Retaining or reacquiring Philippine citizenship (RA 9225)
The route for former Philippine citizens who naturalised abroad to retain or reacquire citizenship under RA 9225: documents, the BI process, and what changes for passports, property and taxes.
Community-written and moderated by volunteers. Based on real experiences and official sources — offices may interpret rules differently.
Processes may vary by office, city or province. Always confirm with your local agency before traveling.
Summary
The route for former Philippine citizens who naturalised abroad to retain or reacquire citizenship under RA 9225: documents, the BI process, and what changes for passports, property and taxes.
Key facts
What you'll need
Steps
Costs
| Item | Approx. cost |
|---|
Timing
Local variations
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This section reflects real experiences. Always confirm with your local office before traveling.
Common issues
Who may apply
Former Philippine citizens who became naturalised citizens of another country may have a route to retain or reacquire Philippine citizenship under the applicable law (RA 9225). This is different from a foreign national applying for ordinary immigration status.
What changes
The result can affect passports, travel, property, taxes, voting and the status of dependants, so obtain professional advice where the family situation is complex.
Documents to gather
- Philippine and foreign passports
- Birth records
- Naturalisation certificate
- Marriage documents
- Children's records
- Evidence of previous Philippine citizenship
Foreign documents
Foreign documents may require apostille, authentication or certified translation.
BI process
The BI service describes: obtaining the checklist, submitting documents for pre-screening, obtaining an Order of Payment Slip, paying the fees, submitting the receipt, and claiming the approval and oath-related documents if the application is approved.
DFA or consulate
Ask DFA or the relevant Philippine consular post whether the application should be made there instead of through BI.
¿Algo incorrecto o desactualizado? Reporta un error · Revisado por última vez: 11 agosto 2026. ¿Algo incorrecto o desactualizado? Report an error · Last reviewed: 11 August 2026.
Frequently asked questions
Quick answers to the most common questions about this process.
No — RA 9225 is a citizenship route for former Philippine citizens who naturalised abroad. It is different from ordinary immigration status.
Sometimes — ask DFA or the relevant consular post whether the application should be made there instead of through BI.
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Edit history
1 revisions · every change is recorded and reversible
- v1Published26d ago
Initial draft from official sources.
ATby Archipelago TeamEN: Original onlyES: Reviewed translation