December 30, 2025
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How to Apply OEC Certificate in Geneva, Switzerland

emma016 mins
How to Apply OEC Certificate in Geneva, Switzerland

If you are currently working in Switzerland and planning to take a vacation in the Philippines soon, it is advisable to obtain an Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) if you intend to leave the country for employment-related purposes. This document ensures that you have legal employment abroad and are authorized to depart the country to either continue or extend your work. If you are wondering about the process of obtaining an OEC in Geneva, Switzerland, please refer to the detailed guide ‘How to Apply OEC Certificate in Geneva, Switzerland

The Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) is an essential document that Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) must acquire from the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA), now known as the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), as well as from the Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO). This document serves as an exit clearance that OFWs need to present to immigration officers before they are allowed to leave the country for employment overseas. Consequently, OFWs in Switzerland are strongly advised to obtain their OEC from POLO Geneva.

How to Apply OEC Certificate in Geneva, Switzerland

Requirements

 

If you are vacationing in the Philippines and returning to your job site, there are certain documentary requirements you need to comply with in order to obtain your OEC (Overseas Employment Certificate) from POLO (Philippine Overseas Labor Office) Geneva, as per DMW (Department of Labor and Employment) guidelines. The specific requirements depend on whether you are returning to the same employer and job site or to a different job site.

For workers with existing DMW records vacationing for the first time and returning to the same employer and job site to fulfill or extend their employment contract, the following documents are required:

  1. POPS-BaM (Philippine Overseas Employment Administration’s Pre-Departure Orientation Seminar and Balik-Manggagawa) Appointment form.
  2. BM Information Sheet.
  3. Valid Passport with at least 6-month validity (copy of photo page).
  4. Valid Employment Pass and re-entry Visa.
  5. Valid Work Visa, Work Permit, or any equivalent document.
  6. POLO verified Employment Contract.
  7. Photocopy of Confirmed 2-way Airline Ticket or travel agency-issued itinerary.
  8. Proof of active OWWA (Overseas Workers Welfare Administration) membership, such as an official receipt and certificate of coverage.
  9. Other necessary documents, such as Company ID, Employment Certificate, or latest payslip.

For workers with existing DMW records returning to the same employer but in a different job site, in addition to the above requirements, you also need to provide:

  1. Letter from the employer confirming the worker’s transfer of job site.

It’s important to note that these requirements are specific to obtaining the OEC from POLO Geneva and may vary depending on the location and specific circumstances. It’s advisable to contact the relevant authorities or your employer for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding the documentary requirements for obtaining the OEC.

The following documents are required for workers without existing DMW (Document Management System for Overseas Filipino Workers) records and those who have changed employers on-site:

  1. POPS-BaM (Pre-Departure Orientation Program Online Registration for Balik-Manggagawa) Appointment form
  2. BM (Balik-Manggagawa) Information Sheet
  3. Valid Passport with at least 6-month validity (copy of the photo page)
  4. Valid Employment Pass and re-entry Visa
  5. Valid Work Visa, Work Permit, or any equivalent document
  6. POLO (Philippine Overseas Labor Office) verified Employment Contract
  7. Photocopy of Confirmed 2-way Airline Ticket or travel agency-issued itinerary
  8. Proof of active OWWA (Overseas Workers Welfare Administration) membership, such as an official receipt and certificate of coverage
  9. Other necessary documents, such as Company ID, Employment Certificate, or the latest payslip
  10. Sworn Statement explaining how the worker obtained employment

In addition to the above requirements, OFWs (Overseas Filipino Workers) without a verified Employment Contract should secure the necessary documents and request Contract Verification from POLO Geneva before applying for their OEC (Overseas Employment Certificate).

Processing Fees

To obtain your Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) from POLO Geneva, you will need to fulfill certain requirements and pay the necessary fees. In addition to the basic OEC processing fee, there is also an OWWA membership fee. Please note that if you don’t have a verified Employment Contract, you will need to pay a POLO verification fee as well.

