9G Work Visa Philippines for Foreign Employees
The 9G Work Visa in the Philippines, also known as the Pre-Arranged Employment Visa, is the most common work visa issued to foreign nationals seeking employment in the country. Obtaining a 9G working visa is a primary requirement governed by the Philippine Immigration Law that allows a foreign national to work in the country.
If you are an expat, business executive, or skilled professional planning to work in the Philippines, securing a 9G visa is a critical step in ensuring your legal employment and long-term career stability.
Why Do Foreigners Need a 9G Visa?
Legal Compliance
Securing a 9G Working Visa and the prerequisite work permits ensures legal compliance and helps prevent penalties, deportation, or future employment blacklisting.
Local Employment
The 9G visa allows foreign nationals to legally work in the Philippines. It ensures compliance with both immigration and labor laws, protecting workers and employers from legal risks.
Long-Term Stay
This visa is typically valid for one to three years and is renewable. It supports long-term employment without the need for frequent visa renewals or conversions.
Multiple-Entry Privileges
9G visa holders can leave and re-enter the Philippines freely while their visa is valid. This is especially useful for business travelers or professionals with regional responsibilities.
Who is eligible for a 9G Visa?
Eligibility for the 9G Working Visa generally includes:
- Foreign nationals who have secured a job offer from a Philippine-based employer.
- Applicants with qualifications that meet the requirements of the job position.
9G Work Visa Requirements Philippines
Here is the list of requirements needed on processing your 9G Visa application:
- Notarized certification of a number of foreign and Filipino employees of the employer;
- Application form (Form No. 2);
- A medical and physical examination report (FA Form No. 11) issued by an authorized physician;
- Copy of employment contract, if any;
- Four passport-sized pictures of the applicant;
- Police clearance issued by the police in the applicant’s country of citizenship;
- Photocopy of employment contract, Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) certification, and Articles of Incorporation (AOI);
- A certified true copy of AEP from DOLE;
- BI clearance certificate;
- Alien certificate of registration;
- Applicant’s passport; and
- Other documents are supporting the employment of the applicant.
How We Can Help with Your 9G Visa Application?
Eligibility Assessment
We evaluate your qualifications and employment details.
Document Preparation
We assist in securing the necessary documents such as your employment contract, corporate papers, and immigration forms.
Bureau of Immigration (BI) Filing
We submit and monitor your 9G visa application for faster approval.
AEP Processing
We facilitate the issuance of your Alien Employment Permit (AEP), another requirement aside from a 9G Visa.
9G Working Visa FAQs
For better understanding, here are some frequently asked questions together with their answers:
What is a 9G Work Visa?
The 9(G) Work Visa, also referred to as the Pre-Arranged Employment Visa, is the most widely used visa by foreign nationals who are legally employed by companies that are properly registered and authorized to operate under Philippine law.
What are the conditions for the issuance of visa?
The issuance of a 9(G) Work Visa is based on the existence of an employer-employee relationship, where a locally registered company petitions on behalf of the foreign worker. It requires that no qualified local talent is available or willing to fill the role, and that the foreign national is engaged in lawful, compensated employment. The visa is strictly tied to the specific company and position.
What are the prerequisite work permits?
Before applying for the 9(G) Work Visa, a foreign national must first obtain an Alien Employment Permit (AEP) from the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE). If the job involves a regulated profession, a Special Temporary Permit (STP) from the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) is also required. Additionally, if the foreign national needs to begin working while the 9(G) visa is still being processed, they must apply for a Provisional Work Permit (PWP) from the Bureau of Immigration (BI).
How long does the application take?
The entire visa processing, including the Alien Employment Permit (AEP) application, typically takes between two (2) to three (3) months.
What is the validity of the 9G Work Visa?
The work visa is initially valid for one (1), two (2), or three (3) years, depending on the employment contract. It can be extended for up to three (3) years at a time, multiple times, but the total validity cannot exceed the period specified in the Alien Employment Permit (AEP) issued by the DOLE.