The submission of the Understudy Training Program (UTP) or Skills Development Program (SDP) is no longer mandatory to obtain a PEZA visa. However, pending confirmation if this will be required by the Labor arm, the Philippine Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE).
When downgrading a PEZA Visa, foreign employees are issued with the Order to Leave (OTL). However, an exemption from the Order to Leave (OTL) requirement is made available for foreign employees who need to downgrade due to changes in their position, title, or job position while remaining employed by the same employer or petitioner. It follows that the Downgrading applications for the aforementioned cases will now require an original and notarized employment contract and a commitment to immediately apply for a PEZA visa.
PEZA visa applications submitted less than 30 days before the visa’s expiration will no longer require a letter addressed to the Director General.
Erickson Insights
Erickson Immigration Group will continue to monitor developments and share updates as more news is available. Please contact your employer or EIG attorney if you have questions about anything we’re reporting above or case-specific questions.