BI eases visa rules for departing foreigners

The Bureau of Immigration (BI) has eased visa rules, allowing foreigners with approved visa applications to depart the Philippines even if their visas haven't been stamped in their passports.

This directive aims to assist aliens in returning to their home countries during the Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ) period.

Normally, approved visa applications require passports to be submitted for visa stamping.

Foreigners can have their visas revalidated and implemented upon their return to the Philippines.

Departing aliens must present their valid passport, proof of visa approval, and official receipts for reentry and exit permit fees.

Immigration officers will instruct these departing foreigners to have their visas revalidated at the BI main office after the quarantine is lifted.

The BI Board of Commissioners deliberates and approves or denies visa applications under the Philippine immigration act.