Philippines Streamlines Alien Employment Permit Process

• The Philippines issued new rules to streamline the Alien Employment Permit (AEP) process, reduce documentary requirements, shorten processing times and simplify filing procedures for employers and foreign nationals.  

Philippines Issues New Rules to Streamline Alien Employment Permits 

The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has issued Department Order No. 248-C, Series of 2026, which amends Department Order No. 248-B, Series of 2026 and introduces additional measures to streamline the Philippines’ Alien Employment Permit (AEP) process.  

The changes follow earlier reforms, including revised foreign national employment rules and the centralization of AEP processing.  

Reduced AEP Documentary Requirements 

The new rules eliminate several documents previously required for filing and evaluating AEP applications, including: 

• Philippine Construction Accreditation Board License 
• Professional Regulation Commission Special Temporary Permit 
• Department of Justice Authority to Employ Alien 
• Department of Environment and Natural Resources Authority to Hire Foreign National 

Applicants are no longer required to submit these documents or proof of application for them as part of the AEP process. However, compliance with the applicable requirements of these agencies remains mandatory where required.  

Faster AEP Processing Times 

The updated framework reduces the standard AEP processing times to:  

• 15 working days to 10 working days 
• With a one-time extension of up to 10 additional working days, for a maximum processing period of 20 working days  

Changes to Filing and Representation Requirements 

The Order removes accreditation requirements for agents and authorized representatives involved in the AEP filing process. 

Under the new rules: 

• Employers may file AEP applications through their own HR personnel, officers, owners or legal counsel. 
• Employers are directly responsible for the accuracy and completeness of submitted documentation.  

Revised Fee Collection Process 

DOLE will no longer collect fees upon submission of an AEP application. 

Instead: 

• Applications will first undergo technical evaluation. 
• An Order of Payment Slip will be issued only after approval of the application.  

Embassy-Endorsed Applications Permitted 

Foreign nationals may benefit from a streamlined application process through embassy or consular endorsements. 

Under the new rules, a foreign national’s embassy or consulate may submit an official endorsement to the Bureau of Local Employment, either directly or through the Department of Foreign Affairs, confirming the individual’s identity and lack of derogatory record.  

Additional AEP Administration Changes 

The Order also: 

• Permits DOLE to require foreign national applicants to complete an orientation on Philippine history and cultural diversity.  
• Provides for medical care benefits for lawfully employed foreign nationals in government hospitals.  
• Authorizes the Secretary of Labor and Employment to grant AEPs in meritorious cases, including those involving special economic or international agreements. 
• Authorizes the Secretary to revoke AEPs on national security grounds and other applicable bases. 

Effective Date 

The new rules will take effect 15 days after publication in a newspaper of general circulation. 

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