Citizenship Services at Philippine Embassies

Philippine embassies offer citizenship services including dual citizenship under Republic Act No. 9225 (Citizenship Retention and Re-acquisition Act), issuance of Identification Certificates, and citizenship verification for Filipinos abroad.

RA 9225 — Dual Citizenship

Republic Act 9225, signed in 2003, allows natural-born Filipinos who became citizens of another country to retain or reacquire Philippine citizenship. This means you can be a citizen of both countries simultaneously.

Who Is Eligible?

  • Natural-born Filipino citizens who became naturalized citizens of another country
  • Children of those who reacquire/retain Philippine citizenship

Requirements

  • Completed RA 9225 application form
  • Original and photocopy of foreign passport
  • Original and photocopy of Philippine passport (if still available)
  • PSA birth certificate
  • Naturalization/citizenship certificate from the foreign country
  • 2 passport-size photos (white background)
  • Valid government ID
  • Fee: ~USD 50

Process

  1. Submit application and documents at the embassy
  2. Take the Oath of Allegiance to the Republic of the Philippines before the consul
  3. The embassy processes the application and forwards to DFA Manila
  4. Receive Order of Approval (2-4 weeks)
  5. Apply for an Identification Certificate (IC) for use in Philippine transactions

Identification Certificate (IC)

After RA 9225 approval, you should obtain an Identification Certificate. This serves as proof of Philippine citizenship for transactions in the Philippines such as:

  • Buying and owning land/property
  • Running for public office
  • Practising a licensed profession
  • Voting in Philippine elections

Fee: ~USD 50 | Processing: 2-4 weeks

Benefits of Dual Citizenship

  • Property ownership: Own land and real estate in the Philippines
  • Business: Start and operate businesses without foreign ownership restrictions
  • Voting: Participate in Philippine elections through overseas absentee voting
  • Travel: Use your Philippine passport for visa-free ASEAN travel
  • Government services: Access PhilHealth, SSS, Pag-IBIG benefits
  • Inheritance: Full inheritance rights under Philippine law
Important: RA 9225 does not affect your foreign citizenship. You remain a citizen of both countries. However, check the laws of your other country — some countries do not allow dual citizenship and you may face consequences.
Related Pages
RA 9225 Key Facts
  • Fee: ~USD 50
  • Processing: 2-4 weeks
  • In person: Required (oath)
  • Keep foreign citizenship: Yes