Dhabi | Location: Khalifa Bin Zayed, The 1st Street (Airport Road), Abu Dhabi Timing: Mondays to Sundays, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. |
Conclusion
Each stage is crucial for a smooth renewal process, from booking your appointment online to visiting the Philippine Embassy in Abu Dhabi. Knowing the timing, fees, and special requirements can make the experience more manageable.