Guide on Balik Manggagawa, OEC (Overseas Employment Certificate) Online Process

For Filipino expatriates in Dubai, obtaining an Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) is essential for ensuring legal employment and accessing benefits such as exemptions from travel taxes and terminal fees. The OEC Requirement Dubai includes various steps and documentation to confirm the authorised work status. Moreover, for Filipino workers in Dubai planning to return to the Philippines for a short visit, the Balik Manggagawa OEC Online system is an essential tool. While the process may seem complex, this guide simplifies the steps and requirements for applying for an OEC in Dubai. Whether you are applying for the first time or renewing your certificate, this detailed overview will provide the information you need for a successful application.

What is an OEC?

An Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) is mandatory for all Filipinos working abroad. It is a legal document that shows authorisation to work in another country. The Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) issues the OEC Requirement Dubai to ensure Filipino workers are properly registered and protected. This certificate helps Filipino workers travel legally and gives benefits like no travel tax, no airport terminal fee, and lower travel tax for family members. For the categories of Filipino workers returning to Dubai from the Philippines after a vacation, the OEC is not necessarily required. These individuals, known as Balik Manggagawa,  can use the Balik Manggagawa OEC Online system. This can help workers to avoid the hassle of long queues and expedite their departure from the Philippines.

• Why is it Essential for Filipino Expatriates in Dubai?

The OEC is important because it ensures Filipino expats are safe and recognised as workers in Dubai. Additionally, the OEC is mandatory for those who visit the Philippines and plan to return to their job abroad. Without an OEC, they may face difficulties or even be prevented from leaving the Philippines. Therefore, obtaining an OEC Requirement Dubai is essential to ensure a smooth and hassle-free travel experience for Filipino expatriates in Dubai.

How Do You Apply for a Philippine OEC in Dubai?

The OEC verification in Dubai is essential for all Filipino expatriates. This certificate must be issued before travelling, valid for 60 days. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to apply for an OEC in Dubai:

• Schedule an Appointment:

  • Visit the Balik Manggagawa OEC online processing system to book your appointment with POLO Dubai.
  • Have your round-trip flight tickets ready.

• Log In to BM Online:

  • Log into the BM Online system.
  • For existing OEC holders, select OEC Exemption if returning to the same employer.
  • For new OEC, select Acquire OEC and schedule an appointment.

• Prepare Documents:

  • Gather necessary documents: valid passport, employment contract, proof of employment, and flight tickets.

• Visit Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO) Dubai:

  • Go to POLO Dubai in Al Qusais 3 on your appointment date.
  • Submit documents and pay an AED 10 fee.

• Receive OEC:

  • Collect your valid OEC for legal travel and employment benefits.

• Necessary Documents for Obtaining an OEC Verifcation in Dubai

To obtain an Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) in Dubai, ensure your Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) membership is active; if expired or you are a first-time applicant, complete the membership form at the Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO) in Dubai for AED 92. Additionally, fill out the OEC Balik Manggagawa and Pag-IBIG forms, which are available at POLO or online.

In addition, the following list of documents are necessary:

• Original Copy of Passport: Ensure your passport is valid and in good condition.
• Printed Copies of BM Online Appointment Sheet: This document confirms your appointment and provides essential information about your application.
• Details of the Flights: Bring your airline ticket or flight itinerary to show your travel plans.
• Verified POLO Contract: You will need a verified contract if you are not registered with the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) or are changing employers within the UAE.
• Copies of Previous OEC or Visas (old and new): If returning to the same employer or not qualifying for an OEC exemption, bring copies of your old OEC or old and new visas.

Remember that the document requirements for OEC Balik Manggagawa Workers, like nannies and housemaids, might differ from those for other Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs). Ensure you have the necessary documents to avoid delays in obtaining your OEC.

