An iDOLE ID is an identification and verification tool intended to provide overseas Filipino workers the convenience when interacting with government agencies, securing benefits and other labor-related transactions.
With database access to records of the Department of Foreign Affairs, Philippine Overseas Employment Administration, Overseas Workers Welfare Administration and the Bureau of Immigration, it’s easier to verify and track the location and status of a Filipino worker, provide reliable and updated records when processing loans with lending agencies or receiving benefits and assistance in case of need.
For example, issuance of iDOLE ID will ensure OFWs will not be collected terminal fees and travel taxes at the airports or transacting with government agencies at one-stop service centers nationwide. Likewise, this card will replace the current system of overseas employment certificate, viewed by many OFW as inconvenient way to verify their status.
The consolidated record enabled by the linkage among government institutions also generates a more accurate labor data points such as deployment records, labor market statistics, aiding in provision of appropriate services such as deployment of more consular officers, schedule of consular outreach and other forms of government assistance.
Therefore, with a singular card that replaces many other forms of documentation and cut down on processing time, OFWs are eager to get hold of this iDOLE card.
For OFWs currently on vacation in the Philippines, here’s how you can apply online for an OFW iDOLE ID — with no expense on your part — with instructions on how to pick up the ID at any POEA office near you.
1. Create an account through the iDOLE website: https://idole.dole.gov.ph.
Note: Please note that applications are currently limited to OFWs whose passports were issued July 2016 or later, exemption number/oec number validity date from January 2, 2018 onwards and with updated OWWA membership.
Enter your latest OEC number which can be found in the issued OEC (OEC number on top right part of sample OEC) or records at Balik-Manggagawa Online Processing System website http://www.bmonline.ph/. Also enter your personal information, and contact details in the form.
2. After setting up your account, log in and click the ‘iDOLE One Stop Shop’ button, then click “OFW ID Card”
3. Click the delivery type and indicate Pick-up Location. Choose the nearest POEA office in your area where you will claim your ID and click Submit.
You will see the message “Your OFW ID has been generated successfully” with your OFW ID Number and confirmation details. You may print this out and bring this to the POEA office upon pick up.
DOLE is developing the issuance of iDOLE ID in phases so OFWs who are not eligible as outlined in the note above, please wait for further announcement on when to apply for iDOLE ID.