Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC)
Mr. Carl Marlou Saranillo, BS, JD, LLB (1st Class Hons)
6/24/20262 min read
The Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) plays a crucial role in the employment of Filipino workers abroad, particularly in Australia. As the demand for skilled labor continues to rise, Filipino professionals can find lucrative job opportunities in various sectors. The OEC is a mandatory document required for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) to ensure their rights and welfare during their stay in a foreign country.
Visa Options for Filipino Workers in Australia
Australian employers have the option to sponsor Filipino workers through specific visa categories. The Skilled Workers in Demand (subclass 482) visa allows skilled individuals to work in Australia for a duration of up to four years. Alternatively, the Temporary Work (Short Stay) subclass 400 visa is available for employers wishing to hire overseas employees for specialized projects, offering a stay of up to six months. Direct hiring is permitted for companies employing no more than five workers, paving the way for Filipinos to access various job opportunities in Australia.
Applying for the OEC
Upon receiving visa approval, employers in Australia must initiate the application process for the Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) through the Office of the Migrant Workers Office (MWO) at the Philippine Embassy in Canberra. The OEC application requires several essential documents to be submitted, including:
Employment contract signed by both the employer and worker on all pages.
Coloured copy of the worker's passport.
Copy of the visa approval documentation.
Company’s registration certificate.
Coloured copy of the employer’s passport or driver’s license.
Statutory declaration ensuring the company has not hired more than five workers under the direct hiring scheme.
$72.00 verification fee payable to the MWO, either via money order or bank cheque, with the worker's name indicated on the back.
A self-addressed prepaid envelope (A4 size) for mailing purposes.
These documents must be sent to: MWO, Philippine Embassy Canberra, 1 Moonah Place, Yarralumla ACT 2600, Australia. For further inquiries, individuals may contact MWO at +61 401 312 924 or email mwoaustralia@philembassy.org.au.
Importance of the OEC
The OEC serves as a protective measure for OFWs, ensuring adherence to labor laws and safeguarding their rights while working overseas. It is a testament to the government's commitment to supporting Filipino workers abroad. However, it is important to note that this information is general in nature and should not be interpreted as definitive legal advice. For specific immigration requirements, individuals are encouraged to seek guidance from professionals, such as Mr. Carl Saranillo, an Australian legal practitioner and Philippine lawyer, who can be reached at mobile: 0400502342 or office: 0296356500, or via email at csaranillo.jisolicitors@gmail.com.