Business vs. Investor Visas in the Philippines: A 2025 Local Guide

TL;DR: The 9(g) Visa is for professionals with a specific job offer (requires an Alien Employment Permit). The SIRV (Special Investor's Resident Visa) is for those willing to invest $75,000 USD in stocks or a company, granting indefinite residency. The SVEG is for entrepreneurs who employ at least 10 Filipinos. Choose 9(g) for employment, SIRV for passive/active investment, and SVEG for labor-intensive startups.

The "Hidden" Problem: It's Not Just About the Paperwork

Most online guides list requirements but fail to tell you about the on-the-ground reality in Metro Manila. They don't mention that showing up to the Bureau of Immigration (BI) in Intramuros wearing shorts will get you denied entry before you even reach the counter. They don't warn you that finding parking near the Board of Investments (BOI) in Makati is a nightmare that can make you miss your appointment.

Understanding the legal difference is only half the battle; navigating the bureaucracy physically and strategically is where the real challenge lies. This guide covers both.

1. The 9(g) Pre-Arranged Employee Commercial Visa

Best For: Foreign professionals hired by a Philippine corporation.

This is the standard "working visa." The critical thing to know is that it is employer-specific. If you resign or get fired, your visa is downgraded to a tourist visa, and you must leave or re-apply.

• Key Requirement: Alien Employment Permit (AEP) from the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE). You cannot get the 9(g) without the AEP first.

• Local Insight: Processing usually takes 2-3 months. While waiting, you may need a "Provisional Work Permit" (PWP) to start working legally. Don't skip this; immigration officers frequently inspect offices in business districts like BGC and Ortigas.

2. The Special Investor's Resident Visa (SIRV)

Best For: Investors wanting indefinite residency without employment ties.

The SIRV is a popular "Golden Visa" alternative. It allows you to live here as long as your investment remains intact.

• Investment Amount: US $75,000 (remitted to a DBP or Land Bank accredited account).

• Valid Investments: Publicly listed companies, or companies engaged in Investment Priorities Plan (IPP) areas (e.g., manufacturing, services).

• Local Entity Link: You will deal heavily with the Board of Investments (BOI). Their main office is at the Industry and Investments Building, 385 Sen. Gil Puyat Ave, Makati.

3. The Special Visa for Employment Generation (SVEG)

Best For: Active entrepreneurs starting labor-intensive businesses (BPOs, factories).

This is a unique non-immigrant visa that grants indefinite stay, but it comes with a high maintenance "quota."

• Key Requirement: You must employ at least 10 full-time Filipino workers with lawful wages and benefits (SSS, PhilHealth, Pag-IBIG).

• The Catch: The Bureau of Immigration conducts annual checks. If your headcount drops below 10, your visa is revoked.

Comparison: Which Visa Fits You?

Local Expert Tips: Visiting the Offices

Bureau of Immigration (Intramuros Main Office)

Most visa interviews and fingerprinting (biometrics) happen here.

• Dress Code: STRICT. No shorts, sandals, slippers, or sleeveless shirts (sandos). We have seen people turned away at the gate. Wear pants and closed shoes.

• Getting There: Traffic in Intramuros is tight. Do not drive. Parking is virtually non-existent. Take a Grab to Magallanes Drive. If you must drive, your best bet is parking at the nearby Lyceum of the Philippines paid lots, but they fill up by 7:00 AM.

• Timing: Arrive by 7:30 AM. The "berserk charge" when doors open is real. Afternoon slots (post-2 PM) can sometimes be lighter, but it's a gamble.

Board of Investments (Makati)

For SIRV applicants, this is your second home.

• Location: 385 Sen. Gil Puyat Avenue (formerly Buendia). It's near the intersection with Makati Avenue.

• Traffic Note: Gil Puyat is a major thoroughfare. During rush hour (5 PM), getting a Grab out of this area is extremely difficult. Plan your meeting to end by 3 PM.

• Authentication: Ensure your bank remittance documents are Apostilled (if from a Hague convention country) or Authenticated ("Red Ribbon") if not. Philippine banks are very strict about the specific wording on remittance advice.

People Also Ask

What is the difference between SRRV and SIRV?

The SRRV is a retirement visa (age 50+) requiring a deposit of $20,000 (usually) that can be used for real estate in some cases. The SIRV is an investor visa (age 21+) requiring a $75,000 active business investment.

Can I start a business with a 9(g) visa?

Technically, no. The 9(g) is for employees. If you own the company, you should look into the SIRV or SVEG, or appoint yourself as an officer and get a 9(g) via the corporation (a gray area requiring legal counsel).

Is the "Red Ribbon" still required for documents?

If your documents come from a member of the Apostille Convention (like the US, UK, or Australia), you need an Apostille, not a Red Ribbon. The Philippines joined the convention in 2019.

Need help optimizing your local business to appear in these search results? Partner with LocalEnhance for AI-driven growth.