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PH · Work Visa

Philippines
9(g) Work Visa

The 9(g) Pre-Arranged Employment Visa allows foreign professionals to work in the Philippines. An Alien Employment Permit (AEP) is required.

Pathfinder
9(g) Work Visa
Processing6–8 Weeks
AEPRequired
FamilyYes
Validity1–3 Years

Last updated: 04/2026

Overview

Why a 9(g) Work Visa?

The 9(g) Visa is the standard work visa of the Philippines for foreign professionals with a local employer. It requires an Alien Employment Permit (AEP) from the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE).

The Philippines offers low cost of living, an English-speaking population, and a growing economy. Strasia Group supports you with AEP and visa application.

Advantages

Legal work in the Philippines
Renewable up to 3 years
Family reunion possible
Low cost of living
English-speaking environment
Growing economy

Process

01

AEP Application

2–4 Weeks

Application for Alien Employment Permit at DOLE.

02

9(g) Visa Application

1 Week

Submission of visa application to Bureau of Immigration.

03

Processing

4–6 Weeks

Processing by Bureau of Immigration.

04

Issuance

1 Week

Issuance of 9(g) Visa and ACR I-Card.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an AEP?
The Alien Employment Permit is a work permit issued by DOLE. It is a prerequisite for the 9(g) Visa.
Can I change employers?
Yes, but you need a new AEP and must go through the visa process again.
What is life like in the Philippines as an expat?
The Philippines offers low cost of living, a warm climate, and an English-speaking population. Manila is the business center, while Cebu and Davao are popular with expats.
What taxes will I pay in the Philippines?
The Philippines levies income tax on income from Philippine sources. The rate is progressive at 0–35%. Foreign income of non-residents is not taxed.
Can my family come along?
Yes, your spouse and children can obtain a Dependent Visa based on your 9G Work Visa. Children can be enrolled in international schools.
What is the path to Permanent Residency?
After several years of residence, you can apply for PR through the SIRV or SRRV, depending on your situation.
Which industries require a 9G Work Visa?
The 9G Work Visa is required for all foreign employees working in a Philippine company. Exceptions apply for certain PEZA zones and special economic zones.
What is the difference between the AEP and the 9G visa?
The AEP (Alien Employment Permit) comes from the Department of Labor and confirms you may work; the 9G is the visa itself, issued by the Bureau of Immigration. The AEP is obtained first, the 9G builds on it.
How long does 9G processing take?
Several months in total, since AEP and 9G run in sequence. A Provisional Work Permit can bridge the waiting time so work can start earlier.
Did AEP and 9G costs change for 2026?
Government fees are set by the authorities and adjusted from time to time. We confirm the current fee schedule at the start of your application so there are no surprises.
Can I start working before the 9G is issued?
Yes, with a Provisional Work Permit (PWP) while the 9G application is in process. We file the PWP alongside the main application.

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Required Documents

Alien Employment Permit (AEP)
Employment contract
Passport (6+ months valid)
Police clearance

PH Work Visa Options

Target Audience

9(g) Pre-arrangedProfessionals, Managers
PEZA VisaPEZA zone employees
SIRVInvestors
SWPShort-term workers

Validity

9(g) Pre-arranged1-3 years
PEZA VisaCo-terminus with job
SIRVIndefinite
SWP3-6 months

Processing Time

9(g) Pre-arranged2-3 months
PEZA Visa1-2 months
SIRV3-4 months
SWP2-3 weeks

Employer Required

9(g) Pre-arrangedYes
PEZA VisaYes
SIRVNo
SWPYes

Family Inclusion

9(g) Pre-arrangedYes
PEZA VisaYes
SIRVYes
SWPNo

Costs From

9(g) Pre-arrangedPHP 15,000
PEZA VisaPHP 12,000
SIRVUSD 75k Invest.
SWPPHP 6,000

Renewable

9(g) Pre-arrangedYes
PEZA VisaYes
SIRVN/A
SWPNo

Data from 2025/2026. Contact us for a consultation.

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