Visa and Employment · Special Work Permit
Special Work Permit (SWP)
We prepare and file Special Work Permits for foreign nationals coming to the Philippines for short-term assignments.
Overview
Authority for short-term work
A Special Work Permit is issued by the Bureau of Immigration to foreign nationals who will work in the Philippines on a short-term assignment of up to six months. The permit has an initial validity of three months and can be extended once by three months. It suits project work, short engagements and assignments that do not call for a long-term employment visa.
Whether an SWP is the right tool depends on the nature and length of the work. Longer or open-ended roles usually belong on a 9(g) route instead, and choosing the wrong permit creates problems later. We review the assignment, confirm the correct route for your case, prepare the petition with the sponsoring company, and handle the extension if one is needed.
What we handle
What we handle on an SWP
From choosing the right permit to the extension.
Route check
We confirm whether the assignment fits an SWP or needs a longer-term visa.
Sponsor documents
We prepare the petition and company documents with the local sponsor.
Filing and follow-up
We lodge the application with the Bureau of Immigration and handle requests.
Extension
We file the one permitted extension where the assignment runs longer.
How it works
How an SWP application works
A short process, but the paperwork still has to be right.
Review the assignment
We look at the work, its length and the sponsoring company.
Prepare the petition
We assemble the sponsor and worker documents for filing.
File with the BI
We lodge the SWP application and follow it through.
Extend if needed
Where the assignment continues, we file the extension before expiry.
Why work with ILA on your SWP
Right permit
We confirm the SWP fits before you rely on it.
Sponsor coordination
We handle the company paperwork with your local partner.
Extension tracking
We watch expiry dates and file extensions on time.
Frequently asked questions
SWP questions
Can I work on a tourist visa while my SWP is pending?
No. Working without the proper authority is not permitted, and it can affect future applications. We plan the timing so the permit is in place before work begins.
What if my assignment runs past six months?
The SWP is designed for short-term work of up to six months. If the work will run longer, a different route such as a 9(g) is usually needed, and we confirm the right option for your case.
Who files the SWP?
The application is generally supported by a local sponsor, such as the company receiving the services. We work with the sponsor to prepare the petition and supporting documents.
Bringing someone in for a short-term assignment?
Book a free consultation and we will confirm whether a Special Work Permit fits the assignment and what the sponsor needs to prepare.
