Filipinos who are based in Dubai may need to process the Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) because it is one of the requirements in order to work legally in Dubai. The OEC is issued by the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) which confirms that the Filipino worker has been properly documented and verified as fit to work overseas.
The OEC may be obtained by registered Overseas Filipino workers who are leaving the country for employment purposes.
According to the rules and regulations of the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA), every OFW must acquire a Balik Manggagawa Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) before leaving for or returning to their employment.
The OEC will certify that the employment contracts of OFWs are in accordance with the current employment laws, standards, and customs in both the Philippines and the host country. Please be guided on the OEC appointment in Dubai as well as the appication process below.
What is an Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC)?
Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), especially domestic workers, need the Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) as an exit clearance document in order to leave the Philippines and work overseas. They can be exempted from paying the terminal fee and travel tax at the airport due to this certificate, which also acts as a record of departing OFWs and confirms them as legitimate overseas workers. It also makes it less expensive for them to seek employment.
Who are Balik Manggagawa Workers?
Balik-Manggawa (BM) refers to workers who are undocumented, returning workers who have not previously registered with the POEA, or workers who have no prior record of deployment with the POEA or the POLO, such as former tourists, au pairs, students, exchange program participants, etc.
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:
1. 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 employer must hire you through a POEA-accredited recruitment agency. However, some firms are exempt from the restriction on the direct hiring of OFWs. These include:
- 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
2. Prepare all the required documents. As soon as you have confirmed that your employer is exempt from the direct hiring restriction, get everything ready right away.
OFWs without an active BM online account will no longer be able to register using the outdated BM online system after June 30, 2021. Instead, you’ll be redirected to the new 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.
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. Link: 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 Dubai, UAE
Step 1: Gather all of the necessary requirements.
Step 2: Go to POLO Dubai, UAE 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 to 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 into 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 you 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. Friday – 07:30 a.m. to 12:00 noon (Closed on UAE and Philippines public holidays).
Video: How to Process OEC Overseas Employment Certificate / Balik Manggagawa in POLO Office Dubai
Check out Coco Monkey’s video vlog below to learn more about the procedure 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 in this video.
Please be advised that appointments are required in order to enter the PCG Dubai, UAE, and POLO Dubai, UAE offices.
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)?
Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) is a clearance issued to Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), known as Balik-Manggagawa (BM) who exit from the Philippines for employment purpose. The POEA grants exemption to certain divisions of Balik-Maggagawa workers and exemption of paying any fees processed by the POEA.
2. What is the main objective of the Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC)?
The Overseas Employment Certificate’s (OEC) primary objective is to provide as proof of the worker’s POEA registration. The OEC also acts as a record of departing OFWs, confirming their status as authorized international workers and enabling them to avoid paying the terminal fee and travel tax at the airport. It also makes it less expensive for them to find employment. The certificate also gives OFWs a better chance of getting loans in their native country.
3. What is OEC exemption?
OFWs who qualify for OEC exemption are exempt from acquiring an OEC and paying the POEA processing fee. The processing of your OFW documents at the airport before your departure would be quicker if you are granted this exemption.
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:
- 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)
If an OFW fits less than one of the following requirements, they are also eligible to receive OEC exemption if hired through the Government Placement Branch.
If any of the following requirements are not met, you are not eligible for OEC exemption and must schedule an online appointment for standard OEC processing.
5. 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.
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 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.
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 necessary for OFWs in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, if they want to continue working overseas. An OEC is an exit clearance or pass that attests to the legitimacy of an OFW’s application and documents. It also acts as proof of their POEA registration. When leaving the Philippines, the OEC must be shown to an immigration official at the airport.
The process will soon be hassle-free thanks to an ongoing project to make the OEC an easier online system. By following a few simple steps, you can easily acquire an OEC and enjoy the benefits that come with it. You can also enjoy your vacation greatly while traveling freely 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: