Title
Guidelines for Alien Refugee Employment Permit
Law
Poea Department Order No. 25
Decision Date
Sep 13, 1996
Guidelines established for issuing Alien-Refugee Employment Permits (AREP) to Non-Indo Chinese refugees in the Philippines, allowing them to work under specific conditions while ensuring compliance with national labor laws and regulations.
A

Conditions for Exemption from Labor Code Restrictions

  • Exemption is granted under Article 17, Chapter III of the 1951 UN Convention.
  • Refugees must meet at least one condition:
    • Completion of three years residence in the Philippines.
    • Marriage to a Filipino spouse (provided the refugee has not abandoned the spouse).
    • Having one or more children who are Filipino citizens.

Requirements for Issuance or Renewal of AREP

  • Applications must be filed in duplicate with BLE, accompanied by:
    1. Refugee bio-data and 2x2 photo.
    2. Marriage contract if married to a Filipino.
    3. Employment contract detailing duties and responsibilities.
    4. Certification from UNHCR representatives verifying exemption conditions.
    5. Security clearance from National Intelligence Coordinating Agency (NICA).
    6. Endorsement from Refugee Services of the Philippines, Inc. (RSPI) or authorized UNHCR representative.
    7. Any additional documents required by the Secretary of Labor or authorized representative.

Validity and Renewal of AREP

  • AREPs are valid for one year from issuance unless a shorter employment period is specified.
  • AREPs can be revoked earlier for just cause.
  • Renewals are subject to approval by the Secretary of Labor or authorized representative.
  • Renewal applications and required documents must be filed at least 45 days prior to expiration.

Grounds for Revocation or Cancellation of AREP

  • Conviction for crimes involving moral turpitude.
  • Practicing professions reserved exclusively for Filipinos without PRC license.
  • Changing employer or job without prior BLE approval.
  • Violations of rules governing the Alien Employment Permit System.

Fees for Issuance, Renewal, and Replacement

  • Fee for issuing or renewing an AREP is ₱100.
  • Replacement fee for lost permit card is ₱50 upon proof of loss.

Monitoring and Reporting Requirements

  • Refugee Services Philippines, Inc. (RSPI) or authorized UNHCR agency must submit annual status reports to BLE by January 15 each year.

Effectivity

  • The guidelines take effect immediately upon issuance on September 13, 1996, as signed by Secretary Leonardo A. Quisumbing.

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