Pre-Arranged (9G) Work Visa: Guide For a Philippines Work Visa

For those planning to work in the Philippines, the Pre-Arranged Employment (9G) Visa is the standard work visa for legal employment. As the most common work visa in the Philippines, it allows foreign nationals to take on roles in various sectors, from technology to management. “For businesses looking to hire foreign nationals, we’ll explain what the 9G Visa is, its requirements, and the application process to help you get started.

What is the Pre-Arranged Employment (9G) Visa

The Pre-Arranged Employment (9G) Visa is a non-immigrant visa issued by the Philippine Bureau of Immigration (BI) to foreign nationals who have already secured employment with a Philippine-based company. It is designed for individuals hired for technical, executive, managerial, or highly specialized roles without a qualified Filipino worker. 

Here are some notable details on the 9G Visa:

• It typically requires the employee to have an Alien Employment Permit (AEP) from the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), which verifies that a local worker cannot fill the job.
• The 9G Visa is typically valid for one to three years, aligning with the duration of the employment contract. 
• Unlike short-term permits like the Special Work Permit (SWP), the 9G Visa allows multiple entries and exits, making it ideal for professionals with long-term work in the Philippines.
• The visa is tied to a specific employer, meaning changes in employment require a new application or amendments.

This makes the 9G Visa a robust option for professionals in industries such as IT, finance, engineering, and education, contributing to its status as the most widely used work visa in the Philippines.

What are the 9G Pre-Arranged Employment (9G) Visa Requirements

To qualify for a 9G Visa, applicants must meet specific requirements set by the BI and DOLE. The following documents are typically required:

1. Joint letter request addressed to the Commissioner from the applicant and the petitioner
2. Duly accomplished CGAF for Non-Immigrant Visa
3. Passport bio-page and latest admission with a valid authorized stay
4. Proof of Employment, which includes an Employment Contract, Secretary’s Certificate of Election, Appointment or Assignment of applicant, or equivalent document, with details of exact compensation, duration of employment, and a comprehensive description of the nature and scope of the applicant’s position in the company
5. Petitioner’s latest Income Tax Return (ITR) with the corresponding proof of payment (official receipt, bank teller’s validation slip, BIR’s eFPS payment details print-out, or other similar evidence)
6. Business Registration Documents (SEC/DTI certificate, Mayor’s Permit, etc.)
7. Alien Employment Permit (AEP) issued by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), and actual publication of the applicant’s approved AEP, or in the absence thereof, a Certificate of Publication issued by the Publisher
8. Notarized certification of the number of foreign and Filipino employees from the petitioning company (preferred format can be downloaded at the BI website)
9. Special Temporary Permit for an applicant practicing a regulated profession under the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC), if applicable
10. BI Clearance Certificate
11. Bureau of Quarantine Medical Clearance, if the applicant is a national of any of the countries listed under Annex “A” of Immigration Operations Order No. SBM-14-059-A who arrived in the Philippines on or after June 2014

If the applicant is bringing dependents, they must provide a copy of the following documents for each individual:

• Duly accomplished CGAF for Non-Immigrant Visa
• Passport bio-page and latest admission with a valid authorized stay
• Proof of filiation with the applicant
• BI Clearance Certificate
• Bureau of Quarantine Medical Clearance (if applicable)

Obtaining all the required documents typically takes 3 to 4 weeks (since processing an AEP takes over 2 weeks). Work Visa Philippines can assist you with gathering the requirements, including the Alien Employment Permit (AEP). We’ll ensure your documents are complete, accurate, and compliant to avoid any delays.

How to Apply for a Pre-Arranged Employment (9G) Visa

Applying for a 9G Visa involves a structured process, typically handled in collaboration with the employer. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Secure an AEP: The employer applies for the Alien Employment Permit through DOLE. To obtain an AEP, you must submit proof that the position requires a foreign national, typically through a Labor Market Test (LMT).
2. Gather Documents: Compile all required documents, ensuring they meet BI standards. Have originals and photocopies ready.
3. Submit Application: File the application at the Bureau of Immigration’s main office or an accredited BI field office. 
4. Pay Fees: Pay the visa application fee, which varies based on the visa duration (e.g., one, two, or three years).
5. Biometrics and Interview: Attend a scheduled appointment for fingerprinting, photo capture, and a possible interview with BI officials.
6. Await Approval: Processing typically takes 1-2 months, depending on the completeness of documents and BI’s workload.
7. Receive Visa: Once approved, the 9G Visa is stamped in the passport, and the applicant receives an Alien Certificate of Registration (ACR) I-Card.

Any changes in employment status must be reported to the BI, and an amendment must be made to maintain visa validity. Our team of immigration lawyers can assist you with 9g visa applications and any amendments.

Final Thoughts

The Pre-Arranged Employment (9G) Visa is the most common work visa in the Philippines. It is intended for foreign professionals seeking long-term employment in the country and requires proof that no qualified Filipino is available. Secure an AEP and other required documents, then submit them to the Bureau of Immigration to obtain your visa. Processing may take a few months, so ensure all your requirements are complete, accurate, and compliant to prevent delays.

Are You or Someone You Know Applying for a 9G Visa to Work in the Philippines?

Let Work Visa Philippines guide you through the process. Our experienced lawyers help clients obtain a suitable visa, work permit, and other requirements from the appropriate government agencies. We’ll ensure your legal documents are complete so you can focus on enjoying your stay in the Philippines.

Reach out today and we’ll guide you every step of the way.

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