Work Permits for Foreigners in the Philippines

We, at FilePino, offer comprehensive visa and work permit processing services and help foreign nationals like you ensure compliance with the labor and immigration laws as you engage in gainful employment in the Philippines.

Foreigners’ Work Permits FAQs

What Is a Work Permit?

A Foreigner’s Work Permit, or simply Work Permit, is a legal document granting official permission to foreign nationals to seek employment, work, and earn a salary in a foreign country (e.g., the Philippines), ensuring that the employment is recognized and protected under the country’s local labor laws.

How Does a Work Permit Differ from a Work Visa?

Generally, a work permit grants employment rights and privileges, while a work or employment visa grants permission to enter, work, and stay in the country. 

Who Issues Work Permits?

In the Philippines, work permits are issued by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and Professional Regulation Commission (PRC, for regulated professions), while employment visas are issued by the Bureau of Immigration (BI).

Who Are Exempted from Work Permits?

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 Types of Work Permits Available for Foreigners in the Philippines?

Based on the Philippine immigration laws, the following are the work permits available to foreign nationals:

[a] Special Work Permit (SWP). It is issued by the Bureau of Immigration (BI) to foreign nationals who intend to work, engage in specific activities, or render services in the Philippines outside of an employment arrangement under a tourist visa (9A). It is valid for up to three (3) months, which may be extended for another three (3) months.

It is granted to those who will be working in the country for only six (6) months or less. They include:

• • Professional athletes who will be competing or participating in an event for less than six months
  • Foreigners with special merits and abilities who have been invited to the country for specific temporary activities
  • The crew of a movie or TV show to be shot in the country
  • Reporters who come to the country to cover an event or person
  • Artists who will be performing in the country for a limited time

[b] Special Temporary Permit (STP). It is a privilege granted to foreign nationals, allowing them to practice their respective regulated professions (e.g., education, nursing, accountancy, etc.) in the Philippines upon securing the permit from the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC). It also serves as a prerequisite for obtaining an Alien Employment Permit (AEP). 

[c] 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 seeking gainful employment in the Philippines, regardless of the nature or duration of employment. Holders of other visas usually require this permit. Pending issuance of an AEP, or with a valid AEP but pending approval of a 9(G) work visa, a Provisional Work Permit (PWP) must be secured first with the Bureau of Immigration (BI).

[d] Provisional Work Permit (PWP). It is a temporary permit issued by the Bureau of Immigration (BI) to foreign nationals employed or seeking a job in the Philippines. This must be secured and renewed every three (3) months while the long-term working visa is being processed.  

[e] Other Special Permits. Foreign nationals intending to work in special industries must apply for special permits with the respective agencies, for example, with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) for the geoscience and mining industries, and with the Department of Justice (DOJ) for nationalized or partially nationalized industries.

What Are the Requirements for a Work Permit (AEP)?

Documentary requirements may vary depending on the type of work permit. For AEP, generally, these include a valid passport, employment contract, company clearance, and proof of qualifications.

What Is the Process of Applying for a Work Permit (AEP) in the Philippines?

To apply for an Alien Employment Permit (AEP), for instance, the application must be filed with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) with jurisdiction over the area where the applicant will be principally assigned. 

The application for may be done personally by the foreigner worker or by the company petitioning for his or her services. The work permit is also a prerequisite for a working visa, e.g., 9(g) or 9(d) visas. 

What Are the Fees to Pay?

Costs can include application fees, processing fees, and possible additional charges for document verification or legal services. These may vary depending on the type of permit and the complexity of the application.

How Long Does the Work Permit (AEP) Application Take?

Different government agencies have different timelines for the processing and approval of work permits. For an Alien Employment Permit (AEP), the entire process may take two (2) to three (3) weeks. 

What Is the Alternative If a Foreign National Is Urgently Needed to Start the Job?

Foreign nationals may apply for Provisional Work Permits (PWPs) with the Bureau of Immigration (BI) pending approval of the Alien Employment Permit (AEP) or with AEP but pending 9G Work Visa. 

Can I Switch Companies or Employers While Having the Work Permit?

Switching employers typically requires a new work permit application or an amendment to your existing permit. It is essential to consult with the relevant authorities to ensure compliance with all regulations and to avoid any legal issues.

Do Work Permits (AEP) Expire?

Yes, work permits generally have an expiration date. An EAP has an initial validity period of one (1) to five (5) years, and is renewable for another five (5) years. The renewal process involves submitting an application for extension along with updated documents and fees.

Why Do You Need Expert Assistance in Work Permit Application?

Foreign nationals need expert assistance in work permit applications to ensure that all legal and labor requirements and regulations are met accurately and efficiently. Visa and immigration specialists can provide valuable knowledge on complex rules, help avoid common pitfalls, and streamline the entire application process, thus increasing the likelihood of approval and saving time, effort, and resources.