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How to Process Contract Verification for OFWs Abroad

employment contract verification for ofw

One of the requirements for Overseas Filipino Workers with new employers abroad is to verify their contracts before leaving the country. This involves verifying the validity of their job to ensure they are with a legal employer. The contract verification process may update its guidelines from time to time so make sure to stay updated.

By familiarizing yourself with the verification process, you will know what to submit, whether you qualify, and where to verify your employment. Contracts are usually verified by the Department of Migrant Workers, Embassy, or Philippine Overseas Labor Office (now called Migrant Workers Office) in the host country. The purpose is to protect OFWs from illegal recruitment and make sure they get the benefits they deserve.

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What Is Contract Verification for OFWs?

Contract verification for OFWs is the process of verifying overseas employment contracts conducted by the Labor Attache. This is to ensure that all Filipino migrant workers have undergone legal recruitment and that they get a valid job abroad. Verified employment contracts protect the welfare and rights of every OFW working abroad.

Contracts are also verified to ensure they meet the minimum requirements of the POEA and the country where the OFW will be working. This is an important process because it is required when you obtain an Overseas Employment Certificate or exit clearance in the future. By meeting these requirements, you can enjoy all the benefits and entitlements according to your job agreement.

Benefits of a Verified OFW Contract

One of the main benefits of getting your contract verified by the designated POLO or DMW office is that you become entitled to all the benefits and privileges indicated in your employment contract abroad. A verified contract is also your ticket to getting an OEC in case you return to the Philippines for a short vacation and then leave to work again.

Requirements for Contract Verification

Before you prepare your requirements for contract verification, it’s important to meet the qualifications first. Here’s a list of the minimum qualifications you need to meet in order to verify your contract and obtain an OEC:

Documented OFW with POEA records.
POEA-registered OFW who changed job site.
Authorized Filipino with employment visa.

The requirements for contract verification vary depending on the purpose of the OFW processing it. For instance, you need these requirements if you change your employer abroad:

Two copies of the Standard Employment Contract
One copy of the employer’s Identification Card or company ID with contact details
One photocopy and one original copy of a valid passport
One copy of OFW ID with contact information
Printed copy of Employment E-Visa

Representatives must accomplish the OWWA OFW Form.

For those who do not have existing POEA records or have changed their employers, contract verification must be processed on-site. Here are the requirements you need to submit:

One copy of a valid passport
One copy of the company ID
One copy of a valid work visa
One original copy and two photocopies of the Employment Certificate
One copy of the company profile or business registration
One original copy and two photocopies of the Employment Contract
Employment documentation

For contract renewal, the following requirements must be submitted:

One copy of the employer’s ID with contact information
Two copies of the Standard Employment Contract
One copy of valid OFW ID with contact details
One original copy and one photocopy of a valid passport
Printed copy of Employment E-Visa

Representatives must complete the OWWA OFW Form.

How to Verify an OFW Contract

The contract verification process can be done via the Department of Migrant Workers or the POLO office in the host country of the OFW. It’s important to know the process so that you can prepare all the requirements in advance and enjoy a hassle-free processing experience. Here are the steps when verifying an OFW contract via DMW:

Step 1: Go to the DMW office near you and schedule an appointment using their website. You may also email them to book your appointment. Always make sure to have a confirmed appointment to secure your visit.

Step 2: Submit the documentary requirements to the DMW office and have them check the documents.

Step 3: Pay the verification fee and then follow further instructions if there’s any.

Step 4: Wait for three business days to get your verified contract.

Another way to verify OFW contracts is through the POLO office in the host country. You can reach out to the Philippine Embassy or Consulate assigned in your employer’s country. The POLO checks the contract to make sure OFWs are properly documented. Below are the steps to follow when verifying your contract via POLO:

Step 1: Schedule an appointment using the official POLO website or email them directly.

Step 2: Visit the POLO office on your job site and submit the required documents.

Step 3: Pay the verification fee and check for other instructions.

Step 4: Settle the membership contribution for OWWA memberships that are about to expire or have already expired:

Step 5: Wait for three business days to get your verified contract from POLO.

If you’re a skilled or professional worker abroad, the verification process is done through the following steps:

Step 1: Contact the nearest POLO office in your area or send them an email to schedule your visit.

