Alien Employment Permit in the Philippines: Requirements and Guide

If you’re a foreign national looking to work in the Philippines, obtaining an Alien Employment Permit (AEP) is often one of the first legal steps you’ll need to take. It is the most common work permit required for long-term employment in the Philippines. An AEP certifies that you are authorized to work in the country and that your employment will not displace qualified Filipino workers.

What is an AEP?

An Alien Employment Permit (AEP) is a type of work visa issued by the Philippine Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE). It grants foreign nationals the legal right to work in the Philippines for a specific employer, job position, and location. It is also often required to secure a work visa. To legally work in the Philippines, you’ll typically need both an AEP and the appropriate work visa. 

An AEP is typically valid for one to five years, depending on the terms of your employment contract, and can be renewed.

Who Needs an AEP?

Here’s a breakdown of who is required to obtain one:

You need an AEP if:

• You are a foreign national seeking employment with a Philippine-based company.
• You will be working for more than six months.
• You are assigned to a specific role and employer within the country.

You may be exempt if:

• You are a diplomatic or consular officer.
• You are working on a short-term assignment (less than six months), such as for emergency or urgent repair services.
• You only want to be a resident or investor in the Philippines and do not wish to be employed by a local entity.

In cases where exemptions apply, a Certificate of Exemption or Certificate of Exclusion from DOLE may be required.

What are the Application Requirements?

If you’re applying for an AEP in 2025, prepare the following documents:

1. Valid passport 
2. Completed application form
3. Employment contract or job offer
4. Company registration documents (e.g., SEC/DTI, mayor’s permit)
5. A photocopy of BIR Form 1904 or 1902, stamped received by the BIR, showing the applicant’s Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN), or alternatively, a BIR certification or a copy of the e-registration.
6. Photocopy of employee’s and employer’s IDs
7. Justification for hiring a foreign worker. This may include a copy of the job vacancy publication in a widely circulated newspaper and a notarized affidavit confirming that no Filipino applicant was qualified or considered for the role.
8. Other required legal documents. Depending on the nature of your industry, you may be required to submit copies of permits from various government agencies.
9. Payment of processing fees

Work Visa Philippines assists employers and employees with AEP and work visa applications. Contact us to ensure your requirements are complete, accurate, and compliant with Philippine law.

How to Get an AEP

Here’s an overview of the AEP application process in the Philippines:

1. Prepare your documents. Make sure all required papers are complete and properly signed.
2. Submit your application to the DOLE Regional Office where your employer’s business is located. Pay the processing fee.
3. Wait for the posting period. As of February 2025, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) requires AEP job postings to be made public for at least 15 calendar days before you can file the application. After this mandatory waiting period, the posting remains active for an additional 30 days, giving employers a total of 45 calendar days to submit the AEP application. If no application is filed within that period, the posting expires and must be reposted, restarting the 15-day waiting period.
4. Claim your permit. If no valid objections are raised and the application is approved, you can claim your AEP from the DOLE office.

Processing time usually takes around 2–4 weeks, but delays may occur if documents are incomplete or objections are filed.

Final Thoughts

Securing an Alien Employment Permit is often a requirement for foreigners to work in the Philippines. It helps ensure that foreign workers are hired legally and that job opportunities for Filipino workers are protected. Gather the required documents, file your application after the mandatory job posting period, and secure your permit from DOLE. Remember that after you get your AEP, you’ll also need to obtain a work visa.

Are You or Someone You Know Applying for an AEP 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.

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