OEC for OFWs in Hong Kong: How to Get or Be Exempt
Quick answer
If you had an OEC before and still work for the same employer, DMW Online Services tells you that you are exempt, and you do not need to visit the MWO. If you changed employer in Hong Kong, first have your new contract verified at the Migrant Workers Office (MWO) in Admiralty. For returning domestic workers the fee is HKD 80, and the verified contract is ready the same day. The OEC or exemption itself is free.
The rules on the OEC, the exemption and the OFW Pass are in our OEC guide.
What are the requirements?
For contract verification of a domestic worker (renewal or change of employer):
- 2 sets of the original standard employment contract.
- A copy of your employer's HKID with a contact number on the same page.
- A copy of your HKID with your contact number on the same page.
- Your passport, original and photocopy.
- A printed copy of your new employment e-Visa.
- The completed OWWA OFW information sheet.
Skilled and professional workers need a contract with a basic wage of at least HKD 42.1 an hour. The contract must also cover repatriation of remains and insurance. Bring your visa, the employer's business registration and one proof of employment, such as a recent certificate of employment or 3 months of payslips.
How much does it cost?
| Item | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| OEC exemption or OEC for a returning worker | Free | Free since 29 July 2023 |
| Contract verification, returning worker | HKD 80 | Renewal or change of employer; unchanged by the March 2026 fee update |
| OWWA membership | USD 25 | Paid in Hong Kong dollars at the OWWA counters, only if expired or about to expire |
How do you apply, step by step?
Online
1. Log in to DMW Online Services with your e-registration account
2. Update your passport and employment details, then choose Balik-Manggagawa
3. If you are exempt, the system says so
Save or print the exemption.
4. You can also get the OFW Travel Pass in the eGovPH app
NGA tab, then DMW, then Travel Pass.
Walk-in
For domestic workers who changed employer or renewed a contract:
1. Submit your papers at MWO windows 1 to 5
2. Pay the verification fee
3. Hand in the OWWA information sheet at counters 6 to 8, and pay for OWWA if needed
4. Pick up the verified contract the same day at counters A and B
Skilled workers submit at window 11, Monday to Thursday, 9 to 11 a.m. and 1 to 3:30 p.m.
How long does it take?
Domestic workers get the verified contract on the same day. A printed OEC is valid for 60 days from issue. After verification, show the verified contract to DMW in the Philippines to get your OEC if you have no record yet.
Where to go
MWO Hong Kong, Room 2902, 29/F United Centre, 95 Queensway, Admiralty (MTR Admiralty, Exit D). Phone (+852) 2866 0640 or 2865 2445, hotline (+852) 5529 1880, mwo_hongkong@dmw.gov.ph. Open Sunday to Thursday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., except holidays.
Frequently asked questions
I finished my contract and renewed with the same employer. Do I need verification?
First try DMW Online Services. If it gives you an exemption, you do not need to visit the MWO. If it does not, bring your renewed contract to the MWO, which verifies renewals for HKD 80.
Can I go to the MWO on a Sunday?
Yes. MWO Hong Kong is open Sunday to Thursday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Why does the MWO ask for my new e-Visa?
A printed copy of the new employment e-Visa is on the MWO's list of requirements for both renewals and changes of employer. Print it before you go and bring it with your contract.
Is the OEC also my travel tax exemption?
Yes. MWO Hong Kong says the OEC also exempts you from the travel tax and terminal fee when you leave the Philippines.
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