Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for OEC Certificate in Brunei

Getting your Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) as an Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) in Brunei is an essential step before leaving the Philippines for employment and when returning to your job site. The OEC serves as a pass to leave the country and is proof of legal work abroad.Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for OEC Certificate in Brunei To help you understand the process of obtaining your OEC, here is a step-by-step guide:

  1. Determine your eligibility: Before applying for an OEC, make sure you meet the requirements set by the Philippine government. Generally, you should be a documented OFW with a valid employment contract or work permit.
  2. Contact POLO Brunei: The Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO) in Brunei is responsible for processing OEC applications. Reach out to their office to inquire about the specific requirements and procedures for obtaining your OEC. You can visit their website or contact them through their official channels for assistance.
  3. Prepare the required documents: Typically, you will need the following documents for your OEC application:
    • Valid passport
    • Valid work permit or employment contract
    • Proof of overseas employment (such as a job offer letter or contract)
    • Proof of OWWA (Overseas Workers Welfare Administration) membership
    • Proof of payment for OWWA membership and other required fees

    It’s advisable to have photocopies and original copies of these documents ready for submission.

  4. Complete the application form: POLO Brunei will provide you with an application form for the OEC. Fill out the form accurately and completely. Make sure to double-check all the information before submitting it.
  5. Submit your application: Once you have completed the application form and gathered the necessary documents, submit them to POLO Brunei. Follow their instructions on where and how to submit your application. Pay any required fees at this stage as well.
  6. Attend the required seminars or orientations: As part of the OEC application process, you may be required to attend pre-departure seminars or orientations conducted by POLO Brunei or other relevant agencies. These sessions provide valuable information and guidance for OFWs.
  7. Wait for processing: After submitting your application, POLO Brunei will process your OEC. The processing time may vary, so it’s important to inquire about the estimated timeframe during your application.
  8. Collect your OEC: Once your OEC is processed and approved, you will be notified by POLO Brunei. Visit their office to collect your OEC. Make sure to bring the necessary identification documents for verification purposes.
  9. Keep your OEC safe: Your OEC is an important document that you should keep secure throughout your travel. Present it to immigration officers at the Philippine airport before departure and keep it accessible during your stay abroad.

Remember, the process and requirements for obtaining an OEC may vary over time and depending on the specific circumstances. It’s always recommended to stay updated by contacting POLO Brunei directly or visiting their official website for the most accurate and current information.

Note: This information is based on the knowledge cutoff of September 2021, so it’s essential to verify any changes or updates with the relevant authorities.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for OEC Certificate in Brunei

Requirements

For OFWs in Brunei planning to vacation in the Philippines and returning to their work to fulfill or extend their contract, here are the documentary requirements you should secure as per DMW:

For Household Service Workers and workers returning to the same employer and job site to fulfill or extend their employment contract

It appears that you have provided a list of documents or requirements for a POPS-BaM (Presidential Overseas Pongal Service – Balik Manggagawa) appointment form. These documents are typically required for Filipino overseas workers who are returning to the Philippines for a vacation or to visit their families. Let’s go through each item in the list:

  1. POPS-BaM Appointment form: This is a form that needs to be filled out to schedule an appointment with the POPS-BaM office. It is usually available online or through the Philippine embassy or consulate in the country where you are currently residing.
  2. BM Information Sheet: This is a document that provides personal information about the overseas Filipino worker (OFW), including their employment details, contact information, and the purpose of their visit to the Philippines.
  3. Valid Passport with at least 6-month validity (copy of photo page): You need to have a valid passport with at least six months of validity remaining from the date of your intended departure. A copy of the passport’s photo page is required for documentation purposes.
  4. Valid Employment Pass and re-entry Visa: If you are working in a country that requires an employment pass and a re-entry visa, you need to ensure that these documents are valid and not expired. These documents are usually issued by the country where you are employed.
  5. Valid Work Visa, Work Permit, or any equivalent document: Depending on the country you are working in, you may need to provide a valid work visa, work permit, or any other equivalent document that proves your legal status of employment in that country.
  6. POLO verified Employment Contract: POLO stands for Philippine Overseas Labor Office. This document refers to an employment contract that has been verified and authenticated by the POLO office in the country where you are employed. It serves as proof of your employment terms and conditions.
  7. Photocopy of Confirmed 2-way Airline Ticket or travel agency-issued itinerary: You are required to provide a photocopy of your confirmed round-trip airline ticket or an itinerary issued by a travel agency. This serves as proof of your planned travel dates and arrangements.
  8. Proof of active OWWA membership such as official receipt and certificate of coverage: OWWA (Overseas Workers Welfare Administration) is a Philippine government agency that provides welfare and assistance to OFWs. You need to provide proof of your active OWWA membership, which can be demonstrated through documents such as an official receipt and certificate of coverage.

