The BI Memorandum Order No. MCL-07-009, issued on July 17, 2007, aims to streamline visa application processes in the Philippines to attract foreign investment. It directs visa hearing officers to minimize redundant documentation and allows for alternative documents if necessary, while ensuring that the essential requirements are met. Approved visa applications will be implemented immediately without further documentation, except for updates on tourist visas. The order stipulates that any unjustifiable delays in implementation will result in administrative action against responsible personnel. Additionally, approved visas can be revoked or canceled if violations occur.
July 17, 2007
BI MEMORANDUM ORDER NO. MCL-07-009
STREAMLINING THE REQUIREMENTS FOR VISA APPLICATIONS AND THEIR IMMEDIATE IMPLEMENTATION
Consonant with the directive of the President to adopt a liberalized policy in the issuance of visas in order to further attract foreign investment in the country, all hearing officers for visa applications are hereby enjoined to dispense with redundant documents and consider only those that are sufficiently necessary to justify the visa applications. Alternative documents may be considered in the absence of the required documents without compromising the significance or probative value of the latter. SaIACT
All visa applications that have been passed upon and approved by the Board of Commissioners shall be immediately implemented by the Office of the Executive Director without requiring the submission or compliance of any further documents pertaining to the visa applications except updating of tourist visa. Personnel responsible for any unjustifiable delay in the implementation of approved visa shall be dealt with administratively.
Relative thereto, consistent with Section 8 of the Philippine Immigration Act, as amended, in any visa application coming before the Board of Commissioners, the decision of two (2) members, with the Commissioner participating, shall be sufficient to approve and implement the visa. DISHEA
Any approved and implemented visa is always subject to a continuing challenge and may be revoked or cancelled anytime upon showing in an appropriate proceedings of a violation of the conditions of the granted visa.
Furnish copies of this Memorandum Order to the Offices of the Associate Commissioners; Executive Director; Chief, Board of Special Inquiry (BSI), and Chief, Legal and Investigation Division (LID). HAICcD
Effective immediately.
(SGD.) MARCELINO C. LIBANANCommissioner
Published in the National Administrative Register, Vol. XVIII No. 3 (July-September 2007).