When it comes to OFWs (Overseas Filipino Workers) in Australia, obtaining an Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) is crucial if they are visiting the Philippines for emergency reasons or leisure and plan to return to work abroad to continue or extend their employment contract. Having a valid OEC is essential because it is required whenever you depart from a Philippine airport for employment purposes, whether it’s your first time working abroad or you’re returning to your previous employer and job site.How to Apply OEC Certificate in Australia
If you’re wondering how to obtain an OEC in Australia, here’s a summary of everything you need to know about the process:
- Visit the POEA or POLO: Overseas Filipino Workers worldwide are required to apply for their OEC at either the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) or the Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO) every time they leave the airport to work abroad. These offices are responsible for issuing the OEC, which serves as an exit clearance.
- Application Requirements: To apply for an OEC, you will typically need to prepare the following documents:a. Valid Passport: Ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of departure. b. Valid Work Visa/Permit: Provide a copy of your work visa or permit issued by the Australian government. c. Proof of Employment: Prepare documents that verify your employment status in Australia, such as an employment contract, certificate of employment, or a letter from your employer. d. Proof of Travel: Present your confirmed flight ticket or itinerary indicating your departure date from the Philippines. e. Accomplished Application Form: Fill out the application form provided by the POEA or POLO.
- Processing Time: The processing time for obtaining an OEC may vary. It is advisable to check with the POEA or POLO for any specific requirements or processing timelines.
- Payment of Fees: There may be applicable fees for the issuance of an OEC. The amount will depend on the specific regulations set by the POEA or POLO. It’s recommended to inquire about the fees beforehand and prepare the necessary funds.
- OWWA Membership: The OEC issuance may also require proof of membership in the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA). Ensure that your OWWA membership is valid and up to date.
Remember that the OEC is a mandatory document for OFWs leaving the Philippines for work abroad. Without an OEC, you will not be able to obtain employment or return to your job site. Therefore, it is highly recommended for OFWs in Australia to apply for their OEC when vacationing in the Philippines.
Please note that the information provided here is a general guide, and it’s essential to consult with the POEA, POLO, or relevant Philippine government offices for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding the OEC application process.
Requirements
Here are the requirements for vacationing Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) applying for an Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) at the Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO) in Australia, as stated by the official Facebook page of the Philippine Embassy in Canberra:
- Accomplished OEC application form – OFWs must fill out the required application form. This form can be obtained from the POLO Australia office or downloaded from their official website.
- Passport – OFWs should have a valid passport with at least six months of remaining validity.
- Valid work visa or permit – OFWs must provide a copy of their valid work visa or permit issued by the Australian government.
- Return airline ticket – OFWs must present a copy of their confirmed return airline ticket or itinerary as proof of their scheduled departure from Australia.
- Employment contract or certificate of employment – OFWs should provide a copy of their employment contract or a certificate of employment issued by their employer.
- Proof of current employment – OFWs must submit documents that demonstrate their current employment status, such as recent payslips or employment verification letters.
- Proof of overseas employment – OFWs should provide supporting documents that verify their overseas employment, such as previous employment contracts, payslips, or employment certificates from previous employers.
- Proof of OWWA membership – OFWs must present their valid Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) membership card or receipt.
- OEC fee payment – OFWs are required to pay the necessary OEC processing fee. The specific fee amount and accepted payment methods can be obtained from the POLO Australia office.
It is important for vacationing OFWs to contact the POLO Australia office or visit the official Facebook page of the Philippine Embassy in Canberra for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding the OEC application process.
With proof of documentation
- Duly-accomplished BM Information Sheet
- Valid Passport with at least 6-month validity (copy of photo page)
- Copy of Valid Visa or Work Permit
- Employment Contract verified by POLO Australia
- Prepaid self-addressed envelope, preferably Express Post
Without proof of documentation
“Duly-accomplished BM Information Sheet Valid Passport with at least 6-month validity (copy of the photo page) Copy of Valid Visa or Work Permit Employment Contract Prepaid self-addressed envelope, preferably Express Post
Please note that the mail the applicant will receive contains the following: 4 copies of OEC OEC Official Receipt Verified Employment Contract (if applicable) Verification of Contract Official Receipt, if applicable”
Additional Documents
On the other hand, for workers without an Employment Contract verified by POLO Australia, you should first apply for Contract Verification since it is a requirement for OEC application. According to the Philippine Embassy in Canberra, Australia, the following are the requirements for the verification of the Employment Contract for Name Hire/Direct Hire OFWs:
- Original copy of the Employment Contract and duly-accomplished Addendum with the employer and worker’s signatures on all pages.
