PHILIPPINES: New Guidelines for Special Work Permit for Consultants and Specialists

February 25, 2020


The Bureau of Immigration (BI) has released new guidelines for Special Work Permit (SWP) applications for consultants or specialists.

In 2019, the authorities clarified that the SWP can only be issued to foreign nationals working outside of an employment relationship (i.e., without an employment contract), and in one of 14 occupations, including consultants and specialists.

In this new Operations Order, the BI has clarified that consultants or specialists are professionals who provide expert advice in a particular area such as business, education, law, regulatory compliance, human resources, marketing (and public relations), finance, healthcare, engineering, science, security (electronic or physical), or any of many other specialized fields.

The BI has further established the following requirements for applicants for an SWP as consultants and specialists:

  1. Proof of educational attainment;
  2. Proof of at least two years of relevant work experience or training related to the proposed position, nature, and primary purpose of the company’s business; and
  3. Age is at least 25 years at the time of application submission.

Our Advice

Employers who may be affected are encouraged to contact a Newland Chase immigration specialist for case-specific advice.

For general advice and information on immigration and business travel to the Philippines, please contact us.