The Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) is a travel document issued to balik-manggagawa (returning Overseas Filipino Workers) who are departing from the Philippines to resume overseas employment. It serves as proof that the worker is properly documented under Philippine overseas employment regulations.

The OEC also allows eligible OFWs to avail of travel tax and terminal fee exemptions, subject to existing rules. Issuance of an OEC is limited to qualified returning workers who meet documentary and system requirements, including the possession of a valid permesso di soggiorno under the categories lavoro subordinato or attesa occupazione.

The Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) or OEC Exemption is valid for sixty (60) days only. Eligible balik-manggagawa are advised to secure a new OEC or OEC Exemption prior to travel if their previous issuance has expired or will expire before departure.

How to Apply for an OEC or OEC Exemption Online

1. Log in to your POPS-BaM account at https://onlineservices.dmw.gov.ph using your registered email address and password.
2. From the dashboard, select the Balik-Manggagawa option.
3. Enter your flight return date and confirm that you are returning to the same employer, jobsite, and job position.
4. Once confirmed, the system will display a confirmation message along with your OEC Exemption Number, indicating that you are exempted from securing a physical OEC.
5. Save or take a screenshot of the OEC Exemption page, which will serve as your OEC for travel purposes.

If the system does not allow issuance or if there are record discrepancies, the worker may be required to seek further verification or assistance from our office.

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The OFW Pass is a digital travel clearance issued through the eGov PH system for eligible Overseas Filipino Workers. It serves as an electronic alternative to the OEC and is intended to streamline the issuance process for qualified balik-manggagawa.

Eligible workers may obtain an OFW Pass by accessing the eGov PH platform and ensuring that their employment records, contract details, and immigration status are complete and properly reflected in the system. When system validation is successful, the OFW Pass may be generated digitally without the need for an in-person visit.

Like the OEC, issuance of an OFW Pass is subject to verification and compliance with existing rules. Not all workers qualify for the OFW Pass, and approval depends on individual circumstances and system validation.