Planning an international trip with your little ones? Good news! The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) is launching an online system to streamline the application and issuance of travel clearance for minors traveling abroad. This digital transformation effort aligns with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s socio-economic agenda, ensuring a faster and more efficient process for Filipino families.
Starting February 18, parents and guardians can apply for a travel clearance from the comfort of their homes, eliminating the need for physical visits to DSWD offices. With this new system, applications with complete and verified documents can be processed within the same day or a maximum of three days—a significant improvement from the previous manual process that caused delays.
Who Needs a Travel Clearance?
A travel clearance is required for minors (below 18 years old) who:
- Are traveling alone outside the Philippines.
- Are traveling with prospective adoptive parents for intercountry adoption.
- Are traveling with someone other than their parent/s, legal guardian, or authorized custodian.
- Are illegitimate children traveling with their biological father.
- Are under 13 years old but will be accompanied by a sibling or relative within the 4th degree of consanguinity or affinity (over 15 years old) for permanent migration abroad.
For just PHP300 per minor, the travel clearance is valid for one year. Parents and guardians are encouraged to secure this clearance well in advance to avoid any last-minute issues. What are the requirements >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
- Either or both of the minor’s parents, if legitimate minor;
- The minor’s biological mother, if illegitimate minor;
- The minor’s father who has been granted sole parental authority or custody by the proper court, if the minor is illegitimate;
- The minor’s legal guardian;
- The person, including one of the minor’s parents, who was granted sole parental authority or legal custody by the proper court, in which case the court decision should specifically include a statement to this effect, i.e., naming the person to whom sole parental authority or legal custody over the minor has been granted;
- Minor’s adoptive parents if the minor granted with adoption decree and certificate of finality.
- A minor who is an immigrant or a permanent resident abroad, with foreign passport, or whose parents are in the Foreign Service holding diplomatic/official passport such as Ambassador/ General Consul/Consul/Attaches, provided he/she is holding a valid passport such as dependent visa/identification card which served as proof that the travel does not constitute traffickingng.
How Travbest Can Help You!
Since 2008, Travbest Travel & Tours Co. has been a trusted partner for families traveling abroad. We understand how stressful travel preparations can be, especially when dealing with government requirements. That’s why we offer affordable and hassle-free arrangements, ensuring that your international family tour is smooth and worry-free.
With our extensive experience in handling travel documents, we can guide you through the new online application system and ensure that you meet all the requirements. Whether it’s securing a travel clearance, booking flights, arranging accommodations, or planning exciting itineraries, Travbest is here to assist you every step of the way.
Protecting Our Children While Traveling
The DSWD’s travel clearance system is part of the government’s anti-child trafficking efforts under Republic Act 7610 (Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation, and Discrimination Act). The Bureau of Immigration is also working with the DSWD to track minors’ return to the Philippines, ensuring their safety.
At Travbest, we prioritize not just your convenience but also the well-being of every young traveler. We are committed to making international family trips enjoyable, secure, and stress-free!
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