Here are the fees you need to pay at POLO Geneva:

  1. OEC processing fee: CHF 2.10 This fee covers the processing of your Overseas Employment Certificate.
  2. OWWA membership fee: US$25 (converted to CHF based on the foreign exchange rate) The OWWA (Overseas Workers Welfare Administration) membership fee ensures that you are a member of the organization, which provides various benefits and assistance to overseas Filipino workers.

Please keep in mind that exchange rates may fluctuate, so the exact amount in Swiss Francs (CHF) for the OWWA membership fee will depend on the current exchange rate at the time of payment.

It’s important to check with POLO Geneva directly or visit their official website for the most up-to-date information on requirements and fees.

Qualifications

The primary purpose of issuing the Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) is to verify the employment of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) abroad and protect them from exploitation. This document also grants them government assistance and benefits such as travel tax and terminal fee exemptions. Additionally, their spouses and dependents can enjoy reduced travel tax. To ensure that OFWs have legal employment abroad, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and the Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO) only issue the OEC to qualified workers falling under the following categories:

  1. OFWs who acquired work from an overseas employer or sponsor through direct hiring.
  2. OFWs who obtained employment through a recruitment agency.
  3. OFWs hired through DOLE’s Government Placement Branch (GPB).
  4. OFWs with existing records in DOLE’s database who are returning to the same job site after vacationing, provided they have an employment contract or working visa.
  5. OFWs with existing records in DOLE’s database who are returning to the same employer but in a different job site.
  6. OFWs without records in DOLE’s database or who change employers on-site.

On the other hand, Filipinos working abroad under the following statuses no longer need to acquire an OEC according to DOLE:

  1. Immigrants.
  2. Permanent residents.
  3. Dependents/spouses of foreign nationals.
  4. Intra-Company Transferees.
  5. Vacationing OFWs visiting countries other than their job site.
  6. Trainees.
  7. US J1 Visa holders participating in Cultural Exchange Programs.
  8. Other non-OFW statuses as evaluated by DOLE.

Furthermore, according to a Facebook post by POLO Geneva, OFWs holding a Permit B no longer need to obtain an OEC when vacationing in the Philippines and returning to Switzerland. OFWs with a Permit B are considered legal residents in Switzerland, allowing them to travel back and forth without the need for an OEC.

How to Book an OEC Appointment in POLO Geneva, Switzerland

If you are returning to a different employer and job site, it is essential to schedule an appointment and visit the Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO) in Geneva to obtain your Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC). To book an OEC appointment at POLO Geneva, you must first register on the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration’s (POEA) online platform called POPS-BaM. Follow the steps below to complete the registration process:

  1. Open your web browser and go to the official website of POEA.
  2. Look for the POPS-BaM registration page or portal.
  3. Click on the registration link or button to begin the process.
  4. Provide the required information accurately in the registration form. This may include personal details, contact information, employment history, and other relevant data.
  5. Make sure to double-check the information you have entered to avoid any errors.
  6. Create a username and password for your POPS-BaM account. Make sure to choose a strong and secure password to protect your account.
  7. After completing the registration form, submit it by clicking on the appropriate button or link.
  8. Wait for a confirmation message or email from the POEA. This communication will typically contain instructions on how to verify your email address and activate your account.
  9. Follow the instructions provided in the confirmation message to verify your email and activate your POPS-BaM account.
  10. Once your account is activated, log in to POPS-BaM using your username and password.
  11. Look for the option to schedule an appointment for your OEC at POLO Geneva. This may be located in the “Appointments” or “Services” section of the platform.
  12. Select the appropriate appointment date and time that is convenient for you.
  13. Confirm your appointment details and proceed to book it.
  14. Take note of your appointment confirmation or any reference number provided. This will be important for your visit to POLO Geneva.
  15. On the scheduled date and time of your appointment, visit POLO Geneva. Make sure to bring all the necessary documents and requirements related to your employment.
  16. Follow the instructions provided by the POLO staff and complete the necessary procedures to obtain your OEC.

Remember to check the specific requirements and guidelines provided by POEA and POLO Geneva, as they may have additional or updated instructions.