Step 2: Send the documentary requirements and complete the form.

Step 3: Wait for the verified contract to be released, then pay for the verification fee.

An OFW who has a verified employment contract is a legal worker that meets the qualifications and requirements to work abroad. In addition, contract verification is required when getting an OEC or exit clearance for OFWs. If you’re here in the Philippines, visit the POEA office to verify your contract. On the other hand, if you’re already working abroad, you can verify your employment contract with the designated DMW or POLO office.

Video: New Requirements for Contract Verification 2023

In this video, you will learn about the latest updates on the requirements for contract verification. The Migrant Workers Office in the Northern Emirates and Dubai have recently announced a new checklist of documentary requirements for OFWs who want to verify their employment contracts abroad. Additionally, the video also contains other helpful tips to expedite the process of verifying your job contract regardless of where you are in the world.

Frequently Asked Questions

Get to know more about the process of contract verification for OFWs with these frequently asked questions:

1. Why do I need to verify my employment contract abroad?

The main purpose of verifying employment contracts for OFWs is to ensure they enjoy all the benefits, job rights, and welfare while working and living abroad. The Philippine Overseas Labor Office is the one that verifies OFW contracts and guarantees every Filipino migrant worker is protected in their job site.

2. What are the benefits of verifying my employment contract?

With a verified employment contract, you are entitled to all the benefits and privileges that are indicated in your job agreement. Also, verifying your employment contract ensures that your employer complies with labor laws, norms, and practices in your host country.

3. Are the POEA and DMW the same government agencies?

No, the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration was the former government agency that facilitates employment for OFWs, protects their welfare, and ensures they are in the right hands before leaving the country to work abroad. From POEA, it was changed to the Department of Migrant Workers although they have the same duties and responsibilities when it comes to overseas employment for Filipinos.

4. What if I don’t verify my contract, can I still obtain an OEC?

One of the requirements when acquiring an OEC or exit clearance is the verified employment contract. POLO and DMW are the ones that process contract verification for Overseas Filipino Workers around the world.

5. How long before my verified employment contract is released?

It usually takes up to three business days to get your verified contract. Sometimes it takes longer depending on the DMW or POLO office. Make sure to settle the verification fee and provide all the requirements in order to verify your employment contract successfully. Wait for the notification once your verified contract is ready for pick-up.

Summary

Now that you know how to process contract verification for OFWs, it’s easier to get your contract verified with the POLO or DMW office near you. It’s easier to prepare the documentary requirements as well as meet the qualifications to get your contract verified. Remember that requirements may vary depending on the purpose and location of contract verification processing.

The most important step is to schedule an appointment and then visit the nearest POLO or DMW office in your area. Don’t hesitate to contact the DMW office if you have questions or other concerns regarding your contract verification. The goal is to understand how the process works in order to expedite the whole process.

Guide to Getting an OEC Appointment Online for OFWs

Before Overseas Filipino Workers leave the country after a short vacation in the Philippines, they must present their Overseas Employment Certificate to the immigration officer at the airport. Therefore, securing an OEC for OFWs is a must and the process should not be taken lightly, especially for aspiring OFWs and first-timers.

One important step when getting an OEC online is to schedule an appointment prior to visiting. A good thing about OEC appointments is that you can now set them online without leaving your house. However, you need to prepare some essential requirements and make sure to meet the qualifications before setting an appointment.

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What is an Overseas Employment Certificate?

An Overseas Employment Certificate is an exit clearance for OFWs that validates their identity. It verifies Filipino migrant workers and shows they are legally documented before leaving the country to work abroad. This document also gives you some benefits and privileges as an OFW that you can use during your departure schedule.

In the Philippines, an OEC can be obtained through the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration which is now called the Department of Migrant Workers. On the other hand, if you’re already abroad, you can get it from the nearest Philippine Overseas Labor Office in your host country. It’s important to contact the nearest POLO office to acquire this document.

Benefits of Getting an OEC Appointment Online

Obtaining an OEC for OFWs comes with a few benefits that you can use when leaving the country. At the airport, you will be asked to present your OEC at the immigration. This document will exempt you from paying the terminal fee and travel tax. So make sure you know these privileges once you’ve acquired your OEC.

