One of the goals of the Commission on Filipinos Overseas is to protect fellowmen. There have been cases when Filipinos are abused, culture-shocked, or trafficked. To avoid these, counseling is given and is a requirement asked by the Immigration Officers. Here’s How to Get a CFO Guidance and Counseling Program Certificate for Filipino with Foreign Fiancés, Spouses, and Partners.

A GCP is required by partners of foreign nationals (including former Filipinos) due to the Anti-Mail Order Spouse Act of 2016 and An Act Expanding the Anti-Trafficking in Person Act of 2012. Sessions differ from country to country where your partner is from as they have different practices and cultures. Learn how you can get a CFO GCP Certificate below.

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Who Needs To Get A CFO Guidance And Counseling Program Certificate?

Fiancé
Spouse
Partner

Of A:

Foreign National
Former Filipino
Dual Citizen

Requirements You Might Need

Guidance Counseling Certificate Form (can be done online)
If Married
- In the Philippines – PSA Marriage Certificate
- Abroad – Original Report of Marriage registered by the PH Embassy or DFA
Two Valid ID with Photograph
Valid Passport
Valid Visa
Registration Fee – PHP 400

Other Requirements That May Be asked:

P.S. It’s the counselor will decide on what you will need to pass, but here are some options

Divorce Decree – if either the Filipino or the Foreign Partner is previously married.
Annulment Papers – if one is previously married
Death Certificate – if one is widowed
Proof of Residency of Foreign Spouse – if living in the Philippines, maybe ACR Card
Proof of Relationship – Pictures, E-mails, Chats
Certificate of Family Relations or Registration – From Foreign Spouse
Immigrant Data Summary – for US-Bound Emigrants except those with K Visas
Confirmation of Permanent Residence – for those Canada bound
Visa Grant Notice – for those Australia bound
Certificate of Eligibility – for Japan Bound

Step-by-Step Guide On Getting A CFO Guidance And Counseling Program Certificate

STEP 1: Ready a soft copy of your Passport and visa. Go to this website.

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STEP 2: Enter the details needed. Upload a copy of your Passport and visa. Click “Submit.”

You will be receiving an e-mail for a confirmation. You will need to proceed to the next step, where you will enter your partner’s data. After confirmation, there will be a required list that you will need.

STEP 3: You will receive an e-mail to send soft copies of requirements to a CFO Counselor.

STEP 4: Have a tele-counseling with an assigned counselor.

STEP 5: You will be then given a link to fill up an Online Registration Form. (Two Pages)

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STEP 6: Double-check what you have typed before proceeding to the next step.

STEP 7: Enter the delivery address and check the total amount you will be paying. Click Submit.

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STEP 8: Preview and double-check your answers. Proceed to payment. There are many options to choose from (via online or over the counter)

STEP 9: Send the proof of payment to ofcors.payment@cfo.gov.ph – Subject: Reference No. (123456 – as seen during your registration) – Name of Registrant. Attach your proof of payment.

STEP 10: Receive a soft copy of the Temporary Certificate. In case you can’t wait for the sticker, you can present this to the immigration.

However, you will also be given a tracking number regarding your CFO Guidance and Counseling Program Certificate and Sticker.

STEP 11: Get your CFO Document. If it’s a sticker, you can place it on a blank page of your valid passport.

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That’s how to get a CFO Sticker with Guidance and Counseling Program Certificate For Filipino with Foreign Fiancés, Spouses, and Partners. It’s a requirement, especially if you are traveling to meet your foreign partner for the first time or plan to live abroad with them. I hope this guide helps!

About the Writer

Hey, I’m Lyza! I once was a person who just imagined going to places “one day” but decided to pursue my dreams. My first travel abroad was in Japan, solo, last 2018, and I fell in love with the experience. I aim to visit 10 countries before turning 30 and 2 new places in the Philippines every year. Besides traveling, I love organizing trips, taking pictures, reading, and making new friends. Follow my adventures through my Instagram.