Starting 01 June 2008, the new Machine Readable Passport (MRP) will be available to Filipinos overseas applying for a Philippine Passport.

It has unique features, more secure and is capable of being read by a passport machine reader at international borders. Compared to manually read passports that preceded them, it contains various security features like the IPI – Invisible Personal Information, laser perforated numbers and UV reactive laminate which are close to impossible to tamper with.

Under the new system, applicants have to personally appear, sign and affix their thumbprints on the application form before a consular officer at the Philippine Embassy or Consulate.

Applicants are also now required to submit three (3) copies of passport-sized photographs taken against a royal blue background, instead of the customary white background. The photograph, signature and thumbprints of the applicant are stored in the passport database in the Department of Foreign Affairs in Manila.

A machine generated application form is printed with the personal details of the applicant. The applicant has the responsibility to verify the accuracy of the data printed on the form. The signature of the applicant on the form indicates that the applicant has read and verified the contents thereof. Any misprint on the passport due to the fault of the applicant shall be to his or her accountability.

Due to the shift to the new system, processing time for the Machine Readable Passport will be thirty (30) working days. Applicants are advised to apply for or renew their passports way ahead of their expected date of travel or at least six (6) months before the expiration of their old passport.

With the implementation of the Machine Readable Passport, there will be a faster processing of arriving passengers by immigration officials at international borders.
The passport fee remains at €40.00. Green or manually scripted passports shall remain valid until their expiry date.