December 29, 2025
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How to Apply OEC Certificate in Taipei, Taiwan

emma014 mins
How to Apply OEC Certificate in Taipei, Taiwan

The Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) is an important document for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) in Taipei who are planning to return to the Philippines for vacation or due to emergency reasons, and then return to Taiwan to fulfill or extend their employment contract.How to Apply OEC Certificate in Taipei, Taiwan The OEC serves to verify the legality of their employment overseas. To ensure a smooth travel experience, it is necessary for OFWs to secure their OEC before their flight back to their job site. Here’s an overview of the process to get an OEC in Taipei, Taiwan:

  1. Contact the Manila Economic and Cultural Office (MECO): In Taipei, the MECO is responsible for issuing the OEC instead of the Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO). Get in touch with the MECO to inquire about the specific requirements and procedures for obtaining the OEC. They will provide you with the necessary information and guide you through the process.
  2. Prepare the required documents: Typically, the documents needed to obtain an OEC include:
    • Passport: Ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of your intended return to Taiwan.
    • Valid work permit or residence card: Provide proof of your legal employment status in Taiwan.
    • Employment contract: Prepare a copy of your contract to demonstrate your employment details.
    • Plane ticket: Show your confirmed flight reservation for your return to Taiwan.
  3. Visit the MECO office: Make an appointment or visit the MECO office in Taipei during their designated office hours. Submit your documents and complete any necessary application forms. It is advisable to bring both original documents and photocopies for verification purposes.
  4. Pay the required fees: There may be fees associated with the issuance of the OEC. Inquire about the payment methods accepted by the MECO and settle the required fees accordingly.
  5. Attend the pre-departure orientation seminar: OFWs are often required to attend a pre-departure orientation seminar (PDOS) conducted by the MECO. This seminar provides valuable information on labor rights, safety guidelines, and other essential matters for OFWs.
  6. Obtain your OEC: After completing the necessary steps and fulfilling the requirements, the MECO will issue your OEC. Ensure that you receive the original copy of the certificate.
  7. Present your OEC at the Philippine airport: Upon your departure from the Philippines to return to your job site in Taiwan, present your OEC to the immigration officers at the Philippine airport. This step verifies your legal employment overseas and serves as an exit clearance.

Remember, it is crucial to follow the specific instructions provided by the MECO in Taipei, as procedures may vary. Contact the MECO directly for accurate and up-to-date information regarding the OEC application process.

 

How to Apply OEC Certificate in Taipei, Taiwan

Requirements

If you’re vacationing in the Philippines and returning to Taiwan afterward, here are the following documentary requirements for OEC issuance at the MECO Taipei office according to POEA:

For workers with existing POEA records vacationing for the first time and returning to the same employer and job site to fulfill or extend their employment contract

  • POPS-BaM Appointment form
  • BM Information Sheet
  • Alien Resident Certificate (ARC)
  • Valid Passport with Re-entry Visa and at least 6-month validity (copy of photo page)
  • Valid Work Visa, Work Permit, or any equivalent document
  • POLO verified Employment Contract

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

  • POPS-BaM Appointment form
  • BM Information Sheet
  • Alien Resident Certificate (ARC)
  • Valid Passport with Re-entry Visa and at least 6-month validity (copy of photo page)
  • Valid Work Visa, Work Permit, or any equivalent document
  • POLO verified Employment Contract
  • Letter from the employer confirming the worker’s transfer of job site

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

  • POPS-BaM Appointment form
  • BM Information Sheet
  • Alien Resident Certificate (ARC)
  • Valid Passport with Re-entry Visa and at least 6-month validity (copy of photo page)
  • Valid Work Visa, Work Permit, or any equivalent document
  • POLO verified Employment Contract
  • Sworn Statement explaining how the worker obtained employment

“On the other hand, if your Employment Contract is not yet verified, you need to apply for Contract Verification before securing an OEC since it’s a primary requirement. You should also ensure that you have an active OWWA membership status or renew it online to make the OEC processing easier.”

If your Employment Contract has not been verified, it is necessary to apply for Contract Verification before obtaining an Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC). The verification of your employment contract is an essential step in the process, as it ensures that your contract adheres to the regulations and requirements set by the relevant authorities.

Additionally, it is important to have an active membership status with the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) or renew it online. This is to facilitate the processing of your OEC. The OEC serves as proof of your eligibility to work overseas and provides certain benefits and protections to overseas Filipino workers.

