How to Obtain Your OEC as a Filipino Worker in Saudi Arabia

Filipino workers in Saudi Arabia must secure an Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) before traveling to the Philippines and returning to their jobs.

This document validates legal employment status, exempts travelers from airport terminal fees and travel taxes, and ensures compliance with Philippine immigration requirements..

The process involves either visiting the Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO) in Riyadh or using the online POPS-BaM system, depending on employment continuity and documentation status.

This guide details both methods, essential requirements, common pitfalls, and expert strategies for seamless processing.

Understanding the OEC and Its Legal Importance

The Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) serves as a mandatory exit clearance for Overseas Filipino Workers returning to their jobs abroad after visiting the Philippines.

Issued by the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), it confirms that workers are documented under Philippine labor laws and protected by bilateral agreements between Saudi Arabia and the Philippines.

Without this certificate, OFWs risk being barred from departing the Philippines or facing penalties for undocumented overseas employment.

The OEC’s 60-day validity period requires careful timing of applications relative to travel dates. Workers must also renew their OEC for each return trip, as it functions as a single-use document.

Beyond travel compliance, the certificate facilitates access to government assistance programs, including repatriation support and legal mediation through POLO offices.

Required Documents for OEC Application

All applicants must prepare the following materials, whether applying online or in person:

1. Valid passport with at least six months of remaining validity before the departure date.
2. Original and photocopies of the Saudi Iqama (residence permit) to verify legal residency.
3. Employer identification documents, including a copy of the employer’s Saudi national ID or commercial registration.
4. Verified employment contract signed by both the worker and employer, preferably authenticated by POLO Riyadh.
5. Confirmed round-trip flight tickets showing return travel to Saudi Arabia.
6. OWWA membership receipt as proof of active membership in the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration.
7. Personal appearance at POLO Riyadh or a designated processing center for biometric verification.

Additional documents may include a sworn statement explaining employment history for workers changing employers or a letter from the employer confirming job continuity.

Applying Through POLO Riyadh: Step-by-Step Process

1. Schedule an Appointment

Visit the POEA Online Services Portal to book an appointment at POLO Riyadh. Select an available slot and print the confirmation sheet.

Walk-in applications are discouraged due to high demand, particularly during peak vacation seasons.

2. Submit Documents for Contract Verification

If your employment contract lacks POLO authentication, submit the original contract, passport copies, and proof of current employment (e.g., payslips or a company ID) for verification. This step ensures compliance with POEA standards and Saudi labor laws.

3. Pay Fees at Designated Counters

The total fee of SAR 113 (approximately P1,650) includes:

• OEC processing (SAR 9)
• OWWA membership renewal (SAR 94)
• Pag-IBIG contributions (SAR 10).

Payments are accepted in cash or through approved channels, with official receipts required for the next steps.

4. Attend the In-Person Interview

Present all documents and undergo a brief interview with POLO officers. They will confirm employment details, travel plans, and eligibility for OEC issuance.

5. Receive the OEC

After approval, collect the printed OEC and keep it securely with your travel documents. Verify that all details, including your name, employer, and job site, are accurate.

Online Application via POPS-BaM System

Eligibility Criteria

The online system is available only to OFWs:

• Returning to the same employer and job site in Saudi Arabia.
• With existing, verified records in the DMW database.

Workers changing employers or with unresolved contractual disputes must apply in person.

Step 1: Register on the POPS-BaM Portal

Create an account on the DMW Online Services website using your email and mobile number. Complete the e-Registration form with personal details, employment history, and family information.

Step 2: Update Employment and Travel Details

Navigate to the Balik-Manggagawa Module and input:

• Current employer’s name and address.
• Flight details, including return dates.
• Previous OEC numbers (if applicable).

Step 3: Upload Supporting Documents

Scan and upload clear copies of your passport, Iqama, employment contract, and round-trip ticket. Ensure files are in PDF or JPEG format and under 2MB.

Step 4: Pay Fees Online

Use the portal’s payment gateway to settle OEC, OWWA, and Pag-IBIG fees. Save the transaction receipt for reference.

Step 5: Download and Print the OEC

Once approved, the system generates a digital OEC. Print two copies—one for Philippine immigration and another for Saudi checkpoints.

Critical Warnings and Avoidable Mistakes

1. Do Not Apply at the Airport

While POLO offices in Manila and Cebu offer emergency OEC processing, this risks missing flights due to long queues and missing documents. Complete applications at least three weeks before departure.

2. Validate Employer Compliance

Ensure your employer has no pending violations with POLO or POEA. Contracts from blacklisted companies will be rejected, delaying OEC issuance.

3. Monitor OEC Validity

Applications submitted too early may expire before travel, while late submissions risk processing delays. Ideal timing is 30–45 days pre-departure.

4. Renew OWWA Membership Annually

Lapsed OWWA membership invalidates OEC eligibility. Check your status via the OWWA Mobile App and renew online if needed.

Practical Tips for First-Time Applicants

• Keep Digital Backups: Scan all documents and save them on cloud storage for easy reprinting if lost.
• Verify Contract Authenticity: Visit POLO Riyadh before vacation leaves to pre-verify contracts, avoiding last-minute rushes.
• Coordinate With Recruitment Agencies: Agencies accredited by POEA can assist with document authentication and appointment scheduling.
• Monitor Flight Availability: Book refundable tickets until the OEC is approved to avoid penalties from date changes.