Immigration
9(g) work visas with an Alien Employment Permit and a labour market test
Employment normally requires a DOLE Alien Employment Permit plus a 9(g) pre-arranged employment visa from the Bureau of Immigration. The AEP requires proof that no Filipino is able and willing to do the job.
Key rules
- Jurisdiction — The Bureau of Immigration issues visas; DOLE regional offices issue AEPs. PEZA, BOI and the Subic and Clark authorities sponsor 47(a)(2) visas under special laws.
Governing law
- Commonwealth Act 613Philippine Immigration Act of 1940
- Labor Code (art. 40 (employment permit for non-resident aliens))
- Republic Act 11916 and related special visa statutes
In practice
The AEP is published for objection, and a Filipino union or worker may contest it. Special Investor's Resident Visa requires a US$75,000 investment, and the Special Resident Retiree's Visa runs on deposits scaled by age and pension status. Corporate registration with the Bureau of Immigration precedes 9(g) filings, and the Alien Certificate of Registration Identity Card is required for stays beyond fifty-nine days. Overstaying triggers fines and blacklisting. The Philippines also operates an Emigration Clearance Certificate requirement on departure for certain foreign nationals who have stayed six months or more.