9(g) Work Visa

The 9(g) Pre-Arranged Employee Visa is the primary work visa for foreigners employed by Philippine-registered companies. It requires employer sponsorship and an Alien Employment Permit (AEP) from DOLE, which certifies that hiring a foreigner won't harm local employment opportunities. Employers must prove no qualified Filipino is available for the position. The visa allows multiple entries and is tied exclusively to the sponsoring employer - changing jobs requires a new visa application. Initial validity is 1-3 years depending on employment contract, extendable up to 3-year increments. Processing involves securing an AEP (2-3 weeks) followed by the 9(g) application (2-3 months). A Provisional Work Permit (PWP) allows work while the main visa processes. The AEP is position-specific, so even internal role changes require a new permit.

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Processing Time

AEP: 2-3 weeks, 9(g) visa: 2-3 months total

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Cost

AEP fee + visa fees (varies)

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Duration

1-3 years, extendable up to 3 years per renewal

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Work Rights

Tied to sponsoring employer only