8 September 2025
The Department of Labor and Employment — National Capital Region (DOLE-NCR) issued two new advisories affecting the processing and release of Alien Employment Permits (AEPs):
- AEP Advisory No. 25-03, dated 31 July 2025, introduces a scheduled release system for printed AEP cards and enforces a no face-to-face inquiry policy.
- AEP Advisory No. 25-04, dated 27 August 2025, reiterates the 15-working day process cycle time for AEP issuance, as provided under Department Order No. 248, Series of 2025.
Recommended actions
- Plan ahead for AEP applications and renewals, considering the 15-working day processing timeline.
- Ensure all documents are complete and accurate to avoid processing delays.
- Coordinate proactively with DOLE-NCR for the release of AEP cards and use the designated email channels for all inquiries.
- Avoid walk-ins or face-to-face follow-ups, as these are no longer accommodated.
In more detail
1. Scheduled release of printed AEP cards (Advisory No. 25-03)
- Approved AEPs will be released only through scheduled pickups or courier delivery.
- Clients will be notified of their assigned pickup dates once the AEP card is printed.
- Coordination for release must be done via email or mobile through the AEP Releasing Team.
- The advisory also strictly enforces a no face-to-face inquiry policy. All communications must be conducted via designated email addresses depending on the nature of the inquiry (e.g., application, compliance, cancellation, reprinting).
- All AEP applications must be submitted through the DOLE-NCR Client Portal.
2. Reiteration of the 15-working day processing timeline (Advisory No. 25-04)
- The processing timeline for AEP issuance is now 15 working days, counted from the date of payment.
- This extended timeline replaces the previous five-working day period and is intended to allow for a more thorough evaluation process.
- The 15-day cycle includes document review, endorsement for approval, compliance checks, inspection (if necessary), card printing and release scheduling.
- Requests for expedited processing are no longer necessary, as the timeline is designed to accommodate all procedural steps.
- Clients are reminded to ensure complete and accurate documentation to avoid delays.