If you’re a foreign national planning to leave the Philippines after an extended stay, you may be required to secure an Emigration Clearance Certificate (ECC). This important document ensures that foreigners have complied with Philippine immigration laws before departing the country. Read more to learn what the ECC is, who it applies to, what documents are required, and how to get one.
What is an Emigration Clearance Certificate?
An Emigration Clearance Certificate (ECC) is a document issued by the Philippine Bureau of Immigration (BI). Here are some notable details:
- The ECC certifies that a foreign national has no pending obligations or violations related to immigration law, making them eligible to depart the country.
- It is commonly referred to as an “exit clearance” and is typically required at the airport before immigration officers allow departure. Without it, you could be denied boarding or face delays.
- Not all foreigners need to get an ECC. This document is only a requirement for foreigners who have stayed in the country for six months or longer or hold certain long-term visas. We’ll explain more about this in the following section.
Who Needs an Emigration Clearance Certificate?
There are two types of ECC: Type A and Type B. The following individuals are required to obtain one of the types:
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- ECC-A (also called Regular ECC)
- Tourists or temporary visitors who have stayed in the Philippines for more than six months.
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- Holders of expired or downgraded Immigrant or Non-Immigrant Visas
- Holders of valid Immigrant or Non-Immigrant Visas who are leaving for good
- Philippine-born foreign nationals who will depart from the Philippines for the first time
- Holders of Temporary Visitor Visa with Orders to Leave;
- Bona fide seafarers who have stayed in the Philippines for 30 days or more and have a duly approved discharge from BI.
- ECC-B
- For holders of long-term visas (like 9G or 13A) who are leaving temporarily but intend to return.
- The ECC is not required if:
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- You’re a balikbayan or returning former Filipino citizen with visa-free privileges.
- You’re a permanent resident alien with valid re-entry permits, leaving temporarily (though ECC-B may still apply).
- You’re leaving within six months of your first entry as a tourist.
What Are the Requirements of an Emigration Clearance Certificate?
The documents you’ll need to prepare when applying for an ECC can vary depending on your visa type, but the general requirements include:
- Application Form
- Original and photocopy of ACR I-Card
- A photocopy of the passport of the foreign national, comprising the bio page, visa page, and latest arrival date
- Photocopy of the latest visa extension receipt, if applicable
- Photocopy of the order of downgrading, if applicable
- 6 copies of a 2×2 ID picture of the applicant
How to Apply for an Emigration Clearance Certificate
To avoid delays, apply at least 72 hours before your departure. Here’s an overview of how to apply for an ECC:
- Visit the Bureau of Immigration office
Go to the nearest BI office authorized to process ECCs. - Submit your documents
Ensure all photocopies are clear and complete to avoid delays. You may be required to undergo a short interview, especially if there are questions about your stay. If all goes well, you’ll receive an Order of Payment Slip (OPS). - Pay the processing fee
Fees vary depending on whether you’re applying for ECC type A or B. - Bring your claim stub on the scheduled date
Return to the BI office on the scheduled release date (typically within 1-3 days) indicated on your claim stub. Present the stub to the officer. Acknowledge receipt by signing the duplicate copy of the Certification before claiming the original Certification and Official Receipt.
- Present ECC at the airport
Once you have your ECC, bring it with you on your travel date. Immigration officers at the airport will request to see it during departure clearance.
Final Thoughts
The Emigration Clearance Certificate is a required document for many foreign nationals leaving the Philippines. Be sure to apply for an ECC at least 72 hours before your departure to receive the document on time. This helps you avoid last-minute issues or the risk of missing your flight. Work Visa Philippines can help streamline your ECC application, making the process fast and hassle-free.
Do You Want to Stay in the Philippines Without Worrying About the Legal Paperwork?
Let Work Visa Philippines handle the process for you. Our experienced lawyers and immigration experts will help you prepare your documents and file them with the appropriate government agencies. We’ll ensure everything is complete, accurate, and fully compliant.
Reach out today and we’ll guide you every step of the way.
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