In the recent years, many of you encountered the term “Red Ribbon” when having document authentication in the Philippines for international use. Have you ever wonder where it went?
On May 14, 2019, the Philippines became part of the Hague Apostille Convention, replacing the red ribbon with the Apostille system. This system made document legalization easier and internationally recognized.
This article will help you understand how important the DFA apostille and how does it work. We will also share with you the requirements and process, specially how FileDocsPhil can help you in securing your apostilled documents.
What is DFA Apostille?
Apostille is a form of authentication issued to Philippine documents to use these documents for international transactions. Getting your documents apostilled is required for countries that are part of the Hague Apostille Convention to validate and recognize the authenticity. This is facilitated by the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), a government agency that is responsible for issuing apostille certificates.
This process simplifies the authentication process of documents for use abroad by removing the need for double certification, or by having your documents legalized by the foreign country’s embassy or consulate.
However, some countries still need an attestation or legalization from their foreign embassy or consulate. You may check out this article to see a complete and updated list of countries that are part of the Hague Apostille Convention.

Sample of DFA Apostille
What are the DFA Apostille Requirements?
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PSA Certificates – Birth/Marriage/Death Certificate, Certificate of No Marriage Record (CENOMAR, Advisory on Marriage and/or Negative Records) |
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Medical Certificate/s |
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Civil Aviation Authority (CAAP) issued document/s |
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Certificate of Employment/ Trainings/ Seminars/ Baptismal Certificates and other documents issued by a private entity |
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Special Power of Attorney/ Affidavit of Consent/Advice, Joint Affidavit, etc |
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Memorandum of Agreement/Memorandum of Understanding/any other form of contract |
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Court Document/s |
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Immigration Record/s |
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DSWD Clearance |
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Business Registration and Other Documents issued by a Government Agency (e.g. SEC, DTI, BIR, SSS, Municipal Business Permit & Licensing Office, etc.) |
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Barangay Clearance/Certificate |
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Export Document/s |
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Foreign Documents for Certification (for use in the Philippines only) |
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Source: https://www.apostille.gov.ph/documentary-requirements/
Take note that an additional requirements are needed when processing dfa apostille through an authorized representative. These documents are Special Power of Attorney (SPA) for minor document owners or a signed authorization letter, copy of valid government ID bearing document owner’s signature, Representative’s valid ID (photocopy and original).
Additionally, if authorized representative of a company, please present proof of affiliation (e.g. SEC GIS, company ID indicating position, etc).
If processing a Death Certificate, please present proof of relationship from next of kin and authorization letter if applicable.
For foreign nationals processing for any employment related document, please present the Alien Employment Permit from DOLE and the Alien Certificate of Registration from the Bureau of Immigration.
DFA Apostille Appointment System
DFA launches its appointment system for its transactions. This allows a more systematic and hassle-free process for obtaining your apostille certificate for your Philippine documents. This appointment system will secure a schedule before you can go to DFA-OCA – DFA Office of Consular Affairs, which ensures your slot within a specific date of your preference. For appointment online, you may want to read this article for a more detailed guide on how you can set an appointment to DFA.

DFA Apostille Application & Appointment System (AAAS) website – https://appointment.apostille.gov.ph/
DFA Apostille Cost and Processing Time
The cost of obtaining an apostille from the DFA is generally affordable, but it can vary based on the document type and the processing method, either regular or expedited. Processing times also vary depending on what you will avail, standard processing may take up to five (5) working days, while expedited services can speed this up to two (2) working days.
How can FileDocsPhil help you on DFA Apostille?
FileDocsPhil provides assistance in making the process convenient and efficient for you. From reviewing your documents to meet the DFA requirements, queueing and submitting your documents to DFA, to delivery of apostilled documents.
Our services also cover related processes, such as securing PSA-certified documents, arranging notarization, and obtaining RTC authentication, ensuring that every step is correctly completed. Whether you need standard or expedited processing, Filedocsphil tailors its approach to meet your deadlines and specific needs.
Let FileDocsPhil Do the Work!
Need further information and assistance in DFA Apostille? Talk to our team at FILEDOCSPHIL to know more about the requirements and process. Call us today at (+63) 917 149 2337 or send an email to info@filedocsphil.com or simply message us through the live chat for more information.