- Original and photocopy of the worker’s valid Passport.
- Original and photocopy of the worker’s valid Visa or Work Permit.
- Original and photocopy of the Company’s License or Business Registration.
- Original and photocopy of the employer’s Driver’s License or valid Passport.
- Original and photocopy of the Company Declaration or Certification.
Please note that these requirements are provided by the Philippine Embassy in Canberra, Australia, and may be subject to change. It is always advisable to contact the embassy directly or visit their official website for the most up-to-date and accurate information.
Processing Fees
“When applying for an Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC), overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) are required to pay the following fees to the Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO) or the Philippine Embassy, which can be done through an Australian Money Order or Bank Draft:
- OEC processing fee: $5
- POLO Verification fee: $18
- OWWA membership fee: US$25.00 (converted to Australian Dollars)
It is important to note that the OEC processing fee and the POLO Verification fee should not be combined into a single money order of $23. These fees need to be paid separately, as they are allocated to two different government accounts and are non-transferable.”
Qualifications
The POEA (Philippine Overseas Employment Administration) issues the Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) to certify that Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) have legal work abroad and have gone through the proper documentation process. The OEC provides various benefits and government protection to OFWs.
The following individuals are eligible to obtain an OEC:
- OFWs who acquired work from an overseas employer or sponsor through direct hiring.
- OFWs who were hired by a recruitment agency.
- OFWs who were hired through the POEA’s Government Placement Branch (GBP).
- OFWs with existing records in the POEA database who are returning to the same job site after vacationing, provided they have an employment contract or working visa.
- OFWs with existing records in the POEA database who are returning to the same employer but in a different job site.
- OFWs without existing records in the POEA database or those who change employers while already abroad.
Having an OEC grants OFWs access to various government benefits, assistance, and protections. These benefits may include exemptions from terminal fees and travel tax. Additionally, OFWs with an OEC can enjoy reduced travel tax if they are traveling with their spouse and dependents.
It’s important for OFWs to secure an OEC to ensure their legal employment status and to avail themselves of the benefits and protections provided by the Philippine government.
How to Book an OEC Appointment in POLO Australia
“For Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) who do not qualify for an Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) exemption, it is necessary to schedule an appointment on the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration’s (POEA) online appointment system called POPS-BaM in order to apply for an OEC. This appointment booking process is specifically required for workers who are returning to Australia but will be working for a different employer or at a different job site. However, before proceeding, it is important to create a POPS-BaM account and follow the steps below to schedule an appointment for obtaining an OEC:
- Register a POPS-BaM account.
- Book an appointment for OEC issuance on the POPS-BaM platform.”
How to Register on POPS-BaM (For New Users)
here are the steps you need to follow to visit the POEA Online Services Portal/POPS-BaM website and complete the registration process:
- Visit the POEA Online Services Portal/POPS-BaM website.
- On the homepage, look for the e-Registration section and click on “Let’s Go and Register.”
- Read and accept the Terms of Use by checking the “I Accept the Terms of Use” box.
- Fill out all the required fields in the registration form.
- After filling out the form, click on the “Register” button.
- Check your registered email address on POPS-BaM for a message containing the Temporary Password provided by the system.
- Copy the Temporary Password from the email.
- Return to the POEA Online Services Portal/POPS-BaM website and input the Temporary Password in the appropriate field.
- Set a new password of your choice, following the system’s password requirements.
- Once you’ve successfully changed your password, log in to your account using your registered email address and the new password.
- After logging in, locate and click on the “My Profile” option on the right-hand side of the dashboard.
