OEC Appointment Taipei Taiwan OFW Balik Manggagawa Certificate
To acquire an OEC in Taipei, Taiwan, you should follow these steps:
- Visit the Manila Economic and Cultural Office (MECO) office, which serves as the Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO) and the Philippine Embassy in Taiwan. This is where you can seek assistance with Philippine government documents.
- Make sure to bring your employment contract and other necessary documents. The OEC will verify that your employment contract complies with the current employment laws, norms, and customs in both the Philippines and Taiwan.
- Submit your employment contract and other required documents to the MECO office. They will process your application and verify the authenticity and compliance of your employment contract.
- Once your employment contract has been verified, the MECO office will issue you an Overseas Employment oec-certificate-taipei-taiwan/ (OEC). The OEC serves as proof that you are a legitimate OFW and allows you to travel back to the Philippines without any issues.
- Keep the OEC Taipei Appointment with you at all times, especially when traveling to and from Taiwan. It is an important document that authorities may request to see during immigration or other checkpoints.
It’s important to note that the information provided here is based on the general process as of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021. It’s always recommended to stay updated with the latest guidelines and procedures from the MECO office or the relevant Philippine government authorities in Taiwan.
Please remember to consult official sources or contact the MECO office directly for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding the acquisition of an OEC in Taipei, Taiwan.
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): Make sure to have a printed copy of your online appointment confirmation. This serves as proof that you have successfully scheduled an appointment.
- Printed Balik-Manggagawa Information Sheet: Print out the Balik-Manggagawa Information Sheet, which contains essential details about your employment and departure.
- Sworn Statement (For OFWs who have never had a POEA record or who are applying for OEC for the first time): If you are an Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) who has never had a record with the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) or if you’re applying for an Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) for the first time, you need to provide a sworn statement.
- Passport (valid for at least six months) from departure date: Ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months from your departure date. This is a standard requirement for international travel.
- Verified Employment Contract: Have a copy of your verified employment contract. This document should outline the terms and conditions of your employment abroad.
- Certificate of Employment, Company ID, latest pay slip, or other documents as proof of employment: Bring supporting documents such as a Certificate of Employment, your Company ID, your latest pay slip, or any other documents that serve as proof of your employment.
- Valid Work Visa, Work Permit, or any equivalent document: Make sure to have a valid Work Visa, Work Permit, or any equivalent document that allows you to work legally in the country where you’re employed.
- Confirmed Airline Ticket: Provide a copy of your confirmed airline ticket. This serves as evidence of your scheduled departure from the Philippines.
- OEC fees: Prepare the necessary fees for the issuance of your Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC). The exact amount may vary, so it’s advisable to check the latest fee schedule from the POEA or the relevant government agency.
Please note that these requirements are subject to change, and it’s always best to consult the POEA or the embassy/consulate of the destination country for the most up-to-date information and instructions.
Additional Requirement
- OWWA membership payment receipt
- Company profile, Business License / Commercial Registration of the Employer
- For direct hired: POLO Endorsement Letter addressed to the Administrator seeking exemption from the ban on the hiring.
The list of requirements is subject to change, therefore it’s important to keep an eye on the POLO Taipei, Taiwan website and Facebook page for updates.
What Should I Do Before Applying for an OEC in the DMW Taipei Office?
You must prepare yourself before going to the POLO Taipei, Taiwan Office; otherwise, you will only waste your time. Here’s what you should consider:
- Philippine labor laws and regulations prohibit foreign employers from directly recruiting Filipino workers, so you should determine if you qualify for an exemption from the restriction on direct employment. The following are exempt from the restriction on direct hiring of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs):
- Employers of Professional and Skilled Workers with Verified or Authenticated Employment Contracts that Comply with POEA Standards
- Foreign Diplomats
- Heads of State and High-ranking Government Officials
- International Organizations
- Lower-ranking officials from the first three categories who are approved by the Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO)
- Residents of the host nation who are permanent residents and who hire their family members, excluding domestic workers
- Prepare all the required documents. Once you have confirmed that your employer is exempt from the direct hiring restriction, make sure to gather all the necessary documents promptly.
