Our Comprehensive Guide On How To Work Abroad

Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) are often regarded as modern day heroes. More than the sacrifice they give for working overseas, they are also seen as economic heroes because of the remittances they send back to their families. Many developed countries are always looking for workers to augment their workforce. Filipinos are among the top 10 nations that have been deployed to work as OFWs because of their education, work ethics, and their language skills.  

The available work opportunities outside the Philippines can start from entry-level positions to highly specialized work. Many Filipinos get attracted to work overseas, either as a white collar professional or as a skilled worker, because of the high salary and the  opportunities for advancement they are offered. Some go abroad because of the “better opportunities” outside the Philippines.

Depending which part of your career path you are in, this can work out in your favor if you are just starting out as a jobseeker looking to further your skills and experience as a skilled worker

If you are planning to go overseas, check our comprehensive guide to the steps you need to take to become a legitimate and documented OFW. Make sure your requirements are complete to help you land your dream job overseas faster!

Also read: Where Do Filipinos Really Want to Work?

Qualifications to Work Broad

Depending on the country and the industry you want to apply for, jobseekers must meet certain criteria such as certifications, educational accomplishments, and other hiring requirements. 

Some companies may require you to go through a hiring agency to help assess your skills and assist you in meeting job prerequisites prior to getting hired and getting a signed contract. 

These agencies are regulated by the Philippine Overseas Employment Agency (POEA), an attached agency under the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) to advocate for your rights as a foreign national while working overseas.

How Can I Get A Job Abroad?

Step 1: Get your PEOS certificate

The Pre-Employment Orientation Seminar (PEOS) is conducted by the POEA at their main office or at the POEA regional offices. This is a mandatory requirement for all prospective OFWs. The seminar provides insights on how to legally find work in your country of choice and answer your migrant questions. 

To join, simply register at the POEA Online Services website to get an eRegistration number and you can register for the free PEOS seminar at the PEOS website. Once completed make sure you get your PEOS certificate as part of your requirements before flying abroad.

Also Read: Wondering How To Get The PEOS Certificate? Secure It In 3 Easy Steps!

Step 2: Submit work requirements 

Submit application form and all the requirements being asked by your employer or recruiter. The basic required documents are: 

• personal data sheets
• transcript of records
• high school and college diplomas
• certificate(s) of employment
• board certificate(s), training and trade certificates (if applicable)
• passport, 2″x2″ pictures
• Social Security Services (SS form OW-1)
• Updated PhilHealth Member Data Record (MDR).

Step 3: Undergo the preliminary interview and evaluation 

You may have to attend a pre-application orientation being conducted by the concerned recruiter/local agent so you can be informed of the details of the employment offer. If you meet the minimum qualifications of the job, you will be asked to undergo testing and/or interviews among other screening procedures.

Step 4: Undergo Medical and Trade Testing 

If selected, you will be instructed to proceed to an accredited medical clinic for basic medical examination and to any TESDA-accredited testing centers, if necessary, to ensure that you are fit to work. 

Depending on global health announcements, some countries may require employees to go through RT-PCR tests for COVID-19 and other mandatory health tests to ensure your travel plans are not hindered.

Step 5: Discuss the Terms and Conditions of Employment

When you pass the medical exam and trade testing, you will be asked to sign an employment contract. REMEMBER, before signing a contract, read and study first all the provisions. Do not sign the contract, nor pay any fee unless you have fully understood and agreed to the indicated terms and conditions. Always demand for a receipt once a payment is made.

Step 6: Process your documents with POEA and other concerned embassies or entities

Your agency or company will now proceed to process your documents with the following entities:

• Concerned foreign embassy – Visa issuance/stamping
• Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) – for registration and documentation of employment contracts as well as issuance of e-Receipt or Overseas Employment Certificates (OEC)
• Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) – if certain documents need translation and authentication (e.g. employment contract written wholly in the foreign language)
• Concerned airline – for issuance of booking certificates or Pre-paid Ticket Advice (PTA)

Step 7: Attend the PDOS 

You should undergo a compulsory Pre-Departure Orientation Seminar (PDOS) before leaving the country. The PDOS consists of seven modules and takes an hour and a half to complete. The seminar educates you on topics such as travel and immigration procedures, housing concerns, employment questions, cultural assimilation and other helpful information to help ease your journey in a new country. 

To take this FREE seminar, simply register at the Commission of Filipinos Overseas (CFO) website. Don't forget to make sure you have your CFO Emigrant Registration Sticker affixed to your passport as proof of attendance.

Step 8: Have documents validated

You should proceed at the POEA-Labor Assistance Center (POEA-LAC) and have required documents validated before attending to other airport procedures. Make sure you have everything you need, including:

• Travel documents: passport, PEOS certificate, personal IDs 
• Government forms: government IDs, SSS ID, PhilHealth ID
• Travel money: credit cards, debit cards, cash up to US$10,000
• Copies of employment contract
• Contact information and address information of your local representative in the Philippines and your contact in the destination country. 

You may also want to get contact information of the Philippine embassies located near your destination in case you need assistance abroad. Bring your mobile phone with you and ensure it has enough credits to purchase data upon arrival. You may want to check with your mobile operator if they have partners that can offer data services once you arrive.

Following these steps and making a list of what you need to start working overseas will help ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience as an OFW.

Are you considering exploring career opportunities outside the Philippines? You can learn more by reading, Pinoy Working Abroad: What It’s Like And How To Prepare For A New Career and see if working overseas as an OFW is something you would like to pursue.

#LetsGetToWork! Begin by updating your profile, then  search jobs on our website or download the JobStreet app on the App Store or Google Play. 

Finally, visit Career Resources Hub for more expert advice on developing a rewarding career.