OEC Appointment Dubai OFW Balik Manggagawa Certificate
Filipinos residing in Dubai may be required to obtain the Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) to ensure they can legally work in Dubai. The Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) issues the OEC to verify that Filipino workers have completed the necessary documentation and are qualified to work abroad.
The OEC is specifically for registered Overseas Filipino workers who are leaving the Philippines for employment purposes. It is essential for all OFWs to obtain the Balik Manggagawa Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) before departing for or returning to their employment, as stated in the rules and regulations of the POEA.
The OEC serves as proof that the employment contracts of OFWs comply with the prevailing employment laws, regulations, and customs in both the Philippines and the host country. For guidance on scheduli OEC Appointment Dubai OFW Balik Manggagawa Certificate and the application process, please refer to the information provided below.
What is an Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC)?
Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), particularly those working as domestic workers, require the Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) as a document to obtain clearance for leaving the Philippines and working abroad. This certificate serves as an exit record for departing OFWs, confirming their status as legitimate overseas workers. Additionally, it grants them exemptions from paying the terminal fee and travel tax at the airport, making it more affordable for them to seek employment overseas
Who are Balik Manggagawa Workers?
Balik-Manggawa (BM) refers to workers who fall into one of the following categories: undocumented workers, returning workers who have not previously registered with the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA), or workers who have no prior record of deployment with the POEA or the Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO). This category includes individuals who were formerly tourists, au pairs, students, exchange program participants, and so on.
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)
- 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
- Valid Work Visa, Work Permit, or any equivalent document
- Confirmed Airline Ticket
- OEC fees
What Should I do Before Applying for an OEC in DMW POLO Dubai Office?
You must prepare yourself before going to Dubai, UAE Office; otherwise you will only waste your time. Here’s what you should consider:
Under Philippine labor laws and regulations, foreign employers are generally prohibited from directly recruiting Filipino workers. However, there are certain exemptions to this restriction. If you qualify for an exemption, you can be hired directly by the employer without going through a POEA-accredited recruitment agency. Here are the categories of exemptions:
- Employers of Professional and Skilled Workers with Verified or Authenticated Employment Contracts: If your employment contract has been verified or authenticated and complies with POEA standards, your employer can hire you directly.
- Foreign Diplomats: Diplomats from other countries are exempt from the restriction on direct hiring of OFWs.
- Heads of State and High-ranking Government Officials: The highest-ranking government officials, such as heads of state, are exempt from the direct hiring restriction.
- International Organizations: Employees of international organizations operating in the Philippines can be directly hired by their respective organizations.
- Lower-ranking officials approved by the POLO: Lower-ranking officials from the categories mentioned above, who have been approved by the Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO), can also be hired directly.
- Residents of the host nation who are permanent residents and who hire their family members (excluding domestic workers): If you are a permanent resident of the host country and wish to hire your family members as employees, you may be exempt from the direct hiring restriction.
Once you have confirmed that your employer falls under one of these exemption categories, you should prepare all the required documents promptly. It’s important to note that starting from June 30, 2021, the outdated BM online system is no longer available for registration. Instead, you will be redirected to the new POPS-BAM system for registration and processing of your documents.
Please ensure that you have all the necessary documents ready according to the requirements of the POPS-BAM system.
How to Get an OEC Appointment in Dubai, UAE (POPS-BAM System)
Prior to visiting POLO Dubai, UAE office, an OEC appointment is required.
Step 1: Visit the POEA Online Service Website by clicking on the following link: POEA Online Service Website
Step 2: On the website, click the “Let’s go” button under the e-Registration section.
Step 3: If you are a new user, click on “Register” (if you already have an account, simply log in). Then, click the “I accept the terms of use” button.
Step 4: Fill in all the required information and click on the “register” button. You will see a message confirming that your registration was successful.
Step 5: Log in to the email address you provided during registration. Look for a message containing your temporary password.
Step 6: Return to the link provided in Step 1 and log in using your registered email address. Click “next” to proceed.
Step 7: Use the temporary password sent to your email to log in. Click “log in” after entering the password.
Step 8: Set your preferred password for future logins.
Step 9: Update your profile by clicking on “My Profile.” After completing your profile, click on “Update Profile” located on the upper right side of the page.
Step 10: Enter your identification data, such as your passport details, and add any beneficiaries to your profile.
