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4 ways to enter

Philippines visas

Philippines work visa

The Philippines has a visa for pre-arranged employment and special visas for certain employers, projects and banking roles.

Ways to get a Philippines work visa

  1. 9(g) visa for pre-arranged employment

    Visa needed

    Foreign nationals with pre-arranged employment and their dependants.

  2. 47(a)(2) Special Non-Immigrant Visa

    Other permit

    Eligible executives, supervisors, specialists, consultants, contractors and personal staff at registered enterprises; workers on qualifying government-agreement projects; eligible sponsored participants; registered volunteers; and their dependants.

  3. Special Non-Immigrant Visa for multinational headquarters staff

    Other permit

    Foreign nationals employed by regional, area or regional operating headquarters of multinational corporations, and their dependants.

  4. Special Employment Visa for Offshore Banking Unit

    Other permit

    Foreign nationals employed by Philippine offshore units of foreign banks, and their dependants.

Who needs it

Foreign nationals taking up pre-arranged employment or a role covered by a special work visa use the relevant work visa class.

Good to know

  • The listed work visa classes also cover dependants.
  • Visa durations, fees and application documents are not specified.

Questions

Do I need a work visa for the Philippines?

Foreign nationals taking up pre-arranged employment or a role covered by a special work visa use the relevant work visa class.

What are the ways to get a work visa for the Philippines?

There are 4 options: 9(g) visa for pre-arranged employment (a visa from an embassy); 47(a)(2) Special Non-Immigrant Visa (a special permit); Special Non-Immigrant Visa for multinational headquarters staff (a special permit); Special Employment Visa for Offshore Banking Unit (a special permit).

Does my passport change whether I need a work visa for the Philippines?

Yes. Rules depend on the country that issued your passport. Open the Philippines visa page and choose your passport for a plain answer.

Can a work visa for the Philippines be refused?

Yes. Officials can refuse a visa or entry, even after you apply. Give true answers, bring the documents asked for, and keep proof of your onward trip and money.

Where do I check the latest the Philippines work visa rules?

On the Philippines's official immigration or foreign ministry website, or at its embassy. Rules change, so check close to your trip.

Can I change my work visa once I am in the Philippines?

Often you cannot switch visa type inside the country. Ask the immigration office before you travel if you might need to.

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