Work Visas & Permits in the Philippines

Work Visas

For expatriates looking to work in the Philippines, the most common visa issued is the 9(G) Pre-Arranged Employment Visa. This visa allows local employers to hire foreign professionals whose skills, qualifications, and experience are in short supply in the country. However, priority is always given to Filipino candidates whenever a local professional is available for the role. Additionally, it is strictly prohibited to work in the Philippines while on a tourist visa.

Other types of work visas include:

• International Treaty Trader/Investor Visa
• Temporary Visitor's Visa for Business Purposes
• Special Non-Immigrant Visa Under E.O. 226
• Alien Employment Permit (AEP)
• Provisional Work Permit
• Special Work Permit

These visas are intended for investors, temporary workers, and foreign personnel, including their families.

Work Permits

Foreign nationals seeking employment in the Philippines must obtain a work permit, which is processed by either the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) or the Bureau of Immigration. There are three main types of work permits, and each requires specific documentation.

To apply for an Alien Employment Permit (AEP) at a local DOLE office, the following documents are typically required:

• Completed application form
• Employment contract
• Valid passport with a work visa
• Business permit of the hiring company

9(G) Pre-Arranged Employment Visa

The 9(G) visa is the primary work visa for expatriates in the Philippines. As previously mentioned, employers must demonstrate that hiring a foreign worker will not negatively impact local employment opportunities.

• If employment lasts less than six months, a Special Work Permit is required.
• If employment lasts more than six months, an Alien Employment Permit (AEP) must be obtained.

Application Process for the 9(G) Visa:

The Bureau of Immigration requires the following steps:

1. Obtain the CGAF form from the nearest Bureau of Immigration office.
2. Submit documents for pre-screening at the Central Receiving Unit (CRU) or an authorized Immigration Office.
3. Pay the necessary fees and submit the Official Receipt as proof of payment.
4. Attend the required hearing.
5. Proceed to the Image and Fingerprint Capturing Counter of the Alien Registration Division (ARD) for ACR I-Card registration.
6. Monitor the Bureau of Immigration website for visa approval status.
7. Once approved, submit the passport for visa issuance.
8. If the ACR I-Card application is approved, claim the ACR I-Card.

Good to Know:

• The 9(G) visa must be renewed every three years.
• This visa applies to most executive, technical, and managerial roles, as long as a legal employer-employee contract is in place.

Philippine Alien Certificate of Registration Identity Card (ACR I-Card)

Expats applying for a work visa must also obtain a Philippine Alien Certificate of Registration Identity Card (ACR I-Card). This biometric registration is required for the applicant and their dependents, especially if they plan to travel outside the Philippines.

While Waiting for the 9(G) Visa Approval

Foreign nationals cannot start working while their visa is still being processed. Instead, they must obtain a Provisional Work Permit (PWP) from the Bureau of Immigration. This permit is valid for three months and serves as temporary authorization to work until the final 9(G) visa is issued.

Employment Verification and Inspection

The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) conducts inspections of businesses employing foreign nationals. These inspections verify the legality and authenticity of employment and ensure that expatriates are performing the job specified in their work permit.

Reasons for AEP Application Denial:

• Misrepresentation or falsification of documents
• Criminal record
• Availability of a similarly skilled Filipino worker

Understanding and complying with Philippine work visa and permit regulations is essential for a smooth employment experience in the country. For expatriates, ensuring that all legal requirements are met is crucial to maintaining lawful status and avoiding potential penalties.