In case you don’t know, you may also be exempted from getting an OEC if you meet the qualifications. For returning OFWs who will be working with the same employer and job site, given they have existing records with the DMW, they can get their OECs online. Better yet, they can apply for an OEC exemption which means they don’t need to set an OEC appointment online.

Requirements for Online OEC Appointments

Before getting an OEC appointment online, make sure you are qualified. According to the qualifications, you can only book for an online appointment and get an OEC on-site if you are returning to a different employer and job site, and you don’t have a work permit or visa and BM Online or POPS-BaM record.

If you are qualified, you can book your appointment through the POPS-BaM portal. If you need the exact details on this, you can reach out to the nearest POLO or Philippine Embassy in the country where you are employed.

Here’s a list of the requirements you need to secure before getting an OEC appointment online:

A printed copy of the POPS-BaM Appointment Form

Valid passport and work visa

Valid employment contract issued by the Philippine Embassy, Consulate, or POLO

Business Registration Certificate of the employer, or their National Identification Card

Sworn statement about how the OFW got hired or a description of the employment process

Letter verifying the job relocation for OFWs returning to the same employer but a different job site

Sworn statement for the employment process for OFWs changing their employer and doesn’t have existing records with the DMW or POEA

Company ID, latest payslip, or COE for OFWs returning to the same overseas employer

How to Get an OEC Appointment Online

You can get an OEC appointment online through the POEA Online Processing System for Balik Manggagawa or POPS-BaM portal. Here are the steps for getting an OEC appointment online through the POPS-BaM portal:

Step 1: Go to the Department of Migrant Workers Online Services or POPS-BaM portal through this link: https://onlineservices.dmw.gov.ph/OnlineServices/POEAOnline.aspx.

Click on the Let’s Go button and log in to your account by typing in your email address or username and password. You can click Register if you don’t have an e-registration account yet.

Step 2: Complete the required information under the My Profile page with your personal details, beneficiaries, and identifications. Review the details and make sure they are all correct and accurate.

Step 3: Upload your profile photo and passport on the dashboard. Make sure the picture is passport-size and not blurred. The file size must be 2 MB JPG/JPEG or less than that. When uploading your passport, make sure the first page is clear and readable based on the image specifications.

Step 4: Click on the Balik Manggagawa button under the My Links category. Complete the required details and then tap on the Balik Manggagawa button. You can click Next and proceed to the next page once the Initial Assessment is in green color.

Step 5: Enter your flight details including the date and time. Before clicking Next, make sure to check the reminders for additional information.

Step 6: If you are not qualified to obtain an exit clearance online, choose from the Transaction Type options that apply to you. After providing your contract information, click Submit to proceed.

Step 7: Choose your location for OEC processing, then click Next. Before proceeding to the next, make sure you have read the reminders to ensure you will have a smooth processing experience on your appointment day.

Step 8: Select your appointment time and date based on the slots available on the scheduler. Book your appointment by clicking Select beside the time and date. If you want to change the date, you can simply click on the arrows. Keep in mind that there’s no available schedule on weekends. The time and date you choose should be convenient for you. If not, you will need to set another appointment to get your OEC.

Step 9: Check all the details before printing your Appointment Sheet. You will need this document during your scheduled appointment to confirm your booking. If you see any incorrect detail, you can always cancel it and then repeat these steps in order to correct any errors.

While the BM Online is no longer available since June 2021, here are the steps you can follow if you haven’t transferred to a POPS-BaM account yet:

Transfer your BM Online information to the new POPS-BaM portal to schedule an OEC appointment online.

When updating your POPS-BaM record, you will have to wait 24 hours for it to complete.

After 24 hours, your account from BM Online should sync with your POPS-BaM record. If not, submit a ticket to the POEA Help Desk for assistance.

Video: How to Register for OEC Online Appointment

In this video, you will learn how to register online in order to get an OEC appointment through your mobile device. Just follow all the steps and tips provided in this video to successfully book an online appointment and get your OEC before your scheduled departure date. Remember that there are qualifications and requirements to meet if you want to get an OEC which are all discussed in the video so watch until the end.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How to get an OEC appointment online?