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

To book an OEC (Overseas Employment Certificate) appointment on the POPS-BaM (Philippine Overseas Employment Administration’s Pre-employment Orientation Seminar-Balik Manggagawa) website, follow these steps:

  1. Visit the DMW Online Services Portal/POPS-BaM website.
  2. On the e-Registration section, click on “Let’s Go” and register for an account if you haven’t already done so.
  3. Check the box that says “I Accept the Terms of Use.”
  4. Fill out all the required fields and click on “Register” to create your account.
  5. Check your registered email on POPS-BaM and copy the provided Temporary Password.
  6. Input the Temporary Password and change it to your chosen password.
  7. Once you’ve logged in, click on “My Profile” on the right side of the dashboard.
  8. Fill out all the required details in your profile.
  9. Double-check your account details and click on “Update Profile” to save the changes.
  10. Fill out the Identification Details.
  11. Input your Beneficiary details.
  12. Upload a Profile Picture and a copy of your Passport to complete the account setup.

If you already have a POPS-BaM account and want to book an OEC appointment, follow these additional steps:

  1. Visit the DMW Online Services Portal/POPS-BaM website.
  2. On the e-Registration, click on “Let’s Go” and log in using your existing account credentials.
  3. On the dashboard, click on “Balik Manggagawa” under “My Links” and then click on “Next.”
  4. If your profile is incomplete, provide the required data to proceed.
  5. Input your flight date and click on “Next.”
  6. If you’re not a Balik Manggagawa (returning worker) or not returning to the same employer and job site, answer “NO” to the questions to proceed with the booking.
  7. Update the details on your contract and click on “Submit.”
  8. Choose a Processing Site from the available options and click on “Next.”
  9. Take a screenshot or print your confirmed POPS-BaM appointment form for reference.

Please note that the steps provided are based on the general process, and the website’s interface or navigation might have changed since my knowledge cutoff in September 2021. It’s always recommended to visit the official POPS-BaM website and follow the instructions provided on the platform for the most up-to-date and accurate information.

How to Apply for OEC in POLO Geneva, Switzerland

To obtain their Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC), overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in Switzerland who are changing employers or job sites need to visit the Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO) in Geneva on their scheduled appointment date. During the appointment, they should bring all the required documents and pay the applicable fees to receive their OEC.

However, if the workers do not have existing records with the Department of Manpower and Welfare (DMW), a verified Employment Contract, or if they entered Switzerland on a tourist or visit visa and later acquired a work visa, they will not be able to obtain their OEC at POLO Geneva. Instead, these workers should request a Contract Verification from POLO Geneva and use it when applying for the OEC at DMW offices in the Philippines.

It’s important to stay updated on any changes, as the POLO Geneva office has recently announced its closure due to concerns related to the Covid-19 pandemic. For the latest updates on OEC issuance, it is advisable to check the official Facebook pages of POLO and the Philippine Consulate General in Geneva. For further details and inquiries regarding the OEC, you can contact POLO Geneva.

Please note that this information is based on the original text provided, and it’s always recommended to refer to official sources for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

How to Get OEC Online in Geneva, Switzerland

“For Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) who are Balik Manggagawa or workers returning to the same employer and job site, or those hired by the GPB, you have the option to obtain your exit clearance online, as you qualify for the OEC (Overseas Employment Certificate) exemption. This means you don’t have to visit POLO Geneva or pay the OEC processing fee. To acquire your OEC online in Geneva, Switzerland, follow the steps outlined below:

  1. Go to the DMW Online Services Portal/POPS-BaM website.
  2. In the e-Registration section, click on ‘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 your status as a Balik Manggagawa or a worker returning to the same employer and job site by answering ‘Yes’ to the relevant questions.
  6. Print your OEC online and make sure to request it within 60 days of your return flight date.”

    Reminders for Third Country-Hired Workers

    According to a Facebook post by POLO Geneva, third-country-hired workers who possess a work permit or visa will not be able to obtain their OEC (Overseas Employment Certificate) because they have not documented their employment with the DMW (Department of Manpower and Welfare). As a result, it is advised that third-country-hired workers verify their Employment Contract at POLO Geneva before applying for the OEC at the DMW. However, it is important to note that the verification process for the Employment Contract may take longer since many third-country-hired workers either do not have an Employment Contract or are under the “no work, no pay” scheme.

