9(g) — Pre-Arranged Employment Visa (9(g))

The 9(g) Pre-Arranged Employment Visa is the primary long-term work visa for foreign nationals who have secured legitimate employment with a Philippine-based company. This visa category is designed for professionals, technical experts, and skilled workers who are hired to fill roles where a bona fide employer-employee relationship exists. A critical prerequisite for this visa is the acquisition of an Alien Employment Permit (AEP) from the Department of Labor and Employment, which verifies that the foreign national is performing work that cannot be readily filled by a local worker. The visa is tied to the sponsoring employer, and any change in employment requires a new application.

This visa is ideal for expatriate professionals seeking to live and work in the Philippines for an extended period, typically with validity options ranging from one to three years, depending on the employment contract. It offers significant benefits, including legal residency status, multiple-entry privileges, and the ability to include dependents such as a spouse and unmarried minor children. By providing a structured legal framework for foreign talent, the 9(g) visa supports the operations of international businesses and contributes to the Philippine economy by facilitating the transfer of specialized skills and expertise across various industries.