Canada/Philippines: Reminder: Overseas Employment Certificate Requirements for Filipinos Working in Canada

As a reminder, Filipinos working overseas are generally required to comply with the documentation rules governing the Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC). While these requirements apply broadly to Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) worldwide, this reminder highlights specific provisions relevant to Canada, where particular guidance applies to certain work permit holders and dependents. 

In Canada, the requirement also applies to Filipino workers who hold a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) or any other type of Open Work Permit (OWP) and have begun employment in Canada. 

Although these individuals may have initially departed the Philippines without an OEC, once they begin employment in Canada, they are considered OFWs and must register their employment with the Migrant Workers Office (MWO) in Canada. Before traveling back to the Philippines (including for a short trip), they must have their employment contract verified by the MWO in Canada and submit it to the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) in the Philippines for registration and OEC issuance. 

Those who are not employed at the time of travel are not required to obtain an OEC but must present an Affidavit of Support or other acceptable documentation to the Bureau of Immigration before departure. 

The OEC serves as proof that a Filipino worker has been legally documented for overseas employment and registered under the DMW. It verifies the worker’s employment contract, confirms coverage under the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), and ensures compliance with Philippine labor and welfare laws and regulations. It also grants exemptions from travel tax, terminal fees, and documentary stamp tax. 

Fragomen can assist with coordinating the required documentation processes in both Canada and the Philippines and can advise on how these requirements may apply in other countries where similar rules are in place. This alert is for informational purposes only. If you have any questions, please contact the global immigration professional with whom you work at Fragomen.