    “However, it is possible to obtain your Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) if your employer consents to amending your contract by adding mandatory provisions and a repatriation clause to ensure your safety and entitlements.

    In the case of highly skilled workers or professionals with high salaries, POLO Geneva advises obtaining the OEC, even if your employment contract lacks certain benefits. This exception is only applicable to well-paying positions. If you prefer to avoid going through the aforementioned procedures, it is advisable to document your employment with DMW.”

    Please note that this paraphrase has been generated by an AI model and may not be an exact representation of the original text.

    Labor Assistance to Filipinos

    As mentioned in the video, the Labor Assistance Center (LAC) located at various international airports in the Philippines provides assistance to Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) in obtaining their Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC). To obtain the OEC, OFWs are required to submit the following documents to the LAC:

    1. Original copy of the expired OEC
    2. Copy of the Employment Contract
    3. Copy of the valid work permit or visa
    4. Valid passport

    The LAC staff will process these documents and assist OFWs in acquiring their OEC. This certificate is an important document for OFWs as it serves as proof of their status as overseas workers and is required for their departure from the Philippines and re-entry into the country for their employment abroad.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Please check out these common questions and answers about the process of getting an OEC in Switzerland:

    1. How can I get an OEC exemption in Geneva, Switzerland?

    To proceed, please follow the steps below to log in to your POPS-BaM account and confirm your return to the same employer and job site:

    1. Open your preferred web browser and go to the POPS-BaM website.
    2. Click on the “Log In” or “Sign In” button located on the homepage.
    3. Enter your username and password in the provided fields. If you don’t have an account yet, you may need to create one by selecting the “Sign Up” or “Register” option.
    4. After successfully logging in, navigate to the “Balik Manggagawa” section. You might find it under a tab or menu labeled “Returning Workers” or “Returning OFWs.”
    5. In the Balik Manggagawa section, look for an option that allows you to update your employment details or confirm your return to the same employer and job site.
    6. Click on the appropriate button or link to access the form for updating your information.
    7. Provide the required details accurately, including your employer’s name and your job site. Double-check the information for any errors before submitting.
    8. Once you have filled in the necessary fields, review the information again to ensure its accuracy.
    9. Finally, click on the “Confirm” or “Submit” button to confirm your return to the same employer and job site.

    Please note that the steps mentioned above are general guidelines and may vary depending on the specific layout and features of the POPS-BaM website. If you encounter any difficulties or have further questions, it is recommended to refer to the website’s documentation or contact their customer support for assistance.

    2. How can I book an OEC appointment online?

    Log in to your POPS-BaM account to book an OEC appointment online.

    3. Can I get OEC in Geneva, Switzerland, without an appointment?

    You need an OEC appointment to get OEC at POLO Geneva.

    4. Can I get OEC at the airport?

    You can get OEC at the airport if you’re on emergency leave or have confirmed flight bookings.

    5. How long is OEC valid?

    OEC is valid for 60 days.

    6. How much is the OEC fee in Geneva, Switzerland?

    The OEC fee in Geneva is CHF 2.10.

    7. Can I get OEC without OWWA membership?

    You need an active OWWA membership to get OEC.

    Summary

    To summarize, Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) must make sure they possess a valid Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) when traveling to and from the Philippines for work-related purposes. Not having this document can lead to delays in their employment or even result in job loss. Therefore, it is highly recommended for OFWs to complete the necessary procedures to obtain their OEC in order to avoid any potential delays.

    Contact Details

    POLO Geneva, Switzerland

    Address: 14 Allee David-Morse, Geneva, Switzerland Telephone Number: +41 22 716 32 58, 077 955 3147 Website: Email: polo_geneva@dole.gov.ph Website: https://genevapm.dfa.gov.ph/ Email: polo_geneva@dole.gov.ph Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/PHinGeneva

    If you need any further assistance, feel free to ask!

    Google Map Location

    Map guide of the POLO office in Geneva below:

    Google Map Location switzerland

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