Philippines: Centralized Processing of Alien Employment Permits
June 11, 2026
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At a Glance
- As of June 9, 2026, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Central Office has sole responsibility for the processing of any Alien Employment Permit (AEP)-related matter. This includes new and renewal AEP applications, AEP exemption and exclusion applications, and the assessment and issuance of AEPs. Regional offices no longer handle AEP applications in any way.
- Pending applications received by regional offices on or before June 8, 2026 will be processed by the DOLE Central Office.
- This reform may result in processing delays in the near term, including due to backlog absorption at the DOLE Central Office and administrative process adjustments.
The situation
As of June 9, 2026, the Department of Labor and Employment Central Office has sole responsibility for the processing of any Alien Employment Permit-related matter. Regional offices no longer process Alien Employment Permit applications in any way.
A closer look
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- Exclusive responsibility. This change in processing applies to any Alien Employment Permit (AEP)-related matter. This includes new and renewal applications, AEP exemption and exclusion applications, and the assessment and issuance of AEPs. Regional offices no longer process AEP applications in any way.
- Labor market testing. As part of this change, the Bureau of Local Employment will also manage the Labor Market Testing (LMT) process through a centralized digital platform and coordinated labor registries. However, the DOLE has not yet issued implementing guidelines outlining how the new process will be conducted.
- Pending applications. Pending applications received by regional offices on or before June 8, 2026 will be processed by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Central Office.
Impact
The centralization of AEP processing introduces significant procedural changes for employers and foreign nationals applying for new or renewed work authorization in the Philippines. During the transition period, applicants may experience extended processing times as pending and in-progress applications are transferred from regional offices to the DOLE Central Office, existing backlogs are absorbed and administrative adjustments are implemented under the new system.
Background
The centralization of AEP processing with the DOLE Central Office is part of a broader initiative to streamline administration and strengthen oversight of foreign employment regulations.
Looking ahead
Additional procedural guidelines and filing instructions may be issued, and digital platform enhancements from DOLE may occur as part of this reform. These enhancements are expected to streamline processes and improve overall processing efficiency.
This alert is for informational purposes only. If you have any questions, please contact the global immigration professional with whom you work at Fragomen.
