Joint Guidelines On Work Authorization For Foreign Nationals To Take Effect On July 16

At a Glance

The Joint Guidelines that seek to clarify the issuance of work authorization to foreign nationals who intend to work, perform specific activities or render services in the Philippines will become effective on July 16. Key changes contained in the Joint Guidelines include:

• A detailed list of foreign visitors who require a short-term Special Work Permit (SWP);
• A requirement for all foreign nationals intending to work in the Philippines to submit a Taxpayer Identification Number to support their application;
• A limit on the validity of SWPs and Provisional Work Permits to six months without possibility of renewal; and
• A new rule that automatically cancels work visas that require a valid related permit or similar document issued by another government office or agency if an application for such related permit or document is denied.