- Fill out all the required details in the My Profile section.
- Double-check all the entered information in your account profile.
- Click on the “Update Profile” button to save your changes.
- Proceed to fill out the Identification Details section with the necessary information.
- Provide the required Beneficiary details.
- Upload a profile picture and a copy of your Passport to complete the account setup.
By following these steps, you should be able to successfully register and set up your account on the POEA Online Services Portal/POPS-BaM website.
How to book an OEC Appointment in POPS-BaM
“If you already have a registered POPS-BaM account, make sure that your account setup is finished and contains accurate information to avoid any issues during OEC processing. If you have an old BM account, you need to transfer your records to POPS-BaM. To do this, go to the POPS-BaM system and locate the DMW Helpdesk section. Then, click on ‘Transfer Old BM records’ and wait for up to 8 hours for your POPS-BaM account details to be updated. To schedule an OEC appointment in POPS-BaM, follow the steps below:
- Visit the POEA Online Services Portal/POPS-BaM website.
- Click on ‘Let’s Go’ in the e-Registration section and log in.
- On the dashboard, click on ‘Balik Manggagawa’ under My Links and then click ‘Next’.
- If your profile is incomplete, provide the necessary data to proceed.
- Enter your flight date and click ‘Next’.
- If you are not a Balik Manggagawa or not returning to the same employer and job site, answer ‘NO’ to the questions in order to continue with the booking.
- Update the details of your contract and click ‘Submit’.
- Choose a Processing Site and click ‘Next’.
- Take a screenshot or print out your confirmed POPS-BaM appointment form.”
Please note that the paraphrased version is meant to convey the same information as the original text, but in different words.
How to Apply for OEC in POLO Australia
If you are going back to a different employer or job site, you must ensure compliance with the required documents mentioned earlier and send them to POLO Canberra, Australia. The address is as follows:
Atty. Rodolfo M Sabulao Labor Attache II Philippine Embassy, 1 Moonah Place, Yarralumla, ACT 2600, Australia
After sending the necessary documents, please allow up to 7 working days from the date of mailing for processing. Your Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) will be sent to you via mail during this period.
How to Get OEC Online in Australia
For workers who are returning to the same employer and job site (referred to as Balik Manggagawa or BM), applying for an Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) has become much easier. They can now obtain their OEC online through the POEA Online Services Portal, specifically the POPS-BaM platform. This convenience also extends to returning workers hired by the Global Balikbayan Program (GBP). These workers are eligible for OEC exemption and can acquire their OEC online without the need to submit any documents or pay any processing fees. To obtain your OEC online, follow the steps outlined below:
- Visit the POEA Online Services Portal/POPS-BaM website.
- Proceed to the e-Registration section and click on “Let’s Go” to log in.
- If your account details are incomplete, provide the necessary information to proceed.
- Enter your Flight Date and click “Next.”
- Confirm your status as a Balik Manggagawa or a worker returning to the same employer and job site by selecting “Yes” in response to the relevant questions.
- Print your OEC online and make sure to request it within 60 days of your return flight date.
I hope this helps!
WAG KA MUNA MAGRE-RESIGN | Detailed Steps in Getting OEC for Direct Hire
As mentioned in the video, the Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) functions as an exit permit that is necessary for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) who are leaving the country to work abroad. Additionally, the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) requires the application for an OEC to authenticate the worker’s documents, safeguard OFWs from exploitation, and verify the credibility of foreign employers who can hire and provide proper payment to workers overseas.
Hence, the OEC serves a dual purpose by not only offering advantages to OFWs but also ensuring legitimate employment opportunities with reputable employers or companies.
Please let me know if you need any further information or clarification.
Frequently Asked Questions
Please check out these common questions and answers about the process of getting an OEC in Australia:
1. How can I get an OEC exemption in Australia?
To obtain an OEC (Overseas Employment Certificate) exemption in Australia, you must fulfill the following requirements:
- Be a Balik Manggagawa: Balik Manggagawa refers to Filipino workers who are returning to their overseas employment. This term is commonly used by the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) to refer to individuals who have previously worked abroad and are returning to the same employer.
