The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) plans to roll out a redesigned Philippine e-passport by 2028. The plan was presented during the House appropriations committee hearing on the agency’s proposed 2027 budget.
This article explains what the DFA says will change, how much funding is being requested, and what it means for you if you are applying or renewing now.
What Is the Next-Generation Philippine Passport?
The next-generation e-passport is a redesigned passport booklet. According to DFA Assistant Secretary Robespierre Bolivar, the redesign is meant to bring the passport fully in line with ICAO standards (the International Civil Aviation Organization) and add stronger security features.
What Will Change in the New Passport
- Full ICAO compliance for the redesigned booklet
- Enhanced security features to make the document harder to tamper with
- Additional pages to support a full 10-year validity
- The latest contactless chip technology
When Will It Be Available?
The DFA’s estimated launch date is June 2028. Bolivar described this as indicative, not final. Over the next year, the DFA still needs to phase in the requirements for the rollout, so the schedule may shift.
How Much Will the Program Cost?
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| DFA proposed 2027 budget | ₱35.173 billion |
| Allocation for the next-generation passport program | ₱5.8 billion |
These figures are proposals under congressional review and are not yet final.
DFA Passport Output So Far
The DFA also reported its latest numbers during the same hearing:
- Passports issued: about 1.57 million as of August 31, including at least 35 runs of the “Passport on Wheels” program
- Visas and e-visas issued in 2026: 67,697
- Apostille and e-apostille certificates issued in 2026: 413,597
- Civil registry reports processed in 2026: 36,354
- Consular offices nationwide: at least 42
What This Means for Applicants Right Now
The new passport is still about two years away, and the DFA has not announced a transition process. For now, nothing changes in how you apply.
- Keep following the current process: book an appointment at passport.gov.ph.
- Prepare your usual requirements, such as your PSA birth certificate and valid IDs.
- Do not delay a renewal if you need to travel. The new booklet has no confirmed date.
Tip: You can order your PSA birth certificate online through PSAHelpline.ph, so your documents are ready before your appointment.
Note: The DFA has not yet announced the fee for the new passport, whether current passports remain valid until expiry, or how the switch will be handled. We will update this article when official details are released.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will the next-generation Philippine passport be released?
The DFA’s indicative launch date is June 2028. The timeline may change as requirements are phased in over the coming year.
Will the new passport have a longer validity?
The DFA says the redesigned booklet will have extra pages to support a full 10-year validity.
Does the new passport use a chip?
Yes. The DFA says it will use the latest contactless chip technology.
Do I need to wait for the new passport before renewing?
No announcement says you should. If your passport is expiring or you need to travel, follow the current renewal process at passport.gov.ph.
How much will the new passport cost?
No fee has been announced. Current fees are Php 950 for regular processing and Php 1,200 for expedited processing.
How many passports has the DFA issued this year?
About 1.57 million as of August 31, according to the DFA.
Conclusion
The DFA’s plan for a 2028 next-generation e-passport promises stronger security, a full 10-year validity, and contactless chip technology. Until the details are confirmed, keep applying and renewing the usual way, and watch for official announcements.
For help with your application, read our guide: How to Schedule Your DFA Passport Appointment Online.
