Somebody suggested once that they wished there was a version of "Exit Clearances for Dummies" so I created this post in 2014 order to simplify the information.
(Revised/reviewed for accuracy 12/2025.)

First Things First

Commonly known as "Exit Clearance," the correct nomenclature is "Emigration Clearance Certificate" or more commonly referred to as an ECC. ECC's generally apply to ALL visa holders or foreign nationals leaving the Philippines who fall into specific categories, primarily based on the duration of their stay and their visa type.

In general, the ECC serves to certify that the departing visitor has no pending tax obligations, legal issues, or immigration violations. Generally, foreign nationals departing the Philippines require an ECC with specific requirements varying based on the purpose and duration of their departure.

Two Types of ECCs

ECC-A

Eligibility: for categories such as temporary visitors staying for six months or more, holders of expired or downgraded visas, and those leaving permanently.¹ Bona fide seafarers staying 30 days or more with approved discharge also need an ECC-A.

Purpose: To certify that a valid visa holder is temporarily departing the country and has no pending obligations. The ECC-A is valid for one (1) month from the date of issue, however, you may only use this once regardless of its validity.

Application: Requires an in-person appearance at a BI office, especially for permanent exits; includes fingerprinting, both electronic scanning and manual ink, and photograph. Application for clearance must be made at least 72 hours prior to his/her departure from the Philippines.

Cost: In 2025, the standard application fee is around ₱2,880, though the final cost can vary depending on your situation, especially if additional fees for express processing or previous violations are involved.

Keep in mind, ANY child, born in the Philippines, but traveling on a foreign passport, NEEDS an ECC to leave the Philippines. A notice to this effect is on display at a Bureau of Immigration office.

ECC-B

Eligibility: Required for those legally residing in the Philippines with valid immigrant or non-immigrant visas and ACR I-Cards, and who are leaving temporarily. Exemptions usually include tourists on a Temporary Visitor Visa for less than six months, Special Resident Retiree's Visa (SRRV) holders, Balikbayan visa holders, and Philippine citizens.

Purpose: To certify that a valid visa holder is temporarily departing the country and has no pending obligations.

Application: Available online through the BI e-services website, in person at BI Main Office (Magallanes Drive, Intramuros, Manila), or in the airport upon departure.

Cost: According to the last updated information, the cost for an ECC-B is about P3,380 for the first departure in a calendar year, and around P2,650 for subsequent departures in the same calendar year. Payment is made at the airport on the day of departure. Cost includes single-use receipt issued to evidence their Reentry Permit (RP) which is valid for one (1) year.

¹ One year Visa-free Balikbayan Stay

The Philippines’ Balikbayan Program (not a visa!) allows a one-year visa-free stay for Filipinos working overseas and for former Filipinos who have acquired citizenship in certain countries (refer to the Philippine Embassy website in country of origin). The visa-free stay privilege is also extended to the balikbayan’s non-Filipino spouse and children, on the two conditions that (1) they enter the Philippines with the balikbayan and (2) they are citizens of an approved country listed in the program.

Former Filipino balikbayans who are traveling to the Philippines are advised to bring either their old Philippine passport or copy of Philippine birth certificate as proof of their former Philippine citizenship.

Accompanying family members of the balikbayan can bring appropriate supporting documents to show evidence of relationship:

For the spouse: Copy of marriage certificate (most times, matching passports will suffice). For each child: copy of birth certificate indicating the balikbayan as a parent. For adopted children: copy of adoption papers.

Extending Balikbayan Stay

Visitors who are admitted as balikbayan are given an initial stay of one (1) year. Their stay may be extended for an additional one (1), two (2) or six (6) months at the Visa Extension Section of a Bureau of immigration office. Balikbayans who have stayed in the Philippines after thirty-six (36) months may be required to submit additional requirements. Because this is a VISA-FREE program, NO ECC is needed upon departure.

Key Things To Remember.

It is always recommended to verify specific ECC requirements with the Bureau of Immigration to avoid issues. Latest current requirements to obtain an ECC such as documentation and records, photos, number of copies, etc., should be obtained throught the Bureau of Immigraton website.

Fees are subject to change - For the most accurate and up-to-date cost figures, it is best to consult the official website of the Bureau of Immigration or contact a BI office directly.

Bring cash. While some airport services accept card payments, cash is generally recommended to avoid any issues.

Arrive early. Processing the ECC-B at the airport can add to the time it takes to get through departure formalities. Arrive early to ensure you have enough time before your flight.

Remember: No ECC means NO DEPARTURE!

Bureau of Immigration Regional Offices and Phone Numbers

MANILA - BI Main Office, Magallanes Drive, Intramuros, Manila. Tel: (002) 527-5657.

Angeles City - Marquee Mall, Aniceto Gueco St., Angeles City, 2009 Pampanga. (045) 404 0215

CEBU - BI Regional Office, P Burgos St., Tribunal, Mandaue City, Cebu. Tel: (032) 345-6442/6443/6444.

DAVAO - BI Regional Office, BI Building, JP Laurel Ave., Bajada, Davao City. Tel: (082) 300-7258

"Exit Clearance For Dummies"