đź’Ľ Work VisaWorking in the Philippines

This complete guide explains how to obtain a work visa in the Philippines, including visa types, requirements and the application procedure.

đź“‹ Work Visa Overview

Why a work visa?

Any foreigner wishing to engage in paid professional activity in the Philippines must obtain an appropriate work visa. Failure to comply can result in fines, deportation and a travel ban.

Legal authorization to work
Access to social and banking services
Protection of your rights as an employee

Main visa types

9(g) Visa - Pre-arranged

The most common work visa, for employees of a Philippine company.

Special Work Permit (SWP)

For short-term assignments (3 to 6 months).

đź“„ Requirements and Required Documents

Employee Documents

Consolidated General Application Form (CGAF)

Valid passport (at least 6 months)

Detailed CV and professional qualifications

Tax Identification Number (TIN)

Recent ID photos

Employer Documents

Employment contract or letter of appointment

Alien Employment Permit (AEP) from DOLE

Company registration documents (SEC, DTI)

Company income tax return

Notarized company request letter

🔄 9(g) Visa Application Process

1

Obtain AEP

The employer must first obtain an Alien Employment Permit (AEP) from the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE).

2

Submit to BI

Once the AEP is obtained, submit the 9(g) visa application with all documents to the Bureau of Immigration (BI).

3

Payment and Biometrics

Pay visa fees and appear for biometric data capture (photo and fingerprints).

4

Approval and ACR I-Card

After approval, the visa is stamped in the passport and the Alien Certificate of Registration (ACR I-Card) is issued.

đź’° Costs and Timelines

Estimated Costs

  • AEP application fee (DOLE) ~₱10,000
  • 9(g) visa fee (BI) ~₱15,000
  • ACR I-Card fee ~₱4,500
  • Exit clearance fee (ECC) ~₱2,800
  • Total (excluding agency fees) ~₱32,300

*Fees are subject to change and may vary.

Processing Times

  • AEP processing 2-3 weeks
  • 9(g) visa processing 2-4 months
  • ACR I-Card issuance 4-6 weeks
  • Total estimated time 3-6 months

*Timelines may be longer depending on case complexity.

⚖️ Rights and Obligations

Your Rights

  • Work legally for the specified employer.
  • Open a local bank account.
  • Rent or buy property (condominium).
  • Benefit from Philippine labor law protection.

Your Obligations

  • Only work for the employer who sponsored the visa.
  • Inform BI of any change of address or employment.
  • Renew your visa and ACR I-Card before expiration.
  • Obtain an exit clearance certificate (ECC) before permanently leaving the country.

Need help with your work visa application?

The process can be complex. Let our experts guide you for a stress-free procedure.