Work Visa in Philippines

Types of Work Permits and Visas

Navigating the work permit process in the Philippines can be complex. The country offers several types of visas and permits to accommodate different employment needs:

Work Visa:

• 9(g) Pre-Arranged Employee Commercial Visa: This is the most common visa for foreign nationals engaged in gainful employment in the Philippines. It applies to various sectors and is the primary working visa issued.
• 9(g) Pre-Arranged Employee Non-Commercial Visa: This visa is intended for foreign nationals involved in activities such as missionary work, social rehabilitation, and medical missions.
• Special Non-Immigrant Visa (47[A][2]): Issued under special provisions allowing temporary admission of foreign nationals for specific purposes, often involving unique contributions to the country.
• Special Non-Immigrant Visa under E.O. 226 (ROHQ): Designed for foreign personnel, their respective spouses, and unmarried children under twenty-one (21) years of age, of regional or area headquarters of multinational companies.

Work Permits:

• Special Work Permit (SWP): Issued for short-term assignments or employment lasting up to six months.
• Provisional Work Permit (PWP): For foreign nationals holding temporary visitor’s visas who wish to start working while their employment visa application is being processed.
• Alien Employment Permit (AEP): Required for all foreign nationals seeking employment in the Philippines. It is issued by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and ensures that the employment of the foreign national will not pose a threat to the job opportunities of local workers.

What authorisation do foreign nationals need to work in the Philippines?

• Governing: DOLE Department Order No. 221-21 (baseline); DOLE Department Order No. 248‑2025 (latest updates)
• Who must apply: All foreign nationals working in the Philippines (subject to exemptions)

Who Files:

The EMPLOYER (not the foreign national) files the AEP application with the DOLE Regional Office where the work will be performed.

Required Documents:

• Duly accomplished AEP application form
• Certified copy of valid passport
• Employment contract or appointment letter
• Proof of educational/professional qualifications
• NBI/police clearance from country of origin
• 2×2 passport photos

Processing Time:

• 15 working days from receipt of complete documents
• Temporary Work Permit (TWP) may be issued for urgent business needs

Validity & Renewal:

• AEP valid for 1 year; renewable annually
• Position- and employer-specific; must be updated if role or employer changes

Visa Types – AEP Exemptions

AEP Exemptions (DOLE DO 221-21):

The following are exempt from AEP: but must secure Certificate of Exemption (COE) or Certificate of Exclusion (COX)

• Diplomats and foreign government officials
• Officers/staff of international organisations (UN, ADB, WHO)
• Foreign nationals under government-to-government agreements
• Non-compensated Board Directors / Trustees (no operational role)
• Certain project-based consultants (case-by-case)
• Dependents (not allowed to work unless separately authorised)
• Other categories as determined by DOLE

Compliance with Work Visa Regulations

Employers and foreign employees must ensure compliance with all visa and permit requirements to avoid legal issues. Regularly updating work permits and visas is essential to maintaining legal status in the country.

Please note that all the information listed below are to be used as a general guideline. For more detailed accounts of Philippines employment laws and regulations, please visit the official governmental websites.

Updated on: June 2026