Please note that the requirements may vary slightly depending on the specific processes and regulations of the POPS-BaM office and the country you are working in. It’s always recommended to consult the official website or contact the appropriate authorities for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding the required documents.

For workers with existing DMW records returning to the same employer but in a different job site

The provided text seems to be a list of documents or requirements related to a “POPS-BaM Appointment form” or a process associated with it. Without further context, it’s difficult to provide specific details about the purpose or significance of these documents. However, based on the information given, here is a breakdown of the items listed:

  1. POPS-BaM Appointment form: This is likely a form or application related to a specific process or procedure. The purpose and requirements of this form may vary depending on the specific context.
  2. BM Information Sheet: This refers to an information sheet or document related to BM (possibly Bureau of Manpower) or a specific organization. The content and purpose of this sheet would provide relevant information about the individual or the process they are involved in.
  3. Valid Passport with at least 6-month validity (copy of photo page): This requirement specifies that the individual should possess a valid passport with at least six months of remaining validity. A copy of the passport’s photo page is likely needed for documentation purposes.
  4. Valid Employment Pass and re-entry Visa: This indicates that the individual should have a valid Employment Pass, which is a document that grants them permission to work in a particular country. Additionally, a re-entry visa may be required if the individual plans to leave and re-enter the country during their employment.
  5. Valid Work Visa, Work Permit, or any equivalent document: This requirement suggests that the individual needs a valid work visa, work permit, or any other relevant document that permits them to work legally in the country.
  6. POLO verified Employment Contract: POLO stands for Philippine Overseas Labor Office, and this requirement implies that the employment contract of the worker needs to be verified by the appropriate authority.
  7. Photocopy of Confirmed 2-way Airline Ticket or travel agency-issued itinerary: This requirement indicates that the individual should provide a photocopy of a confirmed round-trip airline ticket or an itinerary issued by a travel agency. This is likely required as proof of travel arrangements.
  8. Letter from the employer confirming the worker’s transfer of job site: This requirement states that the worker needs a letter from their employer confirming their transfer to a different job site. This letter serves as official documentation of the job site change.

Please note that the interpretation of these requirements is based on the information provided, and the specific context or purpose may alter the meaning or details of these documents. It’s important to consult the relevant authorities or parties involved for accurate and up-to-date information regarding the specific process or procedure you are referring to.

For workers without existing DMW records and those who have changed employers on-site

It seems that you are referring to a list of requirements for a POPS-BaM (Pre-employment Orientation Seminar-Be Protected Online System-Balik Manggagawa) appointment form for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs). These requirements are typically needed for OFWs who are returning to work abroad. Here’s a breakdown of the mentioned requirements:

  1. BM Information Sheet: This is a form that contains personal information about the OFW, such as name, address, contact details, and employment details.
  2. Valid Passport with at least 6-month validity (copy of photo page): The OFW needs to have a valid passport with at least six months of remaining validity. A copy of the passport’s photo page is required.
  3. Valid Employment Pass and re-entry Visa: These documents are typically provided by the employer or the relevant authorities in the host country. They serve as proof of the OFW’s legal employment status and permission to re-enter the country of work.
  4. Valid Work Visa, Work Permit, or any equivalent document: This refers to the official document issued by the host country’s immigration or labor department that allows the OFW to work legally in that country.
  5. POLO verified Employment Contract: The employment contract should be verified by the Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO). POLO is responsible for ensuring the protection of the rights and welfare of Filipino workers overseas.
  6. Photocopy of Confirmed 2-way Airline Ticket or travel agency-issued itinerary: The OFW needs to provide a photocopy of a confirmed round-trip airline ticket or an itinerary issued by a travel agency. This serves as proof of the intended travel dates.
  7. Sworn Statement explaining how the worker obtained employment: The OFW is required to provide a sworn statement explaining how they obtained their employment, which may include details about the recruitment process, job offer, and any relevant agencies or individuals involved.

Regarding the last statement, it states that OFWs with an employment contract not yet verified by POLO Brunei should first request Contract Verification in order to obtain the Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC). The OFW should inquire with POLO Brunei about the specific documentary requirements and fees for Contract Verification.

Please note that this information is based on general knowledge and practices as of my last training update in September 2021. It’s always advisable to consult with the relevant authorities or agencies, such as POLO, for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding requirements and procedures.

