DOLE simplifies issuance of Alien Employment Permits

The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has simplified the issuance process Alien Employment Permits (AEPs).

DOLE announced on Wednesday, 28 October, that Labor Secretary Francis Tolentino has signed Department Order No. 248-C, Series of 2026, which ordered the reduction of requirements, shorten the processing time, and make convenient the issuance of AEPs.

The department said the order takes effect 15 days after its publication in newspapers of general circulation.

Under the order, the DOLE said applicants will no longer required to submit certain permits, licenses, and proof of application from government agencies when filing.

These permits that are no longer required include the Philippine Construction Accreditation Board License, Professional Regulation Commission Special Temporary Permit, Department of Justice Authority to Employ Alien, and Department of Environment and Natural Resources Authority to Hire Foreign National.

However, the department said compliance with the laws of those agencies remains mandatory.

The department said broadsheet publication at applicant’s expense will also be discontinued and, instead, Labor Market Test notices will be published through the DOLE’s official portal.

The order also reduces AEP application processing time from 15 to 10 working days and allows a one-time 10-day extension with up to a 20-day maximum.

The DOLE said employers may process applications through their own human resources officers or personnel with no fees collected upon submission.

Philippine embassies and consulates abroad will also be allowed to endorse AEP applications to the Bureau of Local Employment (BLE) or the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) via official notes.