Press & Notices
Press Release
Philippine Consulate Toronto Begins Processing of Machine-Readable Passports
2009-02-25
PRESS RELEASE NO. ABM-09/08
The Philippine Consulate General in Toronto wishes to inform the public that on 01 July 2008, it will begin processing machine-readable passports.
All passport applicants are required to appear in the Consulate General to file their applications, affix their thumbprints and signature in the computer-generated form (CGF).
One major change in passport requirements is the photograph of the applicant. All passport applicants are enjoined to submit passport photos with ROYAL BLUE or DARK BLUE background. The full frontal facial image of the applicant should occupy 70%-80% of the photograph. The size of the photograph is 3.5 cm X 4.5 cm. The photograph should be printed preferably on MATTE photo paper of good quality. Please find below a sample of an acceptable passport photograph with the required dimensions:
As much as possible, both ears of the applicant should be visible.
Use of contact lenses for medical reasons is allowed, provided the contact lenses do not change the applicant’s true eye color. Use of earrings for women is likewise allowed, provided the earrings are small. However, the wearing of earrings for men is not allowed.
When having their photos taken, the applicant may smile. However, the ‘Mona Lisa’ smile is recommended.
While the filing of applications will be done at the Consulate, the machine readable passports will be processed in Manila. Thus, it will take a minimum of one (1) month before the passports are released to the applicant.
All applicants for the machine readable passport are therefore enjoined to file their application at least six (6) months prior to its expiration date.
Toronto, 20 June 2008.