OEC Appointment Doha, Qatar OFW Balik Manggagawa Certificate

To apply for an Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) in Doha, Qatar,  Balik Manggagawa Certificate follow these steps if you plan to return to the Philippines and continue working overseas:

1. Gather the required documents: Prepare the necessary documents before visiting the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) office in Doha. The exact requirements may vary, but commonly needed documents include:
   • Valid passport
   • Valid work visa
   • Employment contract or proof of employment
   • Proof of existing employment in the Philippines
   • Proof of payment of membership fee to the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA)
   • Any other documents required by the POEA
2. Visit the POEA office: Go to the POEA office in Doha, Qatar. This office is responsible for processing OEC applications and providing the necessary documentation for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs). You may need to make an appointment or follow specific visiting hours, so it’s advisable to check the POEA website or contact their office in advance.
3. Submit your application: Present your documents to the designated personnel at the POEA office. They will review your documents and process your application for the OEC. Make sure to provide accurate and up-to-date information to avoid any delays or complications.
4. Pay the necessary fees: After submitting your application, you will be required to pay the corresponding fees for the OEC processing. The fees cover various services, including OWWA membership, insurance, and processing fees. Payment methods may vary, so inquire about the accepted modes of payment at the POEA office.
5. Attend the required seminar: Depending on your situation, you may be required to attend a pre-departure seminar conducted by the POEA. This seminar provides valuable information about the rights and responsibilities of OFWs and equips you with necessary knowledge for working overseas.
6. Obtain your OEC: Once your application has been processed, and you have fulfilled all the requirements, you will receive your OEC. This document serves as your “exit pass” and should be presented to immigration officers at the airport in the Philippines before your flight back to Qatar.

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
• Passport (valid for at least six months) from departure date
• Verified Employment Contract
• Visa Stamp or Qatar ID (pataka)
• Sponsor’s Qatar ID
• Confirmed Airline Ticket
• OEC fees

Additional Requirements

• For Household Service Worker (HSW) – Sponsor’s Qatar ID
• PAG-IBIG membership payment
• OWWA membership

What Should I do Before Applying for an OEC in DMW-POLO office in Qatar?

Preparing yourself before going to the Doha, Qatar Office is indeed important to ensure a smooth process. Here are the steps you should consider:

1. Determine your eligibility: As per Philippine labor laws, foreign employers are prohibited from directly recruiting Filipino workers. However, certain exemptions exist. Check if you qualify for any of the following exemptions:

• 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 who hire their family members (excluding domestic workers)

If your employer falls under any of these exemptions, you can proceed with the process.

2. Engage with a POEA-accredited recruitment agency: If your employer is not exempt from the direct hiring restriction, they must hire you through a POEA-accredited recruitment agency. Ensure that the recruitment agency you choose is duly accredited and authorized to facilitate your employment.
3. Gather the required documents: Once you have confirmed the exemption or engaged with a recruitment agency, gather all the necessary documents. These may include:

• Valid passport
• Employment contract (verified or authenticated, if required)
• POEA clearance or approval
• Visa or work permit documents
• Medical clearance or health certificates
• Qualification and education certificates
• Any other documents specific to your profession or industry

Ensure that all your documents are complete, up-to-date, and in accordance with the requirements of the Qatar Office.

4. Familiarize yourself with Qatar’s labor laws and regulations: It is crucial to have a basic understanding of the labor laws and regulations in Qatar to protect your rights and ensure a fair working environment. Research and familiarize yourself with Qatar’s labor laws, employment rights, and working conditions.
5. Research about living and working in Doha: Before your departure, gather information about the local culture, customs, and practices in Doha. Familiarize yourself with the cost of living, accommodation options, transportation, healthcare facilities, and any other relevant aspects that will help you adjust to your new environment.

How to Get an OEC Appointment in Doha, Qatar (POPS-BAM System)

Prior to visiting POLO Doha, Qatar 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 the 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 login 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, jobsite, 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 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 Overseas Employment Certificate in Doha, Qatar?

Step 1: Schedule an appointment at the POLO Doha, Qatar office through the POPS-BAM System.

Step 2: On your scheduled appointment day, go to the POLO Doha, Qatar office. Make sure to bring the following documents:

• Approved appointment letter
• Valid ID
• Full dose vaccination card/certificate

Step 3: Show your approved appointment letter, valid ID, and vaccination card/certificate to the assigned security personnel. They will check your name against the list of approved appointments for the day. It is advisable to bring all the necessary documents to avoid any delays.

Step 4: Receive a token number from the assigned personnel. This number will be used to track your progress during the OEC processing.

Step 5: Proceed to the processing window and submit all your required documents to the OEC processor.

Step 6: Pay the OEC fees at the designated payment counter.

Step 7: Wait for the OEC processor’s advice regarding the printing of your OEC in the POPS-BAM System. They will inform you when it is appropriate to proceed with the next step.

