What is an ACR-I Card (Alien Certificate of Registration)?【Visa & Permit for Studying in the Philippines】

✅ What is an ACR-I Card?

The ACR-I Card (Alien Certificate of Registration – Identity Card) is an official identification card required for foreign nationals staying in the Philippines for more than 60 days. It is separate from the SSP and is used by the Philippine government to keep track of foreign residents during their stay.

✅ Why is it necessary?

The ACR-I Card is mandatory for all foreign nationals who plan to stay in the Philippines for 60 days or longer. For language school students staying more than 13 weeks, the card is typically required in conjunction with the second SSP application. Without this card, further visa extensions or legal procedures may not be possible.

✅ Application Process (at 3D ACADEMY)

At 3D ACADEMY, we assist students who enroll for 13 weeks or more with the ACR-I Card application. The card is generally applied for at the time of the second SSP application, and it takes about 3 to 4 weeks to be issued. Once issued, the school keeps the card securely and returns it to the student upon graduation or withdrawal.

✅ Validity & Renewal

The ACR-I Card is valid for one year from the date of issuance. For study durations such as 24 weeks (around 6 months), one application is sufficient. If a student plans to stay for more than one year, the card must be renewed.

✅ Fees

The issuance fee for the ACR-I Card is 3,500 pesos (as of 2025). This fee is usually bundled with the SSP application. At 3D ACADEMY, the initial SSP application fee of 10,540 pesos includes the cost of the ACR-I Card. Therefore, during renewal (6,800 pesos), the ACR-I Card fee is no longer required.

✅ Important Notes

Biometric data, including a photo and fingerprints, are required for the ACR-I Card.
If lost, the student must report it immediately to the school for reissuance procedures.
Students staying 59 days or less do not need to obtain an ACR-I Card (e.g., 4-week short-term students).