Special Visa for Employment Generation (SVEG) Program

The SVEG visa is provided for foreign nationals who confirm they will employ a minimum of 10 (ten) Filipinos in a lawful business. Foreigners are required to engage in a management capacity and be responsible for  hiring, firing and overall management of employees. Spouses and children up to age 18 can also be included in the visa process.

The Special Visa for Employment Generation (SVEG) program is an initiative by the Bureau of Immigration aimed at encouraging qualified non-immigrant foreigners to actively participate in the Philippine economy by generating employment opportunities for Filipinos. Below are some frequently asked questions about the SVEG program along with their corresponding answers:

Who can apply for the SVEG program?

Qualified non-immigrant foreigners who are willing to employ at least ten (10) Filipinos in a lawful and sustainable enterprise, trade, or industry.

What are the steps to apply for the SVEG program?

Obtain the CGAF (General Application Form) from the Public Information and Assistance Unit (PIAU)
Submit the required documents for pre-screening to the Central Receiving Unit (CRU) or other Immigration Offices.
Obtain the Order of Payment Slip (OPS) and pay the required fees.
Attend the scheduled hearing for further processing.
Proceed to the Image and Fingerprint Capturing Counter of the Alien Registration Division (ARD) for ACR I-Card application.
Check the BI website for visa application approval status.
Submit passport for visa implementation upon approval.

What documents are required for the SVEG application?

Letter request addressed to the Commissioner.
Duly accomplished CGAF.
Photocopies of passport bio-page and latest admission with valid authorized stay.
Additional documents depending on the nature of the applicant’s business (corporation, partnership, or single proprietorship).

Is there a residency obligation for SVEG holders?

No, there is no residency obligation. However, annual reports must be submitted to the Bureau of Immigration.

What are the fees associated with the SVEG program?

The principal applicant and dependents are required to pay Php 29,330.00 each, along with an additional US $250 for the ACR I-Card.

Can dependents be included in the SVEG application?

Yes, spouses and unmarried children below twenty-one (21) years of age can be included.

What are the grounds for cancellation/revocation of the SVEG visa?

Failure to comply with reporting requirements.
Failure to maintain the minimum investment and employment obligations.
Fraudulent misrepresentation or submission of falsified documents.
Conviction of a crime involving moral turpitude.

How long does the processing of the SVEG application take?

The processing time varies but typically takes around 7-10 working days.