Processing a work visa can take several months for foreign nationals seeking long-term employment in the Philippines. This lengthy waiting period can be inconvenient, especially if the company needs to fill the position urgently. Fortunately, the Provisional Work Permit (PWP) provides a practical solution by allowing foreign nationals to begin working immediately while their visa is being processed.
What is the Provisional Work Permit
The Provisional Work Permit (PWP) is a temporary work authorization issued by the Philippine Bureau of Immigration (BI) in coordination with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE). It allows foreign nationals to engage in gainful employment in the Philippines for a short duration, typically up to six months. At the same time, their application for a longer-term visa is being processed.
Here are some notable details about the PWP:
- The PWP is ideal for professionals who need to begin work immediately, such as consultants, project-based workers, or those filling urgent roles in specialized fields.
- Unlike the Pre-Arranged Employment (9G) Visa, the PWP is designed for temporary employment only.
- It is valid for a maximum of six months. It cannot be renewed beyond this period, requiring holders to transition to a 9G Visa or another visa type for continued employment.
The PWP is particularly useful in industries with immediate staffing needs. It ensures compliance with immigration and labor laws while awaiting permanent work authorization.
What are the Provisional Work Permit Requirements
To obtain a Provisional Work Permit, applicants must provide specific documents to demonstrate their eligibility and the legitimacy of their employment. The typical requirements include:
- Letter-request addressed to the Commissioner from the petitioning company with an undertaking to withhold and remit to the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) taxes due on all applicant income.
- 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
- Proof of Employment such as a Duly acknowledged Contract of Service, Employment Contract, Secretary’s Certificate of Election, Appointment, Assignment, Secondment or Deployment of applicant, or equivalent document indicating duration of employment, compensation and other benefits, and scope of duties.
- Proof of justification that, despite best efforts, no Filipino is able and willing to provide such consultancy or specialized service.
- Board Resolution if the signatories of the letter of application and employment contract are other than those appearing in the Articles of Incorporation and in the latest GIS (For Corporation or Partnership only)
- Official receipt of AEP or 9g application
- Applicant’s Taxpayer’s Identification Number (TIN) card or proof of TIN (e.g., BIR Forms 1901, 1902, 1904, AEP with TIN)
- Special Temporary Permit for an applicant who intends to practice a profession regulated by the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC)
- BI Clearance Certificate.
- Petitioner’s Income Tax Return (ITR) with corresponding proof of payment (official receipt, bank teller’s validation slip, BIR’s eFPS payment details print-out, or other similar evidence).
- For a newly created company, submit a certificate of registration with BIR and a Quarterly payment of taxes with the corresponding proof of payment. For companies with no income or overpayment of taxes, submit a copy of the ITR with proof of filing instead of proof of payment.
- Business Registration Documents (SEC/DTI Certificate, Articles of Incorporation, GIS Sheet for the current year, and Mayor’s Permit)
Work Visa Philippines can assist you with securing your Provisional Work Permit and long-term visa. We’ll ensure your required documents are complete, accurate, and compliant.
How to Apply for a Provisional Work Permit
The application process for a Provisional Work Permit is straightforward but requires coordination with the employer. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Secure Employment: Obtain a job offer or contract from a Philippine-based employer willing to sponsor the PWP.
- File for an AEP: The employer must submit an Alien Employment Permit application to DOLE, as the PWP is typically issued alongside a pending AEP (the standard work permit required for a long-term work visa).
- Prepare Documents: Gather all required documents, ensuring they meet BI and DOLE standards. Include both originals and photocopies.
- Submit Application: File the PWP application at the Bureau of Immigration’s main office or an accredited BI field office. The employer often handles this step.
- Pay Fees: Settle the application fees, which vary based on processing costs and urgency.
- Attend Biometrics: Schedule and attend an appointment for fingerprinting and photo capture at the BI.
- Await Approval: Processing typically takes 1–4 weeks, depending on document completeness and BI workload.
- Receive PWP: The permit is issued once approved, allowing legal work for up to six months.
The PWP is non-renewable, so applicants must plan for a 9G Visa or other types of visa for long-term work.
Final Thoughts
The Provisional Work Permit allows foreign professionals wishing to immediately start working in the Philippines while waiting for a long-term visa. Since this permit’s validity cannot be extended past 6 months, it’s important to finish processing your long-term visa. Make sure your requirements are complete, accurate, and compliant to avoid complications or delays.
Are You or Someone You Know Applying for a PWP 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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