In a valid marriage, either one of the parents can apply for a Philippine passport on behalf of their minor child.

However, things can get a little bit trickier when the parents have decided to part ways legally either through legal separation or annulment.

Legal separation is a process of prohibiting couples from living together without dissolving the marriage. Thus, they’re technically still married to each other and can’t remarry until they decide to invalidate their marital union.

Annulment, on the other hand, is a court proceeding with the aim of severing marital relations between husband and wife. It’s a pre-requisite before one can re-marry to someone else.

When applying for a Philippine passport for minors, requirements vary depending on the nature of the parents’ separation.

Take note that until the legal separation or annulment takes effect, the marriage will remain a valid one and hence the regular procedure on filing for Philippine passports for minors must be followed. 

Minors With Parents Separated Through a Legal Separation

In addition to the core requirements listed here, the parent who will accompany the minor child during the application process should bring the following:

• Court order awarding guardianship of the minor applicant or substitute parental authority to you.
• Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Travel Clearance.

Minors With Parents Separated Through an Annulment

In addition to the core requirements listed here, the parent who will accompany the minor child during the application process should bring the following:

• Court order awarding guardianship over the minor applicant or substitute parental authority to you.
• DSWD Travel Clearance
• PSA/NSO Marriage Certificate with annotation of annulment decree.

Go back to the main article: How to Get Philippine Passport for Minors: An Ultimate Guide