OEC for Filipino Workers in the USA: Who Needs It
Quick answer
The Bureau of Immigration asks for a valid OEC from Filipinos who leave the Philippines on an employment visa. So if you work in the US on a work visa, such as a nurse or teacher hired under contract, you need an OEC or OFW Pass each time you fly back from leave. It is free for returning workers. Filipinos who travel on a dependent visa do not need one.
The full process for returning workers is in our OEC and OEC exemption guide.
What are the requirements?
For the online OEC or OFW Pass:
- A valid Philippine passport.
- Your valid US work visa or permit.
- A record in the DMW system with the same employer, jobsite and position.
If your case needs contract verification at MWO Washington, D.C., it asks returning workers for:
- A notarized original employment contract.
- A copy of your passport, valid for at least six months from your departure.
- A valid and appropriate visa or work permit.
- The Worker's Information Form and the Employer's Information Form.
- If you changed employer in the US: proof of current employment (certificate of employment, company ID or recent payslip) and a sworn statement explaining how you were hired.
How much does it cost?
| Item | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| OEC for returning workers | Free | No official receipt is issued |
| OFW Travel Pass (eGovPH) | Free | Valid for 90 days from issue; renewable in the app |
| OWWA membership, if expired | USD 25 | See the OWWA page for the US |
How do you apply, step by step?
1. Log in to DMW Online Services and update your passport and visa
2. Choose Balik-Manggagawa
If your employer, jobsite and position match your record, print the OEC or save the QR code.
3. Or open the DMW Mobile App and get the OFW Pass
4. If the system sends you to an appointment, email or call MWO Washington, D.C
for contract verification first.
5. Show the OEC or pass to immigration when you leave the Philippines
How long does it take?
Online issuance is immediate when your record matches. A paper OEC is valid for 60 days and for one departure only. Contract verification at the MWO takes longer, so start before you book your flight.
Where to go
- MWO Washington, D.C.: Embassy of the Philippines, 1600 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, D.C. 20036. Phone +1 202 467 9426. It verifies contracts for direct hires and returning workers.
- MWO Los Angeles: 3435 Wilshire Boulevard, Suite 2285, Los Angeles, California 90010. MWO hotline +1 213 223 1120.
Frequently asked questions
I have a green card and I am going home for a visit. Do I need an OEC?
The OEC is tied to leaving the Philippines for work on an employment visa. If you live in the US as an immigrant and are unsure how you are classed, ask MWO Washington or MWO Los Angeles before you travel.
I am a nurse on an H-1B visa. Do I need an OEC?
Yes. The H-1B is an employment visa, and the Bureau of Immigration requires a valid OEC from Filipinos departing on employment visas.
My spouse works in the US and I travel on a dependent visa. Do I need an OEC?
No. The Bureau of Immigration says Filipinos on dependent visas do not need an OEC.
Can the Philippine consulate issue my OEC?
No. The consular section handles passports and civil documents. The OEC comes from DMW, through the MWO.
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