• Required Documents for Returning Filipino Workers (Balik Manggagawa OEC Online)

When preparing for your OEC application as a returning Filipino worker or Balik Manggagawa OEC Online, it’s important to have at least two copies of each required document to avoid delays. Here’s a checklist of what you need:

• • Employment or Labor Contract for Household Workers: Ensure you have your contract detailing your job and terms of employment.
  • Passport and Visa Copies of the Employer or Sponsor: This is for non-Emirati employers. Employees should always carry copies of their passports and visas.
  • Original and Copies of Your Valid Passport and Visa: Bring your original passport and copies of your valid UAE visa.
  • Affidavit of Undertaking by the Employer or Sponsor: This document is a commitment from your employer regarding your employment.
  • Employer or Sponsor Information Sheet (two copies): Have two copies of this document, which contains details about your employer or sponsor.
  • Proof of Current Employment: This could be a recent payslip or a current certificate of employment.
  • Letter from Employer for Jobsite Transfer: If you are returning to the same employer but to a different country, a letter confirming the jobsite transfer is required.
  • Sworn Document Explaining Employment: If your current employer hired you without prior registration with the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA), you need a notarised explanation of how you were employed.

• Essential Documents for Skilled Filipino Workers Abroad

For skilled Filipino workers abroad, such as Overseas Performing Artists, Masseurs, Cleaners, and Construction Workers, it’s important to have the necessary documents ready when applying for your Balik Manggagawa OEC Online. Ensure you carry at least two copies of each of the following:

• Valid Employment or Labour Contract: Obtain this from your current employer, detailing your job role and conditions.
• Worker’s Passport and Visa Copies: Ensure you have copies of your valid passport and visa.
• Current Emirates ID: This is proof of your legal residency in the UAE.
• Current Employment Proof: This could include a current certificate of employment, a valid company ID, a recent payslip, or a UAE Labor Card.
• Sworn Statement for Unregistered Workers: If you were not previously registered with the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA), you need a notarised document explaining how your current employer hired you.
• Letter for Jobsite Transfer: If you have an existing POA and are returning to the same employer but relocating to a different country, a letter from your employer confirming the transfer to the new job location is required.

Contract Verification Process for Filipino Expatriates in Dubai

Filipino expatriates in Dubai who were not previously registered with the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) must get their employment contracts verified. This applies to those who converted a visit or tourist visa to an employment visa or changed employers within the UAE.

To verify your contract, visit Dubai’s Philippine Overseas Labour Office (POLO). Bring your employment contract and a sworn statement explaining how your current employer hired you. The processing fee is AED 40.

There is no requirement for a prior appointment. You can visit the POLO office from Sunday to Thursday between 8:00 AM and 3:00 PM. This process ensures your employment is legitimate and compliant with Philippine regulations.

Cost Associated with Obtaining an Overseas Employment Certificate

When applying for an Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC), there are several costs involved that each applicant must cover. These fees collectively ensure the Filipino worker is documented, insured, and supported by relevant agencies while working abroad. The fee details are as follows:

• The POEA processing fee is PHP 100, which is the cost of the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration processing the OEC application.
• The Membership Fee for OWWA is USD 25 (or its equivalent in PHP), which covers membership with the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration for additional support and benefits.
• The Annual Premium for PhilHealth is PHP 2,400 per year for the premium category, although this amount may vary depending on the specific membership category.
• The Monthly Contribution to Pag-IBIG is a minimum of PHP 100 per month, contributing to the Pag-IBIG Fund for housing and financial assistance.

Benefits of having an Overseas Employment Certificate

With an Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC), Filipino workers can access several significant benefits:

• Exemption from Paying Travel Tax and Terminal Fees

OEC holders are exempt from paying the Philippine travel tax and airport terminal fees, making international travel less expensive.

• Proof of Legitimate Employment Abroad

Having an OEC guarantees legal employment, protects workers from illegal recruitment and trafficking, and confirms their right to work abroad under legitimate terms.

• Access to Official Assistance and Protection

An OEC provides formal approval to work overseas. If any employment-related issues arise, workers can seek assistance and protection from the Philippine government.

• Eligibility for Social and Economic Benefits

OEC holders and their families are eligible for government programs and services in the Philippines, such as Pag-IBIG, Social Security System (SSS), and PhilHealth. These benefits offer social and economic support.

• Qualifying for Loan Applications

OECs act as proof of stable employment and income, which is advantageous when applying for bank loans. This increases the likelihood of loan approval for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs).

