Alien Employment Permit (AEP): DOLE Work Permit for Foreign Nationals in the Philippines

Our Alien Employment Permit (AEP) Processing Service

We, at FilePino, assist companies and businesses in hiring foreign talents upon processing their work permits and visas with the concerned labor and immigration agencies. We provide consultations, document preparation and filing, and other post-approval services. 

Client Consultation

We ensure that our clients understand in detail all aspects of the transaction — the qualifications, requirements, processes, timeliness, fees, etc. — so we conduct client consultations before anything else.   

Document Preparation, Filing, and Monitoring

After finalizing all details, we proceed immediately to document preparation and filing the application with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE). Our legal experts and labor specialists can also troubleshoot common application issues and assist applicants in filing appeals and reconsiderations in cases of denials.   

Other Post-Approval Services

Other than AEP application, we also process visa and other work permit renewals and extensions and other immigration compliances. Check our Visa and Immigration Services page for more details. 

Alien Employment Permit (AEP) FAQs

What Is an Alien Employment Permit (AEP)?

It is a work permit issued by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), through its regional and field offices, to foreign nationals who seek gainful and lawful employment in the Philippines, regardless of nature or duration of employment. It is also a major requirement for the Pre-Arranged Employment Visa or 9(g) Work Visa.

Who Requires an AEP?

Aside from those seeking employment, holders of Special Investor’s Resident Visa (SIRV), Special Retiree’s Resident Visa (SRRV), Treaty Trader’s Visa, and Special Non-Immigrant Visa also need to secure an AEP if they occupy an executive, technical, or supervisory position in any company in the country. 

Who Are Exempted from an AEP Application? 

Not all foreigners who come to the Philippines to work need a permit. The following are exempted from this rule:

• • Members of a corporate board with voting rights, but without any position in the company
  • Owners and representatives of a POEA-registered foreign company who come to the Philippines to interview job applicants
  • Foreign nationals who were invited for teaching or research jobs, as part of an agreement between a foreign and local institution, or between a foreign government and the Philippine government
  • Members of the diplomatic services or accredited officials of foreign governments
  • Officers and employees (and their spouses) of an international organization, of which the Philippines is a member
  • Any foreign national exempted by Philippine special laws
  • Foreign nationals with permanent or temporary/probationary resident visas

What Are the Requirements for an AEP Application?

Documentary requirements for an AEP application are provided by both the foreign worker and the petitioning employer. For the foreign applicant, these usually include application forms, passport, employment contract, BIR Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN), and other supporting documents. For the employer, certified true copies (CTCs) of business registration documents, board resolutions, secretary’s certificates, and other special licenses and accreditations are mostly required. 

How Is the AEP Application Processed?

The foreign applicant, the petitioning employer, or any legal representative must file the application with the DOLE Regional Office or Field Office with jurisdiction over the area where the applicant will be assigned. The petitioning employer must also process the publication of a job advertisement in a newspaper as part of the labor market test.     

Can My AEP Application Be Denied?

Yes, it is possible. Denials occur when the AEP new and renewal applications are rejected based on the grounds set by the DOLE. Aside from denials, revocations or cancellations or previously approved and granted AEPs are canceled due to compliance issues, violations, and disqualifications.   

How Long Does the AEP Application Take?

The processing of an AEP application, from submission of documentary requirements to issuance of an AEP Card, usually takes two (2) to three (3) weeks.   

What Is the Validity of an AEP?

An AEP comes with an initial validity of one (1) to five (5) years and can be renewed for another five (5) years. The renewal process involves submitting an application for extension along with the updated documents and payment of fees. 

Why Do You Need Expert Assistance in AEP Application?

Foreign national applicants need expert assistance due to the complex and evolving labor and immigration regulations, extensive documentation requirements, and intricate government filing processes. Visa and immigration specialists can ensure accurate and timely filing of documents and mitigate risks of delays and denials.