The Bureau of Immigration (BI) has launched a new payment scheme for its frontline services in a bid to further cut red tape and expedite the flow of transactions in the agency.

 

            BI Commissioner Ricardo David Jr. said the bureau started implementing last week a consolidated assessment and payment system for its frontline transactions to reduce the time and simplify the procedure in applying for visa and other immigration documents.

 

            David said the new scheme will eliminate a major source of red tape as persons transacting in the BI are now assessed and asked to pay their total fees only once.

            “We hope the transacting public will welcome the implementation of this project.  This is a giant step in our campaign against red tape,” the BI chief declared.

 

Previously, visa applicants had to be assessed and made to pay fees at an average of four times during the entire visa application process.

 

            Under the new scheme the issuance of order of payment slips and payment of fees for all transactions are now done only upon the filing of the application.

 

            Aside from applications for the various types of immigrant and non-immigrant visa, the new scheme also applies to the assessment and payment of visa implementation fee, ACR I-Card processing fee, and express lane fee.                   

 

            Also covered are applications for tourist visa extensions; special visa for employment generation (SVEG); visa upon arrival; special work and study permits; cancellation of alien registry; recognition and affirmation of Filipino citizen; and temporary resident visa.

 

            The rules state that the BI shall not accept any application for raffle and assignment to a hearing officer unless the required fees are paid in full within the prescribed period.

 

            A new general application form was also introduced by the BI which requires applicants to provide more detailed information about their personal circumstances and background.###