For foreign nationals seeking employment within Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) registered companies, the 47(a)(2) Special Non-Immigrant Visa, commonly known as the PEZA visa, is a key legal requirement. This visa authorizes foreign employees to work and reside in the Philippines under the sponsorship of PEZA-registered enterprises, enabling them to contribute to the country’s export-oriented economic growth.
Understanding the PEZA Visa and Its Importance
The PEZA visa is a special non-immigrant employment visa issued under Section 47(a)(2) of the Philippine Immigration Act of 1940 and is specifically aimed at foreign employees working for:
- PEZA-registered companies,
- Regional Operating Headquarters (ROHQ),
- Regional Headquarters (RHQ),
- Businesses registered with the Board of Investments (BOI).
This visa is linked to the sponsoring employer and is essential for enabling foreigners to engage in gainful employment legally within strategic economic zones. It supports sectors such as manufacturing, IT-BPM, infrastructure, power generation, oil research, and others critical to the Philippine economy’s export segment.
Who Qualifies for a PEZA Visa?
Foreign nationals eligible for the PEZA visa must generally hold positions such as:
- Executives,
- Managers,
- Specialists,
- Consultants,
- Technical or supervisory staff.
They must be employed by companies duly registered and accredited with PEZA or BOI, or operating in designated economic zones. The visa extends to dependents, including spouses and unmarried children under 21 years old, subject to the submission of required supporting documents.
Additionally, exchange professors, scholars, trainees, and social workers under official sponsorship may qualify, while special eligibility may be granted by presidential approval for exceptional cases.
Documentary Requirements for PEZA Visa Application
Preparing a complete set of documents is vital to expedite application approval. Applicants and employers must submit:
For the Foreign Applicant
- Signed and notarized visa application form,
- Company letter-request addressed to the PEZA Director-General, signed by the company President or CEO,
- Photocopy of PEZA Certificate of Registration,
- Valid passport with at least six months’ validity,
- Notarized Certificate of Employment specifying employment period,
- Notarized certification detailing the ratio of foreign to Filipino workers and the percentage of foreign nationals in the workforce, signed by the President or CEO,
- Certified True Copy of Alien Employment Permit (AEP),
- Comprehensive curriculum vitae (CV),
- Undertaking for students in technical or supervisory roles,
- Organizational chart of the company.
For the Employer (Petitioner)
- Photocopy of the latest Income Tax Return (ITR) with proof of payment,
- For corporations or partnerships: Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) Certificate of Registration, Articles of Incorporation, General Information Sheet (GIS) for the current year,
- For single proprietorships: Department of Trade and Industry’s (DTI) Certificate of Registration,
- Valid Mayor’s Permit,
- Zone Administrator or Manager endorsement to the PEZA Director-General,
- Official receipt for processing fees duly certified.
Applications submitted through consultants, travel agencies, or law firms additionally require authorization letters and photo IDs of representatives processing the application.
How to Apply for a PEZA Visa: Step-by-Step Process
Applying for a PEZA visa involves a structured process that requires careful preparation and submission of key documents by both the foreign employee and the sponsoring company.
Step 1: Collect and Prepare Complete Documentation
Ensure that all employment contracts, company registration papers, tax documents, and official letters are current, signed, and notarized as required.
Step 2: Submit Application to the PEZA Zone Administrator
The petitioning employer files the complete application with the PEZA zone where the business operates.
Step 3: Verification by PEZA
PEZA reviews the submission, verifying the validity of documents, compliance with foreign employment ratios, and job classifications.
Step 4: Payment of Processing Fees
Applicants or their employers pay the official fees as indicated by PEZA’s guidelines, and present official receipts as proof.
Step 5: Visa Approval and Issuance
PEZA generally processes applications within five working days, issuing the visa which allows foreigners to apply for an entry visa stamp at the Philippine Bureau of Immigration. The visa is typically valid for up to two years and can be renewed for an additional two years, with the maximum total validity being four years, including renewal periods.
Benefits of Holding a PEZA Visa
- Legal authority to work and reside in the Philippines under employer sponsorship,
- Employment with premier companies within PEZA-registered zones and BOI-registered investors,
- Eligibility to bring dependents as visa holders, including spouses and unmarried children under 21,
- Facilitated business activities under the Philippine economic zone incentives,
- Simplified visa renewals linked to continuing employment status.
Renewal and Compliance
PEZA visa holders must keep their employment status current and file for renewals prior to expiration to maintain their legal work and stay status in the country. With maximum validity limited to four years per original visa (including renewals), holders may need to transition to other visa categories or adjust their employment situation accordingly.
Employers must ensure continued compliance with foreign employment caps, labor standards, and government filings to avoid visa revocation and penalties.
Frequently Asked Questions About the PEZA Visa
Who can get the PEZA visa?
Foreign nationals employed as executives, consultants, specialists, or managers by PEZA/BOI-registered companies or approved government enterprises.
What documents are generally required?
Valid passport, alien employment permit, company registration papers, notarized request letters, employment contracts, tax clearances, local permits, and PEZA endorsements.
How long does processing take?
Typically, five working days for PEZA approval, with visa validity up to 2 years initially, renewable once.
Can dependents be included?
Yes, spouses and unmarried children under 21 years may be included, provided the required documentation is submitted.
Tips for a Successful PEZA Visa Application
- Prepare comprehensive and notarized documents, avoiding omissions or errors,
- Engage with accredited immigration consultants or legal experts to streamline submissions,
- Verify foreign employment ratios in the company to comply with the 5% limit or applicable exemptions,
- Start renewal processes early to avoid work permit lapses,
- Thoroughly coordinate between PEZA, DOLE, and BI to ensure smooth approvals.
Final Thoughts
The PEZA visa (47a2 Special Non-Immigrant Visa) remains an invaluable legal channel for foreign professionals aiming to work in the Philippines’ dynamic economic zones. Understanding the submission requirements, eligibility parameters, and renewal protocols is critical for foreign nationals and hiring companies to maintain lawful employment and maximize the benefits offered under this visa program.
Need Assistance With Your PEZA Visa Application?
Work Visa Philippines provides expert guidance and processing services to ensure your PEZA visa applications are accurate, compliant, and completed in a timely manner. Our experienced team helps you navigate every step for a smooth approval and sustained employment in the Philippines:
- Contact Us Here
- Fill Out the Form Below
- Call us at +63 (02) 8540-9623