Step 11: On your dashboard, click on “Balik-Manggagawa” and then click the “Next” button.
Step 12: Enter your return flight date and click the “Next” button.
Step 13: If you are a returning Balik-Manggagawa and you are returning to the same employer, jobsite, and position, you can print your OEC exemption immediately. If not, proceed to Step 9 if you need to change your employer or if you are a new Balik-Manggagawa.
Step 14: Input all your contract details and click the “Submit” button.
Step 15: Select the processing site in your host country and click the “Next” button.
Step 16: Choose your preferred appointment date from the available options.
Step 17: Take a screenshot of your scheduled appointment date and make sure to print it.
By following these steps, you should be able to quickly make an appointment through the POEA Online Service Website.
How to Apply for Overseas Employment Certificate in Dubai, UAE
Step 1: Collect all the necessary requirements.
Step 2: Visit the POLO office in Dubai, UAE on your scheduled appointment day. Present your approved appointment letter, valid identification, and complete vaccination card/certificate to the assigned security personnel.
Step 3: The security personnel will verify your name on the approved appointments list for the day. To avoid long queues, ensure you have all the required documents with you.
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 instructions from the OEC processor before printing your OEC through the POPS-BAM System.
Ensure that all the information and details in your OEC are accurate and match your credentials.
Step 8: Log in to your POPS-BAM account and select “Print OEC” from the “My Transaction Tab” menu.
Reminders in OEC Application
- Avoid using non-English characters, such as Chinese, Korean, Japanese, or Arabic, when filling out online forms. This will delay the processing of your OEC. Therefore, make sure you enter only English characters.
- It is easier and more convenient to pay for your OEC online using services like GCash or online banking than paying over-the-counter.
- You are only permitted to acquire an OEC once every time you visit the Philippines. Getting more than one OEC simultaneously is not allowed.
- Just remember to bring three copies of your OEC to the airport on the day of your departure.
- Please keep in mind that the OEC can only be used for sixty (60) days beginning on the day it was issued.
- If a worker leaves the Philippines without an OEC, they might not be able to finish their check-in, or they might be stopped by an immigration official before they leave. Prior to departing, you must make sure that you have this document with you at all times.
- Balik-Manggagawa OFWs must also present a copy of the contract they have with their company, along with their plane ticket and any other necessary travel documents.
- Once the OFW has all the proper documents, they can head to the airport and show the OEC to the immigration official there. OFWs who have an OEC can travel without issue and know that they are complying with all legal obligations related to their employment.
- Feel free to call +971 506526626, Monday to Thursday – 07:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., and Friday – 07:30 a.m. to 12:00 noon (Closed on UAE and Philippines public holidays).
How to Process OEC Overseas Employment Certificate / Balik Manggagawa in POLO Office Dubai
for acquiring an OEC. He discussed his experience and the documentation needed to acquire an OE. You can make notes on how to acquire OEC at POLO Dubai
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have any further questions regarding “How to Process OEC in Dubai, UAE”, see the list of frequently asked questions and answers below.
1. What is Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC)?
The Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) is a clearance document issued to Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), also known as Balik-Manggagawa (BM), when they leave the Philippines for employment purposes abroad. This certificate is granted by the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) and serves as proof that the OFW is a documented worker and has undergone the necessary processes before departing.
The OEC is essential for OFWs as it ensures their legal employment status and provides various benefits. One of the advantages is that it exempts certain categories of Balik-Manggagawa workers from paying fees imposed by the POEA for processing their documents. This exemption allows eligible workers to avoid additional financial burdens associated with their overseas employment.
By obtaining the OEC, OFWs are able to demonstrate their compliance with the requirements set by the POEA and the Philippine government. It serves as a safeguard against potential issues that may arise during their employment abroad and also assists in the protection of their rights and welfare as overseas workers.
The OEC plays a crucial role in facilitating the overseas employment process for Filipino workers, ensuring their lawful employment and promoting their well-being while working in foreign countries.
2. What is the main objective of the Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC)?
The main purpose of the Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) is to serve as evidence of the worker’s registration with the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA). Additionally, the OEC functions as a documentation of departing Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), verifying their authorized status as international workers and allowing them to waive the payment of terminal fees and travel taxes at the airport. Moreover, it reduces the financial burden on OFWs in their job search. Furthermore, the certificate enhances the chances of OFWs securing loans in their home country.
