OEC Processing Part 2: Phase 1 Requirements and OWWA

Right after I received my POLO-verified contract, I went immediately to POEA Region 7 to begin my OEC processing. I want to add that before going to the office, ensure that you must bring all the necessary documents and reproduce at least FOUR photocopies so that you can still secure a copy for future use. Also, be organized. Separate the original documents from the photocopies by placing the original documents in a folder and the reproduced ones in an envelope. They will be taking the photocopies. The evaluator will check each requirement according to the checklist and they will look at the original copy so be ready to present them.

So what are the Phase 1 Requirements? Being employed in the United States, here are the documents I submitted:

1.       My passport with the working visa

2.       POLO-verified contract

3.       Company profile (the overview of your employer)

4.       POLO-endorsement letter

5.       Labor Condition Application (this is a country specific requirement)

6.       H1-B draft materials (this is a country specific requirement, a supporting document)

7.       Form I-129/ Notice of action (this is a country specific requirement and depending on the visa class where you belong)

8.       College diploma

9.       Transcript of records

1.PRC license

1.   Notarized Statement / Sworn Statement

·         This important piece of document contains the information on how you secure the employment (from the internet, referral, etc). This must come from a lawyer with his or her signature testifying that all documents presented are authentic.

The evaluation took a while since there were some paperworks and forms that need to be filled out. Kudos to Miss Evaluator for being so nice to me. Also, be ready for questions and answer them promptly with supporting documents.

When the evaluator was done in sorting the documents (since it will be sent to Manila and will take 1 week to be processed) she advised me to go to Overseas Workers Welfare Administration or OWWA for the scheduling of my Pre-Deployent Orientation Seminar or PDOS.

As I went to the OWWA office, the officer-in-charge asked me a copy of my employment contract and passport. They also evaluate my papers so be prepared to present all of them. I filled out a form as well. After the evaluation, the officer scheduled me for PDOS on Thursday at 8PM.

I realized that this needs to be taken once step at a time. I’m truly closer to the process. Patience is a virtue. I’m ready for the next step..