Disclosure: Small Business Philippines strives to provide relevant and accurate information in all its articles. However, some information in our articles may differ or might be outdated from what you can see or read directly from the establishments’ or businesses’ websites. Please get in touch with us directly for any discrepancies.

A postal ID is an essential document in the Philippines. It serves as a valid proof of identification and address for various transactions. In this article, we’ll guide you through the postal ID requirements and provide you with practical advice and actionable tips to make the process easy and hassle-free. So, let’s get started!

Table of Contents

Postal ID Purpose and Benefits

Here are some of the primary purposes and benefits of having a postal ID:

  • Proof of identity and address for banking transactions
  • Verification document for government and private sector services
  • Helps in receiving packages and mail

Step 1: Gather the Necessary Documents

Before applying for a postal ID, make sure you have the following documents:

Proof of Identity

Bring any one of these documents:

  1. Birth Certificate Issued by NSO or Local Civil Registry
  2. GSIS or SSS UMID Card
  3. Valid Driver’s License
  4. Valid Passport
  5. Marriage Contract for Married Women (Only if documents and IDs submitted do not bear the married name)

Applicants with no Birth Certificate can bring the following: UMID Card, Driver’s License or Passport may submit ANY TWO (2) of the following documents, at least one of which should bear the applicant’s photo and signature:

  • BIR ID
  • Baptismal Certificate
  • Certificate of Birth
  • College or Post-Graduate Transcript of Records
  • Confirmation Certificate
  • Elementary or High School Form 137
  • Marriage Certificate
  • Valid Alumni ID
  • Valid Basic Postal ID
  • Valid College, School, or University ID
  • Valid Company ID
  • Valid Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) ID
  • Valid NBI Clearance
  • Valid OWWA ID
  • Valid Pag-Ibig ID
  • Valid PhilHealth ID
  • Valid PRC ID
  • Valid Paper-based Postal ID
  • Valid Police Clearance
  • Valid Seaman’s Book
  • Valid Senior Citizen ID
  • Valid Tax Identification Number Card
  • Valid Voter’s ID

Proof of Address

You can use any of these documents:

  • Barangay Certificate of Residency issued within three (3 months) prior to PID application
  • Certified True Copy of Lease
  • Certified True Copies of Titles issued by the Land Registration Authority (LRA)
  • Certified True Copy of Real Estate Tax Receipt
  • Bank Statement
  • Credit Card Statement
  • School Billing Statement
  • Utility Bill (cable, electric, internet, landline, telephone, water)

Remember, the documents must be original and recent (issued within the last three months).

Foreign Resident

If you’re a foreign resident looking to apply for a Postal ID in the Philippines, you’ll need to prepare the following requirements:

  1. Two (2) copies of the duly-accomplished Postal ID application form.
  2. Proof of Identity – You must provide a valid passport, which should be valid for at least six (6) months prior to the application. In addition, you must submit one (1) of the following documents, which should also be valid for at least six (6) months prior to the application:
  • Alien Certificate of Registration Identity Card (ACRI-Card)
  • Long Stay Visitor Visa Extension (LSVVE)
  • Temporary Resident Visa (TRV)
  • Diplomatic Visa
  • Special Resident Retiree’s Visa (SRRV)
  1. Proof of Address – You must submit one (1) of the following:
  • Barangay Certificate of Residency, which should be issued within three (3) months prior to the Postal ID application.
  • Certification or statement of account from a hotel, transient home, or any temporary residence within three (3) months prior to the application.
  • Certification from a hotel, transient home, or any temporary residence within three (3) months prior to the application.
  • Notarized, if applicable, Land, House, or Condominium Lease Contract.
  • Bank statement.
  • Credit card statement.
  • School billing statement.
  • Utility bill (cable, electric, internet, landline, telephone, water).

Renewal or Replacement

For renewal or replacement without change in biographic data, the following requirements are needed:

  • Two (2) copies of the duly-accomplished Postal ID application form.
  • Original and photocopy of the Improved or Basic Postal ID card, whichever is applicable.

If you have lost or had your Postal ID stolen, the following requirements are needed:

  • Two (2) copies of the duly-accomplished Postal ID application form.
  • Duly notarized Affidavit of Loss.

