OEC or exit clearance/pass is a document certifying the regularity of a worker’s recruitment and documentation and ensures exemption from travel tax and airport terminal fee. It is presented at the POEA Labor Assistance Center (LAC) and the Bureau of Immigration (BI) counter at the airports prior to departure. The OEC serves as the worker’s guarantee that he/she is covered by government protection and benefits.
The requirements for the issuance of OEC are as follows:
- Copy of passport (page showing photo and personal data);
- Copy of valid work visa, work permit or equivalent document (e.g., Form I-797);
- Accomplished Balik-Manggagawa Information Sheet; and
- US$ equivalent of P100 (between US$2 and US$3, depending on current Php-US$ exchange rate).
OEC issued by POLO is for one-time use only and valid for 60 days. This means that the vacationing OFW should leave the Philippines within 60 days upon the issuance of OEC.
OEC may be secured personally at the POLO, Philippine Embassy, 1600 Massachusetts Ave. NW, Washington DC 20036 or via mail.
If via mail, the OFW should include a self-addressed/stamped return envelope. For security purposes, the payment should be in money order payable to “Labor Office”.
For inquiries, please contact 1-202-467-9425/26 or e-mail This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
