Dual Citizenship in the Philippines: Your Complete Guide to Rights, Benefits & Application
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Step by step guide to regain or keep Philippine citizenship, rights & application.
Contents
About This Guide
This guide is based on current procedures and requirements. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to official sources
References & Further Reading
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to official sources:
Want to get back your Philippine citizenship or keep it while holding another nationality? This short guide tells you what you can do, what you'll get, and exactly how to apply.
Who is eligible?
- Natural-born Filipinos who lost Philippine citizenship by naturalization in another country can reacquire it.
- Natural-born Filipinos who hold foreign citizenship by birth (e.g., by parentage) can retain their Philippine citizenship. (These are the categories covered under Republic Act No. 9225.)
Key benefits and rights
- Apply for and use a Philippine passport.
- Own land (subject to existing property laws for citizens).
- Vote and run for certain public offices (check specific eligibility rules for offices).
- Access to government services and benefits reserved for citizens.
- Work, study, and live in the Philippines without immigration restrictions tied to foreign nationals.
Quick checklist: Common requirements
- PSA (NSO) authenticated birth certificate (original + photocopy)
- Valid foreign passport (current) and/or foreign naturalization certificate
- Marriage certificate (if name changed) - PSA copy
- Valid ID (foreign and/or local)
- 2–4 recent passport-size photos (per BI/consulate specs)
- Duly accomplished application form (BI or consulate)
- Proof of fees paid (receipt)
- If applicable: court documents or affidavit for name change Note: Exact document list and number of copies may vary. Check the Bureau of Immigration or your Philippine consulate's checklist before applying.
Step by step: How to apply
- Confirm eligibility and gather documents listed above. Get PSA-authenticated copies where required.
- Make an appointment with the Bureau of Immigration (Dual Citizenship Division) or visit the BI office handling dual citizenship. If you're abroad, book with the nearest Philippine Embassy/Consulate.
- Submit the application form and supporting documents. Pay the applicable fees.
- Attend your schedule for verification and take the Oath of Allegiance before an authorized officer (BI or Consulate).
- Receive the Certificate of Re-acquisition/Retention of Philippine Citizenship (or equivalent document from BI/Consulate).
- Use that certificate to apply for a Philippine passport at DFA and to update records (COMELEC registration for voting, etc.).
If you already took the oath abroad, bring the original oath certificate to the BI or DFA for recognition/annotation.
Fees & processing time
- Fees and processing times change. Expect processing from a few days to several weeks depending on caseload and completeness of documents.
- Always check the Bureau of Immigration website or your local consulate for current fees and appointment procedures.
Special notes
- Minors: Parents or legal guardians usually apply on their behalf. Requirements vary - check the consulate or BI guidance.
- Dual citizenship does not automatically remove obligations to the other country (tax, military service, etc.). Check both countries' laws.
- Running for certain public offices may have additional eligibility requirements beyond mere citizenship - verify with COMELEC or relevant agencies.
Practical tips
- Bring originals plus at least two photocopy sets of all documents.
- Get PSA certificates early - they can take time to secure.
- Make appointments online if available; walk-ins may be limited.
- Keep digital copies of your oath certificate and BI receipt.
Quick FAQs
- Can I apply if I naturalized decades ago? Yes, time since naturalization does not bar you - eligibility depends on being a natural-born Filipino who lost citizenship by naturalization.
- Do I lose my foreign citizenship when I reacquire Philippine citizenship? No, RA 9225 allows dual citizenship; however, confirm with the other country if they allow dual status.
- Where to apply abroad? At the nearest Philippine Embassy or Consulate that offers dual citizenship services.
Follow official sources (BI, DFA, CFO, PSA) for forms, up-to-date fees, and appointment links. This guide gives the practical steps so you can prepare and apply with confidence.
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