How to Apply OEC Certificate in Calgary, Canada

As stated in the PCG Calgary Facebook post and the POEA Memorandum Circular, the following requirements are needed for the issuance of Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) at POLO Vancouver. Please note that two copies of each document should be submitted:

For workers with existing POEA records who are renewing their previous employment contracts or returning to the same employer:

1. Valid passport – Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay abroad.
2. Valid work permit – Ensure that your work permit is still valid and allows you to work for the specific employer.
3. Employment contract – Provide a copy of your renewed employment contract or the contract for your return to the same employer.
4. OWWA Membership Verification – Obtain a valid OWWA membership verification indicating that your membership is active.
5. Proof of Financial Capacity – Submit proof of your financial capacity, such as bank statements or remittances, to demonstrate that you can support yourself while abroad.
6. POEA E-Registration – Complete the POEA E-Registration process and bring the printed copy of your E-Registration confirmation.
7. Certificate of Attendance in Pre-Departure Orientation Seminar (PDOS) – Attend the PDOS and secure a certificate of attendance.

Remember to prepare two copies of each document mentioned above before submitting them to POLO Vancouver for OEC issuance.

employer and job site

• Valid Philippine Passport
• Valid Re-Entry VISA
• Valid Work Permit
• POLO Toronto verified Employment Contract and Addendum with the employer’s signature on all pages
• POPS-BaM Appointment form
• Letter of Guarantee from the Employer

For workers with existing POEA records returning to the same employer but in a different country

• Valid Philippine Passport
• Valid Re-Entry VISA
• Valid Work Permit
• POLO Toronto verified Employment Contract and Addendum with the employer’s signature on all pages
• POPS-BaM Appointment form
• Letter of Guarantee from the employer
• Letter of Confirmation from the employer confirming the worker’s transfer of job site

For workers without existing POEA records and those who have changed employers in Canada

• Valid Philippine Passport
• Valid Re-Entry VISA
• Valid Work Permit
• POLO Toronto verified Employment Contract and Addendum with the employer’s signature on all pages
• POPS-BaM Appointment form
• Letter of Guarantee from the Employer
• Valid ID of the employer with photo
• Proof of Employment such as Certificate of Employment or pay slip for 3-years
• Sworn Statement of the worker, stating the process of employment

  The mentioned requirements are applicable to overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) who do not have records with the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) or have changed employers. These requirements also apply to OFWs who are hired or recruited from Third Countries, including Abu Dhabi, China, Dubai, Greece, Hong Kong, Japan, Kuwait, New Zealand, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, and Taiwan.

  Furthermore, this requirement is also applicable to workers whose Employment Contract has not been verified by the Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO) in Vancouver. When submitting the necessary documents for the Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) through mail, workers should include a Prepaid Return Envelope.

  Please note that the provided information is based on the current knowledge up until September 2021. It is advisable to consult the relevant authorities or agencies for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding specific requirements and processes.

  Additional Documents

  To facilitate the verification process for employment contracts of workers without an existing record on the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration’s (POEA) database, it is advised to request verification of the employment contract from the Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO) in Vancouver before applying for an Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC). The additional documents required for employment contract verification, specifically for direct hires, are as follows:

  1. Employment Contract: Provide a copy of the employment contract written in the English language. This contract should contain all the necessary details such as job description, salary, benefits, working hours, and duration of employment.

  It is essential to ensure that the employment contract meets the requirements set by the POEA and follows the regulations and labor laws of both the host country and the Philippines. The contract should protect the rights and welfare of the worker, clearly defining the terms and conditions of employment.

  Submitting the employment contract in English helps expedite the verification process by facilitating understanding and review by the concerned authorities.

  [Your Name] [Your Position] [Company Name] [Company Address] [City, State, ZIP Code] [Date]

  POLO Labor Attaché [Embassy/Consulate Address] [City, State, ZIP Code]

  Subject: Request for Verification and Authentication of Employment Documents

  Dear Labor Attaché,

  I hope this letter finds you in good health. I am writing on behalf of [Company Name], a reputable [industry/sector] company registered and operating in [country]. We would like to request your assistance in verifying and authenticating the following employment documents of our worker, [Worker’s Name]:

  1. Employment Contract/Offer
  2. Addendum to the Employment Contract/Offer
  3. Worker’s Passport (with signature)
  4. Copy of Visa or Work Permit
  5. Valid ID of Employer or Authorized Representative (with photo and signature)
  6. Company Resolution
  7. Letter of Undertaking
  8. Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) (if applicable)
  9. Copy of Employer’s Business License
  10. Employer’s Company Business Profile
  11. Employer’s Registration by MOL (for BC employers) (if applicable)
  12. Employer’s Registration by Ministry of Economy (for SK employers) (if applicable)

  We have attached the aforementioned documents to this letter for your reference and verification. Please let us know if there are any additional requirements or procedures that need to be followed.

