Are you planning to leave the country any time soon? Whether you are going out of the country temporarily, or you are not coming back permanently, one must need to secure an Exit Clearance or Emigration Clearance Certificate (ECC).
What is an Exit Clearance or Emigration Clearance Certificate (ECC)?
An Exit Clearance, otherwise known as Emigration Clearance Certificate (ECC), is a type of document which proves that the foreign national has neither derogatory records nor no pending obligations in the country.
Two Types of Exit Clearance in the Philippines
According to the Bureau of Immigration (BI), there are two types of Exit Clearance: ECC-A and ECC-B.
Emigration Clearance Certificate (ECC)-A
Prior to departure, the following foreign nationals must have an ECC-A:
- Holders of Temporary Visitor Visa (also referred to as tourist visa) who have stayed in the Philippines for six months or more;
- Holders of expired or downgraded Immigrant or Non-Immigrant Visas;
- Holders of valid Immigrant or Non-Immigrant Visas but 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; and
- Bona fide seafarers who have stayed in the Philippines for 30 days or more and have a duly approved discharge from the Bureau of Immigration (BI).
Emigration Clearance Certificate (ECC)-B
The ECC-B is issued to foreign nationals who are temporarily leaving the country and have Immigrant and Non-Immigrant Visa with valid ACR I-Card.
When Can I Apply for an Exit Clearance in the Philippines?
A foreign national may apply for an Exit Clearance at least seventy-two (72) hours before leaving the Philippines. This can be used from the date of issue for one (1) month. However, it can only be used once.
Requirements for an Exit Clearance in the Philippines
The following documents are required to process the application of the Exit Clearance:
- Application Form
- Original and photocopy of ACR I-Card
- 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
- Photocopy of the order of downgrading, if applicable
- 6 copies of 2×2 ID picture of the applicant
Application Process for an Exit Clearance in the Philippines
To secure an Exit Clearance, the applicant must follow these procedures:
- Submission of Documents. Submit the required documents to the nearest Bureau of Immigration Office in your location and ensure that the application form has been duly filled out.
- Pay Fees. After submitting the requirements, get the Order of Payment Slip (OPS) and pay the required fees.
- Obtain a Claim Stub. Wait for a claim stub to be issued to you. This is important as this will be your proof for your scheduled appointment.
- Visit the BI Office. Once you have a scheduled date and time or return, show the claim stub to claim your Exit Clearance or Emigration Clearance Certificate (ECC) and receipts.
- Issuance. Once the duplicate copy of the Certificate has been signed, you may now obtain the original copy of your ECC and receipts.
Additionally, in processing an ECC-A, the Bureau of Immigration (BI) shall be in charge of processing of the application. However, for those foreign nationals who fall under ECC-B, they can have their clearance certificate processed at the airport.
Need further information and assistance regarding Exit Clearance or Emigration Clearance Certificate (ECC)? Talk to our team at Duran & Duran-Schulze Law in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig, Philippines to know more about the requirements and process. Call us today at (+632) 8478 5826 or +63 917 194 0482, or send an email to info@duranschulze.com for more information.
6 Responses
Clear, helpful information like this makes a real difference. The emigration clearance process is often confusing, and it’s great to see a guide that demystifies the steps while staying practical.
Good day, Adelina!
We appreciate your comment.
If you have any concerns or need assistance in getting an Emigration Clearance Certificate or Exit Clearance Certificate (ECC) from the Bureau of Immigration (BI), you may contact us at (02) 8478 5826 or +63 917 194 0482, or email us at info@duranschulze.com.
We’d be glad to assist you.
My employer intentionally refused to process my work permit as a requirement for any foreigner to work in the Philippines.
When I tried to remind him, instead the school management decided to find tangible reasons to terminate my contract for this the school management claimed that the immigration officers were to have a physical audit or inspection of all international schools in Pampanga and the owner of the school refused to pay for my ECC and flight ticket back home as cited and agreed in the contract we both signed.
I kindly request for your assistance on this matter.
Good day, Herbert!
To provide you with the most accurate and detailed response, you may reach us at (02) 8478 5826 or 0917 194 0482, or email info@duranschulze.com. Thank you for your cooperation, and we look forward to assisting you.
Hi. I have visa till 31July 2025. So may I pay exit fee at the airport like before, or I have to go somewhere?
Hello Po I’m leaving on the 15 April can I’m apply now for Exit Clearance Thank you Maurice eddington