How Much is the payment for Apostille in DFA?

How Much is the payment for Apostille in DFA? When dealing with documents for international use, an apostille is essential to ensure their legitimacy. In the Philippines, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) handles the apostille process. Here, we’ll provide a comprehensive guide on the costs, process, and responsibilities involved in obtaining an apostille from the DFA.

How Much is the payment for Apostille in DFA?

The DFA charges a fee for processing documents for apostille. The fees vary based on the processing time chosen:

Regular Processing: PHP 100 per document
Expedite Processing: PHP 200 per document

These fees are straightforward and depend on how quickly you need your documents processed.

Authentication Process Overview

The authentication process at the DFA is structured to ensure efficiency and accuracy. Below is a detailed step-by-step guide on how the process works:

Filing of Documents for Authentication/Apostille

Initial Evaluation: Present your document(s) at the Authentication Information Counter for an initial evaluation. This step typically takes around 5 minutes.
Application Form: Fill out the application form and wait for your queuing number to be called at the processing area. This can take up to 1 hour.
Submission: Submit the accomplished application form, your document(s), a government-issued ID, and an authorization letter (if you are a representative) to the Processor for evaluation. This step takes approximately 30 minutes.
Payment: Present the Authentication Slip and pay the appropriate fee (PHP 100 for regular processing or PHP 200 for expedite processing) at the Cashier. This takes around 5 minutes.
Encoding and Issuance: The apostille or authentication certificate is encoded and issued. This process takes 2 working days and 6 working hours for regular cases.
Special Cases: If verification with the issuing agency is required, this can take up to 20 working days.

Releasing of Authenticated Documents

Drop Official Receipt: Drop your official receipt at Door 19 dropbox and wait for your name to be called at the Releasing area. This usually takes about 15 minutes.
Present ID: Present your government-issued ID at the appropriate releasing window.
Document Check: Check the accuracy and completeness of the authenticated documents received.

Releasing of Pending and Correction Documents

Evaluation: Proceed to the Pending and Correction window for evaluation, which takes about 10 minutes.
Wait for Name Call: Wait for your name to be called at the Pending and Correction area, which may take up to 30 minutes.
Claim Documents: Present your government-issued ID to claim the authenticated documents and check their accuracy and completeness.

Key Personnel Involved in the Process

Authentication Information Focal Person: Handles initial evaluation and information dissemination.
Authentication Processor: Evaluates the documents submitted for apostille.
Authentication Cashier: Collects the appropriate fees for authentication.
Authentication Backend: Responsible for encoding and issuing the apostille or authentication certificate.
Authentication VAFIS Personnel: Verifies documents with the issuing agency if necessary.
Authentication Releasing Personnel: Manages the releasing of authenticated documents.
Pending and Correction Personnel: Evaluate and process documents that require further verification or correction.

Conclusion

Obtaining an apostille from the DFA involves a clear process with specified fees depending on the urgency of the request. Regular processing costs PHP 100 per document, while expedited processing costs PHP 200 per document. By following the outlined steps and understanding the responsibilities of the personnel involved, applicants can navigate the apostille process smoothly and efficiently.