How to Apply for Authentication/Apostille of Documents
Document authentication (formerly called "Red Ribbon") and Apostille are processes handled by the DFA to certify that a Philippine document is genuine for use abroad. Since May 14, 2019, the Philippines became a member of the Apostille Convention (Hague Convention), so the Apostille certificate replaces the old Red Ribbon authentication for documents going to member countries. For non-Hague Convention countries, the traditional authentication (consular legalization) process still applies.
Overview
Apostille vs. Authentication
Apostille (Hague Convention)
- Single certification process
- Accepted by 120+ member countries
- Faster processing time
- ₱100 per document
- No need for foreign embassy authentication
Authentication/Consular Legalization (Non-Hague)
- Multi-step process (DFA authentication → foreign embassy legalization)
- For non-member countries
- Additional embassy fees may apply
- Takes longer to complete
What Documents Can Be Authenticated/Apostilled?
- PSA documents (birth, marriage, death certificates, CENOMAR)
- School transcripts, diplomas, TOR (authenticated by CHED/DepEd first)
- NBI Clearance
- Police Clearance
- DOLE/POEA documents
- Court orders and decisions
- Notarized documents (must be verified by the Clerk of Court first)
- Business documents (SEC, DTI registrations)
Requirements
| # | Requirement | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Original document to be authenticated/apostilled | Must be the original copy, not a photocopy |
| 2 | Photocopy of the document | One clear photocopy for DFA records |
| 3 | Valid ID of the applicant | Or valid ID of the authorized representative |
| 4 | Authorization letter and valid ID of representative | If not applying personally |
| 5 | Fee: ₱100 per document (Apostille) | Cash payment at DFA cashier |
| 6 | Clerk of Court certification | Required for notarized documents |
| 7 | CHED/DepEd authentication | Required for school documents (transcripts, diplomas, TOR) |
Step-by-Step: How to Get an Apostille
Step 1: Ensure Document is in Proper Form
- PSA documents (birth, marriage, death certificates, CENOMAR) — these are ready for apostille as-is
- Notarized documents — must be verified/certified by the Clerk of Court where the notary public is commissioned
- School documents (transcripts, diplomas, TOR) — must be authenticated by CHED (for college) or DepEd (for elementary/high school) first
Step 2: Go to DFA Office of Consular Affairs
Proceed to the DFA Office of Consular Affairs, Aseana, Pasay City or any authorized DFA consular office. Walk-in applicants are accepted at DFA Aseana. Some satellite offices may require an appointment.
Step 3: Submit Document and Pay the Fee
- Submit the original document and photocopy at the Authentication/Apostille counter
- Present your valid ID (or authorization letter if representative)
- Pay ₱100 per document at the cashier
Step 4: Wait for Processing
- Same day for walk-in applicants with few documents
- Up to 3 working days for bulk submissions or during peak periods
- You will be given a claim stub with the estimated release date
Step 5: Claim Apostilled Document
- Return to the DFA office on the specified release date
- Present your claim stub and valid ID
- Verify all details on the apostilled document before leaving
- The Apostille certificate will be attached to or stamped on your document
Complete Example: Maria's Documents for Work Abroad
Maria needs her PSA birth certificate and NBI clearance apostilled for a job in Dubai (UAE, a Hague Convention member). She went to DFA Aseana, submitted both documents, paid ₱200 (₱100 each). She received the apostilled documents same day.
Cost Breakdown
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Apostille Fee (2 documents) | ₱200 |
| PSA Birth Certificate | ₱155 |
| NBI Clearance | ₱155 |
| Total | ~₱510 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Important Reminders
- Only original documents are accepted for apostille/authentication. No photocopies.
- Notarized documents must first be verified by the Clerk of Court where the notary public is commissioned before submission to DFA.
- School documents (transcripts, diplomas, TOR) must be authenticated by CHED or DepEd before DFA apostille.
- Check the destination country — if it is a Hague Convention member, get an Apostille. If not, you need the traditional authentication/consular legalization process.
- Processing may be delayed during peak seasons (OFW deployment periods, enrollment season).
- Keep your claim stub safe — you will need it to claim your apostilled document.
- Double-check all details on your document before submitting it for apostille to avoid issues.
- DFA Aseana office hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (no noon break).
Need Help?
If you have questions about the authentication or apostille process, you can reach the DFA through the following channels:
- DFA Hotline: (02) 8234-3488
- Email: oca@dfa.gov.ph
- Website: dfa.gov.ph
- Office Address: DFA Office of Consular Affairs, Aseana Business Park, Pasay City
Disclaimer
This guide is provided for general informational purposes only. The requirements, steps, fees, and procedures mentioned here may vary depending on the DFA you visit. We recommend visiting your nearest DFA first to confirm the specific requirements and process before preparing your documents.