For OFWs returning home for the first time under their current visa
Marami pong OFWs ngayon ang first time kukuha ng OEC gamit ang bagong eGovPH App + OFW Pass, kaya gumawa kami ng simple at updated guide para smooth ang experience ninyo.
✅ What You Need to Prepare
Before using the app, make sure ready ang mga ito:
- Passport
- Valid for at least 6 months
- Clear photo of the bio page (for upload)
- Visa / Work Permit
- Employment Documents
Bawat country may own requirements, pero generally:
- Employment contract / offer letter
- COE or latest payslip
- Company ID
- Proof of address (sometimes required)
- Active Phone Number & Email
- For verification and app recovery.
📱 Step-by-Step Guide (For First-Time OEC / OFW Pass Users)
STEP 1 — Download the eGovPH App
Search eGovPH sa Play Store or App Store.
Click “OFW PASS” once installed.
STEP 2 — Create & Verify Your eGov Account
You will be asked to verify through:
- Email
- Mobile number
- Face ID / selfie scan
TIP: Do this with stable internet to avoid verification errors.
STEP 3 — Update Your Worker Profile
Go to:
OFW Pass → Worker Details
Make sure the following are correct:
- Worker Category: OFW with Existing Employment
- Job Title
- Employer Name
- Country of Employment
Kapag mali ang category, minsan hindi lalabas ang OFW Pass or OEC option.
STEP 4 — Upload Your Documents
Upload the following clearly:
- Passport
- Visa / Work Permit
- Contract / COE
- Company ID
TIP: Use JPG/PNG. Avoid blurry photos.
STEP 5 — Passport e-Gate Verification (Inside App)
Ito yung digital identity check.
Follow the steps:
- Align passport
- Scan your face
- Wait for confirmation
Some users get approved in minutes, some hours. Normal po ito.
STEP 6 — Apply for OFW Pass (Digital OEC)
Once verified, go to:
OFW Pass → Apply
The system will check if:
- First time OEC ka
- Kailangan ng POLO/MLC verification
- Or eligible ka for direct digital approval
If POLO verification is required:
The app will notify you and show instructions.
Not all countries require this.
STEP 7 — Wait for Approval
Kapag approved, lalabas na sa app ang:
✔️ OFW Pass QR Code
✔️ Validity dates
✔️ Your OEC equivalent
No need to print. Ito ang ipapakita sa Philippine Immigration.
🚀 What to Expect at the Airport (PH Arrival & Departure)
Upon Arrival (PH):
- No need to visit Migrant Worker Office (MWO) counter.
- Scan lang ang OFW Pass QR if asked.
Before Leaving PH (next flight):
- Immigration will scan your OFW Pass.
- This acts as your OEC (exempt sa travel tax & terminal fee).
💡 Tips From First-Time Users
- Best time to use the app: 8AM–11AM or 8PM onwards
- Screenshot every page in case of loading issues
- Ensure your job title in the app matches your contract
- If nag-eerror ang file upload, resize to under 2MB
- Keep your old documents; minsan hinahanap for verification
❓FAQs (Simplified)
1. Kailangan pa ba mag-print ng OEC?
No. Your OFW Pass QR Code is your OEC.
2. First time ko uuwi, kailangan ba pumunta ng POLO?
Depende sa country. Maraming first timers di na kailangan, pero some still require contract verification.
3. Ilang araw processing?
Anywhere from 10 minutes to 1–2 days depending on verification.
4. Pwede bang gamitin kahit new visa / new employer?
Yes. Just make sure updated ang worker profile.
Stay safe and happy travels back home!