For OFWs, having the complete documentation is important to be able to go to your country of work. Before your flight, you have to make sure that you have all the papers needed to leave the country legally.
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The OFW Pass is one of the recent services that the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) offers to the departing Filipino workers. Through this pass, you would be able to carry fewer documents yet provide the needed identification.
OFW Pass to be Used in Select Countries
Having the proper documentation is essential for OFWs who are leaving the country to go to their country of work. However, the requirements can be bulky for some. And it would certainly be helpful if you can reduce the paperwork you carry.
One of the innovations that DMW offers is the OFW Pass. This is a mobile application that you can present as your identification. Advantages include being free and tamper-proof.
The said pass is convenient to use since it uses QR code to connect with other government agencies. It can be used for the duration of the OFW’s valid contract abroad. Most importantly, the OFW Pass is being tested in 10 selected countries, including Qatar.
Benefits of Using the OFW Pass
In the past, the OEC was used as an important documentation for OFWs who are leaving to get their deployment. However, acquiring an OEC can be time consuming for most of us because we will need to report physically at the government institution. Aside from the effort to get the document, the OEC has a limited validity and you would also have to pay to get it.
On the other hand, the OFW Pass provides more convenience to the user. For one, it can be acquired for free and can be done online. Moreover, its validity will depend on your contract so you won’t have to worry whether the document you are holding is already expired. Finally, you can connect this pass with other government apps.
How to Get the OFW Pass
To start enjoying the convenience of this pass, you should first download the DMW Mobile app. For iOS users, you can download it on the App Store. Meanwhile, Android users can get the app on Google Play.
The mobile app is where you will submit the requirements, process verification, and verify it. Once you have completed all the requirements, you can get the OFW Pass. You have to wait for 2 to 3 days for DMW to process your application. Moreover, if you have some pending requirements, you will need to complete these first.
Video: How to Use the OFW Pass
If you want a step-by-step guide on how to get the OFW Pass, you can watch this tutorial from the YouTube channel of Rhea and Ronald TV. This is the full video:
Disclaimer: The information posted here is based on personal experiences that the OFW shared in the video. Please let this post serve as a guide only. If you have specific questions, you may ask the OFW by commenting on their video or on their social media account.
Frequently Asked Questions About the OFW Pass
Who can use the OFW Pass?
All overseas workers with working contracts can use this pass. It can apply to first timers, those who transferred from other agencies, and those who are in the Philippines on vacation or emergency leave.
Which countries use the OFW Pass?
Since the OFW Pass is on a trial run, it is initially valid in 10 selected countries. Qatar is one of those countries where you can use this pass.
Can the OFW Pass be used on multiple devices?
No. You can only log in to one device. If you will use a different device to log on to this app, you have to log out from the previous device first.
What is an exit clearance and is it needed to use the OFW Pass?
This is a valid exit pass that you need to acquire after getting the OFW Pass. You can apply for this exit pass in the pop-up page that appears in the landing page where you can find the OFW Pass. Note that you will need to have a valid OFW Pass before you can apply for an exit clearance. You will need this when you depart the Philippines to go to the country of your destination.
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