My husband is a foreign national holding a valid ACR I-Card (permanent visa holder) in the Philippines. Each year he must file an Annual Report with the Bureau of Immigration (BI) within the first 60 days of the calendar year (by March 1). Here’s the exact way I helped him complete it — and a simple guide so you can do the same for your spouse or partner.

Quick checklist (what I prepared and what you should prepare)

  • Complete BI online registration (BI e‑services portal).
  • Original valid passport.
  • Original valid ACR I-Card (or paper-based ACR).
  • Official receipt of the previous year’s annual report fee (if available).
  • PHP 310.00 (PHP 300 Annual Report + PHP 10 Legal Research Fee).
  • Book an appointment (recommended) or prepare to use virtual reporting if eligible.
  • Personal appearance required unless exempt (under 14, over 60, pregnant, or incapacitated).
  • Late filing penalty: PHP 200.00 per month after March 1.

Step-by-step: How I helped (and how you can follow the same steps)

  1. I completed the online registration first

2. I gathered documents and copies

    • I gathered his original passport and original ACR I‑Card, plus photocopies of each and the previous year’s receipt. Do the same and place everything in one folder so nothing gets missed.

    3. I booked an appointment (recommended)

      • I scheduled an appointment at the BI office to avoid long lines. You can also check for the nearest BI regional office or the BI desk at Robinsons Place Manila (3rd Level Center Atrium). If you prefer, confirm eligibility for the BI virtual reporting system.

      4. I booked a virtual appearance

        • Since my husband could not appear in person, we booked for an online appointment. If your spouse qualifies for an exception (age, pregnancy, work, or physical/mental incapacity), contact BI for alternative arrangements or instructions.

        5. We attended the scheduled meeting (the link is sent through the email you logged in/ used for your BI account)

          • My husband answered some questions and then was asked to show his passport and ACR card and then the BI officer took a picture.

          6. The officer sent us a link on the Google meet chat for the payment. I settled it right after the call and checked my email for the receipt.

            • After filing we made sure to get the official receipt/confirmation and saved photos and a printed copy with his travel documents.

            Penalties and timing

            • File within the first 60 days (by March 1). If you file late, expect a PHP 200.00 per month surcharge until reported.

            Practical tips that helped me (and will help you)

            • Complete online registration before going to the office or before your online appointment.
            • Book an appointment to reduce waiting time.
            • Bring originals AND photocopies of passport, ACR, and receipts. For online, just need to show PASSPORT and ACR ID.
            • Bring screenshots or a printed confirmation of online form/appointment.
            • Arrive early and have cash for the fee.
            • If using virtual reporting, confirm eligibility and follow BI instructions exactly.

            Where to get help

            • Use the BI e‑services portal for registration, appointments, and virtual reporting.
            • Call or visit your nearest BI office if you need clarification or special accommodations.