  It is our utmost priority to ensure compliance with all labor regulations and procedures, both in our home country and abroad. We value the partnership and cooperation between [Company Name] and the Philippine Overseas Labor Office, and we look forward to your guidance and support throughout this process.

  Should you require any further information or if there are any fees associated with the verification and authentication process, please do not hesitate to contact us at [Contact Information]. We will be readily available to provide any assistance you may need.

  Thank you for your attention to this matter. We appreciate your prompt response and cooperation. We trust in the efficiency and professionalism of the POLO Labor Attaché’s office and are confident that our worker’s documents will be processed smoothly.

  Yours sincerely,

  [Your Name] [Your Position] [Company Name] [Contact Information]

  For Agency Hired

  • Letter Request to POLO Vancouver Labor Attaché with company letterhead
  • Manpower Request/Job Order
  • Employment Contract/Offer
  • Addendum
  • Worker’s Passport with signature
  • Workers Visa copy
  • Recruitment Agreement
  • Hiring Agreement
  • Valid ID of Employer or Authorized Representative with photo and signature
  • Company Resolution
  • Letter of Undertaking
  • Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA)
  • Copy of Employers Business License
  • Employers Company Business Profile
  • Employer’s Registration by MOL (for BC employers)
  • Employer’s Registration by Ministry of Economy (for SK employers)
  • Third-Party Representative License

  Processing Fees

  The following are the applicable fees OFWs in Calgary should pay for OEC issuance at POLO Vancouver, including:

  • OEC processing fee of $2.75
  • OWWA membership fee of $32.00
  • POLO verification fee of $11.50
  • PCG Vancouver Authentication fee of  $33.75

  Qualifications

  “Before booking an appointment and fulfilling the requirements mentioned above, it is important to understand that only eligible workers can apply for an Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC). This certificate provides protection, assistance, and benefits from the government, such as exemptions from travel tax and terminal fees. Furthermore, OFWs who possess an OEC can avail reduced travel tax for their spouses and dependents. The Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) and the Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO) only issue the exit clearance to qualified workers falling under the following categories:

  1. OFWs who have obtained employment directly from an overseas employer or sponsor through direct hiring.
  2. OFWs who have been hired through a recruitment agency.
  3. OFWs who have been hired through the Government Placement Branch (GBP) of POEA.
  4. OFWs who have existing records in the POEA database and are returning to the same job site after a vacation, holding an employment contract or working visa.
  5. OFWs who have existing records in the POEA database and are returning to the same employer but in a different job site.
  6. OFWs who do not have records in the POEA database or who change employers while already overseas.

  It is crucial to note that the above-mentioned qualifications are necessary to be considered for an OEC. By meeting these requirements, qualified OFWs can enjoy the benefits and privileges associated with the certificate.”

  How to Book an OEC Appointment in Calgary, Canada

  Here are the instructions for registering on POPS-BaM (for new users) and booking an OEC appointment in Calgary via POLO Vancouver:

  How to Register on POPS-BaM (For New Users):

  1. Visit the POEA Online Services Portal/POPS-BaM website.
  2. Under the e-Registration section, click on “Let’s Go and Register.”
  3. Read and accept the Terms of Use.
  4. Fill out the required fields and click “Register.”
  5. Check your email that you used for registration on POPS-BaM and copy the sent Temporary Password.
  6. Enter the Temporary Password and change it to your preferred password.
  7. On the right side of your dashboard, click on “My Profile.”
  8. Fill out the required details.
  9. Double-check your account details and click “Update Profile.”
  10. Fill out the Identification Details.
  11. Input your Beneficiary details.
  12. Upload a Profile Picture and a copy of your Passport to finish the account setup.

  How to Book an OEC Appointment in POPS-BaM:

  1. After registering a POPS-BaM account, make sure your profile has complete and accurate details before booking an OEC appointment with the POLO Vancouver office.
  2. If you have an old BM account, you can transfer your records to the POPS-BaM system. Look for the POEA Helpdesk section on POPS-BaM and click “Transfer Old BM records.” Once your account is successfully updated, follow the steps below.
  3. Visit the POEA Online Services Portal/POPS-BaM website.
  4. Click on “Let’s Go and log in” in the e-Registration section.
  5. On the dashboard, look for “My Links” and click on “Balik Manggagawa” and then “Next.”
  6. If you have an incomplete account, provide the required data to continue.
  7. Input your Flight Date and click “Next.”
  8. If you are not a Balik Manggagawa or not returning to the same employer and job site, answer “No” to the questions to continue booking.
  9. Update the necessary details on your contract and click “Submit.”
  10. Choose a Processing Site and click “Next.”
  11. Take a screenshot or print your confirmed appointment schedule.

  Please note that the instructions provided are based on the information you provided, and it’s always a good idea to verify the process with the relevant authorities or check the latest instructions from the POEA website.

