OEC Appointment California USA OFW Balik Manggagawa Certificate

Processing an Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) in California, USA,balik manggagawa certificate is an essential step for Overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) who wish to avail themselves of the benefits and exemptions provided to them. These benefits include exemptions from airport fees and travel taxes, which can significantly reduce the financial burden on OFWs. To ensure a smooth process, it’s important to understand the steps involved in acquiring an OEC. Here is a general overview:

1. Determine your eligibility: Verify if you qualify as an OFW and are eligible for an OEC. Generally, OFWs are individuals who have a valid employment contract abroad and possess a valid work visa or permit.
2. Register online: Visit the website of the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) and create an account. Fill in the necessary information and complete the registration process.
3. Schedule an appointment: Once registered, log in to your account and schedule an appointment for OEC processing. Select the nearest Philippine Consulate or Embassy in California as your preferred processing site.
4. Gather required documents: Prepare the necessary documents for your OEC application. These may include your valid passport, work visa or permit, employment contract, and proof of overseas employment.
5. Attend the appointment: On the scheduled date, go to the designated Philippine Consulate or Embassy in California for your appointment. Bring all the required documents and any additional supporting documents as specified by the POEA.
6. Pay the fees: Pay the applicable fees for OEC processing. The fees may vary, so it’s important to check the current rates beforehand. Payments are typically made at the consular office in cash or through specified payment methods.
7. Undergo processing: Submit your documents to the consular officer for verification and processing. They will assess your eligibility and review your application. If everything is in order, they will issue your OEC.
8. Retain a copy: Once you receive your OEC, keep a copy for your records. It’s important to present this document to immigration officials at Philippine airports and other government offices in order to avail yourself of the benefits and exemptions available to OFWs.

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)
• Printed Balik-Manggagawa Information Sheet
• Sworn Statement  (For OFWs who have never had a POEA record or who are applying for OEC for the first time)
• Passport (valid for at least six months) from departure date
• Verified Employment Contract
• Certificate of Employment, Company ID, latest pay slip, or other documents as proof of employment
• Valid Work Visa, Work Permit, or any equivalent document
• Confirmed Airline Ticket
• OEC fees

Additional Requirements

• OWWA membership payment receipt

The list of requirements is subject to change, therefore it’s important to keep an eye on the POLO California, USA website and Facebook page for updates.

What Should I do Before Applying for an OEC in DMW Office California, USA?

To ensure a smooth process when visiting the POLO (Philippine Overseas Labor Office) in California, USA, and to avoid wasting your time, it is important to prepare yourself beforehand. Here are the steps you should consider:

1. Determine if you qualify for an exemption: Philippine labor laws prohibit foreign employers from directly recruiting Filipino workers. However, certain exemptions exist. Check if your employer falls into one of the following categories:

• 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 items who are approved by the POLO.
• Residents of the host nation who are permanent residents and hire their family members, excluding domestic workers.

If your employer qualifies under one of these categories, you may proceed with the direct hiring process. Otherwise, you will need to engage a POEA-accredited recruitment agency.

2. Prepare the required documents: Once you have confirmed your employer’s exemption status, gather all the necessary documents. These may include:

• Valid passport: Make sure your passport is up to date and has a sufficient validity period.
• Verified or authenticated employment contract: Ensure that your employment contract complies with the standards set by the POEA. It should be duly verified or authenticated.
• Proof of exemption: If your employer falls into one of the exempt categories mentioned earlier, gather the relevant documents supporting their exemption status.
• Other supporting documents: Depending on your specific situation and the requirements of the POLO, additional documents may be necessary. These could include educational certificates, professional licenses, work experience letters, and any other documents related to your employment.

It is crucial to have all the required documents prepared and organized before your visit to the POLO office. This will help facilitate the process and prevent unnecessary delays or complications.

How to Get an OEC Appointment in California, USA (POPS-BAM System)

Prior to visiting POLO California, USA office, an OEC appointment is required.

Follow these instructions to quickly make an appointment. Keep in mind that having an online appointment simplifies things because government workers can immediately verify your information.

Step 1: Visit the POEA Online Service Website here – https://onlineservices.dmw.gov.ph//onlineservices/poeaonline.aspx

Step 2: Click the “Let’s go” button on e-Registration

Step 3: Click on “Register” for new users (just log in if you already have an account) and click the “I accept the terms of use” button.

