OEC for OFWs in the UAE: How to Get or Be Exempt
Quick answer
If you go back to the same employer and position in the UAE, you get your OEC exemption online on DMW Online Services, or an OFW Pass in the DMW Mobile App. Both are free. If you changed employer or have no DMW record, the Migrant Workers Office (MWO) must first verify your contract. At MWO Dubai that costs AED 40 in cash, and the OEC then appears in your DMW account.
For how the OEC, the exemption and the OFW Pass work in general, see our OEC guide.
What are the requirements?
- An updated DMW e-registration account: your new passport and your new visa or Emirates ID must be saved under "Identifications".
- For contract verification (skilled workers): 2 copies each of the contract, your passport and your visa or Emirates ID. The basic wage must be at least AED 1,500 a month.
- For domestic workers: the UAE domestic labor contract or the POEA standard contract, the addendum, and copies of your passport and visa, 2 copies each.
- Workers new to overseas work, or those whose employer has MOHRE violations, may be asked for more papers, such as the trade license or WPS records.
How much does it cost?
| Item | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| OEC exemption or OEC for a returning worker | Free | Free since 29 July 2023 |
| OFW Pass (DMW Mobile App) or OFW Travel Pass (eGovPH app) | Free | The eGovPH Travel Pass is valid for 90 days from issue; you can renew it in the app (DMW Advisory No. 38, Series of 2025) |
| Contract verification at MWO Dubai | AED 40 | Cash only, per contract |
| OWWA membership, if expired | USD 25 (RA 10801); AED 92 at MWO Dubai | Ask MWO Abu Dhabi for the dirham amount |
How do you apply, step by step?
Online
1. Log in to DMW Online Services
Update your passport and visa or Emirates ID under "My Profile".
2. Open "My Contracts" to check that your old record is matched to your account
3. From the dashboard, click "Balik-Manggagawa", enter your return flight date and answer the questions on employer, jobsite and position
4. If all three are the same, print the OEC
If one is different, the system sends you to book an appointment.
5. Or use the DMW Mobile App
register, upload your passport, then tap "OFW Pass" for a QR code. If the app does not work, MWO Dubai says you can use the OFW Travel Pass in the eGovPH app.
Walk-in
- MWO Dubai: walk in for verification one working day before your flight. Flights on Saturday, Sunday or Monday: go on the Thursday or Friday before.
How long does it take?
In-person verification at MWO Dubai is done the same day. A printed OEC is valid for 60 days and for one exit only.
Where to go
- MWO Dubai: Street 2C, Beirut Street, near Al Qusais Police Station, Al Qusais 3. Contract verification, OFW Pass and OEC: +971 50 652 6626 (call or WhatsApp), verification_oec.mwodubai@dmw.gov.ph.
- MWO Abu Dhabi: Villa 2, Embassy compound, Al Qubaisat. Contract verification and OEC: +971 54 725 8482, verification_mwoabudhabi@dmw.gov.ph.
Frequently asked questions
I have an OEC exemption. Do I still need to verify my contract in Dubai?
No. MWO Dubai says returning workers who got an exemption do not need contract verification. Keep your contract with you at the airport in case an officer asks for it.
I transferred to a new sponsor. Can I use the exemption?
No. The exemption is only for the same company or sponsor and the same position. Have your new contract verified at the MWO first.
I am already in the Philippines and forgot to verify my contract. What now?
MWO Dubai lets an authorized representative submit your papers. The representative may enter 1 to 3 days before your OEC appointment in the Philippines, or 2 to 5 days before your flight back to the UAE.
Can I verify my contract online in Abu Dhabi?
Ask MWO Abu Dhabi first. The Embassy lists +971 54 725 8482 and verification_mwoabudhabi@dmw.gov.ph for contract verification and OEC.
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