By ensuring that your Employment Contract is verified and your OWWA membership is active or renewed, you can streamline the OEC processing procedure and ensure a smoother experience when securing your OEC.

Processing Fees

If you’re applying at MECO Taipei, here are the applicable fees for OEC issuance, converted to New Taiwan 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 for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs). Apart from ensuring their legal employment abroad, the OEC also provides certain privileges such as travel tax and terminal fee exemptions. Additionally, OFWs holding a valid OEC can avail lower travel tax rates when traveling with their spouses and dependents. However, the issuance of OEC is restricted to specific categories of workers by POLO (Philippine Overseas Labor Office), POEA (Philippine Overseas Employment Administration), and MECO (Manila Economic and Cultural Office). These categories include:

  1. OFWs who obtained employment directly from an overseas employer or sponsor.
  2. OFWs who secured employment through a recruitment agency.
  3. OFWs hired through POEA’s Government Placement Branch (GBP).
  4. OFWs with existing records in the POEA database who are returning to the same job site after a vacation, provided they have an employment contract or working visa.
  5. OFWs with existing records in the POEA database who are returning to the same employer but in a different job site.
  6. OFWs who do not have records in the POEA database or change employers while on-site.

On the other hand, according to the POEA, Filipinos who hold the following statuses are not required to obtain an OEC when traveling:

  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/Cultural Exchange Program participants
  8. Individuals with other non-OFW statuses as evaluated by the authorities.

How to Book an OEC Appointment in MECO Taipei, Taiwan

“While there is no Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO) in Taiwan, Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) still need to book an appointment for an Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) to visit the Manila Economic and Cultural Office (MECO) Taipei office. This appointment is specifically required for OFWs who are returning to a different employer or job site and for those who do not have existing records with the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA).

To book an appointment and register a POPS-BaM (Pre-Departure Orientation Seminar – Balik Manggagawa) account, you will need an active email address. Follow the steps below to complete the registration process:

  1. Visit the official website of POEA or MECO Taipei to access the appointment system.
  2. Create an account by providing the necessary personal information, including your full name, contact details, and valid email address.
  3. After successfully creating an account, log in using your credentials.
  4. Select the option to book an appointment for the issuance of your OEC.
  5. Choose a convenient date and time for your appointment. Take note of the appointment details.
  6. Prepare the required documents for the appointment. These may include your passport, valid work visa, employment contract, and other relevant documents. Make sure to bring both original and photocopies.
  7. On the day of your appointment, go to the MECO Taipei office at the scheduled time.
  8. Submit your documents and complete the necessary processes for the issuance of your OEC.
  9. Once your OEC is issued, you will receive a copy or confirmation through your registered email address.
  10. Keep the OEC copy as it serves as proof of your legal employment status as an OFW.

It’s important to note that the specific requirements and procedures may vary, so it’s recommended to visit the official websites of POEA or MECO Taipei for the most up-to-date information and instructions on booking an OEC appointment and registering a POPS-BaM account.

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

  1. Visit the DMW Online Services Portal/POPS-BaM website.
  2. On the e-Registration section, click Let’s Go and Register.
  3. Check the I Accept the Terms of Use.
  4. Fill out the required fields and click Register.
  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 My Profile on the right of the dashboard.
  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 setu

How to book an OEC Appointment in POPS-BaM

“If you already have a POPS-BaM account, make sure your employment information is accurate and avoid registering multiple accounts to prevent conflicts during the OEC processing. If you have an old BM account, you can transfer your record to POPS-BaM. To do this, go to the POPS-BaM DMW Helpdesk section and select ‘Transfer Old BM record.’ Allow 6-8 hours for the details to update on your POPS-BaM account. Then, follow the steps below to schedule an OEC appointment in POPS-BaM:

  1. Go to the DMW Online Services Portal/POPS-BaM website.
  2. Click ‘Let’s Go’ on the e-Registration section and log in.
  3. On the dashboard, click ‘Balik Manggagawa’ under My Links, and then click ‘Next.’
  4. If your profile is incomplete, provide the necessary information to proceed.
  5. Enter your flight date and click ‘Next.’
  6. If you’re not a Balik Manggagawa or not returning to the same employer and job site, select ‘NO’ to proceed with the booking.
  7. Update your contract details and click ‘Submit.’
  8. Choose a Processing Site and click ‘Next.’
  9. Take a screenshot or print your confirmed POPS-BaM appointment form.”

