OEC for OFWs in Kuwait: How to Get or Be Exempt
Quick answer
If you go home on vacation and come back to the same employer, jobsite and position in Kuwait, you get your OEC exemption or OFW Pass online, for free. If anything changed, your contract must first be verified by the Migrant Workers Office (MWO) Kuwait in Sabah Al Salem. The Philippine Embassy itself does not issue OECs.
What are the requirements?
- Your passport and Kuwait Civil ID, with the new details already saved in your DMW Online Services profile.
- A record of a previous OEC, so the system can match your employer.
- For a new employer or position: your new contract, verified at MWO Kuwait.
The full online process is explained step by step in our OEC and OEC exemption guide.
How do you apply, step by step?
Online
1. Log in to DMW Online Services and update your passport and residence details
2. Choose Balik-Manggagawa and answer the questions on employer, jobsite and position
3. If all three are the same, print or save your OEC exemption
You can also get the OFW Pass in the DMW Mobile App or the Travel Pass in the eGovPH app.
Walk-in
1. If the system says you are not exempt, bring your new contract to MWO Kuwait for verification
2. After verification, return to the online system to print your OEC
How much does it cost?
| Item | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| OEC or exemption for a returning worker | PHP 0 | Free since 29 July 2023 |
| OFW Pass in the DMW Mobile App | PHP 0 | Free |
| OWWA membership, if expired | USD 25 | Paid at OWO Kuwait, in KWD |
How long does it take?
The online exemption appears as soon as your record matches. A paper OEC is valid for 60 days and one exit only; the OFW Travel Pass in eGovPH is valid for 90 days from issue and can be renewed in the app. Contract verification at MWO Kuwait depends on the queue, so go well before your flight.
Where to go
MWO Kuwait, Building 256, Street 213, Block 2, Sabah Al Salem, Kuwait. Sunday to Thursday, 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Phone: +965 9403 9063, +965 6040 3858 or +965 6558 5355.
Frequently asked questions
Can I get my OEC from the Philippine Embassy in Kuwait?
No. The Embassy says it does not handle Balik-Manggagawa or OEC applications. Use the online system or MWO Kuwait.
Can I still fly back to Kuwait after my vacation in 2026?
In March 2026 DMW told recruitment agencies to hold deployment to Kuwait because of airspace closures (Advisory No. 10, series of 2026). Rules can change quickly. Check the newest DMW advisory and ask MWO Kuwait before you book a flight.
I changed employer inside Kuwait. What now?
You cannot use the exemption. Have your new contract verified at MWO Kuwait first, then print your OEC.
Is the OEC still PHP 100?
No. Since 29 July 2023 every form of OEC for returning workers is free, with no official receipt.
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