Getting your Philippine passport for the first time is an exciting step. It is the document that opens the door to international travel, and getting it right from the start saves significant time and stress.

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) processes all passport applications through its online appointment system. Personal appearance at a DFA office is mandatory for all applicants.

This guide covers the complete requirements for first-time applicants, the step-by-step application process, current fees, and practical tips to ensure your appointment goes smoothly.

Once your passport is ready, start planning your first trip by browsing flights on Traveloka and comparing hundreds of options from Manila, Cebu, Davao, and other Philippine gateways.

All first-time applicants must prepare the following five core documents before their DFA appointment, regardless of age, civil status, or other circumstances. Bring both originals and photocopies of everything, organised in a clear folder.

Either a PSA-issued copy on Security Paper or a certified true copy from the Local Civil Registrar (LCR) duly authenticated by the PSA. Entries that are blurred or unreadable require a transcribed birth certificate from the LCR. Applicants born abroad must present a Report of Birth authenticated by the PSA.

A primary government-issued photo ID. Refer to the current DFA list of acceptable IDs on the official DFA website before your appointment.

Available for download at dfa.gov.ph/download. Fill it out completely, print on A4 paper, and sign before your appointment.

A printed copy of your appointment confirmation from passport.gov.ph. Appointments are made exclusively online through this portal and are non-transferable.

All applicants must appear in person at the DFA office on the exact date and time of their appointment for biometrics capture, which includes a digital photograph and fingerprints.

Certain applicants must submit additional documents on top of the core checklist depending on their personal circumstances.

A PSA birth certificate is required for all passport applications. If you do not have one, here is what to do based on your date of birth.

Accepted supporting documents include your Form 137 school records, Voter's Registration Record, or Baptismal Certificate with a readable dry seal.

Go to passport.gov.ph to schedule your appointment. This service is free and is the only legitimate booking channel. Do not pay any fixer or third party. Slots in Metro Manila can fill weeks or months in advance, so book as early as possible.

Pay within 24 hours of booking confirmation using your reference number at any authorised payment centre. See the fees table below for the full breakdown.

After payment, you will receive a confirmation email with a PDF containing your appointment form and receipt. Print both on A4 paper and bring them on your appointment day.

While you wait, explore activities at your target destinations on Traveloka and start building your first international itinerary.

Find the best hotels at your first destination on Traveloka, from airport hotels in Manila for your departure night to beachfront resorts in Palawan and Boracay.

Find the best hotels at your first destination on Traveloka, from airport hotels in Manila for your departure night to beachfront resorts in Palawan and Boracay.

Once your passport is in hand, arrange an airport transfer for your departure day to arrive at NAIA or Mactan-Cebu stress-free, and book a car rental at your destination to explore at your own pace. Check Traveloka promotions for the latest deals on flights and hotels for your first trip abroad.

Traveloka, Southeast Asia's leading travel platform, is the most convenient place to plan your first international adventure. Trusted by over 100 million users and available across Asia and beyond, Traveloka brings flights, hotels, and activities together in a single app so you can build your complete itinerary without switching between multiple sites.

From quick getaways to Singapore and Bangkok to longer adventures in Japan, Australia, or Europe, Traveloka has the flights from Manila and key Philippine regional airports, the accommodation options across every destination, and the tours and activities to fill your itinerary. Download the Traveloka app today and start planning the trip your new passport was made for.