Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) Issuance is a government service provided to Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) as proof of their legal and documented overseas employment.
The OEC, issued by the Department of Migrant Workers (formerly under POEA), serves as:
- Exit clearance required by Philippine Immigration before departure
- Verification that the worker’s employment contract has been processed and approved
- Proof of documented OFW status, which qualifies the worker for government protection and assistance
The OEC is typically required for:
- First-time OFWs
- Returning workers with a new employer or job site
- Workers without a valid OEC exemption
Holding a valid OEC also entitles OFWs to certain benefits, such as:
- Exemption from travel tax
- Exemption from terminal fees at Philippine airports
This service ensures that Filipino workers deployed abroad are properly documented, protected under Philippine labor laws, and monitored for welfare and safety.