Register via this link https://onlineservices.dmw.gov.ph/OnlineServices/POEAOnline.aspx and log in to your POPS-BaM account. Enter your personal details including your passport information, beneficiaries, and profile photo. Click on the Next button and go to Balik Manggagawa to enter your flight details. Select your preferred processing location and appointment time and date. Don’t forget to print your Appointment Sheet to present during your appointment.

2. Is it possible to process my OEC at the airport before departure?

Yes, returning OFWs can process their OECs at the airport prior to departure. However, this is only applicable to those with special or emergency leave valid within seven days before the departure date. You may also get your OEC at the airport in case you have an expired visa in the last seven days.

3. Can non-OWWA members still obtain an OEC or set an appointment online?

As per regulations, OFWs without an OWWA membership cannot get an Overseas Employment Certificate. You have to be an active OWWA member in order to process your OEC with the POEA or DMW.

4. Is a verified employment contract required to get an OEC online?

Yes, you need to present a verified employment contract in order to apply for an OEC because it’s one of the requirements.

5. How much does it cost to get an OEC?

Getting an Overseas Employment Certificate for Overseas Filipino Workers is free of charge.

Summary

So you are now knowledgeable on how to get an OEC appointment online through the POPS-BaM portal. It’s easier than you think when you know what steps to take in order to obtain an OEC or apply for an OEC exemption if you meet the qualifications. There are some benefits you can enjoy when you obtain an OEC before leaving the Philippines to work abroad.

What is POPS-BaM Portal and How to Register Online

popsbam portal for ofws online services registration

The joy of being able to come home to your family in the Philippines is just one of the best feelings for Overseas Filipino Workers. However, there are some important things that OFWs should also consider when returning to the country. For instance, they need to make sure that they have a POPS-BaM account in order to process their exit clearance before leaving the country again,

Gone are the days when OFWs need to endure a long, tedious process when applying for documents and other requirements such as the Overseas Employment Certificate. Now, they can just make use of an online portal to obtain these documentary requirements. But how do you register in the new POPS-BaM Portal?

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What is POPS-BaM Online System?

The new POEA Online Processing System for Balik-Manggagawa or POPS-BaM is an all-improved online portal that is designed to facilitate returning OFWs in processing their exit clearances. It was meant to replace the Balik Manggagawa Online System, the old portal which became outdated in June 2021. The new platform has been crucial in acquiring OEC which is a pre-departure requirement for OFWs.

POPS-BaM is a more secure and reliable system when it comes to providing quick access to OFW requirements including affidavits, employment certificates, and other required forms. Whether you’re applying for a new job abroad or returning to the same employer, you need an OEC in order to legally work overseas.

Benefits of POPS-BaM Registration

The main benefit of the new POPS-BaM online portal is that it allows users to quickly access their information using their mobile devices anytime they want. Returning OFWs who want to take a vacation in the Philippines can easily process their documents before going back to their employer. This means you have more time to spend with your loved ones while maximizing your holiday experience.

Moreover, you don’t need to go to the DMW office here in the Philippines or the Philippine Overseas Labor Office in your host country to apply for an exit clearance or an OEC exemption if you’re qualified. With POPS-BaM, you can easily schedule an OEC appointment in just a few clicks or access your information when needed.

Here are other benefits of using the new POPS-BaM portal:

Get an OEC right in the comfort of your couch.

Print and reprint your OEC or exemption certificate if you lose the original copy.

Access the online system 24/7.

Apply for an OEC exemption through the online portal for qualified OFWs.

Schedule an appointment online with any POLO, DMW, or POEA offices.

Create a profile on the portal with your credentials, work experience, background, and other personal details.

Upcoming job fair and other similar events hosted by POPS-BaM.

Submit applications for overseas employment through the system.

Request for principal registration, apply for agency licenses and pay for the processing fees online.

Verify transaction status, get updates on job vacancies, and create tickets to DMW Help Desk for questions and other concerns.

Requirements for POPS-BaM Registration

In order to use the POPS-BaM online system, make sure you have these requirements:

Valid passport and work visa

Active email address

Current employment contract

Profile with personal information

Active POPS-BaM account

All Filipino migrant workers and OFWs can use the new POPS-BaM online portal to process their papers and applications. Some common uses of the online portal include OEC appointment, OEC acquisition, application for OEC exemption, and creation of an e-registration account.