How to Apply for OEC in MECO Taipei, Taiwan

“For overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) who are not eligible for an Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) exemption, it is important to schedule an appointment before visiting the MECO Taipei office. However, please note that MECO cannot issue the OEC to OFWs unless they have verified Employment Contracts, existing records with the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA), and have entered the country with a tourist or visit visa, subsequently obtaining a work visa. These workers should first undergo the process of verifying their Employment Contract and book an OEC appointment with the POEA offices in the Philippines.

On your scheduled appointment date, visit the MECO Taipei office in Taiwan. Approach the reception officer and present the necessary requirements. Complete the forms provided by the reception officer. Pay the applicable fees. Await the release of your OEC and other relevant documents.”

How to Get OEC Online in Taipei, Taiwan

For Balik Manggagawa or workers returning to the same employer and job site, there is no need to physically visit MECO Taipei anymore. You can now obtain an OEC exemption online through the POPS-BaM platform. This exemption also applies to returning workers employed by the GBP, eliminating the need to pay the OEC processing fee. To acquire your OEC online in Taipei, Taiwan, please 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 any of your account details are incomplete, provide the missing information to proceed.
  4. Enter your Flight Date and click on “Next.”
  5. Confirm your status as a Balik Manggagawa or a worker returning to the same employer and job site by selecting “Yes” for the relevant questions.
  6. Print your OEC online. Remember to request your OEC within 60 days of your return flight date to ensure its validity.

MECO Taipei OEC Certificate

how of an OFW in Taipei on how he was able to secure an OEC at the MECO Taipei office. This is for reference to all OFWs based in this city:

 HOW TO GET OEC EXEMPTION ONLINE | POEA Online Processing System for Balik-Manggagawa (POPS-BaM)

For more details on OEC,

As of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, the Balik Manggagawa (BM) or overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) who are qualified to receive an Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) exemption can avail of the online process without the need to book an appointment or visit the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) or Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO) in person.

By registering for a POEA Online Processing System-Balik Manggagawa (POPS-BaM) account, eligible OFWs who are returning to the same job site and employer can apply for their OEC online. This process allows them to conveniently obtain the necessary documents without physically going to a POEA or POLO office.

However, please note that the specific requirements and procedures for OEC exemption may have been updated since my last knowledge update. It’s always advisable to consult the official websites or contact the relevant authorities, such as POEA or POLO, for the most accurate and up-to-date information on OEC processing and exemption for OFWs.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

1. How can I get an OEC exemption in Taipei, Taiwan?

As long as you’re returning to the same employer and job site, you can get an OEC exemption using POPS-BaM.

2. How can I book an OEC appointment online?

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

3. Can I get OEC in Taipei, Taiwan, without an appointment?

An appointment is necessary for an OEC appointment.

4. Can I get OEC at the airport?

You can get OEC 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 Taipei, Taiwan?

The OEC fee in Taipei is P100 converted to New Taiwan Dollar.

7. Can I get OEC without OWWA membership?

No, you need an active OWWA membership to get OEC.

Summary

In summary, Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) in Taipei who are planning to return overseas with a different employer and job site can apply for their Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) at the Manila Economic and Cultural Office (MECO) office. However, if you are returning to the same employer and job site, you have the option to obtain your OEC online through the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration’s (POEA) system called POPS-BaM (Pre-employment Orientation Seminar-Booking and Appointment Management). How to Apply OEC Certificate in Taipei, TaiwanIt is important to note that before your flight back to Taiwan, you must ensure that your OEC is still valid to avoid any potential delays.

Contact Details

MECO-OWWA Taipei
Operating Hours: 8:00 am to 4:00 pm, Monday to Tuesday
8:00 am to 3:30 pm, Wednesday to Friday
Address: 2F, Chang Hong New Era Building No. 55 & 57 Zhouzi Street, Neihu District, Taipei City, Taiwan 114
Email: meco@meco.org.tw, evelyn_owwataipei@yahoo.com
Telephone Number: (886) 2-2658-8825, (02) 2658-8299, 0900218895, 0925-228878
Website: https://www.meco.org.tw/, https://www.meco-labor.org.tw/
Facebook Page: https://web.facebook.com/MECO.official/

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