The Complete Guide to the 9G Work Visa in the Philippines: Everything EOR Clients Need to Know
9G Work Visa is the primary employment visa for foreign nationals who plan to legally work in the Philippines. Before we dive in, if you’re an employer or an EOR client planning to hire a foreign professional in the Philippines, this guide is created with you in mind. At ZeroTen Park Philippines, our core mission is to support global businesses as they scale—providing flexible co‑working environments and reliable Employer Of Record services that help companies onboard talent smoothly. While visa processing is not our primary service, we understand that many of our clients need guidance when bringing foreign employees into the country.
That’s why we help ensure your foreign hire’s transition is legally compliant and stress‑free.
Why Getting a 9G Work Visa Can Feel Overwhelming
Foreign professionals—and the employers who want to hire them—often face confusion when navigating Philippine work requirements. Online information can be inconsistent, requirements change, and timelines vary. Many foreigners arrive on a tourist visa, not realizing they cannot legally begin work until the correct permit and visa are secured.
This is where the 9G Work Visa becomes essential.
The 9G is the primary work visa in the Philippines, giving foreign employees the legal right to live and work in the country while being employed by a Philippine‑registered company.
This guide simplifies the entire process so employers, EOR clients, and foreign talents know exactly what to expect—step by step.
What Is a 9G Work Visa?
The 9G Work Visa is the standard working visa issued to foreigners who will be employed by a Philippine-based company. It allows you to:
- Legally work in the Philippines
- Reside in the country for the duration of your employment
- Enter and exit the Philippines without constantly reapplying for entry permits — corresponding charges apply.
Who Needs a 9G Visa?
You need a 9G Visa if:
- You will be directly employed by a Philippine company
- You will be paid salary or compensation under a Philippine payroll
- You will work physically in the Philippines
How It Differs from Other Visa Types
| Visa Type | Purpose | Can You Work Legally? |
| Tourist Visa | Travel, leisure | ❌ No |
| Special Work Permit (SWP) | Short-term work (3–6 months) | ✔️ Yes, temporarily |
| Provisional Work Permit (PWP) | Temporary work while 9G is processing | ✔️ Yes, while pending |
| Long-term employment | ✔️ Yes, full legal work authorization
|
If you plan to work long-term, the 9G is the correct visa.
Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Employer Petition
Your employer files the petition for your employment and prepares company requirements.
Step 2: Apply for an AEP (Alien Employment Permit)
Issued by DOLE, the AEP allows a foreigner to work in a specific role for a specific employer.
Timeline: 2–4 weeks
Requirement: Must be published in a newspaper to ensure transparency.
Step 3: Apply for the 9G Visa at the Bureau of Immigration
Once the AEP is approved, the employer submits the 9G petition.
Step 4: Biometrics & Interview
You must physically appear at the Bureau of Immigration for:
- Fingerprinting
- Digital photo
- Signature
Step 5: Visa Approval & Passport Stamping
Your visa will be endorsed, and you will receive:
- Visa stamp
- I-Card
Step 6: Final Release
Once complete, your documents will be returned, and you can begin working legally.
PROCESS CHECKLIST
Documents |
During the Processing Period |
After Approval |
For Employees:
|
Allowed Activities:
|
What You Receive:
Validity:Usually 1–3 years, depending on your contract. |
For Employers:
|
Prohibited Activities:
|
Validity:Usually 1–3 years, depending on your contract. |
Additional Documents (If Applicable):
|
Travel Reminders:
|
Responsibilities:
Changing Employers:If you change employers:
|
If Your Tourist Visa Is ExpiringApply for an extension at the Bureau of Immigration. |
When the Visa Expires:You must:
|
Conclusion: ZeroTen Park Philippines’ EOR 9G Visa Support
Processing a 9G Work Visa can be mentally and physically taxing especially for EOR clients who simply want their foreign employee to start working without the endless paperwork, follow-ups, and government coordination. From preparing documents to dealing with DOLE and the Bureau of Immigration, the process demands precision, time, and full compliance. And that’s exactly where ZeroTen Park Philippines steps in to lighten the load.
This is exactly where The Company Philippines makes the difference.
How We Support Our Employer-of-Records Clients and Employers:
- Full 9G Visa processing for foreign employees under our EOR service
- Assistance with AEP filing, biometrics scheduling, and BI coordination
- Ensuring your foreign hire remains legally compliant at every step
- Guidance on allowed activities during processing
- Handling renewals, cancellations, and dependent applications
If you’re onboarding a foreign employee or planning to hire one under our Employer of Record Service our team can simplify the process and ensure seamless compliance.
📩 Contact ZeroTen Philippines today to learn how we can support your global expansion and help your foreign talent work legally in the Philippines.
Quick Answers to Common Questions
You may apply for a 9G Visa if:
- You have a Philippine employer willing to sponsor your visa
- Your role cannot be easily filled by a local worker (for AEP approval)
- You have the educational background or experience relevant to your job
- You can submit all necessary documents
Employer must:
- Be a legally registered company in the Philippines
- Have valid SEC/DTI registration
- Have a legitimate reason for hiring a foreign worker
- Provide company documents as part of the petition
From the Employee:
- Passport (valid for at least 6 months)
- Completed visa application forms
- Passport-size photos
- Employment contract
- Resume or CV
- Proof of qualifications (e.g., diplomas, certificates)
- NBI Clearance (if required)
From the Employer:
- Company registration documents
- Mayor’s Permit
- PEZA/BOI certificate (if applicable)
- Organizational chart
- Justification for hiring a foreigner
- Employment contract and job description
❌ Working while on a tourist visa
❌ Getting paid without proper work authorization
❌ Staying in the Philippines with an expired visa
❌ Leaving the country in the middle of your application without clearance
Generally not recommended.
You may need an ECC (Emigration Clearance Certificate) or Special Return Certificate (SRC), depending on your case.