Step 8: Log in to your POPS-BAM account and navigate to the “My Transaction Tab” menu. From there, select “Print OEC” to generate your Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC). Ensure that all the information and details on your OEC are accurate and match your credentials.

Important Reminders

1. When filling out online forms, avoid using non-English characters like Chinese, Korean, Japanese, or Arabic. This could cause delays in processing your OEC (Overseas Employment Certificate). Ensure that you only enter English characters.
2. You can only obtain an OEC once per visit to the Philippines. It is not allowed to acquire multiple OECs simultaneously.
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. If a worker leaves the Philippines without an OEC, they may face issues during check-in or be stopped by immigration officials before departure. It is essential to have this document with you at all times before leaving.
6. Balik-Manggagawa OFWs (Overseas Filipino Workers returning to their employment abroad) must also present a copy of their employment contract, along with their plane ticket and other necessary travel documents.
7. Once the OFW has all the required documents, they can proceed to the airport and present the OEC to the immigration official. Having an OEC ensures trouble-free travel and compliance with legal obligations related to employment.
8. If you have any inquiries, you can call +974 3318 2459 from Sunday to Thursday, between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. Please note that the office is closed on Qatar and Philippines public holidays.

OFW Guide UPDATED COMPLETE PROCEDURES & REQUIREMENTS in Qatar for OEC

Based on his own experience, InfoTsek, an OFW employed in Qatar, discussed the requirements and procedures to acquire an OEC.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

If you have any further questions regarding “How to Process OEC in Doha, Qatar”, 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 Doha, Qatar office

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

9. What is the POLO Doha, Qatar’s office hour?

The POLO office in Doha, Qatar is open Sunday to Thursday – 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Closed on Qatar and Philippines public holidays).

10. What is POLO Doha, Qatar’s address?

POLO Doha, Qatar’s address is Philippine Overseas Labor Office, Ground Floor, Building No. 24, Jawaan St. 808, Region 39, Al Saad, Doha, Qatar.

11. What is the POLO Doha Qatar’s hotline number?

You can reach the POLO Doha, Qatar office at +974 3318 2459.

Summary

To ensure a smooth application procedure for an OEC (Overseas Employment Certificate),  OEC Appointment Doha, Qatar OFW Balik Manggagawa Certificateplease follow the steps outlined below:

1. Gather the required documents: Prepare all the necessary documents for your OEC application. This typically includes your valid passport, work visa or permit, employment contract, and proof of overseas employment (such as a job offer letter or employment certificate). It is advisable to check with the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) or the embassy/consulate of the Philippines in your country for the specific docum ent requirements.
2. Schedule an appointment: Many Philippine embassies and consulates require applicants to schedule an appointment in advance. Visit the embassy’s website or contact them directly to find out the procedure for setting up an appointment. Make sure to choose a convenient date and time for your visit.
3. Complete the necessary forms: Download or obtain the required application forms for the OEC. Fill them out accurately and completely, providing all the requested information. Double-check your forms for any errors or missing details before submission.
4. Pay the necessary fees: OEC application usually involves paying certain fees, such as processing fees and contributions to the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) and PhilHealth. Check the current fee amounts and payment methods accepted by the embassy or consulate. Ensure that you have the correct amount in the preferred currency or payment mode.
5. Attend your appointment: On the scheduled date and time, arrive at the embassy or consulate for your appointment. Bring all the required documents, application forms, and payment receipts. Be prepared to wait, as there may be other applicants ahead of you. Follow any additional instructions provided by the embassy or consulate staff.
6. Submit your application: When called, present your application documents to the designated personnel. They will review your paperwork, verify your information, and process your application. Answer any questions they may have truthfully and provide any additional documents they request.
7. Wait for processing: After submitting your application, the embassy or consulate will process your OEC request. The processing time may vary, so inquire about the estimated processing duration during your appointment. Be patient and wait for further instructions or updates from the embassy or consulate.
8. Obtain your OEC: Once your OEC application is approved, you will be issued the Overseas Employment Certificate. Check the validity dates on the certificate to ensure it covers your intended period of employment. Keep your OEC in a safe place as you will need it when traveling to and from the Philippines for your overseas employment.

Contact Information

POLO-Doha, Qatar
Address: Ground Floor, Bldg. No. 24 Jawaan St. 808 Region 39 Al Saad, Doha, Qatar (Located behind the Al Saad Family Court and Al Saad Police Station)
Official website: https://polodoha.com.ph
Contact number/s: (+974) 4488-3858 | 4486 8001 | 4486 1220 | 5054 0707 | 3003 2248 | 3030 4778 | 3160 4400
Office Hours: 8:00am – 5:00pm (no lunch breaks).
Facebook Page: https://facebook.com/qatarPOLO/

Google Map Location

To visit DMW Office in Doha, please see the map guide below: