How to Transfer Your 9G Visa When Changing Employers

Transferring your 9G visa to a new employer in the Philippines involves a structured process to ensure compliance with immigration laws. The 9G visa, also known as the Pre-Arranged Employment Visa, is employer-specific; therefore, changing employers requires obtaining a new 9G visa under the sponsorship of your new employer. Here’s a step-by-step guide to facilitate this transition:

1. Secure an Alien Employment Permit (AEP) with the New Employer

Before applying for a new 9G visa, your new employer 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.

Steps:

• Application Submission: Your new employer submits the AEP application to the DOLE Regional Office where the company is located.
• Publication Requirement: The job vacancy is published to allow qualified Filipino applicants to apply.
• Issuance of AEP: If no qualified Filipino is available, DOLE issues the AEP, typically within 2-3 weeks.

2. File for Downgrading of the Current 9G Visa

To transition to a new employer, you must downgrade your existing 9G visa to a temporary visitor visa (9A). This process involves canceling your current 9G visa and reverting to tourist status.

Steps:

• Application Submission: Submit a downgrading application to the Bureau of Immigration (BI), including a letter of request, your passport, and current ACR I-Card.
• Payment of Fees: Pay the necessary downgrading fees as prescribed by the BI.
• Processing Time: The downgrading process typically takes 1-2 weeks.

3. Apply for a New 9G Visa with the New Employer

Once downgraded to a 9A visa, you can proceed with the application for a new 9G visa under your new employer’s sponsorship.

Requirements:

• Joint Letter Request: A letter addressed to the BI Commissioner, jointly signed by you and your new employer.
• Consolidated General Application Form (CGAF): Duly accomplished form for visa application.
• Passport: Original passport with a valid 9A visa.
• AEP: Copy of the AEP issued under your new employer.
• Employment Contract: Notarized contract detailing your position, salary, and employment terms.
• Company Documents: New employer’s SEC registration, Articles of Incorporation, latest General Information Sheet (GIS), and business permits.
• Notarized Certification: Certification from the new employer indicating the number of Filipino and foreign employees.
• BI Clearance Certificate: Obtainable from the BI.

Steps:

• Document Submission: Submit all required documents to the BI Main Office or authorized field office.
• Payment of Fees: Pay the applicable visa application fees.
• Biometrics and Interview: Attend biometrics capturing and, if required, an interview.
• Processing Time: The processing period for the new 9G visa is typically 2-3 months.

4. Obtain a New Alien Certificate of Registration Identity Card (ACR I-Card)

After the approval of your new 9G visa, apply for a new ACR I-Card reflecting your updated employment status.

Steps:

• Application Submission: Submit the ACR I-Card application to the BI, including your passport with the new 9G visa and other supporting documents.
• Payment of Fees: Pay the ACR I-Card issuance fees.
• Biometrics Capturing: Undergo biometrics capturing as part of the ACR I-Card issuance process.
• Processing Time: The ACR I-Card is typically issued within a few weeks.

Important Considerations:

• Maintain Legal Status: Ensure that you maintain valid visa status throughout the transition process to avoid penalties or legal issues.
• Consultation: Consider consulting with an immigration lawyer or specialist to navigate the complexities of transferring your 9G visa.
• Employer Compliance: Your new employer must comply with all requirements and assist in the application process to facilitate a smooth transition.

By following these steps diligently, you can successfully transfer your 9G visa to a new employer, ensuring continued legal employment in the Philippines.