How to Register a POPS-BaM Account

You can register for a POPS-BaM account if you’re an OFW who changed your job site and employer, doesn’t have an existing record on the POPS-BaM or BM Online system, doesn’t have valid work permit or visa, and are directly employed by an overseas employer, an agency, or the Government Placement Branch of the POEA.

To register, just follow the steps below to create an account via the POPS-BaM online portal:

Step 1: Go to this link: https://onlineservices.dmw.gov.ph/OnlineServices/POEAOnline.aspx and then click on the Let’s Go button.

Step 2: You will see a pop-up box on your screen, click on the Register button.

Step 3: Accept the Terms of Use and Privacy Statement after reading it carefully.

Step 4: Complete the online form with your personal information including name, email address, gender, and date of birth. Check all the details if they are correct, then click on the Register button.

Step 5: On the dialogue box, confirm that your personal details are accurate by clicking on the Yes button.

Step 6: A notification will pop up that says your e-registration is successful. Make sure to copy your reference number and then save it for later.

Step 7: An email will be sent to you including your temporary password.

Step 8: Use your temporary password and nominated email or username to log into your new account. Once you’re logged in, change the password and finish the e-registration process.

To change your temporary password, log in to your account for the first time and change the password. Just go to the Online Services Portal of the DMW website. Click on the e-registration and then tap Let’s Go. A pop-up box will appear on the screen, type in your email address and the temporary password. After that, create your new password.

Video: POEA POPS-BaM

In this video, you will learn about the key highlights of the new POPS-BaM online system for OFWs. It includes all the information you need such as how the new system works, its requirements, and how to register a new account for first-time users.

Frequently Asked Questions

The following are some of the most common questions that users ask about the new POPS-BaM online portal for OFWs:

1. How is the POPS-BaM system different from the old BM Online?

The Balik Manggagawa Online System or BM Online System is the old version of the POEA Online Processing System for Balik MangGagawa or POPS-BaM. The new online portal functions the same as BM Online, only that it is more reliable and secure in terms of document processing for OFWs.

2. Should I register for the new POPS-BaM portal?

Yes, OFWs are required to register for a new account with the POPS-BaM online portal. The government mandates all OFWs to provide their details through the DMW e-registration website for legalities and tracking purposes. By documenting OFWs, it’s easier for the government to verify their identities when leaving or returning to the Philippines.

3. What are the main uses of the new POPS-BaM online portal for OFWs?

Some of the most common uses of the POPS-BaM portal include scheduling OEC appointments, applying for OEC exemption, and acquiring OECs for OFWs. Aspiring OFWs can also use the online portal to find jobs, get updates on job fairs, and look for career opportunities.

4. Can I still obtain an Overseas Employment Certificate through the old BM Online portal?

No, you can no longer use the old BM Online system in order to get an OEC or exit clearance because it has been obsolete since June 2021. It was replaced by POPS-BaM, which should now be used by OFWs to process their documents and schedule appointments.

5. How do I transfer my account information from BM Online to the POPS-BaM portal?

Go to the DMW Online Services page and then create an account via the POPS-BaM system. Submit a ticket to the Help Desk if you need help obtaining and completing the form. Find your record in BM Online and then transfer it to the news POPS-BaM portal.

6. What if I enter the wrong information and didn’t get an email for the temporary password?

In case you entered an incorrect detail while registering for a POPS-BaM account, you should submit a ticket to the DMW Help Desk citing your concern. Also, you should do the same if you haven’t received the email with your temporary password to log in for the first time. It’s important that you should not create another account if this happens because it will only lead to more issues in the future.

Summary

Now that you know what POPS-BaM exactly means and how to register an account via this new online platform, you can process your OEC application, set an appointment online, or apply for an exemption if you meet the qualifications. By following the steps provided in this guide, you can enjoy a hassle-free experience in processing your documents online.

With a more secure and easier-to-access online portal, OFWs can quickly process their requirements no matter where they are in the world. Moreover, you can also use the portal to find job openings abroad and attend job fairs through announcements within the portal. The convenience this new system offers is a huge help for OFWs and Filipino migrant workers who need to acquire an exit clearance and other important papers.