OEC Switzerland Appointment OFW Balik Manggagawa Certificate;
To ensure compliance with employment laws, norms, and customs in both the Philippines and OEC Switzerland Appointment , OFWs in Geneva should be aware of the process to acquire an Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC). The OEC serves as verification that their employment contracts meet the required standards.
If you are planning to travel back to the Philippines for a vacation and then return to your host country, you will need to process an OEC. Here are the steps to acquire an OEC in Geneva, Switzerland:
- Schedule an appointment: Contact the Philippine Embassy or Consulate in Geneva to schedule an appointment for OEC processing. It is advisable to do this in advance to secure a convenient date and time.
- Prepare the required documents: Make sure you have the following documents ready for your appointment:
- Valid passport
- Valid work permit or residence card
- Employment contract or proof of employment
- Proof of OWWA (Overseas Workers Welfare Administration) membership (if applicable)
- Any other supporting documents requested by the embassy or consulate
- Attend the appointment: Arrive at the Philippine Embassy or Consulate on the scheduled date and time. Submit your documents for verification and processing. Be prepared for any additional interviews or requirements as requested by the embassy or consulate.
- Pay the necessary fees: There are fees associated with OEC processing. Make sure to inquire about the current fees and prepare the exact amount in Swiss Francs or any other accepted currency. Payment methods may vary, so it’s best to check with the embassy or consulate beforehand.
- Attend the pre-departure orientation seminar (PDOS): Depending on your circumstances, you may be required to attend a PDOS conducted by the embassy or consulate. The PDOS provides important information and guidance for OFWs returning to the Philippines.
- Receive your OEC: Once your documents and payments have been verified, you will receive your Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC). This document serves as proof of your compliance with the necessary requirements and allows you to travel back to your host country.
Remember to keep your OEC safe and readily accessible during your travel. It will be required when you return to your host country after your vacation in the Philippines.
Please note that the specific procedures and requirements for acquiring an OEC may vary over time. It’s important to reach out to the Philippine Embassy or Consulate in Geneva or refer to their official website for the most up-to-date information.
Qualifications
The following individuals are qualified to process the OEC.
- Directly employed Filipino workers by an international employer
- Individuals who are employed by a recruitment agency
- OFWs employed by POEA’s Government Placement Branch (GPB)
Requirements
Each document should be submitted in two (2) copies: an original and a duplicate or photocopy.
Basic Document Requirements
- Printed Online Appointment (POPS-BAM / BM Online): A physical copy of the appointment confirmation obtained through the online appointment system.
- Printed Balik-Manggagawa Information Sheet: A hard copy of the information sheet for returning overseas Filipino workers (OFWs).
- Sworn Statement (For OFWs who have never had a POEA record or who are applying for OEC for the first time): A legally binding statement made under oath by OFWs who have no previous record with the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) or who are obtaining an Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) for the first time.
- Passport (valid for at least six months) from departure date: A passport that remains valid for at least six months from the date of departure.
- Verified Employment Contract: A contract of employment that has been authenticated or verified by relevant authorities.
- Certificate of Employment, Company ID, latest pay slip, or other documents as proof of employment: Documents such as a certificate of employment, company identification card, most recent pay slip, or other records that serve as evidence of current employment.
- Valid Work Visa, Work Permit, or any equivalent document: A current and valid work visa, work permit, or any other relevant document that authorizes the individual to work legally in their destination country.
- Confirmed Airline Ticket: A flight ticket that has been confirmed and booked for travel.
- OEC fees: The fees associated with obtaining an Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC).Additional Requirement
- OWWA membership payment receipt
The list of requirements is subject to change, therefore it’s important to keep an eye on the POLO Geneva, Switzerland website and Facebook page for updates.
What Should I do Before Applying for an OEC in DMW Geneva Office?