Please note that this information is based on Philippine labor laws and regulations as of my last knowledge update in September 2021. It’s always advisable to consult the latest regulations or seek professional legal advice for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
How to Get an Appointment for OEC Application in Taipei, Taiwan (POPS-BAM System)
- Visit the POEA Online Service Website by clicking on this link: https://onlineservices.dmw.gov.ph//onlineservices/poeaonline.aspx.
- On the website, click the “Let’s go” button for e-Registration.
- If you are a new user, click on “Register” (if you already have an account, simply log in). Read the terms of use and click the “I accept the terms of use” button.
- Fill in all the required information on the registration form and then click the “Register” button. You should see a message indicating that your registration was successful.
- Log in to the email address you provided during registration. Look for a message containing your temporary password.
- Go back to the link provided in Step 1 and login using your registered email address. Click “Next” to proceed.
- Use the temporary password sent to your email to log in. After entering the password, click “log in.”
- Set your preferred password for future logins.
- Update your profile by clicking on “My Profile.” Once you have completed your profile, click “Update Profile” located on the upper right side of the page.
- Input your identification data (passport) and beneficiary information on your profile.
- On your dashboard, click on “Balik-Manggagawa” and then click the “Next” button.
- Enter your return flight date and click the “Next” button.
- If you are a returning BM (Balik-Manggagawa) and returning to the same employer, job site, and position, you can print your OEC (Overseas Employment Certificate) exemption immediately. If not, proceed to step 9 to change your employer or if you are a new BM.
- Input all your contract details, such as your new employer, job site, and position. Then, click the “Submit” button.
- Select your host country as the processing site and click the “Next” button.
- Choose and select your preferred appointment date from the available options.
- Take a screenshot or note down your scheduled appointment date. Make sure to print this information.
By following these steps, you should be able to make an appointment prior to visiting the POLO Taipei, Taiwan office.
How to Apply for an Overseas Employment Certificate in MECO Taipei, Taiwan?
Step 1: Gather all of the necessary requirements.
Step 2: Make sure you have an approved appointment for the POLO/MECO Taipei, Taiwan office. You can schedule an appointment by contacting the office or through their online system.
Step 3: On your scheduled appointment day, go to the POLO/MECO Taipei, Taiwan office. Bring the following documents with you:
- Approved appointment letter
- Valid ID
- Full-dose vaccination card/certificate
Step 4: Show your approved appointment letter, valid ID, and vaccination card to the assigned security personnel at the office. They will check your name on the list of approved appointments for the day.
Step 5: Obtain a token number from the assigned personnel. This will help you track your position in the processing queue.
Step 6: Proceed to the processing window and submit all the required documents.
Step 7: Pay the necessary OEC (Overseas Employment Certificate) fees. The office will provide you with the details of the payment process.
Step 8: Wait for advice from the OEC processor before printing your OEC in the POPS-BAM System. Make sure to review all the information and ensure its accuracy.
Step 9: Sign in to your POPS-BAM account and navigate to the “My Transaction Tab” menu. Select “Print OEC” and follow the instructions to generate your OEC document.
Important reminders:
- When filling out online forms, use only English characters and avoid non-English characters such as Chinese, Korean, Japanese, or Arabic, as it may cause processing delays.
- You can acquire an OEC only once during each visit to the Philippines. Acquiring multiple OECs simultaneously is not allowed.
- Make three copies of your OEC and bring them to the airport on the day of your departure.
- The OEC is valid for 60 days from the date of issuance.
- Ensure you have your OEC with you at all times when leaving the Philippines to avoid complications during check-in or with immigration officials.
- Balik-Manggagawa OFWs (Overseas Filipino Workers returning to the same employer) should also carry a copy of their employment contract, plane ticket, and other necessary travel documents.
- If you have any questions or need assistance, you can contact the POLO/MECO Taipei, Taiwan office at +886 2 2658 8825 from Monday to Friday, 08:00 AM to 04:00 PM (excluding Taiwanese and Philippine public holidays).
Please note that all the instructions provided above are based on the information available up until September 2021. It’s always recommended to verify any updated guidelines or requirements directly with the relevant authorities or office.
