Expat Community > Philippines

jaijav15
Joined 2021
Posts: 2

Entry Exemption Certificate

3 years ago

Greetings,
I am a UK citizen, who resided in the Philippines for 3 years. I am not married, however I do have two children (aged 4 and 2) with my Filipina partner.

I had to leave the country in November due to my visa reaching its limit of renewals, and as per the covid restrictions, I had to go back to the UK. Since returning to the UK, I have been told by the embassy that I need to secure an entry exemption certificate from the DFA, to be able to get a visa to return.

I tried to secure this by writing a letter outlining the fact that my family and my life has been built in the Philippines, I have a business and of course my wife and two children. I explained the emotional distress that we are all under, having my children growing up without their father. Plus how difficult it is for my partner who cannot even take the kids shopping with her, due to the quarantine rules. I also explained that once I return I have no plans on leaving again, at least until my visa expires again 3 years after my entry.

I was told that my reasons for returning were not strong enough.

So my question, to those in the know.
What do I need to be telling the embassy to get them to endorse my request for an entry exemption certificate from the DFA?

I cannot explain how difficult it is, being apart from my family, especially my children. If any one can help with suggestions of what I need to do to to get back to them. Any loopholes, or ideas on what would qualify as strong enough reasons to need to get back will be gratefully received.

Thank you in advance.

Yours, james

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