- Determine your eligibility for an exemption: According to Philippine labor laws, foreign employers are prohibited from directly recruiting Filipino workers. However, certain exemptions exist. Determine if your situation qualifies for an exemption from the restriction on direct employment. The following entities are typically exempt from the direct hiring restriction: a. Employers of Professional and Skilled Workers with Verified or Authenticated Employment Contracts that Comply with POEA Standards b. Foreign Diplomats c. Heads of State and High-ranking Government Officials d. International Organizations e. Lower-ranking officials from the categories above, who are approved by the POLO f. Host nation residents who are permanent residents and hire their family members (excluding domestic workers)
- Gather the required documents: Once you have confirmed that your employer is exempt from the direct hiring restriction, it’s crucial to gather all the necessary documents. Make sure you have the following items prepared: a. Valid passport and other identification documents b. Verified or authenticated employment contract that complies with POEA standards c. Relevant work permits or visas d. Proof of qualifications, certifications, or licenses required for your position e. Any other supporting documents requested by the POLO
By thoroughly understanding the Philippine labor laws and regulations, determining your eligibility for exemption, and preparing all the required documents, you can make the most of your visit to the POLO Geneva, Switzerland Office.
How to Get an Appointment for OEC Application in Geneva, Switzerland (POPS-BAM System)
Prior to visiting POLO Geneva, Switzerland office, an OEC appointment is required.
- Go to the POEA Online Service Website by visiting this link: [insert link here].
- Click on the “Let’s go” button for e-Registration.
- If you’re a new user, click on “Register” (if you already have an account, simply log in). Accept the terms of use.
- Fill in the required information and click on the register button. You will see a message confirming your successful registration.
- Check the email address you provided during registration. There will be an email containing your temporary password.
- Go back to the link from Step 1 and log in using your registered email address. Click on “next.”
- Use the temporary password sent to your email to log in. Click on “log in.”
- Set a password of your choice.
- Update your profile by clicking on “My Profile.” After completing your profile, click on “Update Profile” on the upper right side of the page.
- Enter your identification data (passport) and beneficiary on your profile.
- On your dashboard, click on “Balik-Manggagawa,” then click on the “Next” button.
- Enter your return flight date and click on the “Next” button.
- If you’re a returning BM and going back to the same employer, job site, and position, you can print your OEC exemption immediately. Otherwise, proceed to step 9 if you’re changing employers or a new BM.
- Enter all your contract details and click on the “Submit” button.
- Select your host country as the processing site and click on the “Next” button.
- Choose and select your preferred appointment date.
- Take a screenshot and print the scheduled appointment date.
Please note that these instructions are paraphrased and may not include all the exact details or options mentioned in the original text. It’s always advisable to refer to the original source for the most accurate information.
How to Apply for an Overseas Employment Certificate in POLO Geneva, Switzerland?
Step 1: Ensure you have gathered all the necessary requirements.
Step 2: On the scheduled appointment day, visit the POLO office in Geneva, Switzerland. Present your approved appointment letter, valid identification, and full-dose vaccination card/certificate to the assigned security personnel.
Step 3: The security personnel will verify your name on the list of approved appointments for the day. To avoid long lines, make sure to bring all the required documents.
Step 4: Obtain a token number from the assigned personnel.
Step 5: Proceed to the processing window and submit your documents.
Step 6: Pay the OEC fees.
Step 7: Wait for further instructions from the OEC processor before printing your OEC through the POPS-BAM System.
Ensure that all the information and details on your OEC are accurate and match your credentials.
Step 8: Sign in to your POPS-BAM account and navigate to the “My Transaction Tab” menu. Select “Print OEC” from the options.
Important Reminders
When filling out online forms, it is advised to avoid using non-English characters such as Chinese, Korean, Japanese, or Arabic. Including such characters may cause a delay in the processing of your Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC). Therefore, please ensure that you only enter English characters.
Please note that you are only allowed to obtain an OEC once during each visit to the Philippines. It is not permitted to acquire multiple OECs simultaneously.
Before your departure, remember to bring three copies of your OEC to the airport on the day of your flight.
Keep in mind that the validity of the OEC is limited to sixty (60) days from the date of issuance.
If a worker leaves the Philippines without an OEC, they may encounter difficulties during the check-in process or may be stopped by immigration officials. Therefore, it is essential to have this document with you at all times before departing.
