How to Get an OEC in Singapore
Quick answer
MWO Singapore sorts OFWs going on home leave into three cases. If your contract was already verified and nothing changed, print a free OEC exemption from your DMW e-registration account. If your verified contract expired but you stay with the same employer, attach the new contract to the old verified one and request the exemption online, with no new verification. If you changed employer, position or jobsite, or have no DMW record, book contract verification at the MWO. It costs SGD 15, and the OEC is emailed to you.
For the general rules, see our OEC guide.
What are the requirements?
For home leave, MWO Singapore lists four things: a valid, verified contract; a valid work permit or IC; a valid OEC or exemption; and valid OWWA membership.
For contract verification, bring:
- The original employment contract, signed by you and your employer.
- A photocopy of your valid Philippine passport.
- A photocopy of your valid work pass or IC.
- Domestic workers: a photocopy of the employer's NRIC or ID with a signature specimen.
- Skilled workers and professionals: one of an original certificate of employment, your latest payslip, your company ID or a signed compliance letter.
- After a promotion: the promotion letter. After a merger: the company's transfer letter.
How much does it cost?
| Item | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| E-registration and OEC or exemption | Free | MWO Singapore confirms both are free |
| Contract verification for a returning OFW | SGD 15 | Cash only |
| Contract verification for an agency-hired OFW | SGD 60 | Per contract; listed under employer and agency fees |
| OWWA membership, if expired | SGD 36 | Valid for 2 years |
How do you apply, step by step?
Online
1. Log in to DMW Online Services and check that your employment records are up to date
2. If your old verified contract expired, upload the new contract together with it
Domestic workers can use the DMW standard contract template for MDWs in Singapore.
3. Request the OEC exemption and print it
4. You can also get the OFW Pass in the eGovPH app
Walk-in
1. Book "Contract Verification" under labor services on go.mwosingapore.online
2. Create or update your DMW e-registration account before the appointment
3. Bring your papers and pay SGD 15 in cash
4. Collect the verified contract and official receipt
Check every detail before you leave.
How long does it take?
If you already have a DMW record, the OEC is emailed to you after verification and is valid for 60 days. If you travel later than that, request a new one from your e-registration account. If you have no POEA or DMW record, book an appointment at a DMW office in the Philippines for your OEC.
Where to go
MWO Singapore, 20 Nassim Road, Singapore 258395. Phone +65 6040 6506, emergency +65 9113 6552, mwosg_services@dmw.gov.ph.
Frequently asked questions
My company changed its name. Do I need a new verification?
Not for a simple name change, if the company's UEN stays the same. Bring the ACRA name change certificate. You can still ask for verification if you want.
I got promoted. Does that count as a change?
Yes. A new position with the same employer needs contract verification. Bring the promotion letter.
Do I need to renew OWWA before going home?
Your OWWA should be valid. You can renew at the MWO by appointment, or check your status in the OWWA Mobile App.
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