Current 13A Visa Application Questions (From in the PH)

[Shol]

Hello everyone :)

I am currently here in Manila was able to get in last February on a BB and I get after doing research this won't be an option anymore, with the hassles of going in/out as well as the current requirements for secured visas before arrival.

My questions are if someone has current information on the status of if I apply for the 13 visa during the covid times as I understand there have been a lot of cases in the Intramuros office.

1.  Has any one done this the last few months? Any tips to share?
2.  Anything extra I would need to do? I am going to call but I like to get user experiences or details also since you  might not always get the same answers from government officials.

3. What is the current approximate cost that someone paid in Manila.

 

Just trying to figure out what I am in for as I am thinking that since I will stay here longer it would be best to do this route but was wondering of any complications or things that would be helpful to make it easier to accomplish.

 

Thanks!

 

[graham59]

I enquired as to cost (13A) when extending my stay in Dagupan BI office last month.

The lady staff member quoted me p18,000 ...for the first probationary year.

I haven't proceeded with it yet, so can't offer any more than that.

[Shol]

Alright thanks for this hopefully they can still do them in Manila as I know there were a bunch of cases there in their staff.

[BC57]

When I applied for my 13A last year I paid just under 12K at the Davao office You will need to make about three folders for the visa paperwork, one for the ACR card. I always make extra as you never know when they ask for something that is not normal. The cost should be the same no matter which office you apply at but this is the PH after all, lol. I just amended my 13A in June and was approved on Sept. 4th. It takes almost three months for approval.

[Jollygoodfellow]

7 hours ago, Shol said:

My questions are if someone has current information on the status of if I apply for the 13 visa during the covid times as I understand there have been a lot of cases in the Intramuros office.

I think this subject is floating in the coronavirus topics. Perhaps have a look there. 

[Shol]

Thanks I think I got what I needed already so I can start the process as soon as I get my NBI clearance in October. (Already got appointment at UN office)

A couple of quick more questions for those who have done this recently.

1.  When you are filling out the forms I notice "check boxes" and the ability to use a PDF editor to fill and sign.  I am curious should I put x's or check marks in here?  Or does it matter?  Also is it better to simply print this out and fill it out handwriting wise?   Probably doesn't matter as long as it's clear right?
 

2.  Which documents do I need to notorize?  I have everything just wondering as I read some blogs that don't mention doing this.   I assume though I should get this joint letter notorized? 

3. And on that note it says I will need 2 folders plus one just in case.  Do I need to make duplicates of EVERYTHING or just the application form.  As per the website it just says the application form. Do i need two joint letters, two copies of the marriage certificate, etc. or just the extra folder will have the extra application form.  I think that is the case but want to make sure :)

4.  Is the BI certificate something that BI gives to us when we apply./pay etc ?

Thanks!

Edited September 17, 2020 by Shol

[Huggybearman]

I submitted my 13A application at the beginning of May. Still in process. I understand that it’s taking much longer than usual due to the COVID situation at the Manila office. 

[Shol]

38 minutes ago, Huggybearman said:

I submitted my 13A application at the beginning of May. Still in process. I understand that it’s taking much longer than usual due to the COVID situation at the Manila office. 

 

Wow OK so that's a long period of time. Ugh.  Ok appreciate that update. Means I need to get this in as soon as possible. If it's possible haha.

[Tommy T.]

10 hours ago, Shol said:

3. And on that note it says I will need 2 folders plus one just in case.  Do I need to make duplicates of EVERYTHING or just the application form.  As per the website it just says the application form. Do i need two joint letters, two copies of the marriage certificate, etc. or just the extra folder will have the extra application form.  I think that is the case but want to make sure :)

Hello Shol and welcome to the forum...

I am no expert on this and have never applied for the visa you are going for.

However, I have lived here several years and gotten other visas and processed other paperwork. My simple advice is to make several copies of everything you may need for your application. Filipino bureaucrats seem to just love paperwork and forms. And, if you need to make copies at an office, it is usually a bit of a hassle and much more expensive than if you just make them at home or some place convenient and close to you.

[hk blues]

5 hours ago, Tommy T. said:

Hello Shol and welcome to the forum...

I am no expert on this and have never applied for the visa you are going for.

However, I have lived here several years and gotten other visas and processed other paperwork. My simple advice is to make several copies of everything you may need for your application. Filipino bureaucrats seem to just love paperwork and forms. And, if you need to make copies at an office, it is usually a bit of a hassle and much more expensive than if you just make them at home or some place convenient and close to you.

It won't help, Tom.  You can be sure they will first of all ask for something you don't have or pick the one document you don't have copies of! And, i usually end up with copies of documents I don't need etc thereby wasting money anyway.  I have given up trying to second guess on this and pay the 3 pesos or whatever the BI ask.