  How to Apply for OEC in Calgary, Canada

  “While there is a PCG office located in Calgary, OFWs (Overseas Filipino Workers) in that area should apply for their OEC (Overseas Employment Certificate) at POLO Vancouver. It is important to note that workers should obtain their OEC on-site if they are returning to a different employer and job site.

  However, this process does not apply to workers who do not have an existing record in POEA’s (Philippine Overseas Employment Administration) database or cannot present a POLO-verified Employment Contract. This also applies to workers who initially came to Canada with a tourist or visit visa and later obtained a work visa.

  Instead, these workers should first request the verification of their Employment Contract at POLO Vancouver and then apply for the OEC at POEA offices in the Philippines. To apply for the OEC at POLO Vancouver, follow the steps provided below:

  1. Visit the POLO Vancouver office on the date of your appointment.
  2. Proceed to the reception area and obtain an OFW Information Sheet.
  3. Complete the OFW Information Sheet with the required details.
  4. Submit the duly-accomplished OFW Information Sheet along with your supporting documents.
  5. Pay the applicable fees.
  6. Wait for the release of your OEC and other necessary documents.

  Additionally, it is worth noting that PCG Calgary and POLO-OWWA (Philippine Overseas Labor Office-Overseas Workers Welfare Administration) conduct Consular Outreach Missions periodically. It is advisable to check their website and Facebook page for the schedule, as this can facilitate the OEC application process.

  How to Get OEC Online in Calgary, Canada

  For Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) in Calgary, Canada, who are Balik Manggagawa or workers returning to the same employer and those employed by GBP, it is recommended to obtain your Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) online. These workers are eligible for OEC exemption, which means they do not need to apply in person at POLO Vancouver and are not required to pay the OEC processing fee. To obtain your OEC online, please follow the steps below:

  1. Visit the POEA Online Services Portal/POPS-BaM website.
  2. In the e-Registration section, click “Let’s Go” and log in.
  3. If your account details are incomplete, provide the missing information to proceed.
  4. Enter your Flight Date and click “Next”.
  5. Confirm that you are a Balik Manggagawa or a worker returning to the same employer and job site by selecting “Yes” when prompted.
  6. Print your OEC online. Remember to request your OEC within 60 days of your return flight date.

  Please note that the information provided here is based on the available knowledge up to September 2021. It is always advisable to consult the relevant authorities or official websites for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding OEC requirements and procedures.

  Offloaded at NAIA TERMINAL 1 | Hinahanapan ako ng OEC (Overseas Employment Certificate) | SINP

  As mentioned in the video, the speaker encountered an offloading incident at the airport in the Philippines because they did not have the Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC). It is also possible that workers going to Canada may require an LMIA exempt letter. Therefore, it is essential to verify the requirements with immigration, the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA), and the Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO) to avoid being offloaded at the airport.

  Frequently Asked Questions

  Here are some questions and answers about the overseas employment certificate process in Calgary:

  1. How can I get an OEC exemption in Calgary, Canada?

  You can get an OEC exemption at POPS-BaM, and you should be a Balik Manggagawa.

  2. How can I book an OEC appointment online?

  You can book an OEC appointment online by logging in to your POPS-BaM account.

  3. Can I get OEC in Calgary, Canada, without an appointment?

  It is necessary to book an appointment for OEC issuance.

  4. Can I get OEC at the airport?

  You can get OEC at the airport if on emergency leave or have a confirmed flight date.

  5. How long is OEC valid?

  OEC is valid for 60 days.

  6. How much is the OEC fee in Calgary, Canada?

  The OEC fee in Calgary, Canada, is $2.75.

  7. Can I get OEC without OWWA membership?

  You need an active OWWA membership for OEC issuance.

  Summary

  “In summary, Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) in Calgary should adhere to the procedure of applying for an Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) at the Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO) in Vancouver. However, workers who qualify for OEC exemption can conveniently obtain their OEC online.

  It is important to note that the OEC is valid for a period of 60 days. Therefore, workers should be mindful of the date when requesting the document and ensure that the OEC’s validity encompasses their return flight date.

  Please note that the information provided is accurate as of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021. It is always advisable to consult the relevant authorities or visit official websites for the most up-to-date procedures and requirements.”

  Contact Details

  PCG Calgary
  Address: 1001 1st ST SE Suite 100 Calgary AB T2G 5G3
  Telephone Number: (+1) 403-455-9457
  Emergency Hotline Number: (+1) 587-577-1524
  Email: calgarypcg@polo-owwa
  Website: https://philcongencalgary.org/
  Facebook Page: https://facebook.com/PHinCalgary

  POLO Vancouver
  Operating Hours: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm, Monday to Friday
  Address: World Trade Center Office Complex, Suite 601, 999 Canada Place,
  Vancouver, BC V6C 3E1
  Telephone Number: (+1) 604-641-1234
  Emergency Hotline Number: (+1) 604-767-3354
  Email: polo.vancouver@yahoo.ca
  Website: https://vancouverpcg.dfa.gov.ph/
  Facebook Page: https://facebook.com/POLOinVancouver/