OFW Pass and OEC exemption: exit clearance guide 2026
Quick answer
Every OFW leaving the Philippines for work needs an exit clearance from the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW). For a returning worker (Balik-Manggagawa) going back to the same employer, jobsite and position, it is free: you get the digital OFW Pass in the DMW Mobile App or the eGovPH app, or print an OEC exemption from DMW Online Services. DMW stopped charging for the OEC of returning workers on 29 July 2023. If your employer, jobsite or position changed, your new contract must first be verified by the Migrant Workers Office (MWO). First-time OFWs get their papers through their licensed agency.
What are the requirements?
- A valid passport. If you renewed it, update the passport details in your DMW profile first.
- Your work visa or residence ID in the host country, also updated in your profile.
- An account in DMW Online Services, the DMW Portal, the DMW Mobile App or the eGovPH app.
- A previous DMW record with the same employer, jobsite and position.
- For a new employer: an employment contract verified by your MWO.
How do you apply, step by step?
Online
OFW Pass in the DMW Mobile App
1. Download the DMW Mobile App from the App Store or Google Play and register with your email address
2. Enter the one-time password, set a password and fill in your profile
3. Upload a clear photo of your passport data page
The app may ask for a selfie.
4. Tap OFW Pass
The app checks your employer, jobsite and contract against the DMW database.
5. Once verified, your OFW Pass appears as a QR code
Save a screenshot so you can show it at the airport without signal.
If the DMW Mobile App does not work, use the eGovPH app: create an account, open the NGA tab, choose DMW, then Travel Pass. Your OFW Travel Pass QR code serves as your exit clearance.
OEC exemption on DMW Online Services
1. Log in to DMW Online Services
2. Open My Contracts and check that your old record is linked to your account
3. From the dashboard, click Balik-Manggagawa, then Next, and enter your return flight date
4. Answer the questions about the same employer, jobsite and position
If all answers are yes, click Print OEC. If any answer is no, the system sends you to book an appointment.
Already have a DMW Portal account? Log in at portal.dmw.gov.ph, click Exit Clearance, then print it or scan the QR code.
Walk-in
1. Changed employer, jobsite or position?
Have your new contract verified by the MWO in your host country. Each MWO lists its own requirements and appointment system; see your country page.
2. After verification, get your OEC or OFW Pass online as above, or at the MWO or a DMW office when the online system cannot match your record
3. First-time OFW?
Your licensed agency processes your documents with DMW before you leave. Check the agency first: see how to check an agency.
How much does it cost?
| Item | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| OFW Travel Pass (eGovPH) | PHP 0 | Valid for 90 days from issue; renewable in the app |
| OEC or OEC exemption for a returning worker | PHP 0 | Free since 29 July 2023; valid 60 days, for one departure |
| OWWA membership, if it has expired | USD 25 | Paid in local currency; valid 2 years. See the OWWA guide |
How long does it take?
- OFW Pass and OEC exemption: as soon as the system matches your record with your employer, jobsite and position.
- New employer: after the MWO verifies your contract. Times depend on the MWO.
- A printed OEC is valid for 60 days and one exit only. The OFW Travel Pass in eGovPH is valid for 90 days from issue, and you can void or renew it in the app at any time (DMW Advisory 38-2025).
- The 90 days apply to the OFW Travel Pass in eGovPH. The advisory does not mention the DMW Mobile App. It says printed OFW Passes issued through DMW Online Services, including those issued by the Migrant Workers Airport Assistance Center (MWAAC), are still valid exit clearances.
Where to go
- Online: DMW Online Services, the DMW Portal, the DMW Mobile App and the eGovPH app.
- Abroad: your Migrant Workers Office, for contract verification. See your country's page, for example Saudi Arabia, UAE or Hong Kong.
- In the Philippines: the DMW main office at the BFO Building, EDSA corner Ortigas Avenue, Mandaluyong City, and DMW regional offices.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between the OEC and the OFW Pass?
Both are DMW exit clearances. The OFW Pass is a digital QR code; the OFW Travel Pass in eGovPH is valid for 90 days from issue and can be renewed in the app. The OEC is a printout valid for 60 days and one departure.
Who can get an OEC exemption or OFW Pass online?
Returning workers going back to the same employer, jobsite and position, with that record already in the DMW system.
How much is the OEC in 2026?
Nothing, for returning workers. DMW made the OEC for Balik-Manggagawa free on 29 July 2023.
How long is an OEC valid?
A printed OEC is valid for 60 days from issue and can be used for one departure only.
Can I get an OFW Pass if I changed employer?
Not right away. Your new contract must first be verified by the MWO in your host country. After that, the new record lets you get your exit clearance.
The system says my record does not match. What should I do?
Check that your passport and visa details in your profile are current, and that the employer name is spelled as on your visa. If it still fails, book the appointment the system offers or contact your MWO.
Do I need an OEC if I am going abroad as a tourist?
No. The exit clearance is for workers. Leaving as a tourist to work abroad is against the rules and puts you at risk. See how to check an agency.
Is there an app for the OFW Pass?
Yes. The DMW Mobile App issues the OFW Pass, and the eGovPH app has the same Travel Pass under NGA, then DMW. Download both only from the official app stores.
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