Philippine documents | GetXDocs
Relocating employees to the Philippines or hiring international talent involves navigating complex immigration laws and ensuring compliance with local regulations. This guide provides an overview of the essential steps and requirements for obtaining work permits and visas in the Philippines, helping employers streamline the process and avoid non-compliance risks.
Employers must ensure that non-citizen employees have the necessary work permits and visas to legally live and work in the Philippines. Non-compliance with local labor, immigration, and taxation laws can lead to penalties, fines, and potential legal issues. It’s essential to conduct right-to-work checks and secure all required paperwork before employees arrive in the country. Failure to comply can result in employee deportation and severe repercussions for the company.
Non-citizens planning to work in the Philippines need to undergo a work authorization check. This includes temporary residents, work permit residents, and permanent residents. The process of obtaining work permits can be costly and time-consuming, requiring a thorough understanding of local laws. Partnering with an Employer of Record (EOR) like Remote can simplify the process, ensuring compliance and facilitating the work permit application.
The Philippine government mandates that all foreign nationals obtain a work visa from the Bureau of Immigration and an Alien Employment Permit (AEP) from the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE).
Temporary Visitor’s Visa for Business Purposes (9(a) Visa): Ideal for short business trips, allowing stays of up to 30 days, with possible extensions up to 16 months.
Pre-arranged Employment Visa (9(g) Visa): The most common visa for foreign nationals working in the Philippines. Requires an AEP from DOLE and allows multiple entries into the country. The application process takes around two to three months.
Treaty Trader’s Visa (9(D) Visa): For nationals of countries with bilateral trade agreements with the Philippines, such as Japan, Germany, and the United States. Valid for up to two years, with specific requirements including substantial trade with the Philippines and the employee holding an executive or supervisory position.
Provisional Work Permit: For foreign nationals holding a temporary visitor visa who wish to work while their 9(g) visa application is pending. Valid for three months or until the 9(g) visa is approved, with possible extensions.
An AEP is necessary for foreign nationals to work in the Philippines. The permit is valid for one year, based on the employment contract, and can be renewed. Certain foreign nationals, such as permanent residents, diplomatic service members, and representatives of accredited companies, are exempt from needing an AEP.
To secure a work visa, employees must follow these steps:
Obtain the CGAF form from the Bureau of Immigration.
Submit documents for pre-screening at an immigration office.
Pay the application fees.
Submit the official receipt.
Attend a work visa hearing.
Provide biometric data and apply for the ACR I-Card.
Wait for visa approval.
The process can take two to three months. Employers should actively participate to ensure a smooth transition and compliance with local laws.
In June 2023, the Philippines announced a two-year nomad visa for remote workers and digital nomads. Requirements include a valid passport, minimum income, health insurance, a clean criminal record, and proof of remote work.
To hire remote employees in the Philippines without establishing a local entity, companies can work with an EOR like Remote. An EOR handles hiring, benefits, taxes, payroll, and compliance, ensuring a smooth and compliant hiring process. Benefits include:
Understanding international tax laws and avoiding permanent establishment risks.
Conducting work authorization checks, processing permits and visas, and offering immigration guidance.
Renewing and extending visas as needed.
Managing visa applications and administrative tasks.
Staying compliant with changing labor laws.
Prepared on the information from remote.com