- Have a registered POPS-BaM account: POPS-BaM stands for “Philippine Overseas Employment Administration Online Processing System for Balik Manggagawa.” It is an online platform where Balik Manggagawa can process their overseas employment documents, including the OEC.
To proceed with the OEC exemption process in Australia, you need to log in to your POPS-BaM account. If you don’t have an account, you will need to register for one. Once logged in, you should confirm your Balik Manggagawa status within the system.
After confirming your status, you can proceed to apply for an OEC exemption in Australia through the POPS-BaM portal. The online system will guide you through the necessary steps and requirements for obtaining the exemption.
It’s important to note that the specific processes and requirements may change over time, so it’s advisable to consult the official website of the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration or contact the nearest Philippine embassy or consulate in Australia for the most up-to-date information and guidance on obtaining an OEC exemption.
2. How can I book an OEC appointment online?
To book an Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) appointment online, you need to follow these steps:
- Register for a POPS-BaM account: Start by creating an account on the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration’s (POEA) online platform called POPS-BaM (Pre-employment Orientation Seminar-Booking and Appointment Management). You can visit their official website to register and provide the required information.
- Log in to your POPS-BaM account: Once you have successfully registered, log in to your account using your username and password.
- Indicate that you’re returning to a different employer or job site: After logging in, you will be prompted to provide information about your employment status. Specify that you are returning to a different employer or job site. This step is crucial if you’re not returning to the same employer or job site as before.
- Proceed with booking an OEC appointment: Once you have indicated your employment status, you will be directed to the appointment booking section. Select the date and time that is convenient for you and available on the system. Follow the instructions provided to complete the appointment booking process.
- Prepare the required documents: Before your scheduled appointment, make sure you have all the necessary documents for the OEC application. This typically includes your valid passport, valid work visa, employment contract, and other supporting documents required by the POEA.
- Attend the appointment: On the scheduled date and time of your appointment, make sure to be present at the designated location, whether it’s an embassy or a POEA office. Bring all the required documents and any additional documents specified during the appointment booking.
- Pay the necessary fees: During the appointment, you will be required to pay the OEC processing fee. The fee may vary depending on your employment type and destination country. Make sure to inquire about the exact fee and prepare the payment in the accepted currency.
- Complete the process: After paying the necessary fees and submitting the required documents, the POEA will process your OEC application. Once approved, you will be issued an OEC, which serves as proof of your legal employment status overseas.
Remember to double-check the specific requirements and procedures on the official POEA website, as they may be subject to change. It’s always advisable to stay updated with the latest guidelines provided by the relevant authorities.
3. Can I get OEC in Australia without an appointment?
As of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, yes, you can obtain an Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) in Australia without an appointment. The application process involves sending your application via mail to the Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO) in Canberra. However, please note that procedures and requirements may change over time, so it’s advisable to verify the latest information and guidelines from the relevant authorities.
4. Can I get OEC at the airport?
Yes, you can get OEC at the airport, especially if you’re on emergency leave or have confirmed flight booking.
5. How long is OEC valid?
OEC is only valid for 60 days.
6. How much is the OEC fee in Australia?
The OEC processing fee in Australia is $5.
7. Can I get OEC without OWWA membership?
No, since an active OWWA membership is necessary when applying for OEC.
Summary
“Overall, the process of applying for an Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) in Australia differs from other countries, as it requires mailing the necessary requirements to POLO Canberra. However, it offers convenience for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), as they can submit their employment documents at their own convenience based on their available time.
For Balik Manggagawa or workers returning to the same employer and job site, you can still obtain your OEC online in Australia through POPS-BaM.”
Contact Details
POLO-OWWA Canberra, Australia
Operating Hours: 10:00 am-3:00 pm, Monday to Friday
Address: 1 Moonah Place, Yarralumla, ACT 2600, Australia
Telephone Number: +61 262732535 / 36
Email: poloaustralia@philembassy.org.au, cbrpe@philembassy.org.au
Website: https://www.philembassy.org.au/
Facebook Page: https://facebook.com/PHinAustraliaGoogle Map Location