3. What is OEC exemption?
Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) who meet the criteria for OEC exemption are not required to obtain an Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) or pay the processing fee imposed by the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA). If you qualify for this exemption, the processing of your OFW documents at the airport prior to your departure will be faster
4. 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:
To be eligible for OEC (Overseas Employment Certificate) exemption, an Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) must meet the following criteria:
- Possess a valid work visa or work permit: The OFW should have the necessary legal documentation that permits them to work in the foreign country where they are employed.
- Returning to the same employer and workplace: The OFW must be returning to the same employer and workplace as their previous overseas employment. This means they have an existing employment contract or agreement with the same employer and will be resuming their duties with them.
- Have a record in the POEA database: The OFW’s employment details, including their previous OEC issuance, should be recorded in the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) database. This database serves as a reference for verifying the worker’s employment history.
If the OFW meets any one of the above requirements, they may still be eligible for OEC exemption if they were hired through the Government Placement Branch.
If any of the mentioned requirements are not fulfilled, the OFW is not eligible for OEC exemption and must schedule an online appointment for standard OEC processing. This means they will have to go through the regular process of obtaining an Overseas Employment Certificate.
It’s important to note that the requirements and procedures for OEC issuance may be subject to change, so it’s advisable to consult with the POEA or related authorities for the most up-to-date information.
5. 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, the Immigration authorities will prevent you from doing so. Moreover, having this certificate exempts you from paying the terminal fee and travel tax.
Please let me know if there’s anything else I can assist you with
6. 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.
7. 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.
8. Why does the system want my most recent OEC number? What does it mean?
The most recent transaction record you have with the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) is your most recent Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) number. This information is necessary for the system to retrieve your record and obtain your latest employment information.
9. 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.
10. What should I do if I lose my OEC?
Log in to your BM Online or POPS-BAM account and reprint your OEC.
11. 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 Dubai, UAE office
Instructions on how to complete the payment process will be sent to you through email. Carefully follow to the instructions. Your OEC will be forwarded through your email and POPS-BAM or BM Online account once payment has been confirmed.
12. Can I go to the POLO Dubai, UAE office directly to acquire OEC?
No, you cannot go straight to the POLO Dubai, UAE. Prior to visiting, the POLO Dubai, UAE requires an appointment. You can book an appointment through POEA Online Service Website.
Link: https://onlineservices.dmw.gov.ph//onlineservices/poeaonline.aspx
13. What is the POLO Dubai, UAE’s office hour?
The POLO office in Dubai, UAE is open Monday to Thursday – 07:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Friday – 07:30 a.m. to 12:00 noon (Closed on UAE and Philippines public holidays).
14. What is POLO Dubai, UAE’s address?
POLO Dubai, UAE’s address is Philippine Overseas Labor Office, Street # 2C, Beirut St., Near Al Qusais Police Station، Al Qusais 3 – Dubai.
15. What is the POLO Dubai, UAE’s hotline number?
You can reach the POLO Dubai, UAE office at +971 506526626.
16. What is the email address of POLO Dubai, UAE?
The email addresses of POLO Dubai, UAE are polodubai@ymail.com and polodubai.info@gmail.com.
Summary
An Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) is a requirement for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, who wish to continue working abroad. The OEC serves as an exit clearance and verifies the authenticity of the OFW’s application and supporting documents. 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.
To simplify the process, there is an ongoing project to develop an online system for obtaining the OEC Appointment Dubai OFW Balik Manggagawa Certificate This will make the procedure hassle-free, as you can acquire the OEC by following a few simple steps. With the OEC, you can enjoy the benefits it provides and freely travel during your vacation before returning to work.
Contact Information
POLO-Dubai Office
Address: Street # 2C, Beirut St., Near Al Qusais Police Station، Al Qusais 3 – Dubai, UAE
Telephone Number: +971 50 652 6626
Website: http://www.polodubaiportal.org/
Email: polodubai@ymail.com or polodubai.info@gmail.com
Opening Hours: Sunday to Thursday – 8:00 am to 5:00 pm
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/polodubaiandnorthernemirates/
Google Map Location
Here is a map guide to the location of the POLO-OWWA Dubai office:
