For the 1 million-plus Filipinos residing in the dynamic city of Dubai, renewing their Philippine passports is a crucial task to ensure continuity in their overseas journey. Whether you’re looking to travel, maintain legal residency, or secure new employment opportunities, having an updated passport is essential. So, how does one go about this process in Dubai?
Thankfully, Filipinos have two primary avenues to renew their ePassport in Dubai: directly at the Philippine Consulate General or through VFS Global in Oud Metha. In this feature, we’ll guide you through the step-by-step process of securing an appointment at the Consulate.
The Direct Consulate Route: A Step-by-Step Guide
Getting Started: Start by visiting the Global Online Appointment System (GOAS) at passport.gov.ph.
Making the Move: Click on ‘Schedule an Appointment’.
Define the Type of Appointment: Depending on whether you’re renewing just for yourself or for your family, choose between an Individual or Group appointment.
Selecting the Region: Navigate through the dropdown menu. First, pick ‘Middle East/Africa’, then ‘United Arab Emirates’, and finally ‘PCG Dubai.’
Pick Your Slot: The system will show you the earliest available appointment slots. Select the date and time that best suits you.
Fill in the Details: Provide your personal information and other necessary details as prompted by the system.
Review Before You Move: Before you finalize your appointment, make sure to review all the details you’ve entered.
Email Verification: Once you submit, a provisional email will be sent to your email address (preferably Gmail or Yahoo). Ensure you confirm your booking within one hour, adhering to the instructions in the email.
Confirmation Time: Post your verification, a confirmation email will be dispatched to your registered email address.
Print and Go: The confirmation email will have an application packet attached. Print this out.
Final Step: With your printed packet in hand, head to the Dubai PCG on your scheduled date and time.
Tip: A smart passport-holder ensures they’re ahead of time. Make a note to schedule your appointment at least 10 months before your passport is set to expire. It’ll save you potential future hassles.
On the Day of Renewal
Cash Payment: Once you’re at the Passport Processing Area, prepare to pay a fee of AED240 at the cashier’s desk.
Data Encoding: At the Encoding Area, staff will require certain details like your name and birthday.
Knowing the Release Date: Finally, head to the Releasing Section to find out when your shiny new passport will be ready for collection.