Alien Employment Permit (AEP)

Who Must Apply for an AEP?

• Foreign nationals seeking employment in the Philippines (including non-residents and refugees).
• Foreign professionals permitted to practice under international agreements or under the PRC Modernization Act.
• Holders of SIRV, SRRV, 9D Treaty Trader Visa, or 47(a)2 Special Non‑Immigrant Visa who occupy executive, advisory, supervisory, or technical roles.

Who is Exempt from Securing an AEP?

• Resident foreign nationals employed or seeking employment in the Philippines (per DO 41‑03).
• Members of diplomatic services and accredited foreign government officials.
• Officers and staff of international organizations (with eligible spouses).
• Foreign nationals with voting-only roles on a Governing Board.
• Those granted exemption by special laws enacted by Congress.
• Foreign nationals coming to teach, present, or conduct research under reciprocal agreements.
• Owners and representatives of foreign principals accredited by POEA who are in the Philippines solely for interviewing purposes.

AEP Requirements & Application Process

To process an AEP, you must submit a complete, duly notarized application along with the following documents:

• Duly accomplished AEP Application Form.
• Letter of request from the sponsoring employer.
• Secretary’s Certificate for foreign nationals in elective positions.
• An authenticated copy of your passport showing a valid visa.
• Photocopy of the company’s Business or Mayor’s Permit.

Submit your application to the DOLE Regional Office with jurisdiction over your intended workplace. If assigned to subsidiaries or related companies, the application may be filed at any DOLE Office with proper jurisdiction. Once approved, you will receive your AEP card.

Fees & Validity

Our service helps you navigate the fee structure set by DOLE:

• Application & Publication Fee: PHP 10,000 for a one‑year AEP (including a publication fee of PHP 4,000).
• Extension Fee: An additional PHP 5,000 for every extra year or fraction thereof.
• Replacement Fee: PHP 3,000 for lost or altered AEP cards (with required affidavits and reports).
• Certificate Fee: PHP 2,000 for each Certificate of Exemption or Exception issued.

An AEP is valid for the specific position and employer for one year (or up to three years if stipulated in your contract). Any change in position or employer requires a new AEP.