OFW Pass and OEC in Taiwan: How to Get It
Quick answer
Workers going back to the same Taiwan employer, jobsite and position get their exit clearance online and for free: the OFW Travel Pass in the eGovPH app, or an OEC from DMW Online Services. If you moved to a new employer while in Taiwan, the online system will not match your record. Contact the Migrant Workers Office (MWO) that covers your city first.
The full DMW process is in our OEC and OFW Pass guide.
What are the requirements?
- Philippine passport, valid for at least 6 more months.
- Valid ARC and your latest Taiwan visa.
- Your employment contract with the current employer.
- A DMW Online Services account, or the eGovPH app on your phone.
- Your OWWA membership details. If it has lapsed, you can renew it at the MWO's OWWA desk (see OWWA in Taiwan).
How much does it cost?
| Item | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| OFW Pass or OEC for returning workers | Free | Free for Balik-Manggagawa since 29 July 2023 |
| OWWA membership, if expired | USD 25 | Paid at the MWO's OWWA desk or in the OWWA Mobile App |
How do you apply, step by step?
Online (same employer)
1. Install the eGovPH app, open the NGA tab, choose DMW, then Travel Pass
Your QR code is your exit clearance.
2. Or log in to DMW Online Services, update your passport and ARC details, and choose Balik-Manggagawa
3. Save the QR code or print the OEC before your flight
Walk-in (new employer or a record that does not match)
1. Call the MWO for your area to ask what to bring
Taipei, Taichung or Kaohsiung.
2. Bring your passport, ARC, new contract and proof of employment
3. After the MWO updates your record, get your OEC or OFW Pass online
How long does it take?
The online pass is issued as soon as your record matches. For MWO cases, the time depends on the office and on whether your papers are complete.
Where to go
- MWO Taipei: 55 & 57 Zhouzi Street, Neihu District, Taipei 114. Labor section (02) 2658 9210 or 2658 9211.
- MWO Taichung: 20F, No. 220, Section 2, Taiwan Boulevard, West District, Taichung. Phone (04) 2322 8835.
- MWO Kaohsiung: 9F-3, Grand 50 Tower, No. 80, Min Tzu 1st Road, San Min District, Kaohsiung. Phone (07) 398 2475 or 398 7078.
Frequently asked questions
Can MECO give me an OEC?
No. MECO's consular section handles passports and notarial work. Exit clearance comes from DMW, online or through the MWO.
I transferred to a new employer in Taiwan. Can I still use the online exemption?
Usually not. The online route works only when employer, jobsite and position match your last DMW record. See the MWO first.
How long is the OFW Pass valid?
DMW Advisory 38-2025 says the OFW Travel Pass in eGovPH is valid for 90 days from issue, and you can renew it in the app at any time. A printed OEC is valid for 60 days and one departure.
Does the OFW Pass cost anything in Taiwan?
No. DMW stopped charging for Balik-Manggagawa exit clearance in 2023. Do not pay brokers or anyone else for it.
Was this page helpful?