Filing Period for Applications and Extensions Under VIMS
- Specific timeframes are set for filing and payment of required fees for various VIMS transactions:
- Conversion/change of immigration status: not later than 15 working days before authorized stay expires.
- Extension of non-immigrant visa: not later than 7 working days before expiry.
- Special permits: not later than 5 working days before expiry or arrival.
- Extension of tourist visa: not later than 3 working days before expiry.
- Other applications: not later than 20 working days before expiry.
- If processing is incomplete before authorized stay expires, the applicant's stay is automatically extended under the current status.
Exemption from Submission of Certified True Copies of Corporate Documents
- For multiple simultaneous applications by a corporate petitioner involving the same transaction for corporate affiliates, submission of certified true copies of SEC documents (Certificate of Registration, Articles of Incorporation, By-Laws, General Information Sheet) may be done once for all applications.
- All applications must be assigned to a single lawyer hearing officer for consistent processing and recommendation.
- Certification of these documents as true copies can be done by the corporate secretary or any officer with custody of originals.
Tourist Visa Extension at International Ports of Entry/Exit
- Applications or requests for tourist visa extensions filed at international entry/exit points are to be immediately forwarded to the Visa Extension Section of the BI Main Office or the concerned sub-port/field office for appropriate action.
Express Lane Fee
- A Five Hundred Pesos (PhP 500.00) Express Lane Fee is assessed for every visa issuance, special permit, other transaction, or extension covered by the VIMS system, including the issuance of BI Clearance Certificates.
- This fee is authorized under Section 7-A of Commonwealth Act No. 613 (Philippine Immigration Act of 1940) as amended.
Effectivity and Distribution of Guidelines
- The supplemental guidelines become effective immediately upon promulgation.
- Copies are to be posted in conspicuous areas of the Bureau of Immigration and disseminated to key officials and divisions, including Associate Commissioners, department chiefs, all international ports of entry/exit, VIMS Management Committee, other relevant BI offices, and Alien Control Officers.
- Copies are to be filed with the Office of National Administrative Register (ONAR) at the U.P. Law Center for official records.