How to Convert Your Tourist Visa to a 9G Visa in the Philippines

Converting a tourist visa (9A) to a pre-arranged employment visa (9G) in the Philippines is a structured process that allows foreign nationals to transition from a temporary visitor status to authorized employment. This conversion involves several steps, including securing necessary permits and complying with immigration regulations. Below is a comprehensive guide to facilitate this transition:

1. Secure an Alien Employment Permit (AEP)

Before applying for a 9G visa, you must obtain an Alien Employment Permit (AEP) from the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE). The AEP certifies that no qualified Filipino is available for the position offered to the foreign national.

Requirements:

• Duly accomplished AEP application form.
• Photocopy of the employment contract or appointment letter specifying the position and salary.
• Photocopy of the employer’s valid business permit.
• Photocopy of the employer’s Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) registration or Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) registration.
• Photocopy of the passport bio-data page and latest admission with valid authorized stay.
• Two recent 2×2 colored photographs.

Procedure:

1. Submit the application and required documents to the DOLE Regional Office where the employer’s principal office is located.
2. Pay the applicable fees.
3. Wait for the processing period, which typically takes 2-3 weeks.
4. Upon approval, the AEP card will be issued.

2. Apply for a Provisional Work Permit (PWP)

While awaiting the approval of the 9G visa, you may apply for a Provisional Work Permit (PWP) from the Bureau of Immigration (BI) to commence employment legally.

Requirements:

• Duly accomplished application form.
• Photocopy of the AEP or DOLE endorsement indicating that the AEP application is in process.
• Photocopy of the employment contract or appointment letter.
• Photocopy of the passport bio-data page and latest admission with valid authorized stay.
• Photocopy of the employer’s valid business permit.
• Photocopy of the employer’s SEC or DTI registration.

Procedure:

1. Submit the application and required documents to the BI Main Office or authorized field office.
2. Pay the applicable fees.
3. The PWP is typically issued within a few days and is valid for three months or until the 9G visa is issued, whichever comes first.

3. Prepare for 9G Visa Application

With the AEP secured, you can proceed with the 9G visa application.

Requirements:

• Joint letter request addressed to the Commissioner of the BI from the applicant and the petitioning company.
• Duly accomplished Consolidated General Application Form (CGAF).
• Photocopy of the passport bio-data page and latest admission with valid authorized stay.
• Photocopy of the AEP card.
• Photocopy of the employment contract or appointment letter.
• Photocopy of the employer’s SEC or DTI registration, Articles of Incorporation, and latest General Information Sheet (GIS).
• Photocopy of the employer’s valid business permit.
• Notarized certification of the number of foreign and Filipino employees.
• Photocopy of the applicant’s Tax Identification Number (TIN).
• Bureau of Quarantine medical clearance, if applicable.
• BI Clearance Certificate.

4. Submit the 9G Visa Application

Procedure:

1. Submit the application and all required documents to the BI Main Office or authorized field office.
2. Pay the applicable fees.
3. Attend the scheduled hearing or interview, if required.
4. Wait for the processing period, which typically takes 2-3 months.
5. Upon approval, the 9G visa will be implemented on your passport.

5. Obtain an Alien Certificate of Registration Identity Card (ACR I-Card)

After the 9G visa is approved, you must apply for an ACR I-Card, which serves as your identification card in the Philippines.

Requirements:

• Duly accomplished application form.
• Photocopy of the passport bio-data page and 9G visa implementation page.
• Photocopy of the AEP card.
• Photocopy of the BI Official Receipt for the 9G visa fees.

Procedure:

1. Submit the application and required documents to the BI Main Office or authorized field office.
2. Pay the applicable fees.
3. Biometric capturing will be conducted.
4. The ACR I-Card is typically issued within a few weeks.

Important Considerations:

• Maintain Valid Status: Ensure that your tourist visa remains valid throughout the application process by securing necessary extensions.
• Compliance: Adhere strictly to all requirements and procedures to avoid delays or complications.
• Professional Assistance: Consider consulting with immigration professionals or legal experts to facilitate a smooth application process.

By following these steps diligently, you can successfully convert your tourist visa to a 9G visa, allowing you to work legally in the Philippines.