Overseas Filipino Workers (OFW) know that while on vacation they need to secure an exit clearance or Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) Balik-Manggagawa (BM) in order to get back to their company abroad.
Getting OEC Balik-Manggagawa in the POEA takes time, especially if you’re residing in the province. I still remember when I was working in Abu Dhabi, when vacation time come I was always searching for an easy way to get OEC, like an online system where I could easily get my OEC in front of my computer, but during that time there’s no available online system yet.
What is an OEC or Overseas Employment Certificate?
The Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) is an official document issued by the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA), now under the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), to Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs). It serves as proof that a worker has been properly documented and is allowed to work overseas. The OEC is essential for workers who are returning to their foreign employers after a visit to the Philippines, and it entitles them to certain benefits such as exemption from the travel tax and airport terminal fees. This certificate, also known as the Balik-Manggagawa (BM) certificate, is primarily required for workers who are classified as returning employees under the Philippine labor law.
For returning OFWs, the OEC is part of a broader system that aims to monitor and protect Filipino workers abroad by ensuring that they are documented, legally employed, and aware of their rights. It is typically valid for 60 days and can be obtained through the POEA Online Processing System for Balik-Manggagawa (POPS-BaM). The process involves online registration, and for certain cases, an in-person appointment to verify documents, especially if the worker has changed employers or job locations. The OEC, therefore, is both a safeguard and a convenience for OFWs, as it validates their employment status and grants them certain financial exemptions.
Requirements for OEC
Valid Passport – Must be valid for at least six months from the date of departure.
Valid Work Visa or Permit – Required for your country of employment.
Employment Contract – A signed contract from your employer that meets the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) standards.
Previous OEC or Exemption (if applicable) – If you’ve previously obtained an OEC or qualify for an exemption, this may expedite the process.
Proof of Employment – Such as a company ID, recent pay slip, or certificate of employment (may be requested for verification).
POEA/DMW Appointment Confirmation (if required) – Some applicants may need an in-person appointment for document verification, especially if they’ve changed employers.
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