Processing Fees

To get your OEC, here are the applicable fees you should pay at POLO Brunei, converted to Brunei dollar based on the foreign exchange rate:

  • OEC processing fee of P100
  • OWWA membership fee of US$25

Qualifications

The Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) serves multiple purposes, such as protecting Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) from exploitation and providing them with government benefits, including travel tax and terminal fees exemption. Additionally, OFWs traveling with their spouses and dependents who possess a valid OEC can avail of reduced travel tax. The Department of Manpower and Welfare (DMW) and the Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO) issue OEC to various qualified workers, including:

  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 DMW’s Government Placement Branch (GBP).
  4. OFWs with existing records in the DMW 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 the DMW database who are returning to the same employer but in a different job site.
  6. OFWs without DMW database records or those who change employers on-site.

However, the DMW has stated that Filipinos with the following statuses are no longer required to apply for an OEC:

  1. Immigrant
  2. Permanent Resident
  3. Dependent/Spouse of Foreign National
  4. Intra-Company Transferee
  5. Vacationing OFWs visiting countries other than their job site
  6. Trainee
  7. US J1 Visa holder/Cultural Exchange Programs
  8. Other non-OFW statuses as evaluated by the DMW.

How to Book an OEC Appointment in POLO Brunei

To register for a POPS-BaM account, follow these steps:

  1. Visit the official website of the POPS-BaM system.
  2. Look for the registration section on the website and click on the “Register” or “Sign Up” button.
  3. Fill out the registration form with the required information. This may include your personal details such as your full name, date of birth, nationality, contact information, and passport details. Make sure to provide accurate information.
  4. Create a username and password for your POPS-BaM account. Choose a strong password that includes a combination of letters, numbers, and special characters to enhance security.
  5. Review the terms and conditions of using the POPS-BaM system and agree to them if you accept.
  6. Complete any additional verification steps, such as solving a CAPTCHA or confirming your email address, if prompted.
  7. Once you have successfully registered, you can log in to your POPS-BaM account using the username and password you created during the registration process.

After registering for a POPS-BaM account, you can proceed with booking an appointment for your OEC (Overseas Employment Certificate) application. Keep in mind that the specific steps for booking an appointment may vary depending on the system or platform used by the Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO) in your location. Be sure to follow the instructions provided by the POLO or check their official website for guidance on how to book an appointment for your OEC application.

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

It seems like you have provided a set of instructions related to accessing and setting up an account on the DMW Online Services Portal/POPS-BaM website. However, please note that I’m an AI language model, and I don’t have direct access to specific websites or the ability to perform actions on them.

To follow the instructions you provided, you would need to visit the DMW Online Services Portal/POPS-BaM website (if it exists) and navigate to the e-Registration section. From there, you would follow the steps outlined, such as accepting the Terms of Use, filling out required fields, registering, and so on.

If you have any specific questions or need assistance with a particular part of the process, feel free to ask, and I’ll do my best to help you based on my training knowledge.

How to Book an OEC Appointment in POPS-BaM

Once you’ve registered a POPS-BaM account, it’s important to ensure that your employment details are correct and updated to prevent any delays during OEC (Overseas Employment Certificate) processing. If you have an old BM (Balik Manggagawa) account, you should transfer your records to POPS-BaM by following these steps:

  1. Visit the DMW (Department of Manpower and Welfare) Online Services Portal, which can be accessed through the POPS-BaM website.
  2. Look for the DMW Helpdesk section on the portal and click on “Transfer old BM record.”
  3. Allow up to 8 hours for the system to match your records and proceed with the transfer.

After transferring your records, you can book an OEC appointment by following these steps:

  1. Visit the DMW Online Services Portal or the POPS-BaM website.
  2. In the e-Registration section, click on “Let’s Go” and log in using your account credentials.
  3. On the dashboard, locate the “Balik Manggagawa” section under “My Links” and 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 or you’re not returning to the same employer and job site, answer “NO” to the relevant questions in order to proceed with the booking.
  7. Update the details on your contract, ensuring that they are accurate and up to date, and then click on “Submit.”
  8. Choose a Processing Site from the available options and click on “Next.”
  9. Once you have completed the above steps, take a screenshot or print your confirmed POPS-BaM appointment form for reference and future use.

Remember to keep your appointment form safe and bring it with you when processing your OEC.

How to Apply for OEC in POLO Brunei

If you are returning to a different employer and job site, have changed employers, or don’t have existing records in the DMW workers database, you will need to visit the POEA or POLO to obtain an OEC (Overseas Employment Certificate). However, please note that POLO Brunei will not issue the OEC to OFWs (Overseas Filipino Workers) who do not have verified Employment Contracts, existing DMW records, and who arrived in Brunei with only a tourist or visit visa and subsequently obtained a work visa.

