How to check if an agency is licensed by DMW
Quick answer
To check a recruitment agency, search its name or licence number on the DMW (Department of Migrant Workers) list of licensed agencies, then read the licence status and expiry date. It is free and takes about 5 minutes. Only an agency with a current, valid licence may recruit you for work abroad. Do this before you pay any fee or sign any paper.
On Listo Papeles, every agency page shows only what the DMW list says, with the date we last checked. The standard wording is:
> According to the DMW list, this agency's licence is <status>. Always verify on the official DMW website before paying or signing anything.
You can start with our agency search, but the DMW website is always the final word.
Requirements
- The exact name of the agency, as written on its office sign, receipt or contract.
- The DMW (or old POEA) licence number, if the agency gave you one. It often looks like "POEA-123-LB-123456-R".
- The office address the agency gave you.
- The job details: country, employer, position. You will need these to check the job order.
- A phone or computer with internet.
- You do not need an account to search the list.
Steps
1. Open the DMW website yourself
Type https://dmw.gov.ph/ in your browser. Do not use a link sent by a recruiter in chat or on social media. Fake pages exist.
2. Find the list of licensed agencies
Look for a menu like "Licensed Recruitment Agencies" or "Verify Agency".
3. Search by name or licence number
Try the full name first. If nothing shows, try a shorter part of the name. Agencies often have similar names.
4. Compare the details
The name, licence number and address on the DMW list must match what the agency showed you. A different address can mean you are dealing with someone who only uses the agency's name.
5. Read the status and the validity date
Note the status (for example valid, suspended or cancelled) and when the licence expires. See the table below.
6. Check the job order
A licensed agency still needs an approved job order for your specific job. Ask for the job order details and check them on the DMW website.
7. Save proof
Take a screenshot of the result with the date visible. Keep it with your papers.
8. If you cannot find the agency, call DMW
Use the DMW hotline 1348 or visit a DMW office. Ask them to confirm the agency and the job order.
9. Tip
the old POEA website may still show agency records. POEA is now part of DMW. When the two disagree, trust the current DMW list and ask DMW directly.
Fees
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Searching the DMW agency list | Free |
| Calling DMW hotline 1348 | Free or normal call charges |
| Filing a complaint with DMW | Free |
| Legal cap on placement fee (where allowed) | Up to one month's salary |
Processing time
- Online search: about 5 minutes.
- Hotline answer: depends on queue; try early on a weekday.
- Complaint handling: varies by case.
Where to go
- Online: https://dmw.gov.ph/.
- In person: DMW central office in Mandaluyong City and DMW regional offices.
- Abroad: Philippine embassy or consulate, or the MWO. See country pages.
Frequently asked questions
How do I check if an agency is licensed by DMW?
Go to dmw.gov.ph, open the list of licensed agencies and search the agency's name or licence number. Read the status and validity date. It is free.
Is POEA verification still valid?
POEA is now part of DMW. Old POEA pages may still show records, but always confirm on the current DMW website or by calling DMW.
What if the agency is not on the DMW list?
Check the spelling and try the licence number. If there is still no result, do not pay or sign. Call DMW hotline 1348 and ask.
What does "suspended" mean on the DMW list?
It means DMW stopped the agency's licence for a period. The agency cannot recruit while the suspension lasts.
Can a licensed agency still break the rules?
Yes. Charging more than the legal fee or not giving an official receipt can be illegal recruitment even for a licensed agency. Report it to DMW.
How much can an agency charge me?
For many jobs, the placement fee cannot be more than one month's salary. For some countries and for household service workers, no placement fee is allowed.
Where do I report illegal recruitment?
Report to DMW, the NBI or the PNP, including the CIDG. If you are abroad, go to the embassy, consulate or Migrant Workers Office.
Does Listo Papeles rate agencies?
No. We only show the status from the DMW list, with the date we checked. We do not rate, rank or review agencies.
Can I check an agency through social media?
No. A page or group can copy an agency's name and logo. Check only on the DMW website or by calling DMW.
What proof should I keep?
Keep a screenshot of the DMW result, your contract, all official receipts and all chat messages. You will need them if something goes wrong.
Was this page helpful?