FW Shares Process to Get OEC Exemption using the new website POPS-BAM
An OFW YouTuber named Joyce Ayop shares her experience registering and acquiring OEC Exemption for the brand-new BM online system, the POPS-BAM system.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have any further questions regarding “How to Process OEC in Taipei, Taiwan”, see the list of frequently asked questions and answers below.
1. Who can get an OEC exemption?
- Possess a valid work visa or work permit.
- Be returning to the same employer and workplace.
- Have a documented record in the POEA database.
Have obtained an OEC previously from any POEA office or facility, such as the POEA main office, extension units, regional offices, POLO offices abroad, or BM mail 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 functions as an exit clearance, meaning that if you attempt to leave the country without it, the Immigration authorities will prevent you from doing so. Furthermore, this certificate exempts you from paying the terminal fee and travel tax.
Please note that the use of the English language is preferred for communication
3. How long is an OEC or OEC Exemption Number valid?
From the date of issuance, the Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) or OEC Exemption Number is valid for 60 days. The Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) requires you to obtain this certificate as a Balik-Manggagawa before returning to your employer.
Note: The term “Balik-Manggagawa” refers to Filipino workers who are returning to their overseas employment after taking a vacation or leave.
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?
The most recent transaction record you have with POEA is your most recent OEC number. This information is required by the system in order to get your record and most recent employment information.
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 Taipei, Taiwan office
Instructions on how to complete the payment process will be sent to you through email.
9. What is the POLO Taipei, Taiwan’s office hour?
The POLO office in Taipei, Taiwan is open Monday to Friday, 08:00 AM – 04:00 PM and (Closed on Taiwanese and the Philippines public holidays).
10. What is POLO Taipei, Taiwan’s address?
POLO Taipei, Taiwan’s address is Philippine Overseas Labor Office, 2F, Chang Hong New Era Building 55 & 57 Zhouzi Street Neihu District Taipei, Taiwan, 114台北市內湖區洲子街55/57號2樓.
11. What is the POLO Taipei, Taiwan’s hotline number?
You can reach the POLO Taipei, Taiwan office at +886 2 2658 8825.
Summary
OFWs (Overseas Filipino Workers) in Taipei, Taiwan are required to obtain an Overseas Employment oec-certificate (OEC) in order to continue working abroad. The OEC serves as an exit clearance or pass that verifies the authenticity of the OFW’s documentation and application. 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.
Fortunately, the introduction of an online processing system has made the OEC application process simpler and more convenient. By following a few easy steps, OFWs can quickly acquire their OEC Taipei Appointment and take advantage of its benefits.
If you are an OFW in Taipei, Taiwan, here is a step-by-step guide to obtaining your OEC online:
- Visit the official website of the POEA or the designated online portal for OEC processing.
- Register an account on the website or log in to your existing account.
- Provide the required personal information, including your name, passport details, employment details, and other necessary details as specified.
- Upload the necessary supporting documents, such as your employment contract, work permit, and other relevant documents. Make sure to follow the guidelines regarding file formats and sizes.
- Pay the prescribed fees for the OEC processing. The payment options and instructions will be provided on the website. Choose the payment method that is most convenient for you.
- Once the payment is confirmed, your application will be processed by the POEA.
- After a successful review of your application, you will receive an electronic copy of your OEC. Make sure to download and print this document.
- Keep the printed copy of your OEC with you at all times, as you will be required to present it to immigration officials at the airport in the Philippines before departure.
By following these steps, you can easily obtain your OEC online and enjoy the benefits it provides. Remember to check the official website or online portal for any updates or changes to the process.
Please note that the information provided is based on the general process as of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021. It is always recommended to visit the official website of the POEA or contact the relevant authorities for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding the OEC process for OFWs in Taipei, Taiwan.
Contact Information
DMW POLO MECO Taipei, Taiwan
Address: 2F., No.55-57, Zhouzi St., Neihu Dist., Taipei City 114, Taiwan (ROC)
Contact Number: 02 2658-8299/0925 228878/0900218895
Email: evelyn_owwataipei@yahoo.com
Website: https://www.meco-labor.org.tw/, https://www.meco.org.tw/
Facebook Page: https://facebook.com/MECO.official
