Won the Case and HDO is Lifted: Do I Need the BI Letter to Leave the Country?

Q: I already won the case and the Hold Departure Order (HDO) is already lifted. Do I need to bring the letter that I received from the Bureau of Immigration (BI) when I go to the airport to leave the country?

A:

1. What is a Hold Departure Order (HDO)?

A Hold Departure Order (HDO) is a directive issued by the court to the Bureau of Immigration to prevent a person from leaving the Philippines. This is typically due to pending legal cases.

2. What Happens When the HDO is Lifted?

Once the HDO is lifted, it means that the legal impediment that prevented you from leaving the country has been removed. The BI should be properly notified, and they will update their records accordingly.

3. Do You Need to Bring the Letter from the BI to the Airport?

a. Yes, It's Advisable: Though the BI should already have the information that the HDO has been lifted, it is still advisable to bring the letter or any official document proving the lifting of the HDO when you go to the airport. This can serve as your proof and facilitate the process if there's any confusion or delay in updating the records.

b. Additional Documents: It might also be prudent to carry other related legal documents that might be relevant, such as a copy of the court order lifting the HDO.

c. Consult with Your Lawyer or the BI: If you have any doubts or specific concerns, consult with your lawyer or directly with the Bureau of Immigration to know the exact requirements and procedures.

Conclusion:

Winning the case and having the HDO lifted clears the way for you to travel out of the country. While it shouldn't be necessary to carry the letter from the BI, given that they should have updated their records, having it with you can act as a safeguard and expedite the process at the airport. It demonstrates a proactive approach and ensures that you are prepared for any unforeseen issues that might arise.