The 47(a)(2) visa, also known as the PEZA visa, is a cornerstone of the Philippines’ approach to attracting global talent and investment into its special economic zones. This special non-immigrant visa allows foreign professionals, technical staff, and executives to work legally in PEZA-registered companies while enjoying streamlined procedures and significant incentives for both employers and employees. If you’re exploring opportunities within a Philippine Economic Zone, understanding the 47(a)(2) visa process is essential.
What is the 47(a)(2) or PEZA Visa?
The 47(a)(2) visa is a special non-immigrant visa granted under Section 47(a)(2) of the Philippine Immigration Act of 1940, as amended. The visa is specifically designed for foreign nationals working in PEZA-registered (Philippine Economic Zone Authority) or BOI-registered companies, or under special government contracts, technical consulting projects, or international programs. It is employer-sponsored and primarily temporary, tied directly to the period of employment or contract in a registered ecozone or enterprise.
What sets it apart from other work visas is its streamlined process, company-specific nature, and exemption from certain requirements like the ACR I-Card. With the PEZA visa, the Philippines aims to foster the transfer of technology, managerial expertise, and foreign investment while maintaining local workforce participation.
Who Qualifies for the 47(a)(2) PEZA Visa?
Only specific foreign nationals can apply for this visa, including:
- Executives, managers, consultants, supervisors, technical experts, and specialists directly employed by a PEZA-registered, BOI-registered, or government-contracted company.
- Consultants and staff working in sectors such as IT, BPO, export manufacturing, energy, infrastructure, technology, tourism, or as part of international academic, aid, or research programs.
- Dependents, spouse and unmarried children under 21, may be included, provided the employer guarantees their support and return fare.
The main restriction is that foreign personnel must not comprise more than 5% of a company’s regular workforce, ensuring the program supports but does not replace Filipino employment.
Key Benefits of the PEZA Visa
Foreign workers and their sponsors get several major advantages:
- Legal right to reside and work in the Philippines for the term of employment or up to one year (renewable).
- Exemption from the ACR I-Card requirement, unless the stay goes beyond 59 days.
- Multiple entry privileges.
- Access to PEZA incentives (tax and operational), which can make employment packages more attractive.
- Ability to bring dependents for the duration of the principal’s contract.
For employers, this visa type offers workforce flexibility. It is processed in close partnership with PEZA and the Bureau of Immigration, often resulting in faster timelines compared to other employment visas.
Documentary Requirements for the 47(a)(2) Visa Application
Submitting the correct documents is critical for avoiding delays. The following are typically required :
For the Principal Applicant:
- Accomplished and notarized PEZA visa application form.
- Valid passport (with at least six months’ validity and all relevant visa pages).
- Photocopy of the PEZA Certificate of Registration of the sponsoring company.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) or bio-data of the applicant.
- Certified true copy of notarized employment contract or appointment.
- Company’s Board Resolution or Secretary’s Certificate endorsing visa sponsorship.
- Endorsement letter from the PEZA-registered enterprise to PEZA/DOJ.
- DOLE-issued Alien Employment Permit (AEP), if required for the position.
- Proof that a foreigner’s position cannot be readily filled by a Filipino.
- Four recent passport-size photographs.
- Payment of prescribed government and processing fees.
For Dependents:
- Marriage certificate (for spouse) and birth certificates (for children), both authenticated or apostilled.
- Affidavit of support and guarantee of return fare by the sponsor/company.
All foreign-issued documents must be apostilled or authenticated by the nearest Philippine Embassy or Consulate.
How To Apply for a PEZA Visa
If you need to apply for one, here are the steps that you need to take:
Step 1: Employer Initiates the PEZA Endorsement
The sponsoring PEZA- or BOI-registered enterprise prepares a company resolution, gathers supporting documents, and submits an endorsement to PEZA for the foreigner’s employment.
Step 2: Secure DOLE Alien Employment Permit (AEP) (if applicable)
For most technical positions, the DOLE’s AEP ensures compliance with employment regulations. The sponsor files and obtains the AEP (usually takes 2-3 weeks).
Step 3: PEZA/DOJ Endorsement to the Bureau of Immigration
Upon PEZA approval, documentation is forwarded to the Department of Justice (DOJ), which reviews the case and issues a formal endorsement to the Bureau of Immigration for visa issuance.
Step 4: File the Application at the Bureau of Immigration
The applicant (or an authorized representative with a Special Power of Attorney) submits the complete packet to the BI Main Office or regional offices. The BI will check for derogatory records, review employment details, and issue an order of payment slip for visa fees.
Step 5: Biometrics, Payment, and Passport Stamping
After biometric capture and payment (approx. ₱2,500 as of 2025), the BI processes and implements the visa. The complete process from endorsement to stamping typically takes 3-5 working days if all documents are in order.
Step 6: Release of Passport and Visa
The applicant or authorized representative claims the passport, official receipts, clearance, and order of approval from the BI releasing section after final evaluation.
Renewal, Downgrading, and Cancellation
The 47(a)(2) visa is typically valid for up to one year (or the contract period, whichever is shorter), and is renewable while the foreigner remains with the same sponsoring company. At employment conclusion, holders must downgrade to a temporary visitor visa, secure an exit clearance, or transition to another applicable visa.
The renewal process involves similar documentary submissions, updated contracts, and company endorsements. Downgrading requires a formal order from DOJ and PEZA and appropriate BI processing.
Frequently Encountered Challenges and Mistakes
Applicants and employers may face:
- Delays in securing company or DOLE certifications.
- Incomplete or erroneously filled forms, especially regarding the scope of work or foreign-to-local worker ratio.
- Unapostilled documents, leading to rejections or prolonged verification.
- Failure to renew in time, risking out-of-status penalties.
- Misunderstanding of the contract-specific nature, as the visa is only valid with a sponsoring PEZA/BOI company.
Working with expert visa processing firms or immigration consultants is strongly advised, particularly for companies hiring multiple expatriates.
The Role of Professional Visa Assistance
Professional support for PEZA visas ensures:
- Up-to-date guidance on the latest PEZA and BI rules.
- Coordination between the employer, PEZA, DOLE, DOJ, and the BI for faster processing.
- Correct preparation of all documentary requirements, minimizing the risk of delays.
- Dependents’ applications and renewals are handled simultaneously.
- In-depth consultation on compliance and timing, crucial for business operations and expatriate peace of mind.
Final Thoughts
The 47(a)(2) or PEZA visa makes it possible for foreign talent and employers to collaborate on high-value projects in the Philippines’ economic zones with legal certainty and operational ease. Following the structured application process and meeting specific documentary needs is crucial for a smooth experience. Professional help can dramatically reduce headaches, streamline workflow, and help expatriates settle quickly into dynamic careers in the Philippines.
Need Support for Your PEZA Visa Application?
Work Visa Philippines provides specialist assistance for 47(a)(2)/PEZA visa applications. Our team partners directly with companies, government agencies, and foreign employees to deliver efficient, compliant results every time, covering everything from documentation to endorsement and final visa issuance. Contact us to schedule an initial consultation:
- Contact Us Here
- Fill Out the Form Below
- Call us at +63 (02) 8540-9623