For renewal or replacement due to a change in biographic data, the following requirements are needed:

  • Two (2) copies of the duly-accomplished Postal ID application form.
  • Original and photocopy of the Improved or Basic Postal ID card, whichever is applicable.
  • Additional requirements to support the amendment/change in biographic data.

Tips for Preparing Your Documents

  • Ensure that your documents are clear and legible
  • Verify that all personal information is accurate and consistent across all documents

Step 2: Fill Out the Postal ID Application Form

You can get the application form at any post office or download it from the Philippine Postal Corporation website. Complete the form with your personal information, including your name, address, date of birth, and contact details.

You can also download the Postal ID Application form below for easier reference.

Postal-ID-Application-FormDownload

Tips for Filling Out the Application Form

  • Write clearly and legibly, using capital letters
  • Double-check all the information before submitting the form
  • Keep a photocopy of the completed form for future reference

Step 3: Prepare the Application Fee

The application fee for a postal ID varies depending on your location. Here’s a general breakdown of the fees:

  • Metro Manila: PHP 504
  • Outside Metro Manila: PHP 429
  • Remote areas: PHP 354

Make sure to bring enough cash to cover the fee, as most post offices do not accept credit or debit card payments.

Step 4: Visit Your Local Post Office

Once you have gathered all the necessary documents, completed the application form, and prepared the fee, it’s time to visit your local post office. Here’s what to expect:

  1. Submit your application form, documents, and fee to the postal ID officer.
  2. Have your photo and fingerprints taken at the post office.
  3. Receive a receipt and claim stub with the date when you can pick up your postal ID.

Tips for a Smooth Post Office Visit

  • Go early in the morning to avoid long queues
  • Dress appropriately and present yourself professionally
  • Be polite and patient with the staff

Step 5: Claim Your Postal ID

Your postal ID will be ready for pick-up within 10 to 15 working days after submitting your application. Don’t forget to bring your receipt and claim stub when collecting your ID.

Tips for Claiming Your Postal ID

  • Check the details on the ID for any errors
  • Keep your postal ID in a safe place
  • Make a photocopy or take a photo of the ID for your records

Step 6: Enjoy the Benefits of Your Postal ID

Congratulations! Now that you have your postal ID, you can enjoy its many benefits and make various transactions with ease. Just remember to always keep your ID safe and updated. We hope this guide has been helpful, and wish you the best of luck with your new postal ID in the Philippines!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Postal IDs

To further help you with your postal ID journey, we’ve answered some common questions that you might have:

Can I use my postal ID as a valid ID for domestic travel?

Yes, you can use your postal ID as a valid ID for domestic travel within the Philippines. However, it’s always a good idea to carry other forms of identification, such as your passport or driver’s license, as backup.

How long is my postal ID valid for?

A postal ID is valid for three years from the date of issue. After three years, you will need to renew your postal ID by submitting a new application form, documents, and application fee.

What should I do if I lose my postal ID?

If you lose your postal ID, you should report the loss immediately to your local post office. You will need to submit an affidavit of loss, a new application form, and the required documents and fees to apply for a replacement postal ID.

Q4: Can foreigners apply for a postal ID in the Philippines?

Yes, foreigners residing in the Philippines for at least six months can apply for a postal ID. They will need to provide their passport and any valid proof of address, such as a rental contract or utility bill.

Q5: Can I apply for a postal ID online?

As of 2023, the Philippine Postal Corporation does not offer an online application process for postal IDs. You will need to visit your local post office to submit your application, documents, and fee in person.

Additional Tips for a Smooth Postal ID Application Experience

Here are some more practical advice and actionable tips to ensure a smooth postal ID application experience:

  • Double-check the requirements and fees before visiting the post office to avoid unnecessary delays or complications.
  • Keep track of your postal ID’s expiration date and renew it on time to avoid any issues or inconveniences.
  • Inform your local post office if you change your address, so they can update your postal ID information accordingly.
  • Share this guide with friends and family members who might need help with their postal ID application.

With this comprehensive guide, you should be well-equipped to navigate the postal ID application process in the Philippines. Remember to stay organized, follow the steps outlined above, and be patient throughout the process. Soon enough, you’ll have your postal ID in hand, ready to enjoy its numerous benefits!