How Long Does It Take to Get a 9G Visa in the Philippines?
If you’re a foreign national planning to work in the Philippines, one of the most important steps is securing a 9G Work Visa. But how long does it actually take? Whether you’re relocating soon or helping a new hire through the process, understanding the 9G visa processing time in the Philippines can help set the right expectations and avoid delays.
In this guide, we’ll break down each stage of the process, give you an overview of timelines, and share tips to streamline your application.
TL;DR (Too Long; Didn’t Read)
Getting a 9G Work Visa in the Philippines typically takes 6 to 10 weeks from start to finish. The timeline depends on how quickly your documents are submitted and how efficiently the BFO, DOLE, and BI are with approvals. Planning ahead and working with a trusted service provider can help avoid unnecessary delays.
What Is a 9G Visa and Who Needs It?
The 9G Work Visa is issued by the Bureau of Immigration (BI) and is the most common type of employment visa in the Philippines. It allows foreign nationals to live and work legally in the country.
This visa is typically required for:
- Foreign professionals hired by Philippine-based companies
- Expats who will be employed for long-term roles
- Foreigners working in managerial, technical, or executive positions
If you’re asking how long to get a 9G visa in the Philippines, your situation likely falls into one of these categories.
Typical 9G Work Visa Timeline in the Philippines
On average, the 9G visa application duration ranges between 6 to 10 weeks, depending on several factors:
1. Document Collection and Preparation (1 to 2 weeks)
This includes gathering:
- Employment contract
- Company registration documents
- Valid passport
- Alien Employment Permit (AEP) application
Tip: Having an organized checklist speeds up this phase considerably.
2. Alien Employment Permit (AEP) Processing at DOLE (2 to 3 weeks)
The AEP is required before the visa application can proceed.
What happens here?
- Submission of application
- DOLE posting of the job vacancy
- Issuance of permit if no objections
Note: This step often causes delays, especially if documents are incomplete.
3. 9G Visa Petition and Filing with BI (3 to 5 weeks)
Once the AEP is secured:
- The company files the 9G visa petition
- BI evaluates, approves, and issues the visa
This includes:
- Hearing and endorsement
- Issuance of the ACR I-Card
So if you’re asking about the Philippine work visa processing time, this is the longest part.
Total Estimated Timeframe
| Step | Estimated Duration |
| Document Collection | 1 to 2 weeks |
| AEP Processing (DOLE) | 2 to 3 weeks |
| 9G Visa Processing (BI) | 3 to 5 weeks |
| Total | 6 to 10 weeks |
Factors That Affect 9G Visa Lead Time
Wondering how fast is 9G visa approval is in the Philippines? Several factors can influence the pace:
- Completeness of documents
- Holiday seasons or government backlogs
- Changes in immigration rules
- Applicant’s previous immigration record
- Whether you work with a visa processing service
Managing Expectations: Delays vs Reality
One common pain point is expectation vs. reality in processing times. While you might expect your 9G visa in 4 weeks, real-world scenarios often stretch that.
Common Delays:
- Missing signatures or forms
- Unpaid government fees
- Delays in AEP approval
- Additional requirements from the Bureau of Immigration
Pro Tip: Work with experts who can double-check everything before submission.
Can You Stay in the Philippines While Waiting?
Yes, in many cases. If you enter on a tourist visa, you may convert to a 9G visa while staying in the country. However, make sure your tourist visa doesn’t expire before your 9G visa is approved.
How to Speed Up Your 9G Visa Application
Here are a few practical ways to move things along:
- Start early: Begin collecting documents as soon as the job offer is signed.
- Check documents thoroughly: Incomplete or inaccurate forms are the #1 cause of delays.
- Use a visa processing partner: Experts understand how to navigate the system efficiently.
- Follow up regularly: Monitor the status with DOLE and BI, especially during peak months.
Final Thoughts
Applying for a 9G Work Visa in the Philippines doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. While the timeline may vary, being prepared and informed makes a huge difference.
With an average 9G visa lead time of 6 to 10 weeks, it’s crucial to set realistic expectations and keep your documents in order. Need help with your application? Fill out the form below and let our visa experts guide you every step of the way.
FAQ: 9G Visa Processing Time Philippines
How long does it take to process a 9G visa in the Philippines?
It usually takes 6 to 10 weeks, depending on document readiness, agency workload, and the applicant’s immigration status.
How many weeks does it take to get a 9G work visa after submission?
After submission to the Bureau of Immigration, expect about 3 to 5 weeks for approval.
What are the stages of a 9G visa application, and how long does each take?
- Document Collection: 1-2 weeks
- AEP Processing (DOLE): 2-3 weeks
- 9G Visa Filing (BI): 3-5 weeks
Do I need to wait in the Philippines while the 9G visa is processed?
Not necessarily. You can stay as a tourist if your tourist visa is valid during the process.
How long does the BI take to approve a 9G visa?
Once documents are submitted, the BI typically takes 3 to 5 weeks to complete approval and release the ACR I-Card.