Question & AnswerQ&A (BOI MEMORANDUM ORDER NO. RBR 98-002)
The Board of Commissioners exercises exclusive original jurisdiction over all deportation cases.
The Board of Commissioners has exclusive appellate jurisdiction over exclusion cases decided by the Boards of Special Inquiry.
The Board of Commissioners approves all applications and/or petitions for admission of non-immigrants and immigrants under the specified sections of CA 613.
The Commissioner approves matters such as assignment of duties to Boards of Special Inquiry members, applications for Quota Immigrant Visa, Temporary Resident Visa for restricted and Chinese nationals, Alien Social Integration transactions, issuance of Mission or Memorandum Orders, and personnel matters within the Bureau.
The First Associate Commissioner approves applications for Non-Quota Immigrant Visa, late registration, Permanent Residence Visa under RA 7837, Special Study Permit, Indigency, Special Retiree's Residence Visa (SRRV), cancellation of alien registry, and issuance of certificates including Bureau of Immigration Intelligence Clearance.
The Second Associate Commissioner handles applications for recognition as Filipino citizen, Special Investor's Resident Visa (SIRV), Special Non-Immigrant Visa under EO 226 and PD 1034, waiver of exclusion grounds for unaccompanied minors, approval of waiver of exit clearance for TECO officials, and change of status to certain visa categories.
Both Associate Commissioners jointly approve applications for grace periods and visa extensions, issuance and lifting of Hold Departure Orders, Watchlist and Allow Departure Orders, downgrading of visas, and provisional or special work permits.
Their functions include advising on legal matters related to immigration law enforcement, investigating alien applications and violations, assisting the Board of Commissioners in cases, representing the Bureau in court, preparing arrest warrants, confiscating bonds, investigating administrative complaints, and other duties as assigned.
Each Board of Special Inquiry exercises exclusive original jurisdiction over all exclusion cases pursuant to Section 27(b) of CA 613.
Every Board of Special Inquiry is directed to dispose of all matters referred within thirty (30) days from completion of documentary requirements and/or termination of proceedings.