Balik-Manggagawa OFWs (Overseas Filipino Workers returning to work abroad) must also present a copy of their employment contract, along with their plane ticket and any other required travel documents.
Once you have gathered all the necessary documents, you can proceed to the airport and present your OEC to the immigration official. Having an OEC ensures a smooth travel experience and ensures compliance with all legal obligations related to your employment.
For any inquiries, you can reach us at +41 79 935 62 80, Monday to Friday, from 08:30 AM to 04:30 PM. Please note that our office is closed on public holidays in Switzerland and the Philippines.
POPS-BAM Registration Process to Get OEC
It’s important for OFWs on vacation to understand the importance of OEC. A YouTuber and OFW named ClintYeng shares her experience registering for POEA’s online processing system for Balik Manggagawa (POPSBAM) in order to acquire OEC.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have any further questions regarding “How to Process OEC in Geneva, Switzerland”, see the list of frequently asked questions and answers below.
1. Who can get OEC exemption?
- Possess a valid work visa or work permit.
- Be returning to the same employer and workplace.
- Have a record in the POEA database.
- Have previously obtained an OEC at any POEA offices or facilities, including the POEA main office, extension units, regional offices, POLO offices abroad, and BM mall processing centers.
2. Are OFWs allowed to travel without an OEC?
No. All overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) departing from the Philippines, regardless of whether they are returning employees or new workers, are required to obtain an Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC).
The OEC serves as an exit clearance, and if you attempt to leave the country without it, Immigration authorities will prevent you from doing so. Moreover, the OEC entitles you to be exempted from paying the terminal fee and travel tax
3. How long is an OEC or OEC Exemption Number valid?
From the date of issuance, the OEC or OEC Exemption Number is valid for 60 days. You are required by POEA to obtain this as a Balik-Manggagawa before returning to your employer.
4. Is my OEC valid for many uses?
OEC or OEC Exemption Number is only intended for one use. Once you have given it to Immigration, it cannot be used again.
5. Why does the system want my most recent OEC number? What does it mean?
Your most recent Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) number serves as the transaction record you have with the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA). The system requires this information to access your record and retrieve the latest details about your employment.
6. What happens if I forget my OEC number?
You will be redirected by the system to the APPOINTMENT page, where you must manually visit POEA to process your OEC.
7. What should I do if I lose my OEC?
Log in to your BM Online or POPS-BAM account and reprint your OEC.
8. Where can I settle my OEC fee?
- You can pay your fees in a number of ways, including:
- Globe G-cash
- Over-the-counter thru Banks
- Over-the-counter thru Bayad Centers
- Online Banking
- POLO Geneva, Switzerland office
Instructions on how to complete the payment process will be sent to you through email.
9. What is the POLO Geneva, Switzerland’s office hour?
The POLO office in Geneva, Switzerland is open Monday to Friday, 08:30 AM – 04:30 PM and (Closed on Switzerland and the Philippines public holidays).
10. What is POLO Geneva, Switzerland’s address?
POLO Geneva, Switzerland’s address is Philippine Overseas Labor Office, Allée David-Morse 14-16, 1202 Geneva Switzerland.
11. What is the POLO Geneva, Switzerland’s hotline number?
You can reach the POLO Geneva, Switzerland office at +41 79 935 62 80.
Summary
Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) working in Geneva,OEC Switzerland Appointment are required to possess an Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) to continue their employment abroad. The OEC serves as an exit clearance and attests to the authenticity of the submitted documentation and application of the OFW. It also serves as proof of their registration with the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA). When departing from the Philippines, the OFW must present the OEC to an immigration official at the airport.
The introduction of an online processing system has simplified the OEC procedure. By following the aforementioned simple steps, OFWs can quickly obtain an OEC and avail themselves of its benefits
Contact Information
DMW POLO-Geneva Switzerland
Address: All. David-Morse 14, 1202 Genève, Switzerland
Telephone Number: +41 22 716 32 58
Email: polo_geneva@dole.gov.ph
Website: https://genevapm.dfa.gov.ph/
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100068858934207
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