Lost/Damaged Reissuance

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What Should You Do If You Lose Your ACR I-Card?

Losing your ACR I-Card—or accidentally snapping it in your wallet—is a major administrative headache. Because it is a secure government ID with a microchip, you cannot simply ask the BI to print a new one. You must go through a formal legal reissuance process that involves the police, the NBI, and the Bureau of Immigration.

🚨 The Short Answer: Do not ignore a lost or broken card. You must obtain a Police Report (or Affidavit of Loss) and a valid NBI Clearance, then apply for reissuance at the BI Main Office or an authorized district office. Expect to pay a fine and wait several weeks for the new card to arrive.

The Reissuance Process (Step-by-Step)

  1. Get an Affidavit of Loss. Go to a local Notary Public or a lawyer's office. They will draft an "Affidavit of Loss" detailing how the card was lost or damaged. This usually costs ₱300 to ₱500 and takes 24 hours.
  2. Get an NBI Clearance. You must prove you have no pending criminal cases. Apply for an NBI Clearance online or at a local mall branch. (Note: If you lost your passport at the same time, you must report that to your embassy first).
  3. File at the BI. Take your Affidavit of Loss, NBI Clearance, passport, and photocopies to the Bureau of Immigration. Fill out the "ACR I-Card Reissuance" form.
  4. Pay the fees. You will pay a reissuance fee (approx. ₱3,000) plus a penalty fine if you delayed reporting the loss.
  5. Wait for the new card. Just like the original issuance, the new card is printed in Manila. Expect to wait 3 to 6 weeks.

🗣️ The Reality: What Expats Wish They Knew

  • "Damaged" counts as "Lost." If you accidentally washed your ACR I-Card in your jeans, or if the microchip stops reading at the airport scanner, the BI treats it exactly the same as a lost card. You must do the full Affidavit of Loss process.
  • You cannot fly domestically without it. If your card is lost and you are waiting for the replacement, you must carry the official BI receipt and your passport to board domestic flights. Some strict airline staff may still give you a hard time.
  • Do not wait until your next visa extension. If you lose your card in April, do not wait until your visa expires in August to report it. The BI will fine you for failing to report the loss of a government document promptly.

🗺️ What Should You Read Next?

Review the Standard ACR I-Card Rules and Annual Report → Find the Nearest BI Office to File Your Reissuance →

Did you have to replace a damaged ACR I-Card?

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Fresh community updates. Confirmed reports are merged into the guide above at the next review.