Dual citizenship happens when due to the laws between two countries, a person has two citizenships at the same time. This can either happen due to birth circumstances or through the choice of the person.
Who Can Apply for Retention and Re-acquisition of Philippine Citizenship?
Under Republic Act No. 9225, or the Citizenship Retention and Re-acquisition Act of 2003, those who are natural-born Filipinos who have acquired foreign citizenship through the process of naturalization are eligible for dual citizenship and may either retain or re-acquire their citizenship in the Philippines.
What are the Requirements for Retention and Re-acquisition of Philippine Citizenship?
The Bureau of Immigration (BI) provides for a checklist of documentary requirements that the applicant must complete for the application to be processed. The following documents that need to be submitted are:
- Petition for Retention or Re-acquisition of Philippine Citizenship
- Notarized Oath of Allegiance
- Two (2) recent 2×2 photos of the applicant
- Photocopy of Foreign Passport
- Photocopy of Certificate of Naturalization or an original affidavit stating how foreign citizenship was acquired
- Two (2) self-addressed (priority mail suggested) and stamped legal size envelopes (if the processed documents will not be picked up by the applicants in the Philippine Embassy or Consulate)
- Original and photocopy of at least one of the following:
- PSA Birth Certificate
- Old Philippine passport
- Voter’s Affidavit or Voter’s Identification Card
- Marriage Certificate, if applicable
For a smooth and hassle-free process, the required documents to be submitted must be complete, together with the application form, and if applicable, with a supplement for dependent.
How to Process an Application for Retention and Re-acquisition of Philippine Citizenship?
To process an application for retention or re-acquisition of Philippine citizenship, the applicant must follow these procedures:
- Secure the Checklist. You can secure the checklist of required documents from the Public Information and Assistance Unit (PIAU) or from the official BI website.
- Submission of Documents. Submit the documents for pre-screening to the Central Receiving Unit (CRU) and to process the transaction.
- Oath. Take Oath of Allegiance.
- Pay Fees. Get the Order of Payment Slip (OPS) and pay the required fees.
- Approval. Verify the status of your application at the BI’s website. If approved, you may claim the Certificate of Retention or Re-acquisition of Philippine Citizenship, Order of Approval, and Oath of Allegiance.
Need further information and assistance regarding Retention or Re-acquisition of Philippine Citizenship? 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.
