Getting a Working Visa in The Philippines

If you are a foreign national looking to work in the Philippines, getting a working visa is a crucial step in the process. The Philippines is a popular destination for foreign workers due to its growing economy and its status as a hub for business process outsourcing and other industries. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive guide on how to get a working visa in the Philippines.

Types of Working Visas in the Philippines

There are several types of working visas available in the Philippines, each with its own specific requirements. The most common types of working visas are the 9(g) Pre-Arranged Employment Visa and the Special Work Permit.

The 9(g) Pre-Arranged Employment Visa is issued to foreigners who have been offered employment by a Philippine-based company. The employer must apply for the visa on behalf of the employee, and the visa is valid for one year, renewable annually.

The Special Work Permit is issued to foreign nationals who will be working in the Philippines on a short-term or temporary basis. The permit is valid for a maximum of three months, and it cannot be extended.

Requirements for a Working Visa in the Philippines

The requirements for a working visa in the Philippines vary depending on the type of visa you are applying for. Here are some of the common requirements:

Passport: A valid passport with at least six months’ validity from the date of entry into the Philippines.

Visa Application Form: The completed visa application form with a recent passport-size photo.

Proof of Employment: This is applicable for the 9(g) Pre-Arranged Employment Visa, and it includes an employment contract or an endorsement letter from the Philippine-based employer.

Police Clearance Certificate: This is a requirement for the 9(g) Pre-Arranged Employment Visa, and it must be issued by the police department in your home country or the country where you have resided for the past six months.

Medical Certificate: A medical certificate issued by a licensed physician in the Philippines.

Alien Employment Permit (AEP): The AEP is issued by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), and it is a requirement for all foreign nationals who will be working in the Philippines.

Other Requirements: Other requirements may include a National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) clearance, a birth certificate, and a certificate of marriage (if applicable).

How to Apply for a Working Visa in the Philippines

The application process for a working visa in the Philippines can be completed in three steps:

Step 1: Apply for an Alien Employment Permit (AEP)

The first step in the process is to apply for an Alien Employment Permit (AEP) from the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE). The AEP is a requirement for all foreign nationals who will be working in the Philippines. To apply for an AEP, the employer must submit the following documents to the DOLE:

Accomplished application form

Step 2: Apply for a Visa

After obtaining the AEP, the next step is to apply for a visa. The employer must submit the visa application on behalf of the employee. The application must be submitted to the Philippine Embassy or Consulate in the foreign national’s home country.

Step 3: Arrive in the Philippines

Once the visa is approved, the foreign national can travel to the Philippines and start working. Upon arrival, the foreign national must register with the Bureau of Immigration (BI) and obtain an Alien Certificate of Registration (ACR).

Navigating the business landscape in the Philippines can be both rewarding and intricate. Whether you’re embarking on a new venture or scaling up, ensuring that your corporate endeavors are in line with local regulations is paramount.

At CBOS Business Solutions Inc., we pride ourselves on simplifying these processes for our clients. As a seasoned professional services company, we offer comprehensive assistance with SEC Registration, Visa processing, and a myriad of other essential business requirements. Our team of experts is dedicated to ensuring that your business is compliant, well-established, and ready to thrive in the Philippine market.

Why venture into the complexities of business registration and compliance alone? Allow our team to guide you every step of the way. After all, your success is our commitment.

Get in touch today and let us be your partner in achieving your business goals in the Philippines.

Email Address: gerald.bernardo@cbos.com.ph

Mobile No.: +639270032851

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