Applying for an Overseas Employment Certificate from outside the Philippines

If you plan to visit the Philippines on leave and return to your job abroad, you will need an Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) for your re-entry. You can obtain an OEC directly from a Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO) in your country of employment.

To do this, schedule an appointment through the Balik-Manggagawa (BM) Online System and visit the nearest POLO office with the required documents.

POLO offices are available in the following cities:

• Hong Kong, China
• Macao, China
• Tokyo, Japan
• Osaka, Japan
• Singapore City, Singapore
• Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
• Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei
• Taipei, Taiwan
• Seoul, Korea
• Yarralumla, Australia
• Wellington, New Zealand
• Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
• Alkhobar, Saudi Arabia
• Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
• Abu Dhabi, UAE
• Dubai, UAE
• Mahooz Area, Bahrain
• South Surra, Kuwait
• Baabda, Lebanon
• Doha, Qatar
• Muscat, Oman
• Tel-Aviv, Israel
• Amman, Jordan
• Washington, D.C., USA
• Los Angeles, USA
• Toronto, Canada
• Vancouver, Canada
• Rome, Italy
• Milan, Italy
• Geneva, Switzerland
• Madrid, Spain
• Athens, Greece
• London, UK
• Berlin, Germany

How Do You Apply for an OEC Exemption?

Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) returning to the same employer and job site can apply for an Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) exemption. This means they don’t need to obtain a new OEC. Here’s how to apply for an OEC exemption using the Balik Manggagawa OEC Online System:

• Log in to the BM Online System: Existing users should use the Balik-Manggagawa system. Update your profile information if there are any changes.
• Access the OEC Balik-Manggagawa Section: Click on the “Balik-Manggagawa” section in the upper right corner of the Dashboard page.
• Enter Flight Details: Input your flight information and click “Next.” The system will display your existing record, including details about your employer and job title.
• Check Visa Validity: Verify that your visa or work permit is still valid.
• Confirm Returning Status: Answer “YES” to confirm that you are a returning Balik-Manggagawa with the same employer, job site, and position.
• Print OEC Exemption: The system will generate your OEC exemption, which you can print. This exemption is also automatically sent to the Bureau of Immigration.

Old Balik Manggagawa OEC Online System And New POPS-Balik Manggagawa System

In 2021, the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) introduced the POPS-Balik Manggagawa (POPS-BaM) system, an upgraded online platform for managing Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) applications, appointments, and exemptions. The new system enhances the functionalities of the old Balik Manggagawa (BM) system while addressing several issues and bugs, ensuring a smoother user experience.

• Key Differences and Improvements:

  • Enhanced Functionality: The new POPS-BaM system retains all the general functions of the old BM system, including OEC applications and exemptions. However, it resolves previous bugs and errors, resulting in more efficient and reliable operation.
  • Mandatory e-Registration: If you had an account with the old BM system, you must create an e-registration account on the new POPS-BaM system. This account is essential for accessing all features of the new platform.
  • Automatic Record Transfer: Old BM records are automatically transferred to POPS-BaM within 2 to 6 hours after setting up your e-registration account. This ensures a seamless transition for users. If your records are not transferred within this timeframe, you can manually transfer them.

• Steps to Manually Transfer Old BM Records:

  • Visit the new POEA portal.
  • Click on “Transfer Old BM Records” in the DMW Helpdesk Section.
  • Enter the required information from the old system and click “Find Records.”
  • Verify your records; if correct, click “Transfer Records.”

By incorporating these features, the POPS-BaM system enhances the user experience. It ensures that returning Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) can easily manage their OEC applications and exemptions, making the process more streamlined and user-friendly than the old system.

Final Thoughts

Obtaining an Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) is essential for Filipino workers heading abroad, particularly those in Dubai. OEC verification in Dubai ensures legal travel and employment while offering various benefits such as tax exemptions and government protection. By understanding the requirements and processes for securing or exempting an OEC, Filipino expatriates can navigate their employment journeys smoothly and confidently, safeguarding their rights and ensuring compliance with regulations.

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