The Philippines has a growing demand for skilled professionals in manufacturing, renewable energy, and information technologies, making it an attractive destination for foreigners seeking short-term consultancy roles. For those looking to work inside the country for a brief period, they’ll need to apply for a Special Work Permit (SWP). This work permit, alongside a valid visa, enables you to fill temporary positions in the Philippines while ensuring compliance with immigration laws.
What is a SWP
A Special Work Permit (SWP) is a temporary work authorization issued by the Bureau of Immigration (BI) in the Philippines. It allows foreign nationals to engage in gainful employment or specific professional activities for a short duration, typically up to six months.
The SWP is designed for individuals entering the country on a 9(a) tourist visa who intend to work in roles outside a standard employment arrangement. Unlike the Alien Employment Permit (AEP), which is required for longer-term employment, the SWP caters to short-term assignments, such as consulting, performing, or specialized services. Initially valid for three months, the SWP can be extended for an additional three months, but it does not replace the need for a valid tourist visa, which must be renewed throughout the permit’s duration.
Who Needs a SWP
The SWP is required for foreign nationals who plan to work in the Philippines for a period not exceeding six months and hold a valid 9(a) tourist visa. This permit is ideal for professionals engaged in temporary, non-employment-based activities, including but not limited to:
- Professional athletes competing in events or tournaments.
- International performers, artists, or their staff performing for a fee, subject to compliance with relevant agencies.
- Foreign journalists covering specific events.
- Consultants, lecturers, researchers, or trainers assigned to Philippine entities for short-term projects.
- Movie or television crews authorized to film in the country.
- Service suppliers or specialists performing emergency or temporary services without receiving a salary from a Philippine source, except for incidental expenses.
Foreign nationals must be sponsored by a Philippine-registered company, which acts as the petitioner for the SWP application. Those planning to work beyond six months or in a formal employment arrangement must pursue other permits, such as the AEP and a 9(g) work visa.
What are the SWP Application Requirements
After securing a 9(a) tourist visa, applicants must submit a comprehensive set of documents to the Bureau of Immigration.
Applicant’s requirements include:
- A letter-request addressed to the Commissioner from the Petitioning company.
- Duly accomplished Consolidated General Application (CGAF) (BI Form CGAF-002-Rev 3)
- Applicant’s passport bio-page, entry visa (if applicable), latest admission, and updated temporary visitor’s visa/ valid authorized stay.
- Duly acknowledged Contract of Service or the equivalent
- Specific documents relating to your qualifications (e.g., a specialist may be required to submit a copy of their diploma and proof of their work experience)
- Applicant’s Taxpayer’s Identification Number (TIN) card or proof of TIN (e.g., BIR Forms 1901, 1902, 1904, AEP with TIN)
- BI Clearance Certificate.
Petitioning the company’s requirements include:
- Company registration documents (e.g., SEC/DTI, mayor’s permit)
- If the signatories of the application letter and contract of service differ from those listed in the Articles of Incorporation and latest GIS for corporations or partnerships, a board resolution is required.
- Petitioner’s income tax return (ITR) should have corresponding proof of payment (official receipt, bank teller’s validation slip, BIR’s eFPS payment details print-out, or other similar evidence).
- Additional Permits and other legal documents for certain positions (if applicable)
- Certification under oath by the Petitioner, stating whether it is the applicant’s initial or final SWP, that all documents submitted are genuine and that the applicant shall exclusively work relative to the position applied for.
- A sworn declaration of the petitioning company operating in the Philippines:
- Undertaking to withhold and remit to the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) the taxes due on all income of the applicant
- Stating that the entire salary or any other form of compensation of the SWP applicant shall be paid entirely by his/her home office outside the country (for SWP applicants who are not paid by the petitioning companies within the Philippines, where they intend to render short-term work/services)
Work Visa Philippines assists employers and employees with AEP, SWP, and visa applications. Contact us to ensure your requirements are complete, accurate, and compliant with Philippine law.
How to Get an SWP
Follow these steps:
- Gather Required Documents: Collect all the application requirements and ensure they’re accurate to avoid delays.
- Submit Documents for Pre-Screening: Present all required documents to the Central Receiving Unit (CRU) at the BI Main Office or other authorized immigration offices for pre-screening.
- Receive the Order of Payment Slip (OPS): After pre-screening, obtain the OPS detailing the required fees and pay them.
- Submit Official Receipt: Provide a copy of the payment receipt to the BI.
- Collect the SWP: Once approved, you will receive the SWP order, which serves as your work permit. If all documents are complete, processing typically takes one to two weeks.
Final Thoughts
A Special Work Permit (SWP) is a legal requirement for foreign nationals seeking short-term work in the Philippines. You can begin the application process after securing a 9(a) tourist visa. Ensure your requirements are complete and accurate, submit them to the BI, pay the required fees, and then collect your SWP. If you need assistance gathering the requirements and processing your application, our expert team of immigration lawyers can guide you every step of the way.
Are You or Someone You Know Planning to Work in the Philippines?
Let Work Visa Philippines guide you through the process. Our experienced lawyers help you obtain a suitable visa, work permit, and other legal documents from the appropriate government agencies. We’ll make sure you’re fully compliant so you can focus on enjoying your stay in the Philippines.
Reach out today and we’ll guide you every step of the way.
- Contact Us Here
- Fill Out the Form Below
- Call us at +63 (02) 8540-9623