Step 4: Fill in the required information and then click register (a message will display indicating that your registration was “Successful”)

Step 5: Log in to the email address you provided when you registered (there is a message containing your “temporary password”)

Step 6: Return to the link provided in Step 1 and log in using the registered email address, then click “next.”

Step 7: Use the temporary password sent to your email, then click “log in.”

Step 8: Set your preferred password.

Step 9: Update your profile by clicking “My Profile,” after completing your profile, click “Update Profile” on the upper right side of the page

Step 10: Input your identification data (passport) and beneficiary on your profile

Step 11: Click the “Balik-Manggagawa” on your dashboard then click the “Next” button

Step 12: Enter your return flight date then click the “Next” button

Step 13: You will be asked about whether you are returning to the same employer, job site, and position if you are a returning BM.

If so, you can print your OEC exemption immediately.

If not, go to step 9 instead (change employer or new BM)

Step 14: Input all your contract details then click the “Submit” button

Step 15: Select your host country as the processing site then click the “Next” button

Step 16: Choose and select your preferred appointment date

Step 17: Take a screenshot and print your scheduled appointment date

How to Apply for an Overseas Employment Certificate in California, USA?

Step 1: Gather all of the necessary requirements.

Step 2: Go to POLO California, USA office on your scheduled appointment day. Show your approved appointment letter, valid ID, and full-dose vaccination card/certificate to the assigned security personnel.

Step 3: The assigned security personnel will check your name on the list of approved appointments for the day. To avoid long lines, bring the complete set of requirements.

Step 4: Get a token number from the assigned personnel.

Step 5: Go to the processing window and submit your documents.

Step 6: Pay for OEC fees.

Step 7: Wait for the OEC processor’s advice before printing your OEC in POPS-BAM System

Make sure that all the information and details in your OEC are correct and in line with your credentials.

Step 8: Sign in to your POPS-BAM account and select “Print OEC” from the “My Transaction Tab” menu.

Important Reminders

1. When filling out online forms, avoid using non-English characters like Chinese, Korean, Japanese, or Arabic. Using only English characters will ensure faster processing of your OEC (Overseas Employment Certificate).
2. You can acquire an OEC only once during each visit to the Philippines. Obtaining multiple OECs simultaneously is not permitted.
3. Remember to bring three copies of your OEC to the airport on the day of your departure.
4. The validity of the OEC is limited to sixty (60) days from the date of issuance.
5. It is crucial to have the OEC with you at all times before leaving the Philippines. Failure to present the document during check-in or encountering immigration officials may pose issues.
6. Balik-Manggagawa OFWs (Overseas Filipino Workers returning to their employment abroad) should also present a copy of their employment contract, plane ticket, and any other required travel documents.
7. Once you have all the necessary documents, proceed to the airport and present your OEC to the immigration official. Possessing a valid OEC ensures trouble-free travel and compliance with employment-related legal obligations.
8. For inquiries, you can contact +1 213-268-9990, Monday to Friday, from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Please note that the hotline is closed on public holidays in the USA and the Philippines.

HOW TO GET OEC USING THE NEW SYSTEM FOR OFW BALIK MANGGAGAWA

To learn more about how to acquire OEC via the POPS-BAM system, see Cherrycee

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have any further questions regarding “How to Process OEC in California, USA”, see the list of frequently asked questions and answers below.

1. Who can get OEC exemption?

The following requirements must all be met in order for a Balik-Manggagawas to be exempt from acquiring an OEC:

• Has a valid work visa or work permit
• Returning to the same employer and workplace
• Has a record in the POEA database

(Has previously received 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 OFWs leaving the Philippines, whether they are returning employees or new workers, must acquire an OEC.

The OEC serves as an exit clearance; therefore if you try to leave the country without it, Immigration will stop you. Additionally, you are excused from paying the terminal fee and travel tax thanks to this certificate.

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?

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 California, USA office

Instructions on how to complete the payment process will be sent to you through email.

9. What is the POLO California, USA’s office hour?

The POLO office in California, USA is open Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Closed on USA and the Philippines public holidays).

10. What is POLO California, USA address?

POLO California, USA address is Philippine Overseas Labor Office, 3435 Wilshire Blvd, Ste 550, Los Angeles, CA, United States, California.

11. What is the POLO California, USA hotline number?

You can reach the POLO California, USA office at +1 213-268-9990.

Summary