DMW Launches OFW Travel Pass Digital Replacement for the OEC

In line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to digitize and simplify government transactions, the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) has officially launched the OFW Travel Pass—a modern replacement for the traditional Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC).

 The new OFW Travel Pass aims to make documentation faster, more efficient, and more convenient for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs). Instead of physically securing an OEC before departure, OFWs can now access their travel pass digitally through the eGovPH mobile app, available for download on the Google Play Store and soon on the Apple App Store.

According to the DMW, the OFW Travel Pass serves as the official digital exit clearance and documentation tool for all departing OFWs. By shifting to a mobile-based process, the agency expects to eliminate long queues, reduce paperwork, and minimize the risk of fake certificates—a long-standing issue under the old system.

“With the OFW Travel Pass, the processing of OFW documents is now faster, more efficient, and more practical,” the DMW said in its official announcement.

To use the new system, OFWs must:

1. Download the eGovPH App.
2. Register an account and provide personal and employment details.
3. Access and generate their digital OFW Travel Pass within the app.

The DMW emphasized that this innovation is part of the government’s ongoing effort to improve service delivery for migrant workers and strengthen data integration across agencies such as the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), Bureau of Immigration (BI), and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA).

The OFW Travel Pass is expected to fully replace the OEC in upcoming months, streamlining all deployment-related transactions for land-based and sea-based workers alike.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Is the OFW Travel Pass already effective?
   Not yet fully. The DMW clarified that the OFW Travel Pass is still in pilot testing, meaning it’s being improved and not yet mandatory. For now, the OEC or OEC Exemption from the Balik Manggagawa portal remains valid for travel.
2. Why does the app say “No Valid Contract Found” or “You Are Not an OFW”?
   This is a temporary system issue because the database migration is still ongoing. Some records from POEA, OWWA, or BM Online have not yet synced. OFWs are advised to wait for updates or contact their nearest DMW office for contract verification if needed.
3. Can I use my foreign mobile number and current address abroad?
   Yes. You may register using your active foreign number and current overseas address, as long as you can receive SMS verification codes.
4. How about OFWs in Lebanon and other conflict-alert countries?
   For now, those under alert level restrictions should still coordinate with their Philippine Embassy or Migrant Workers Office for travel or vacation clearance.
5. Will I still get my ₱550–₱950 terminal fee refund?
   Yes. Refunds will continue to apply through airport counters while the DMW finalizes integration with the new digital pass.