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OFW Pass Launched: No More Need for Paper OEC — A Faster, Easier Digital Exit for OFWs

03 December, 2025

The new OFW Pass — part of the digital departure process by Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) and Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) — replaces the traditional Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC), streamlining exit clearance for overseas Filipino workers.

OFW Pass
Source: www.dict.gov.ph
What’s Changing: From OEC to OFW Pass

Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) no longer need to secure a traditional paper Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) before leaving the country. Instead, they can now use the OFW Pass, a fully digital travel/exit clearance issued via the DMW Mobile App and integrated with the government’s e-governance system.

Under the new system, all departure documentation is managed through a mobile phone and the app — no more long lines or in-person visits needed for most workers.


How It Works

  • OFWs download the DMW Mobile App (or use the government’s integrated eGovPH platform) to register their information.

  • For returning workers (“balik-manggagawa”) and other eligible OFWs, the app generates the OFW Pass, which includes a QR code acting as their exit clearance.

  • The OFW Pass replaces the OEC — it is free of charge, unlike the paper OEC which previously carried a fee.

  • The pass remains valid until the expiration of the worker’s contract, making it a more flexible and long-lasting solution than the old 60-day OEC.


Why This Is Good News for OFWs

Faster, Easier Departures
No need to line up for OEC processing — everything’s on your phone. This reduces delays and stress, especially during peak travel times.

No More Fees for OEC
Because the OFW Pass is free, OFWs save money — a welcome relief given the costs associated with overseas work.

Less Paperwork, More Convenience
From contract verification to exit clearance, much of the OFW journey is becoming digital, transparent, and more accessible.

Useful for OFWs Worldwide
The OFW Pass is part of a global rollout that aims to benefit Filipinos across many destination countries.


What OFWs Should Know

  • The OFW Pass is available through the DMW Mobile App or via the government’s eGovPH system.

  • First-time OFWs, returning workers, or those with valid contracts can get the OFW Pass.

  • For now, there remains a transition period: traditional OECs may still be accepted.

  • Users may need a working internet connection and a compatible smartphone to use the digital system.


What’s Next: Toward Full Digital Migration

The shift to OFW Pass is part of a larger move by DMW and DICT to modernize and digitize overseas employment and departure processes. Officials expect full rollout and adoption once pilot tests are complete.

DMW urges all OFWs, especially those in major expatriate hubs such as the UAE, to download the mobile app and try the new pass system — before traveling, to avoid last-minute complications.