For many, traveling abroad is the ultimate dream. But in some cases, travelers have experienced an immigration officer stopping them from boarding their flight because their name is included in the immigration’s derogatory list. In an instant, this dream trip could turn into a stressful nightmare.
The immigration derogatory list includes individuals who have violated immigration regulations, are considered threats to the public safety and such. Being on the list prohibits them from entering or leaving the country unless they lift their name from the list. However, for someone like you who just has the same name from the person on the list, it doesn’t mean that you have to wait for them to lift their name so you could just travel.
If you find yourself in this situation, stay calm. You can prove that you’re not the person in the derogatory list by securing a Certificate of Not the Same Person (NTSP).
What is a Certificate of Not the Same Person (NTSP)
A Certificate of Not the Same Person (NTSP) is a legal document issued by the Bureau of Immigration (BI) to a former Filipino citizen and foreign national attesting that he/she is not the person listed or included in the BI’s derogatory database or record, such as Hold Departure Order (HDO), Watchlist Order (WLO), or Blacklist Order (BLO).
Where to Get a Certificate of Not the Same Person in the Philippines
If you have the same name as the person found in the Bureau of Immigration (BI) Derogatory Database, you may apply for a Certificate of Not the Same Person (NTSP) at the Certification and Clearance Section (CSS) of the BI main office. While if you are out of the country, your application can be filed by your authorized representative on your behalf.
Certificate of Not the Same Person Requirements in the Philippines
The following documents must be submitted when processing a Certificate of Not the Same Person (NTSP):
- Duly accomplished application form for Certificate of Not the Same Person (BI Form No. CCS-A-NSTP-2016)
- Signed and Sealed Court Clearance duly issued by the concerned Court or Agency that issued the Order, Letter Request or Warrant of Arrest to include the person in the Bureau’s derogatory list. The Court or Agency must certify with certainty that the applicant is not the same person as that of the Accused or Respondent based on their records of the case
- NBI Clearance for applicant with Blacklist Order (BLO), Hold Departure Order (HDO), or Watchlist Order (WLO) issued by the Bureau of Immigration
Certificate of Not the Same Person Additional Requirements
Requirements for Under Visa Issuance, Visa Extension, Student Desk and ACR I-Card Applicant
For applicants under visa issuance, visa extension, student desk, and ACR I-Card, the following documents must be submitted:
- Duly Accomplished Application Form (VCU Form 2)
- Photocopy of General Application Form, duly accomplished (BI Form No. RADJR 2012 from PIA)
- Duly notarized Affidavit of Denial
- Photocopy of passport bio-data page and travel stamp page
- 2×2 ID picture
- Photocopy of authorized representative’s valid ID, if processed by another person
Requirements for Walk-in Applicant
For walk-in applicants, such as airport problems excluded, offload passenger, or included/listed on DFA derogatory, the following documents must be submitted:
- Duly accomplished Application Form (VCU Form 2)
- Court Clearances, if cases within Metro Manila
- NBI Clearance, if cases outside Metro Manila
- Old Certificate of Not the Same Person, if either Court Clearances and NBI Clearance are not available and if there is no additional names listed in the BI’s derogatory records
- Duly notarized Affidavit of Denial
- Photocopy of bio-data page and travel stamp page of passport
- Photocopy of authorized representative’s valid ID, if applied by another person
Requirements for Out of the Country Applicant
For applicants who are out of the country, such as a former Filipino citizen and a foreign national, the following documents must be submitted:
- Duly accomplished Application Form (VCU Form)
- Special Power of Attorney (SPA) duly notarized by the Philippine Embassy
- Photocopy of passport bio-data page and travel stamp page
- Philippine National Bureau of Investigation Clearance, certifying that the applicant is not the same person who is in the BI’s Derogatory List
- Photocopy of authorized representative’s valid ID, if will be processed by another person
Certificate of Not the Same Person Cost in the Philippines
To obtain a Certificate of Not the Same Person (NTSP), you will be required to pay the following fees:
Type of Fees | Cost |
NBI Clearance | PHP 115.00 |
Affidavit of Denial | PHP 300.00 |
Certificate of Not the Same Person (NTSP) | PHP 500.00 |
Legal Research | PHP 10.00 |
TOTAL AMOUNT: PHP 925.00 | |
Please note that these costs are only estimated and fees may vary depending on the documents you may need and if you will avail assistance from a service provider or immigration lawyer.
Certificate of Not the Same Person Application Process in the Philippines
To process a Certificate of Not the Same Person (NTSP), you must follow this step-by-step guide:
- Consult with a Lawyer. Being informed that you are listed or included in the Bureau of Immigration (BI)’s derogatory list can be shocking and confusing, knowing that you didn’t violate any laws and regulations. A lawyer can assess the claimed reason why you are included in the list and assist you in proving that you are not a person in the list by getting a Certificate of NTSP. With their expertise, they can guide you throughout the process and secure the documents needed from the government agencies.
- Fill Out the Application Form. To initiate your application, download the application form from the BI’s official website or email xinfo@immigration.gov.ph to request an application form. Once you have the copy, fill out the form and ensure that all information is accurate and complete.
- Prepare and Submission of Documents. Gather all the required documents and submit the application form along with the other documents at the BI main office. For a smooth transaction, it is advisable to acquire the needed documents beforehand.
- Pay the Fees. Once all the needed documents are complete and submitted, you will be asked to pay the fees at the cashier. Ensure to settle the amount to avoid any delays.
- Claim Stub. After paying the required fees, the BI officer will give you a claiming stub containing the release date.
- Issuance of Certificate. Visit the BI main office at the release date to claim your Certificate of Not the Same Person (NTSP).
Certificate of Not the Same Person (NTSP) Sample
Need further information and assistance regarding Certificate of Not the Same Person (NTSP)? Talk to our team at Duran & Duran-Schulze Law 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.
