National Id Registration Online Philippine
National ID Registration in the Philippines is now an essential process for all Filipino citizens and resident aliens. The Philippine Identification System (PhilSys) aims to provide a single, unified ID for easier access to government services, banking, and other official transactions. Many people are confused about what “online registration” means — it is primarily a pre-registration step online, followed by an in-person visit for biometric capture. This article explains the registration process from start to finish, the documents you need, common pitfalls, and how you can eventually access your digital ID.
Summary Table
| Phase | What you do | Key output |
|---|---|---|
| Online pre‑registration | Fill in demographic data and get ARN/QR code | ARN/QR code |
| In‑person biometrics | Visit centre, show documents, capture biometrics | TRN (Transaction Reference) |
| Delivery/digital | Receive physical ID, access digital ID | Physical card + Digital ID |
Eligibility for National Id Registration
Everyone living in the Philippines is eligible to register.
Who can apply
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Filipino citizens residing in the Philippines or abroad.
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Resident aliens (foreign nationals) who have lived in the country for at least six months.
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Minors can also register (a guardian or parent must be present).
No age limit
There’s no minimum or maximum age for registration. Even infants can be registered and given their PhilSys Number, which they’ll use for life.
philsys.gov.ph Online Registration
Here’s a detailed guide to registering for the National ID in the Philippines. You’ll follow two main phases: online pre‑registration and in‑person biometrics capture.
Phase 1 – Online Pre‑Registration
This step lets you fill out demographic information and secure an appointment or registration reference.
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Visit the official registration portal: register.philsys.gov.ph.
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Fill in your personal information — full name, birth date, address, mobile number, and email.
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Double-check all entries to avoid errors.
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Submit the form and wait for your Application Reference Number (ARN) or QR code to appear.
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Save or print this ARN — you’ll need it for the next step.
Tip: Mention that biometric and demographic data are encrypted and stored securely under strict PSA and DICT supervision.
Phase 2 – In‑Person Biometric Capture
Once your online data is entered, you’ll attend a registration centre to complete the process.
Steps you’ll take:
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Go to any recognised registration centre (PSA offices, LGU-based centres, mall drop-in centres, mobile units).
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Bring your supporting documents. The Registration Kit Operator (RKO) will check your documents.
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Your demographic information will be validated and your biometric data captured, this includes:
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Front‑facing photograph
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All ten fingerprints
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Iris scan
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Review and confirm your data.
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After successful capture, you’re issued a transaction slip with a Transaction Reference Number (TRN). Keep this safe.
Phase 3 – ID Delivery / Digital Access
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After registration, the physical card (PhilID or National ID card) will be delivered to your address.
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You will also be eligible to access the Digital National ID via the official portal or app once registration is complete.
Documents and Requirements
Primary documents
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Birth certificate (PSA‑issued) or report of birth.
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Government-issued ID with full name, front-facing photo, signature or thumb-mark.
Supporting documents
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If primary documents are not available, secondary documents like school IDs or barangay clearance may suffice if they include a photograph, full name, address, and date of birth.
Age / address / resident status
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You need a permanent or current address in the Philippines.
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Resident aliens must show proof of residence for at least six months.
Fees and Charges
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Initial Registration: First time free of charge for all Filipino citizens.
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Resident Aliens: ₱500 registration fee (based on PSA and DFA advisory).
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Replacement Fee: ₱100–₱150 if you lose or damage your National ID.
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Correction Fee: Usually free for minor errors if corrected early, but may cost ₱50–₱100 after ID issuance.
What Happens After You Register
Physical card delivery
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Your physical card will be sent to your registered address. Track your ID using your TRN.
Usage of your National ID
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Can be presented for transactions with government and private entities.
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Accepted as sufficient proof of identity and age in all public and private transactions.
Data privacy and security
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Protected under the Data Privacy Act of 2012.
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PSA and DICT ensure secure handling and authentication of ID data.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I register for the National ID in the Philippines?
Visit a PSA-approved registration center with your supporting documents, have your data and biometrics captured, review the information, and receive your TRN.
Can I complete registration fully online?
No. You must visit a registration center in person for verification and biometric capture.
How long does it take to receive my National ID card?
Delivery times vary; your TRN allows you to track progress.
Is registration free?
Yes, for Filipino citizens. Resident aliens may need to pay a standard fee.
What documents are required for registration?
PSA-issued birth certificate or government-issued ID with photo and signature/thumb mark. Secondary documents may be accepted if primary ones are unavailable.
Can minors register?
Yes, with parental or guardian consent.
The official National ID registration online process in the Philippines follows four simple steps: visiting a registration center with your supporting documents, validating your demographic data and capturing your biometrics, reviewing and confirming your information, and receiving your transaction slip with the TRN. By following these official steps carefully, you ensure that your registration is valid, your information is secure, and you are prepared to receive your physical National ID for use in official transactions nationwide.
