Can I Bring My Spouse and Children Under My 9G Visa?
TL;DR (Quick Summary)
Yes, you can bring your spouse and children under your 9G visa Philippines through a 9G dependent visa. Your legal spouse and unmarried children under 21 years old qualify as dependents. The dependent visa allows them to legally stay in the Philippines for as long as their 9G visa remains valid. While the process may seem confusing, understanding the family visa requirements Philippines—such as marriage and birth certificates, valid passports, and your employment documents—makes the application smoother. Dependents cannot automatically work but may study. To avoid delays, it’s best to consult with an accredited immigration service provider for your 9G visa family application.
Introduction: Why This Question Matters
For many foreign employees relocating to the Philippines, one of the first concerns is:
“Can I bring my family with a 9G visa in the Philippines?”
The answer is yes—but there are conditions. While the 9G visa allows you to live and work in the Philippines, your spouse and children need their own 9G dependent visa to stay legally with you.
This is where confusion often sets in. Families are unsure:
- Who qualifies as a dependent?
- What are the exact requirements for dependents under 9G visa Philippines?
- Can dependents work or study?
- What happens if the principal visa is canceled?
This guide will answer these questions clearly and conversationally—so you know exactly how to manage a 9G visa family application for your spouse and children.
What Is a 9G Visa in the Philippines?
The 9G visa Philippines is a pre-arranged employment visa issued to foreign nationals who have secured employment with a Philippine-based company. It’s one of the most common long-term work visas for expatriates.
Key points:
- Valid for 1–3 years, depending on your contract.
- Renewable as long as your employment continues.
- Allows you to legally work and reside in the Philippines.
But what about your family? That’s where the 9G dependent visa Philippines comes in.
Understanding the 9G Dependent Visa
A 9G dependent visa is designed for the legal spouse and unmarried minor children of a 9G visa holder. It allows your family to live with you in the Philippines while you’re employed here.
Think of it as a “family extension” of your own visa. Without it, your spouse and children can only stay for limited periods (usually under tourist visas).
Who Qualifies as Dependent?
If you’re planning a 9G visa family application, here’s who is eligible:
- Legal spouse – Married, with proof (marriage certificate).
- Children under 21 – Must be unmarried and legitimate/legally adopted.
- Special cases – Some applications for older children with disabilities may be considered, but they require additional documentation.
So if you’re wondering, “Is my spouse eligible for a dependent visa with my 9G visa?”—yes, as long as you can show a valid marriage certificate.
Family Visa Requirements Philippines
When you start the process, the documents needed for a 9G dependent visa application generally include:
- Accomplished application form (BI form).
- Valid passports of dependents.
- Photocopy of your 9G visa and Alien Certificate of Registration (ACR I-Card).
- Marriage certificate (authenticated if issued abroad).
- Birth certificates of children (authenticated if issued abroad).
- Proof of financial capacity (your employment contract or company certification).
- Recent passport-sized photos of dependents.
- Documentary stamp tax and filing fees.
👉 If you’re unsure how to apply 9G dependent visa Philippines, working with a licensed immigration consultancy can save time.
How to Apply for a 9G Dependent Visa for Spouse and Children
Here’s a step-by-step guide to the 9G visa family application:
- Prepare requirements – Collect all documents listed above.
- Authenticate foreign documents – Make sure marriage and birth certificates issued abroad are authenticated by the Philippine embassy/consulate.
- Submit application – File at the Bureau of Immigration (BI) or through an accredited service provider.
- Pay fees – Includes processing fees, documentary stamp tax, and dependent visa application charges.
- Wait for approval – Processing time can range from a few weeks to a couple of months.
- Claim dependent visas – Once approved, dependents will receive visas tied to your own 9G validity.
How Long Does the Dependent Visa Last?
The 9G dependent visa Philippines is not independent—it’s tied directly to the principal visa.
- If your 9G visa is valid for 2 years, your dependents’ visas will also be valid for 2 years.
- If your visa is canceled, your visas are automatically revoked.
This means your family’s stay is fully dependent on your employment status in the Philippines.
Can Dependents Work or Study?
A common question is: “Can dependents of 9G visa holders work or study in the Philippines?”
- Work: No, dependents are not automatically allowed to work. They would need their own appropriate work visa or permit.
- Study: Yes, dependents may study in Philippine schools or universities as long as they meet enrollment requirements.
Pain Point: Family Relocation Confusion
The biggest concern for foreign workers is making sure their families are legally secure. Without a dependent visa, spouses and children can only enter the country on tourist visas, which means:
- Frequent renewals.
- Limited legal protections.
- Stress about overstaying penalties.
Solution: Secure a 9G dependent visa Philippines as early as possible. This ensures your family is legally recognized and can live with you worry-free.
FAQs on the 9G Dependent Visa
1. Can I bring my spouse and children under my 9G visa in the Philippines?
Yes, through a 9G dependent visa. Your spouse and unmarried children under 21 can stay with you legally.
2. What is a 9G dependent visa in the Philippines?
It’s a visa issued to the family of a 9G visa holder, allowing them to legally reside in the country.
3. Who qualifies as a dependent under a 9G visa?
Your legal spouse and unmarried children under 21 years old.
4. What are the requirements for applying for a 9G dependent visa?
Passports, application forms, your visa details, marriage/birth certificates, and financial proof.
5. How long does the 9G dependent visa last?
It matches the duration of the principal 9G visa.
6. Can dependents of 9G visa holders work or study in the Philippines?
They may study, but to work, they must apply for their own visa or permit.
7. How do I apply for a 9G dependent visa for my family?
File an application with the Bureau of Immigration or through an accredited provider.
8. Is there an additional cost for a 9G dependent visa?
Yes, each dependent requires their own application fee and related charges.
9. Can I bring my family immediately after I get my 9G visa?
Yes, dependents can apply alongside your own application or after your visa is approved.
10. What happens to my dependents’ visas if my 9G visa is canceled?
They automatically become invalid, since they are tied to your visa.
Final Thoughts
If you’re a foreign worker asking:
- “Can I bring my family with a 9G visa in the Philippines?”
- “How to apply for a 9G dependent visa for spouse and children?”
The answer is simple: Yes, but it requires preparation.
Bringing your family under your 9G visa Philippines involves understanding the family visa requirements Philippines, preparing authenticated documents, and submitting a 9G visa family application. While the process may feel overwhelming, the peace of mind of having your foreign spouse and children’s visa secured is worth it.
By taking the right steps early, you can relocate smoothly, focus on your work, and give your family a safe, legal home in the Philippines.