POEA Requirements in the Philippines: OFW Deployment Checklist
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Quick POEA checklist for OFW deployment and required documents.
Contents
About This Guide
This guide is based on current procedures and requirements. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to official sources
References & Further Reading
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to official sources:
Planning to work abroad? Use this short, practical POEA deployment checklist so you don't miss key steps and documents required by Philippine authorities and employers.
Quick checklist (at a glance)
- Passport (valid at least 6 months)
- Signed employment contract (English) / company visa or work permit
- Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) from POEA (or required exit documents)
- Medical certificate from POEA-accredited clinic (including required tests)
- NBI clearance / police clearance (if requested)
- PSA birth certificate (and marriage certificate if applicable)
- OWWA registration and PDOS attendance
- Training certificates, licenses, or TESDA credentials (if required)
- Seafarers: Seaman's Book, MMD, STCW certificates
- Employer/agency documents (job order, POEA-registered agency proof)
Step-by-step: How to prepare and process deployment
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Confirm job offer and contract
- Get a written, signed employment contract (in English) that shows salary, benefits, job description, employer name and location, and duration.
- Check the employer or agency is POEA-licensed (visit POEA website and verify agency details).
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Passport and visa
- Apply or renew your Philippine passport via DFA early. Many countries require at least 6 months' validity.
- Secure the correct visa or work permit if your employer needs it before departure.
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Gather civil documents
- Order PSA birth certificate and marriage certificate (if spouse name change applies). Use PSA online for faster processing.
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Police and background clearances
- Obtain NBI clearance (or police clearance for local requirements) if requested by employer/agency.
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Medical exam and vaccinations
- Undergo migration medical exam at a POEA-accredited clinic. Some countries/employers require additional screenings or vaccinations-confirm specifics with employer.
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Training, licenses, and credentials
- Present TESDA certificates, professional licensure, or specialized training (e.g., caregiving, healthcare, IT) as required.
- Seafarers must have Seafarer's Book, MMD, STCW training and other maritime documents.
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POEA registration and OEC
- Register with POEA (e-registration or POEA online portal) and apply for your OEC. The OEC is proof you are a documented OFW and exempts you from certain fees at exit.
- For agency-hired workers, some steps may be coordinated by your agency-but still verify everything through POEA.
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OWWA and PDOS
- Register with OWWA and attend the Pre-Departure Orientation Seminar (PDOS) if required. OWWA membership provides welfare benefits and is mandatory for many deployments.
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Final checks before departure
- Keep printed and digital copies of your contract, OEC, passport, visa, medical, and civil documents.
- Check baggage and luggage allowance, emergency contacts, and Philippine embassy contacts at your destination.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Leaving passport renewal to the last minute.
- Accepting jobs without a signed contract.
- Using non-POEA-accredited agencies - always verify on POEA site.
- Skipping PDOS or OWWA registration (can affect benefits).
Timeline and practical tips
- Start the process at least 4–6 weeks before your deployment date.
- Use official websites (POEA, OWWA, DFA, PSA, NBI) for forms and status checks.
- Keep emergency and agency contact numbers accessible.
Use this checklist to stay organized and ensure a smoother deployment. Safe travels and good luck on your contract abroad!
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