To all Filipino overseas workers embarking on new employment opportunities abroad, you are required to undergo contract verification before leaving the Philippines to their host country. This is an important step to ensure the legality of your employment and safeguards your rights and benefits while working overseas.
This is also needed for OFWs who have change employers while you are already abroad. Basically, so long as you have signed a new work contract in your job overseas, you need to have it stamped by the Department of Migrant Workers. This ensures that your employment has been reviewed by our government and to check that you are given enough rights
The verifying of their contract may evolve, so staying up to date is essential. Join us as we go through the entire process, from understanding contract verification to meeting the requirements and completing the verification process hassle-free.
What Is Contract Verification for OFWs?
Contract verification for OFWs is a process conducted by the Philippine Labor Attaché to ensure that Filipino migrant workers have undergone legal recruitment and secured valid job opportunities abroad. Verified employment contracts serve to protect the welfare and rights of every OFW working overseas.
These contracts are also checked to ensure they meet the minimum requirements set by the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) (now called the Department of Migrant Workers – DMW) and the host country where the OFW will be employed. This verification is vital as it is a prerequisite for obtaining an Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) or exit clearance in the future, allowing OFWs to enjoy all the benefits and entitlements according to their job agreements.
Benefits of a Verified OFW Contract
- Entitlement to Employment Benefits: A verified contract ensures that OFWs are entitled to all the benefits and privileges as stipulated in their employment contracts abroad. This includes salary, housing, health insurance, and other agreed-upon benefits.
- Facilitates OEC Acquisition: Having a verified contract simplifies the process of obtaining an Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC). This certificate is essential when OFWs return to the Philippines for a short vacation and then plan to resume their work abroad. It streamlines the necessary paperwork and documentation for their travel.
- Legal Protection: A verified contract provides legal protection to OFWs. It signifies that their employment is legitimate and complies with labor laws, norms, and practices in the host country. This legal protection ensures that OFWs are not subject to exploitation or illegal practices by their employers.
- Welfare and Rights: Verified contracts safeguard the welfare and rights of OFWs. They guarantee that workers are treated fairly, receive proper compensation, and have access to necessary services while working abroad.
- Compliance with Regulations: Having a verified contract ensures that employers adhere to the minimum requirements set by the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) and the host country’s regulations. This compliance assures OFWs that their employment is in accordance with the law.
- Streamlined Processing: Verified contracts streamline various administrative processes, making it easier for OFWs to navigate the complexities of working abroad. This includes smoother interactions with government agencies and quicker resolution of employment-related issues.
- Peace of Mind: OFWs with verified contracts can work abroad with greater peace of mind. They have assurance that their employment is legal, and they are entitled to the benefits and protections agreed upon in their contracts.
- Return to Work: In case OFWs return to the Philippines temporarily for a vacation, a verified contract ensures that they can easily resume their work abroad. This avoids unnecessary delays and complications in their employment status.
Requirements for Contract Verification
Before you prepare your requirements for contract verification, it’s crucial to ensure that you meet the qualifications. Here’s a list of minimum qualifications you need to meet 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. Here are the specific requirements for different scenarios:
For those changing employers 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
- Completed OWWA OFW Form (for representatives)
For those without existing POEA records or who have changed employers:
- 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:
- 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
- Completed OWWA OFW Form (for representatives)
How to Verify an OFW Contract
The contract verification process can be completed through either the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) or the POLO office in the host country of the OFW. Understanding the process will help you prepare all the requirements in advance for a smooth experience. Here are the steps for verifying an OFW contract via DMW:
Via DMW/MWO Office:
- Go to the DMW office near you and schedule an appointment using their website or by email. Always confirm your appointment to secure your visit.
- Submit the required documentary requirements to the DMW office for document verification.
- Pay the verification fee and follow any additional instructions provided.
- Wait for three business days to receive your verified contract.
Another option is to verify OFW contracts 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 office checks the contract to ensure proper documentation for OFWs. Here are the steps for verifying your contract via POLO:
Via POLO/MWO:
- Schedule an appointment using the official POLO/MWO website of your host country or email them directly.
- Visit the POLO/MWO office on your job site and submit the required documents.
- Pay the verification fee and follow any provided instructions.
- Settle the amount contribution for OWWA memberships that are about to expire or have already expired.
- Wait for three business days to receive your verified contract from POLO/MWO.
For skilled or professional workers abroad, the verification process involves the following steps:
- Contact the nearest POLO/MWO office in your area or send them an email to schedule your visit.
- Send the documentary requirements and complete the required form.
- Wait for the verified contract to be released, then pay the verification fee.
Having a verified employment contract is essential for OFWs, as it signifies that they are legal workers who meet the qualifications and requirements to work abroad. Additionally, contract verification is a mandatory step when obtaining an OEC or exit clearance for OFWs. If you are in the Philippines, visit the POEA office for contract verification. If you are 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 discover the latest updates regarding the requirements for contract verification. The Migrant Workers Office in the Northern Emirates and Dubai has recently introduced a new checklist of documentary requirements for OFWs looking to verify their employment contracts abroad. The video also provides valuable tips to expedite the verification process, regardless of your location.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why do I need to verify my employment contract abroad?
Verifying employment contracts for OFWs is essential to ensure that they enjoy all the benefits, job rights, and welfare while working and living abroad. The Philippine Overseas Labor Office is responsible for verifying OFW contracts and guaranteeing the protection of Filipino migrant workers at their job sites.
2. What are the benefits of verifying my employment contract?
With a verified employment contract, you are entitled to all the benefits and privileges stated in your job agreement. Additionally, 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 (POEA) was the former government agency responsible for facilitating employment for OFWs, protecting their welfare, and ensuring they were in good hands before leaving the country to work abroad. The agency has since been renamed the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), but their duties and responsibilities regarding overseas employment for Filipinos remain the same.
4. What if I don’t verify my contract; can I still obtain an OEC?
No, one of the requirements for obtaining an OEC or exit clearance is a verified employment contract. The POLO and DMW offices are responsible for processing contract verification for Overseas Filipino Workers worldwide.
5. How long before my verified employment contract is released?
Typically, it takes up to three business days to receive your verified contract. However, the processing time may vary depending on the DMW or POLO office. To ensure a smooth verification process, make sure to settle the verification fee and provide all required documents. Wait for notification once your verified contract is ready for pick-up.
Summary
Now that you have a comprehensive understanding of how to process contract verification for OFWs, you can efficiently get your contract verified with the POLO or DMW office near you. Preparing the necessary documentary requirements and meeting the qualifications is now easier, allowing you to complete the verification process smoothly. Keep in mind that requirements may vary depending on the purpose and location of contract verification processing.
The key step is to schedule an appointment and visit the nearest POLO or DMW office in your area. If you have any questions or concerns regarding your contract verification, don’t hesitate to contact the DMW office. The goal is to understand the process thoroughly to expedite the entire process for your peace of mind and successful overseas employment.