Who Needs a Work Permit in The Phillipines
Foreign nationals who intend to engage in gainful employment in the Philippines are required to secure a work permit and a work visa. The primary work permit, the Alien Employment Permit (AEP), is issued by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE). This permit is mandatory for most foreign workers before applying for a work visa. However, certain individuals, such as diplomatic personnel, may be exempt from obtaining an AEP.
Types of Work Visas in The Phillipines
The Philippines offers various work visas tailored to different employment scenarios. Employers must understand these options to determine the appropriate visa for their foreign employees.
| Visa Type | Description |
| 9(g) Pre-Arranged Employment Visa | For foreign nationals with pre-arranged employment in the Philippines, allowing them to work for a specific employer. |
| 47(a)(2) Special Non-Immigrant Visa | Granted to employees of regional headquarters or multinational companies' regional operating headquarters. |
| Special Work Permit (SWP) | For short-term assignments not exceeding six months, suitable for temporary roles. |
| Provisional Work Permit (PWP) | Allows foreign nationals to commence work while their 9(g) visa application is pending. |
Common Hiring Scenarios for The Philippines
When hiring talent in The Philippines, employers typically choose one of three pathways depending on the role, duration, & legal requirements. Below are the most common models.
Use Case 1: Sponsoring a Foreign Employee via Work Permit or Visa
This is the most common route for companies hiring full-time foreign talent in the Philippines. To sponsor this visa, an employer (or Playroll as the Employer of Record) must have a registered legal entity in-country and issue a compliant offer of employment.
Key Employer Considerations:
- Sponsorship is required — contractors or freelancers cannot apply under this visa.
- Employees must remain in the approved work location unless authorized to relocate or change employers.
- Processing timelines vary (approximately 2-3 weeks on average), depending on the consulate or embassy.
This is best for: Long-term roles with in-office or hybrid presence in the Philippines.
Use Case 2: Hiring a Foreign Contractor in The Philippines
Independent professionals in The Philippines can legally work with international clients without employer sponsorship, but must comply with local tax registration and reporting laws.
With Playroll’s Contractor Management solution, you can:
- Draft fully compliant local contractor agreements.
- Automate contractor invoicing and cross-border payments, in Tongan Paʻanga (TOP) or USD.
- Mitigate risk of permanent establishment and contractor misclassification.
This is best for: Freelancers, consultants or project-based roles, especially if the worker already lives in The Philippines.
Use Case 3: Relocating an Existing Employee to The Philippines
Transferring an existing team member to The Philippines? You’ll still need to navigate the same visa and payroll setup process. Even if the employee works for you elsewhere, a local employer of record is required to stay compliant.
EOR’s, like Playroll, handle all local steps, including:
- Work permit sponsorship and immigration paperwork,
- Registration with local authorities and payroll systems,
- Enrollment in mandatory benefits and statutory schemes.
This is best for: Internal transfers or remote-first companies looking to expand into Oceania, or talent retention offerings for global mobility programs.
Requirements For a Work Permit in The Phillipines
Securing an Alien Employment Permit (AEP) is a prerequisite for foreign nationals seeking employment in the Philippines. The AEP ensures that the position cannot be filled by a Filipino citizen, thereby protecting local labor interests.
- Proof of No Qualified Filipino Applicant: Employers must demonstrate that no qualified Filipino is available for the position, ensuring that hiring a foreign national does not disadvantage local workers.
- Valid Employment Contract: A duly notarized contract specifying job responsibilities, salary, and other employment terms.
- Company's Business Permits: Submission of the employer's valid business or mayor's permit confirms the company's legal operation within the Philippines.
- Employee's Passport and Visa: A photocopy of the employee's passport bio-page and any existing visas to verify identity and current immigration status.
- Tax Identification Number (TIN): The foreign employee must secure a TIN from the Bureau of Internal Revenue for tax compliance.
The Phillipines Work Permit Application Process
- Step 1: Job Posting and Labor Market Test: Advertise the job vacancy in a newspaper of general circulation to confirm the unavailability of qualified Filipino applicants.
- Step 2: AEP Application Submission: Submit the completed AEP application form, along with the required documents, to the appropriate DOLE Regional Office.
- Step 3: Payment of Fees: Pay the necessary fees associated with the AEP application process.
- Step 4: Publication of AEP Application: DOLE will publish the AEP application details, allowing the public to raise objections if any.
- Step 5: Issuance of AEP: If no valid objections arise, DOLE issues the AEP, allowing the foreign national to proceed with the work visa application.
Process for Visa Sponsorship In The Phillipines
Employers in the Philippines must sponsor foreign nationals for work visas. This involves petitioning the Bureau of Immigration (BI) on behalf of the employee and providing documentation such as the Alien Employment Permit (AEP), employment contract, and company registration certificates. The employer's active participation is crucial throughout the application process to ensure compliance with immigration regulations.
What Are the Fees for a Work Permit or Visa in The Phillipines
The fees associated with work permits and visas in the Philippines vary based on the visa type and duration.
| Visa Type | Application Fee |
| Alien Employment Permit (AEP) | PHP 9,000 for one year validity |
| 9(g) Pre-Arranged Employment Visa | Approximately PHP 10,000 (excluding additional fees for the ACR I-Card) |
| Special Work Permit (SWP) | PHP 6,000 for three months validity |
| Provisional Work Permit (PWP) | PHP 5,000 |
Processing Time for a Work Permit Or Visa in The Phillipines
The processing time for work permits and visas in the Philippines varies. Typically, obtaining an Alien Employment Permit (AEP) takes about 2 to 3 weeks. After securing the AEP, applying for a 9(g) Pre-Arranged Employment Visa can take an additional 2 to 3 months. Employers should plan for these timelines to avoid delays.
Work Permit Renewal Periods in The Phillipines
Alien Employment Permits (AEPs) are generally valid for one year or the duration of the employment contract, whichever is shorter. Employers must apply for renewal at least 15 days before the permit's expiration to ensure continuous validity. The renewal process requires submitting updated documents such as an employment contract and proof of ongoing business operations.
Visa Requirements For Digital Nomads in The Phillipines
The Philippines does not have a specific visa for digital nomads. However, they can enter using a Temporary Visitor’s Visa (9(a)), which allows stays for business or tourism purposes.
- Valid Passport: Must be valid for at least six months beyond the intended stay.
- Return or Onward Ticket: Proof of a return or onward travel ticket.
- Proof of Financial Capacity: Evidence of sufficient funds for the stay.
- Visa Application Form: Completed and signed form.
Common Challenges and Tips for Employers Hiring in The Phillipines
Employing foreign nationals in the Philippines presents several challenges:
- Regulatory Compliance: Navigating complex regulations and requirements.
- Processing Delays: Lengthy processing times can disrupt hiring plans.
- Cultural Barriers: Communication challenges can arise with foreign hires.
Tips: Engage local experts, plan ahead, and provide cultural training to facilitate smoother integration.
.svg)
.svg)
.svg)
.svg)
.svg)
.svg)
.svg)
.svg)
.svg)
.svg)
.svg)
Back
.svg)
.svg)
.png)
.svg)
.svg)
.webp)
.svg)