THE Bureau of Immigration (BI) is moving closer to its modernization goal by automating its system to make the Philippines a leading education hub in Asia.
The agency launched on Wednesday its online student visa and permit application system, allowing schools to apply directly to the BI, removing unnecessary paperwork.
“This is a priority project of the BI to make things easier and more secure for foreign students to apply for their visas and permits,” BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado said.
The service may be accessed via the BI’s e-services website at e-services.immigration.gov.ph.
Viado said that the BI is gearing up for more modernization projects next year to further enhance border security while promoting tourism and investment.
Part of the BI’s medium-term plan is to replace 25 percent of its manual operations to electric gates this year. The bureau expects that half of their operations will be electronic by 2026.
E-services would also be expanded to include other immigration assistance.
At present, tourists can already extend their visas online, an added service to attract more travelers to enjoy the different tourist destinations in the country.
Recently, the BI also launched the Cruise Visa Waiver program to enhance the Philippines’ position as a top cruise destination, offering a secure and efficient entry process for cruise passengers.
The Cruise Visa Waiver program was institutionalized by virtue of Immigration Memorandum Circular 2024-001.
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