PSA Documents for SIM Registration Philippines
Many Filipinos wonder whether a PSA document, such as a birth certificate or marriage certificate — is required or accepted when registering their SIM card. The question became common after the SIM Registration Act took effect, requiring every SIM user in the Philippines to verify their identity.
If you’ve lost your valid ID, don’t have one yet, or are registering a SIM for a minor, you might be asking: Can a PSA document be used instead?
This article explains exactly when and how PSA documents are used for SIM registration, what documents are accepted, and what steps you should take to complete the process properly.
Understanding the SIM Registration Act
The SIM Registration Act (Republic Act No. 11934) was enacted to combat spam, scams, and fraudulent SIM use in the Philippines. It requires all SIM users, both new and existing, to register their SIMs using valid proof of identity.
The registration links your mobile number to your verified personal details, making digital transactions and communication more secure.
Because this process requires identity verification, PSA-issued documents may come into play when a person doesn’t have a government-issued photo ID.
What Are PSA Documents?
The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) issues certified copies of civil registry records. Common PSA documents include:
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PSA Birth Certificate
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PSA Marriage Certificate
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PSA Death Certificate
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CENOMAR (Certificate of No Marriage Record)
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PSA Certificate of Live Birth or Legitimation
These documents prove essential identity information such as your full name, date of birth, and family relationships — which can help verify your identity if you lack a primary government ID.
When PSA Documents Are Accepted for SIM Registration
PSA documents are not primary requirements for SIM registration, but they are sometimes accepted in specific cases.
| Situation | Role of PSA Document | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| No valid photo ID available | A PSA Birth Certificate may serve as a fallback or supporting proof of identity. | Usually paired with another secondary ID or local certification. |
| Registering a minor’s SIM | The child’s PSA Birth Certificate is required to show the parent–child relationship. | The SIM is registered under the parent or guardian’s name. |
| Corporate or business SIM registration | PSA documents may help verify the authorized representative’s identity. | Used only as supporting documentation. |
| Discrepancies in ID details | A PSA Birth Certificate can confirm correct spelling, middle names, or suffixes. | Helps resolve mismatched information. |
In short: PSA documents support your registration but do not replace a valid government-issued photo ID unless your telecom provider explicitly allows it.
Primary IDs Accepted for SIM Registration
Before using PSA documents, always check if you already have any of the accepted government IDs. These are typically required by telcos:
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PhilSys ID (National ID)
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Passport
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Driver’s License
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SSS ID or GSIS eCard
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Voter’s ID or Comelec ID
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UMID
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PRC ID
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OWWA ID
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Postal ID
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BIR or TIN ID
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NBI or Police Clearance
If you do not have any of these, you may present a PSA Birth Certificate together with a barangay certificate, school ID, or any other secondary proof for verification.
Step-by-Step Guide to SIM Registration Using PSA Documents
Step 1. Prepare your documents
Gather the following before you start registration:
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A valid photo ID (if available)
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PSA Birth Certificate (if no photo ID)
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Active SIM card and mobile number
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Personal details: full name, birthdate, gender, and address
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For minors: parent’s valid ID + child’s PSA Birth Certificate
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For businesses: SEC or DTI registration, board resolution, and representative’s ID
Step 2. Access your telco’s SIM registration portal
Go to the official registration portal of your provider (Smart, Globe, or DITO). You can also register in-store if you have difficulty uploading documents online.
Step 3. Fill out your personal information
Enter your full name, date of birth, gender, address, and nationality. Double-check for correct spelling and details that match your ID or PSA document.
Step 4. Upload your document
Upload a clear photo or scanned copy of your ID or PSA document. If using a PSA Birth Certificate, ensure that the entire document is visible and readable.
Step 5. Verify your number
You’ll receive a One-Time Password (OTP) via SMS. Enter it on the registration page to confirm ownership of the SIM.
Step 6. Get your reference number
Once registered, you’ll receive a confirmation message and reference number as proof of registration. Keep this for future reference.
Importance of PSA Documents for Identity Verification
PSA documents serve as the foundation of your legal identity in the Philippines. They are used not only for SIM registration but also for passport applications, government benefits, and employment.
Having an updated and certified PSA record helps avoid registration issues, especially if you:
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Don’t yet have a national ID
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Are registering a child or elderly family member
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Have mismatched records in different IDs
FAQs
Can I register my SIM using only a PSA Birth Certificate?
Yes, but only if you have no government-issued photo ID. Some telcos allow a PSA Birth Certificate as supporting proof, sometimes with another local certification.
Do minors need a PSA document for SIM registration?
Yes. The parent or guardian must provide their valid ID and the child’s PSA Birth Certificate to show relationship.
Is a PSA document mandatory for all SIM registrations?
No. It’s optional and used mainly when no other valid ID is available or when verifying identity inconsistencies.
Can foreigners use PSA documents?
No. Foreigners must use their passport, visa, and proof of Philippine address. PSA documents apply only to Filipino citizens.
What happens if my name in the ID and PSA certificate don’t match?
The telco might ask for clarification or additional proof. Always ensure your ID and PSA records are consistent before registering.
Can I use my PSA Marriage Certificate for SIM registration?
Usually no, unless it’s required to prove a name change or marital relationship during verification.
PSA documents for SIM registration in the Philippines are best viewed as supporting identity proofs, not primary requirements. If you already have a valid government ID, that’s all you need.
However, in cases where an ID is missing, expired, or unavailable, or when registering a child’s SIM, PSA-certified records like birth certificates become valuable.
