JANUARY 4, 2026 — The Bureau of Immigration (BI) has set a firm reminder to all registered foreign nationals in the Philippines: complete the mandatory 2026 Annual Report (AR) no later than March 1, 2026.

Under Section 10 of Republic Act No. 562, also known as the Alien Registration Act of 1950, foreigners holding valid registration are required to report within the first 60 days of the year. Failure to comply may result in administrative fines or even prosecution, according to BI officials.

The process begins with online registration through the BI e-services portal. During in-person reporting, registrants must present their Alien Certificate of Registration Identity Card (ACR I-Card) or original paper-based ACR, a valid passport, and proof of payment for the previous year’s AR fee.

For those reporting in Manila, the BI has designated Robinsons Place Manila, Center Atrium (3rd Level), as the venue for in-person AR from Mondays to Fridays, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., excluding holidays. 

Meanwhile, the bureau has expanded access through a virtual AR system, available 24/7, including weekends and holidays. Qualified foreign nationals with valid visas may complete the process online and settle fees via Maya, GCash, credit card, or Landbank.

The BI also emphasized that foreign nationals intending to leave the country must first settle their AR obligations before being issued an Emigration Clearance Certificate (ECC-B). This requirement ensures compliance with immigration laws and prevents delays at departure points.

Beyond the technicalities, the directive raises broader questions on how foreign nationals integrate into Philippine society. The annual reporting system, while administrative in nature, also reflects the government’s effort to maintain accurate records and strengthen immigration monitoring. For many, the process may seem routine, but its impact on transparency and accountability is significant.

The BI has urged registrants to check the official portal, e-services.immigration.gov.ph, for the full list of participating offices and detailed guidelines.

(Image: Immigration PH 24/7 Helpline | Facebook)