Instead, these workers should first request a Contract Verification from POLO Brunei and apply for the OEC at any DMW office in the Philippines. Additionally, OFWs in Brunei can obtain their OEC by participating in Consular Outreach Missions conducted by the Embassy and POLO. For the schedule of these missions, please refer to the official Facebook page of the Philippine Embassy in Brunei. To apply for an OEC at POLO Brunei, please follow the steps below:

  1. Visit POLO Brunei on your scheduled appointment date.
  2. Approach the receptionist and obtain the necessary forms to fill out.
  3. Submit the required documents for evaluation.
  4. Pay the applicable fees.
  5. Wait for the issuance of your OEC and other related documents.

How to Get OEC Online in Brunei

To obtain an OEC exemption and apply for an OEC online in Brunei, please follow these steps:

  1. Visit the DMW Online Services Portal/POPS-BaM website. You can access the website by typing its URL in your web browser.
  2. On the e-Registration section of the website, click on the “Let’s Go” button and log in using your account credentials. If you don’t have an account yet, you may need to create one.
  3. If any of your account details are incomplete, provide the missing information to continue with the registration process.
  4. Input your Flight Date, which refers to the date of your planned return flight, and click “Next” to proceed.
  5. You will be asked a series of questions. Confirm that you are a Balik Manggagawa or a worker returning to the same employer and job site by selecting “Yes” to these questions.
  6. Once you have completed the necessary steps, you will be able to print your OEC online. It is important to note that you should only request your OEC within 60 days of your return flight date.

By following these steps, you can obtain an OEC exemption and acquire your OEC online without having to pay any processing fees.

What is OEC/Overseas Employment Certification?

For more details on OEC,

The “OEC” refers to the Overseas Employment Certificate, which is indeed a necessary document for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) leaving the country. The OEC serves as a verification that an individual is a legal worker abroad and has been cleared by the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA). It is an essential requirement for OFWs to ensure compliance with labor and immigration regulations.

The OEC processing fee is relatively affordable, costing only P100. Despite its low cost, it provides several benefits to OFWs. Some of the advantages of having a valid OEC include:

  1. Exemption from travel tax and terminal fee: OFWs with a valid OEC are exempted from paying travel tax and terminal fees when departing from the Philippines. This exemption helps alleviate the financial burden on OFWs and enables them to allocate their hard-earned money for other important purposes.
  2. Faster processing at the airport: Holding a valid OEC allows OFWs to have expedited processing at the airport. This means they can skip long queues and go through a streamlined procedure, saving them time and reducing the stress of travel preparations.
  3. Access to government services and benefits: The OEC serves as proof of overseas employment and facilitates access to various government services and benefits specifically designed for OFWs. These services may include social security, healthcare, and other forms of support provided by the Philippine government to protect the welfare of its overseas workers.

By keeping a valid OEC and taking advantage of its benefits, OFWs can enjoy a smoother travel experience, save money on travel fees, and access important government services and support systems. It is crucial for OFWs to prioritize obtaining and renewing their OEC to ensure a legal and well-protected employment abroad.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

1. How can I get an OEC exemption in Brunei?

You can get an OEC exemption in Brunei through a POPS-BaM account, but you should be a Balik Manggagawa or a worker returning to the same employer and job site.

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 Brunei without an appointment?

An appointment is necessary to get OEC in POLO Brunei.

4. Can I get OEC at the airport?

You can get OEC at the airport given that you’re on emergency leave or have confirmed flight booking.

5. How long is OEC valid?

OEC is valid for 60 days.

6. How much is the OEC fee in Brunei?

The OEC fee in Brunei is P100, converted to Brunei dollar.

7. Can I get OEC without OWWA membership?

An active OWWA membership is essential for OEC issuance.

Summary

In summary, the Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) serves as a crucial mechanism for the government to guarantee the safety of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) and offer them support and advantages. Additionally, Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for OEC Certificate in BruneiOFWs who are returning to the Philippines are exempt from paying the OEC processing fees and can avail themselves of travel tax and terminal fee exemptions. Therefore, it is advisable for OFWs in Brunei to obtain their OEC prior to their departure for their designated work location.

Contact Details

POLO-OWWA Brunei
Operating Hours: 8:00 am-12:00pm, 1pm-5pm, Mondays to Fridays
Address: Diplomatic Enclave, Jalan Kebangsaan, Simpang 336-17, Bandar Seri Begawan BA2312, Brunei
Telephone Numbers: 2241465, 2241466
Direct Line: 2237052 (Labor), 2225526 (OWWA), 2221173 (SSS)
Labor Hotline: +673-729-1316
OWWA Hotline: +673-729-1315
Website: https://bruneipe.dfa.gov.ph/
Facebook Page: https://facebook.com/PHinBrunei/