Hiring a foreign national in the Philippines requires more than a job offer. From a legal standpoint, employment begins only when proper authorization is granted.
As a lawyer assisting companies and foreign professionals, I always emphasize this:
A 9G Visa is not optional—it is mandatory for lawful employment in the Philippines.
This guide explains the step-by-step process of applying for a 9G Pre-Arranged Employment Visa, including employer responsibilities and common compliance mistakes.
What Is a 9G Visa?
The 9G Visa is a Pre-Arranged Employment Visa issued to foreign nationals who have secured employment with a Philippine-based company.
It is granted by the Bureau of Immigration (BI) and authorizes the foreign national to legally work in the country.
📌 Without a 9G Visa, employment is unauthorized.
Step 1: Secure an Alien Employment Permit (AEP)
Before applying for a 9G Visa, the foreign national must first obtain an Alien Employment Permit (AEP) from the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE).
The AEP confirms:
The position cannot be filled by a qualified Filipino
The employment complies with Philippine labor laws
📌 The AEP is typically a prerequisite for 9G approval.
Step 2: Prepare Corporate and Employee Documents
The employer must provide:
✔ SEC registration documents
✔ Business permits
✔ Employment contract
✔ Board Resolution authorizing the hiring
The foreign national must submit:
✔ Valid passport
✔ Current visa status
✔ AEP approval
✔ Proof of qualifications
📌 Incomplete documentation is a major cause of delay.
Step 3: File the 9G Visa Application with the Bureau of Immigration
Once documents are complete, the employer files the application with the Bureau of Immigration.
This includes:
Submission of required forms
Payment of filing and processing fees
Compliance with immigration requirements
📌 The foreign national cannot legally begin employment until proper authorization is granted.
Step 4: Visa Evaluation and Processing
The Bureau of Immigration reviews:
Validity of employment
Compliance with AEP requirements
Corporate legitimacy
Immigration history of the applicant
Processing time may vary depending on case complexity and document completeness.
📌 Errors or inconsistencies may trigger additional review.
Step 5: Approval and Implementation
Upon approval:
✔ The foreign national is granted a 9G Visa
✔ Visa validity aligns with the employment contract
✔ The employee may legally begin work
Employers must also ensure:
Proper registration with relevant government agencies
Monitoring of visa expiration dates
Renewal before expiry
Important Employer Responsibilities
Employers must:
✔ Ensure the foreign employee does not work under a tourist visa
✔ Monitor visa validity
✔ Report employment changes
✔ Cancel the visa if employment ends
📌 Failure to comply may result in fines, blacklisting, or deportation.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
🚫 Allowing work while application is pending without proper authority
🚫 Ignoring AEP requirements
🚫 Submitting inconsistent documents
🚫 Forgetting renewal deadlines
📌 Immigration compliance protects both employer and employee.
How Long Does 9G Visa Processing Take?
Processing timelines vary but generally take several weeks, depending on:
Completeness of documents
Immigration review schedules
Applicant’s current visa status
📌 Early preparation reduces delays.
Final Thoughts
The 9G Visa process may seem technical, but it is straightforward when handled correctly.
📌 If your company hires a foreign national, proper 9G Visa processing is not optional—it is a legal obligation.
By following the correct steps—AEP, documentation, filing, and compliance—you protect your business from immigration risks and ensure lawful employment.
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
You can also click this link to schedule a meeting.
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