OSCA Guide: How to Obtain a Senior Citizen ID (Eligibility, Benefits & Application)

The senior citizen's ID is among the various government-issued identification cards available, and obtaining it requires an application through the Office of Senior Citizen Affairs (OSCA).

However, it's important to note that not everyone who applies for it meets the eligibility criteria. Meeting the minimum eligibility requirements is a crucial step in the application process.

If you are approaching the age of 60 and reside in the Philippines, it's an opportune time to consider obtaining a senior citizen ID, as it offers numerous benefits. Nevertheless, navigating the application process can sometimes be perplexing.

We've compiled a user-friendly guide to assist you in navigating the process smoothly.

The Benefits Of Having A Senior Citizen ID In The Philippines

Here is a list of benefits associated with having a senior citizen ID in the Philippines:

Discounts on medicines and healthcare services
Priority access and express lanes in government agencies and commercial establishments
20% discount on public transportation
5% discount on basic necessities and prime commodities
Exemption from the 12% value-added tax (VAT)
Special discounts on hotels, restaurants, and recreational facilities
Free medical and dental services in government facilities
Educational assistance and scholarship programs
Free vaccination programs
Social pension program for indigent senior citizens
Income tax exemption for those who earn a certain amount
Discount on burial and funeral services
Financial assistance in times of natural disasters and calamities
Participation in community and senior citizen activities
Access to livelihood and employment opportunities

To further know about each benefits, visit the Benefits Of Having A Senior Citizen ID In The Philippines

What Is a Senior Citizen Card or OSCA ID, and Why Is It Essential?

To access the benefits and privileges reserved for senior citizens, individuals must possess a senior citizen ID, typically issued by the Office of Senior Citizen Affairs (OSCA). However, if you lack a senior citizen ID, you can alternatively present one of the following government-issued IDs that confirm your age:

It's important to note that businesses are obligated to accept any valid government-issued ID as proof of age and cannot exclusively recognize the OSCA ID.

What Are The Eligibility Requirements For An OSCA ID?

In order for you to apply for the OSCIA ID, you must meet the following requirements:

Filipino citizen and also a resident of the Philippines
60 years and above
Seniors with dual citizenship can also apply for Senior Citizen’s ID Card with proof of Filipino citizenship and at least 6 months of residency in the Philippines

How to Apply for a Senior Citizen ID Card In-Person

Step 1: Visit your local Municipal Office of Senior Citizen Affairs and bring the necessary documents:

Birth certificate
1X1 ID picture
Valid government-issued ID

Please be aware that the responsible personnel may request additional documents upon review, so it's advisable to have a photocopy of your address proof and any other government-issued IDs readily available.

Step 2: Approach a designated staff member and request an application form. Complete the form with the following details:

District
Barangay
Full name
Age
Gender
Marital status
Date of Birth
Family details
Signature

Step 3: Submit the completed application form along with the required documents and await the issuance of your ID card.

ATTRACTIONS TO SEE IN MANILA

How to Apply for the OSCA ID Online:

If you prefer the convenience of applying for the OSCA ID online, this option may be available depending on your location or municipality. To begin the process, simply visit the dedicated OSCA portal or access the Senior Citizen ID application page tailored to your locality.

Frequently Asked Questions About Senior Citizen ID

Where can I use my Senior Citizen ID?

The senior citizen ID card is valid throughout the Philippines.

What is the cost of obtaining an OSCA ID?

Good news! The OSCA ID is entirely free for all senior citizens, whether you choose to apply online or through traditional methods. All that's required is to complete an application form and provide the necessary documents to receive your ID.

How long does it typically take to receive an OSCA ID after applying?

The processing time for your OSCA ID may vary based on your locality or municipality. In some cases, you may receive your ID immediately upon registering with OSCA, while in others, it could take up to 5 working days from the date of application.

I lost my senior citizen ID card. What shall I do?

You can visit the OSCA in the city or municipality where you reside and obtain a replacement card. The documents required and the process are as follows:

Submit two copies of the Affidavit of Loss.
Submit two copies of the Police or Barangay Report.
Submit the duly accomplished Lost/Replacement Form issued by OSCA.
Pay the ID replacement fee if required.

Does Senior Citizen ID expire?

No, the Senior Citizen ID has no expiration date. It is valid forever and may only be replaced when lost or mutilated. It remains valid even if the ID is already worn out.
However, the OSCA may occasionally update the design of the Senior Citizen ID, in which case members will be encouraged to apply for a new one. Note that this replacement is encouraged but not mandatory; the old version of the Senior Citizen ID will still be honored.

Is Senior Citizen ID a valid ID?

Yes, government and private establishments recognize the Senior Citizen ID as a valid ID. You can use it to apply for a Philippine passport, a driver’s license, and other essential transactions requiring a valid government-issued ID.

Are there discounts for senior citizens in Philippine hotels?

To avail of the 20% senior citizen discount at hotels in the Philippines, you must request the discount and present your senior ID at the time of booking. However, if your companion is not a senior citizen, the hotel may offer a reduced 10% discount.

ACTIVITIES AND TOURS IN MANILA

In summary, obtaining an OSCA ID offers numerous advantages for senior citizens in various locations. Furthermore, the application and issuance process is relatively uncomplicated. Therefore, if you are aged 60 or older, we strongly encourage you to initiate the application process for your ID without delay.

List of Valid IDs in the Philippines (Primary)

Philippine Passport from the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA)
Driver’s License (student, non-professional, and professional) from Land Transportation Office (LTO)
National ID (PhilID) from Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA)
GSIS or SSS-issued Unified Multi-purpose Identification Card (UMID)
PhilHealth ID (digitized PVC)
Digitized Postal ID from Philippine Postal Corporation or PHLPost
Voter’s ID or Voter's Certificate from Commission on Election (COMELEC)
NBI Clearance from the National Bureau of Investigation
Senior Citizen ID from Local Government Unit (LGU)
OWWA ID from Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA)
Persons with Disabilities (PWD) ID from Local Government Unit (LGU)

See full list of Valid IDs in the Philippines