ACR iCard Best Posts in Thread: ACR card vs valid passport

From another completely unrelated situation. An American is being deported in part because as a result of a warrant the State Department withdrew his passport. The Philippine government then connected the dots, no valid passport = undocumented foreigner (even though he was here on a valid passport on arrival) = automatic deportation.

This seems to answer the question. Since your foreign passport is the underlying document for the ACR card, and an invalid (revoked or expired) passport is considered as undocumented, and undocumented foreigners will be deported, it is very important to ensure you always have a valid passport. (a non-attorney opinion)

 

I know it is illogical to try using logic here, but I can't help it. So, think of it this way, why would the Philippines require (like many other countries) 6 months validity left on your passport when you enter the country if they don't care if you passport expires once you enter? I would suggest always having a current valid passport. Don't think I would implement the saying, better to ask forgiveness than permission, as the worst case scenario here is being deported and blacklisted.

 

Having gone to the Mayor of SIBULAN's wake Yesterday, I took the Liberty of asking the local ACO (Peter Bueno) this question( he was also there and I stole a few mins of his time) He told me it is imperative to have a valid Passport at all times as this is your Document of Travel, the ACR card is not a means of Travel (merely an ID with Status under the Alien Registration Programme) and the Documentation of your Status is on your Passport, Anyone who has a right to see your Passport will take the necessary action should it be Found that your passport has Expired while you are in the PI. He also told me that you will not get your yearly Report executed on an expired Passport, This will of course give you more problems, So for me, (& the BI) Don't take the Risk. He also mentioned that the renewal of the ACR card would/could may be in jeopardy if it is found the passport expired especially if it is 1 or 2 years.

Take this as you may but this comes from our Local BI /ACO who is a Lawyer

 

This seems insane to me. Why would you not keep your passport up to date in a foreign country? That's your ticket to a fast exit, freedom and options. If the **** hits the fan, I would want that thing ready. Much better to renew in good times than to be scrambling if things go bad. And of course, it's a requirement as well.

 

seems they don't worry about that if you are on 13a. Extending a 9a Tourist would be a different story