For Filipino expatriates residing in Hong Kong who are planning international travel, securing an Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) is a mandatory requirement before leaving the country. The OEC serves as an official document verifying your legal employment status overseas and exempts you from paying travel tax and terminal fees.
Traditionally, obtaining an OEC involved visiting the Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO) in person, which could be time-consuming and inconvenient. However, thanks to advancements in technology, the process has been streamlined, enabling you to conveniently apply for and receive your OEC entirely online.
In this comprehensive guide, we will provide you with a step-by-step walkthrough of the online OEC application process in Hong Kong, ensuring a seamless and hassle-free experience. Whether you are a seasoned overseas worker or embarking on your first international assignment, this guide will equip you with the knowledge and tools necessary to navigate the online OEC system with confidence.
What is an OEC?
The Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) is a crucial document for Filipino workers heading abroad. It's an exit clearance issued by the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) that proves you're a legitimate Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW).
This certificate serves as evidence that the Philippines government allows you to work overseas. It's a mandatory requirement for all OFWs, whether you're a new hire or a returning worker, also known as Balik Manggagawa (BM).
The OEC has been a requirement since the 1980s and is sometimes referred to as an exit pass or exit clearance. You need to present this document to the immigration officer at the airport when leaving the Philippines. Without it, you might be prevented from departing the country.
Eligibility and Requirements for OEC in Hong Kong
Who needs an OEC?
If you're a Filipino worker in Hong Kong, you'll need an Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) in two main scenarios. First, when you're leaving the Philippines to start a new job in Hong Kong. Second, when you're returning to Hong Kong after a vacation in the Philippines. This applies to both domestic helpers and skilled professional workers.
It's important to note that if you're processing a new contract from the Philippines, your employment agency should handle the OEC application for you. However, if you're traveling back to the Philippines for a vacation, you'll need to obtain the OEC yourself to exit the Philippines and return to Hong Kong.
Required documents
To apply for an OEC in Hong Kong, you'll need to prepare the following documents:
- Appointment Sheet (2 copies)
- POLO verified Employment Contract (original)
- Work Visa (original and 2 copies)
- Philippine Passport (original and 2 copies)
- Employer's telephone/contact number
- Employer's HKID number
- OWWA Membership fee official receipt
Remember, POLO won't grant an OEC if your contract hasn't been verified or authenticated. If you're applying for an OEC at POLO Hong Kong, contract verification must be done first.
Fees involved
The cost of obtaining an OEC varies depending on where you process it:
- In Hong Kong: The processing fee is HKD 156.25
- In the Philippines (at a DMW office): The fee is 100 PHP
- Emergency OEC at Manila NAIA airport: 100 PHP (only for stays of 5 days or less)
Additional fees to consider include:
- Contract verification: HKD 624.99 for Domestic Workers, HKD 1249.97 for Skilled/Professional Workers
- OWWA Membership: HKD 1531.22
It's worth noting that President Bongbong Marcos has directed the Department of Migrant Workers to make OEC processing free of charge, so these fees may change in the future.
Remember, the OEC is valid for 60 days from the date of issuance and can only be used once. This means you'll need to apply for a new OEC every time you exit the Philippines to return to Hong Kong for work. Also, starting in 2022, all domestic helpers are required to have a PAG-IBIG Member ID number for OEC processing.
How to Get OEC Online in Hong Kong: Step-by-step
1. Creating an account
To start your OEC application, you need to register on the Department of Migrant Workers Online Service Portal. Here's how:
- Go to https://onlineservices.dmw.gov.ph/OnlineServices/POEAOnline.aspx
- Click 'Let's Go' under e-Registration
- Click 'Register' for new users
- Accept the terms of use
- Fill out the required form
- Sign in using the temporary password that was sent to your email.
- Set a new password
- Update your profile with necessary information
- Add identification and beneficiary details
- Attach a profile picture and passport copy
- Remember to write down your login information for future use.
2. Filling out the application
After creating your account, follow these steps to fill out the application:
- Log in to your account
- Click 'Balik Manggagawa' under My Links
- Enter your flight schedule and click 'Next'
- If returning to the same employer, answer 'yes' to both questions
- If you've changed employers, enter new contract details
3. Scheduling an appointment
For those who need to visit an office:
- Select your preferred Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) office in the Philippines or Migrant Workers Office (MWO) in Hong Kong
- Choose an available appointment slot
- Print your appointment sheet (2 copies)
4. Payment process
The payment process varies depending on where you're applying:
- In Hong Kong: The processing fee is HKD 156.25
- In the Philippines (DMW office): The fee is 100 PHP
- Emergency OEC at Manila NAIA airport: 100 PHP (for stays of 5 days or less)
Remember, the OEC is valid for 60 days from issuance and can only be used once. Always check for updates, as President Bongbong Marcos has directed to make OEC processing free of charge in the future.
How to get a Hong Kong Work Visa for Foreigners
Acquiring an OEC online in Hong Kong is a straightforward process that saves you valuable time and effort. By following these steps meticulously and ensuring the accuracy of your information, you can obtain your OEC with ease and embark on your travels without any unnecessary delays. Remember to initiate the process well in advance of your planned departure to allow ample time for processing. Safe travels!
