Visas & immigration
Motion for Reconsideration (MR)
For Foreigners with Delinquencies
A Motion for Reconsideration (MR) at the Philippine Bureau of Immigration (BI) is a formal legal request submitted by a foreign national or their representative to appeal or challenge an adverse immigration decision. This motion seeks to re-evaluate and reverse a previous ruling such as a deportation order, visa denial, blacklist inclusion, or cancellation of stay.

About the visa
Key Benefits of the Motion for Reconsideration (MR)
To prevent deportation or removal
To reverse a denied visa or immigration status
To clear one’s name from a blacklist or derogatory record
To pursue further legal remedies or reopen a case for review
Who can apply
Eligibility Criteria
Basic qualifications for Motion for Reconsideration (MR):
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✓
A visa application has been denied
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✓
A foreign national is ordered to leave or deported
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✓
A foreign national has overstayed his tourist visa
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✓
A person is blacklisted or placed on the watchlist
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✓
A visa downgrade or cancellation has been issued
How it works
Application Process
The exact requirements and timing depend on your circumstances, but most applications follow these stages.
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1
Initial Consultation
Begin with a consultation to assess the immigration decision you wish to challenge—whether it’s a visa denial, blacklist order, deportation, or other adverse action—and to determine the appropriate legal grounds for reconsideration. -
2
Document Preparation
Prepare and organize the necessary documents, which may include a notarized Motion for Reconsideration letter, a copy of the Bureau of Immigration’s decision, your passport, supporting affidavits, and relevant legal or factual evidence. -
3
Filing and Evaluation
Submit your Motion for Reconsideration to the Bureau of Immigration within the prescribed deadline (typically within 15 days of receiving the decision). The Bureau will review your petition and supporting documents to determine if the original decision should be reversed or amended. -
4
Resolution and Notification
The Bureau of Immigration will issue an official resolution after evaluating the MR. If approved, the previous decision may be overturned or modified. If denied, further legal remedies or appeals may be discussed.
FAQs
Questions?
Processing time varies depending on the complexity of the case and the backlog at the Bureau of Immigration. On average, it may take 4 to 8 weeks or longer. Urgent cases (e.g., deportation or hold order) may be prioritized with legal intervention.
In most cases, you cannot leave the country while your Motion for Reconsideration is pending, especially if the issue involves a blacklist or deportation order. Exiting without proper clearance may lead to automatic visa cancellation or a ban on re-entry.
If your MR is denied, you may: Appeal the decision to higher immigration or judicial authorities (e.g., Department of Justice or Court of Appeals), Voluntarily leave the country if ordered, with legal guidance or Face further sanctions, depending on the nature of the original case
While it is legally allowed to file an MR on your own, it is strongly recommended to consult with an immigration lawyer or accredited consultant, especially for complex cases involving deportation, blacklisting, or visa status.
Application assistance
If you’d like help with the process.
C&G can prepare the documents, coordinate the application and keep you informed from onboarding through completion.
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