As an OFW, it can be very exciting and unnerving to finally get the go signal to fly abroad. First-timers need to be prepared to ensure a smooth process leading up to finally being in the airport. Even returning OFWs need to be reminded about the step-by-step process before leaving the Philippines.
In this article, we will provide you with the steps you need to ensure that you are well prepared and confident when you step into the airport, leaving the Philippines on your way to becoming a full-fledged OFW.
Essential Airport Tips for first time and returning OFWs
The first step you need to do is to prepare your documents for a smooth department. If you miss any documents or show incomplete ones, this can cause delays that may even prevent you from boarding the flight. As such, you should prepare the following:
- Passport – Must be valid for at least 6 months from your departure date. Keep a digital copy as well.
- Plane Ticket – Double check that your name is spelled correctly and matches that on your passport.
- Work Visa – Verify that your visa is still valid on your departure date.
- Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC): This serves as proof that you are a legitimate OFW and exempts you from paying travel tax and terminal fees. Returning OFWs (Balik-Manggagawa) who are going back to the same employer and jobsite may be exempted.
- Seaman’s Book (for Seafarers) – If you are a seafarer, ensure that your Seaman’s Book is valid for the duration of your contract.
- PDOS Certificate (for First-Time OFWs): First-time OFWs must attend the Pre-Departure Orientation Seminar (PDOS) conducted by the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW).
- eTravel Form – This is an electronic form that you must fill out before your departure. It can be done online, and you will need to present the QR code at the airport.
Note that it’s a good idea to have a copy of these documents on your phone. In case anything goes wrong, or any document is misplaced, you will always have a backup soft copy in your device.
Things to do at the airport
- Check-In Online (Optional) – you can check-in online 24 hours before your flight. But even if you’re checked in online, you still need to have your documents checked and you luggage weighed at the airport.
- Arrive at the Airport Early – Arrive at least three hours before an international flight. This gives you plenty of time to check in, go through security, and pass immigration without feeling rushed.
- Check Your Flight Terminal – Airports typically have multiple terminals, so it’s important to know which terminal your flight is departing from.
- Check-In at the Airport – Locate the check-in counter for your airline. You can find this information on the flight information screens or ask airport staff for assistance. Then, present your passport, plane ticket, work visa, and OEC to the airline staff. They will verify your documents, check your luggage, and issue your boarding pass.
- Baggage Allowance – Make sure to check your airline’s baggage allowance before packing to avoid extra fees.
- Go Through Immigration – After checking in, the next step is to go through immigration. Before approaching the immigration counter, make sure you have completed the eTravel form
- Pass Through Security – Once you’ve cleared immigration, the next step is to pass through airport security. Some items are not allowed to be in your hand luggage, like sharp objects, liquids exceeding 100 mL, and flammable materials.
- Proceed to Your Boarding Gate – After clearing security, go to your designated boarding gate.
- Boarding the Flight – When it’s time to board, the airline staff will announce your flight. Make sure you have your boarding pass and passport ready for inspection. Listen carefully for your group number.
How to Thrive Abroad
Once you arrive, you need to be prepared across various aspects of daily life. This includes being culturally aware, planning your finances, making sure you have the right healthcare insurances and so much more. Let’s dive right into some of these aspects with a bit more detail.
Cultural Awareness
Being culturally aware helps you:
- Understand the culture of your host country
- Feel less isolated
- Appreciate their local customs, food, language, religion, etc.
- Open up new opportunities to connect with others and advance your career.
Financial Planning
Even if you are probably earning more in your host country than in the Philippines, it is even more important to save and invest for your future. You may research the financial services that your host country provides. This includes insurance and investment options.
Healthcare and Insurance
You will most likely get healthcare insurance from your employer. The following tips can help you in relation to this:
- Understand the details of your healthcare plan
- Learn more about your benefits from the employer or the recruitment agency
- Prepare a first aid kit, including any medications you may need.
- You may have to bring medications from the Philippines to your host country; check legal requirements to do this.
Language Skills
If you work in a country wherein English is not the first language, then learning the local language can greatly improve your experience daily. It can even help you get job promotions.
Networking and Social Integration
Joining Filipino communities or expatriate groups in your host country can provide a support network and help you settle in. These groups often offer advice, social events, and a sense of belonging in a foreign land.
Crisis and Emergency Procedures
Unpredictable events such as political unrest, natural disasters, or emergencies can happen in any country. It’s essential to be aware of the emergency procedures in your host country. Keep the contact information of the Philippine embassy, consulate, local authorities, and your employer handy always.
Indeed, after processing all the documents and steps required to work abroad, finally being able to leave the Philippines is such an exciting but nerve-wracking experience. If you have carefully planned for this moment, however, this final chapter of your OFW application journey can be easy and satisfying.