How Much Does It Cost to Get a 9G Visa in the Philippines?
TL;DR: Quick Summary Box
- Estimated Cost Range: PHP 10,000 to PHP 30,000+ (depending on processing method and agency fees)
- Who Pays: Usually, the employer
- Includes: DOLE clearance, Bureau of Immigration fees, legal/agency processing fees
- Common Issue: Hidden costs and unclear pricing structures
At a Glance: Real Cost of the 9G Visa Philippines
If you’re a foreign professional planning to work in the Philippines or an employer looking to sponsor talent, one of your first questions will likely be: “How much does a 9G visa cost in the Philippines?“
The short answer: The cost of a 9G visa in the Philippines typically ranges from PHP 10,000 to PHP 30,000 or more, depending on whether you handle the application yourself or work with an agency.
In this blog, we’ll break down:
- The official government fees
- Additional charges you may not expect
- Who’s responsible for paying
- What’s included in the service
- Key factors that influence the final cost
And importantly, we’ll help you avoid overpaying or falling into unclear pricing traps.
What Is a 9G Visa in the Philippines?
A 9G visa is the most common long-term work visa issued to foreign nationals employed by a Philippine-based company. It allows foreigners to legally work and stay in the country for the duration of their employment contract, usually renewable annually.
It’s issued jointly through:
- DOLE (Department of Labor and Employment) – for the Alien Employment Permit (AEP)
- Bureau of Immigration (BI) – for the 9G visa itself
9G Visa vs. Special Work Permit (SWP)
While both allow foreign nationals to work legally, the SWP is valid for short-term assignments (up to 6 months), while the 9G visa is for long-term employment.
In terms of cost, the SWP is generally cheaper and faster to obtain, but not suitable for full-time or long-term work.
How Much Does It Cost to Get a 9G Visa in the Philippines?
The official 9G visa cost in the Philippines is made up of several components:
1. DOLE AEP (Alien Employment Permit)
- Application Fee: PHP 9,000 for one year
- Additional years: PHP 4,000 per year of extension
2. Bureau of Immigration (BI) Fees
These can vary depending on visa duration, but typically include:
- Visa Sticker Fee: PHP 100
- Visa Application Fee: PHP 2,000 – PHP 3,000
- Express Lane Fee: PHP 500 – PHP 1,000
- Legal Research Fee: PHP 100 – PHP 200
3. Other Required Costs
- Medical Exam: PHP 500 – PHP 2,000
- Notarization & Translation (if applicable): PHP 1,000 – PHP 3,000
4. Optional: Agency or Legal Assistance Fees
If using a visa processing agency or law firm:
- Service Fee: PHP 5,000 – PHP 15,000+ depending on scope
⚠️ Hidden or Overlooked Costs
- Follow-up or reprocessing fees
- Courier or document retrieval charges
- ID or immigration card production costs
Who Pays for the 9G Visa—Employer or Foreign Worker?
In most cases, employers are responsible for shouldering the 9G visa cost. This includes:
- DOLE AEP fees
- Bureau of Immigration processing fees
- Any legal or agency service fees
However, some companies may pass on certain administrative costs to the employee, especially if the applicant chooses to work with a third-party agency.
Factors That Affect the Total Cost of a 9G Visa Application
Several variables can influence how much you’ll ultimately pay:
- Length of visa validity requested (1 year vs. 2+ years)
- Location of filing (some cities may impose local charges)
- Processing method (DIY vs. agency)
- Company vs. personal sponsorship
- Renewal vs. new application
- Urgency of processing (rush requests may cost more)
Is the 9G Visa a One-Time or Recurring Cost?
The initial 9G visa application is a one-time cost, but the visa is only valid for the length of the employment contract, typically 1 year.
Renewals require paying the same core fees (AEP, BI charges), though legal fees may be lower since supporting documents are already on file.
What’s Included in Nominee Director Services?
If you’re engaging a provider to assist with the visa, ensure the cost breakdown includes:
- DOLE AEP processing
- Bureau of Immigration submission and follow-up
- Visa monitoring and updates
- Document notarization
- Client support throughout the process
Always request a line-item quotation to avoid surprise fees.
9G Visa Processing Time and Fees: Does It Affect the Cost?
Processing time typically ranges from 2 to 6 weeks, depending on:
- How fast the company gathers the necessary documents
- Agency efficiency
- Government backlogs
Some providers offer express processing for an additional fee. Always ask whether this is necessary or just a markup.
Avoiding Hidden Costs and Markups: What to Watch Out For
To avoid overpaying for a 9G visa:
- Ask for a detailed cost estimate upfront
- Inquire whether prices include all third-party fees
- Clarify what happens in case of delays or reprocessing
- Ensure you’re working with a registered and reputable agency
Transparency is key, especially for companies hiring multiple foreign employees.
Cost Comparison: 9G Visa vs. Special Work Permit (SWP)
| Criteria | 9G Visa | SWP |
| Validity | 1 year (renewable) | 3-6 months (non-renewable) |
| Cost Range | PHP 10,000–30,000+ | PHP 5,000–10,000 |
| Processing Time | 2–6 weeks | 3–7 working days |
| Use Case | Long-term employment | Short-term consultancy, events |
| Requirements | DOLE AEP, BI endorsement | No AEP required |
FAQs About 9G Visa Costs
1. What is a 9G visa in the Philippines?
A 9G visa allows foreign nationals to legally work in the Philippines for a local employer.
2. How much does it cost to get a 9G visa in the Philippines?
Costs range from PHP 10,000 to PHP 30,000, depending on processing method and added service fees.
3. What are the official fees for a 9G visa?
Fees include the DOLE AEP (~PHP 9,000) and BI fees (~PHP 2,000–5,000).
4. Are there additional or hidden costs when applying for a 9G visa?
Yes—such as medical exams, notarizations, agency fees, and document handling charges.
5. Who pays for the 9G visa—the employer or the foreign worker?
Usually, the employer, but policies vary.
6. What factors affect the total cost of a 9G visa application?
Application length, location, urgency, and use of agencies all impact cost.
7. Is the 9G visa a one-time fee or recurring cost?
The initial application is a one-time cost, but renewal requires paying again annually.
8. What’s the difference between a 9G visa and a Special Work Permit (SWP) in terms of cost?
The 9G visa is more expensive but suited for long-term work. The SWP is cheaper and faster, but only for short-term jobs.
9. How long does it take to process a 9G visa, and does this affect the cost?
Processing can take 2–6 weeks; some agencies charge extra for rush service.
10. Do you need a DOLE clearance before getting a 9G visa?
Yes, a DOLE Alien Employment Permit (AEP) is required as part of the process.
Final Thoughts: Is a 9G Visa Worth the Investment?
If you’re a foreigner planning to work long-term in the Philippines, or a company hiring foreign staff, the 9G visa is a necessary legal step. While the cost can seem high, especially with agency markups, transparency and proper planning can help avoid unexpected expenses.
When comparing agency options, always ask: “How much does it cost to get a 9G visa in the Philippines—including everything?” That one question can save you thousands.
Need expert help with visa processing or business registration? Contact us for a transparent, all-inclusive 9G visa service tailored to your needs.