The SVEG Visa is a special visa for qualified foreign nationals who wish to start a business in the Philippines. This visa is unique because it ties residency to creating jobs. To qualify, a business must provide work for at least ten Filipino workers.

The SVEG Visa helps in setting up and running businesses in the Philippines. It encourages economic growth and follows labor laws. This program aims to draw foreign investment and skills to the country. The SVEG program shows how much the Philippines cares about creating a good place for foreign business owners and Filipino workers. This visa needs a real effort to start a business in the country as you must meet job creation requirements and follow all rules and laws.

Some of the benefits of a SVEG visa are that it allows multiple entry and exit in the Philippines as well as long term stay.

Before starting the application for the SVEG Visa, it is important to know the eligibility requirements. By meeting these standards, you will have an easier time with the application process and improve your chances of getting approved.

The BI has set clear requirements for people who want an SVEG. These focus on real business activities and steady job chances.

The SVEG Visa is for foreign nationals who can:

• Start and run a business in the Philippines.
• Hire at least ten Filipino workers in a lawful and sustainable enterprise, trade or industry.
• Show that they are not a risk to national security.

The applicant must be able to follow the rules set by the Philippine Bureau of Immigration which include maintaining the minimum of 10 employees every year.

These employees cannot be household helpers, nannies, guards or caretakers.

Applicants must also take an active and full time role in managing these employees.

Furthermore, this must be reported every year to maintain the visa.

Preparing Your Documents

Gathering and organizing the required documents is a key first step in the SVEG visa application process. It is very important to be accurate and complete to avoid delays.

Here’s a list of the main documents you will need:

• Letter Request for SVEG notarized and addressed to the Commissioner with statements of taking at least 10 full time Filipinos
• Application Form: Get the Consolidated General Application Form (BI Form CGAF-002-Rev3). You can find it online on the official BI website or in person at the Public Information and Assistance Unit (PIAU) at the BI’s main office.
• DOLE Certification Letter of regular employement of a minimum of 10 Filipinos
• Passport with at least 6 months validity and with proof of authorized stay
• Proof of Investment
• Medical certificate from the Bureau of Quarantine
• Clearance certificate from the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency (NICA) or NBI Clearance if filed 6 months or more after first arrival in the Philippines.
• Business Documentation: You need to submit your Alien Employment Permit (AEP), if you have a position in the company. For companies, a certified copy of your company’s Articles of Incorporation, GIS and SEC Certificate of Registration. For sole proprietorships, a DTI certificate, and proof that you are committed to hiring at least ten Filipino workers.
• Sworn Statement from you certifying the names of the Filipinos employed, that government contributions will be paid and that all employees are paid at least minimum wage.
• Clearances and Certificates: Collect a clearance from the BI, a National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) clearance, police clearances, and any other documents the BI asks for.
• Dependents A holder of a SVEG visa may include dependents such as a spouse or an unmarried child. These dependents must have a filled out Consolidated General Application Form (BI Form CGAF-002-Rev3) as well as a passport with valid stay, proof of filiation and BI Clearance as well.

Keep in mind that all foreign documents must be properly authenticated, if these documents are from abroad.

For instance, if you were born in the United States, your US Birth Certificate must be apostilled.

Apostille or Authentication is needed for all documents that are issued by foreign institutions.

Submitting Your Application

You will mostly be working with the Bureau of Immigration for your application, although you will also need to work with DOLE to get the certifications needed.

After you have completed the documentary requirements, you can send in your SVEG Visa application. Here’s what to do:

• Pre-screening: First, take your complete application to the Central Receiving Unit (CRU) at the BI for a quick check and verification.
• Payment: If your application passes pre-screening, you will get an Order of Payment Slip (OPS) showing the fees you need to pay.
• Submission and Receipt: Pay the fees and then send in your application with the official payment receipt.
• Attendance at Hearing: The BI will set up a time for an interview or hearing for your application.
• ACR I-Card Application: Go to the Image and Fingerprint Capturing Counter of the Alien Registration Division (ARD) at the BI. Complete the steps for the ACR I-Card, which is an important ID for foreign nationals in the Philippines.

What are the processing times for the SVEG Visa?

The BI usually takes a few months to process SVEG Visa applications. However, the processing time can change. It is best to check the BI’s official website or reach out to their Public Information and Assistance Unit for the latest details on processing times and visa implementation schedules.

Can family members accompany SVEG Visa holders?

Yes, SVEG holders can extend their visa status to their spouse and dependent children who are under 18 years of age. This allows families to stay together while the SVEG holder sets up their business in the Philippines, giving them entry privileges.

Are there any restrictions to the SVEG Visa?

The SVEG Visa is made to help create jobs with a minimum job creation target of 10 employed Filipinos. This must be maintained annually.

If the 10 employees cannot be maintained, this must be reported to the Bureau of Immigration.

How do I convert the probationary SVEG to an indefinate SVEG?

A 1 year probationary SVEG visa is given to the applicant first.

After a year, the applicant can convert this SVEG to an indefinate SVEG.

The application should be done at least 30 days before the expiration of the Visa, although it can be done earlier.

What happens if my SVEG Visa application is denied?

If your SVEG visa application gets denied, the BI will give you a written note explaining why. Usually, you have the right to challenge this decision through the BI’s appeal process.