ePassport now available at Philippine Embassy in Singapore

The Philippine Embassy have started issuing ePassport since June 28, 2010.

An ePassport is a passport which features microchip technology. An integrated circuit (chip) within its pages contains the data that are essential in verifying the identity of the passport holder. These data include the personal data found on the data page of the passport, the biometrics of the passport holder, the unique chip identification number, and a digital signature to verify the authenticity of the data stored on the chip.

The chip technology allows the information stored in an ePassport to be read by special chip readers at a close distance.

The new Philippine ePassport is fully compliant with the high security standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). Aside from basic passport information, the chip will contain the digital photo, signature and thumbprint of the holder.

 

The front cover of a contemporary Philippine biometric passport with the microchip embedded

 

The data page of the biometric passport with a machine-readable zone and digitally-captured signature.

 

The ePassport will cost S$102.00, slightly higher than the machine readable passport, but will have enhanced security features. Applicants are also no longer required to submit passport photos.

In order to prevent overcrowding and in compliance with Singapore safety and welfare regulations, the Philippine Embassy shall be instituting a cut-off of 80 to 100 applicants a day due to high consular traffic.

Applicants, especially professionals (S-Pass and E-Pass holders), are advised to schedule their visits on weekdays to avoid long queues on Sundays. The processing time will be six (6) weeks from the time of application.

Philippine Embassy
20 Nassim Road
Singapore 258395
T: +65 6737 - 3977 ext. 101
F: +65 6733 - 9544

Source: Philippine Embassy @ Singapore