So, you want to try your luck as an Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW).
Maybe you’ve already set your sights on a particular industry, read up on your destination country, and acquired a climate-appropriate wardrobe to match.
All that’s left now is the most important thing: your new job.
Applying for OFW jobs abroad may sound intimidating, but don’t fret! Here are some tips to help you land the job and seek greener pastures.
Tip 1: Get Your Requirements in Order
It comes as no surprise that becoming an OFW entails lots of paperwork.
You need to prepare your documents and have them verified before you can be authorized to work abroad.
Some embassies may even require certified document translation before you can get the go-ahead to work.
Here are the general requirements you need to prepare:
Personal and employment documents. For the full list of common documents required for OFWs, click here.
Placement fee. Typically, this is equivalent to your monthly salary.
Pre-Employment Orientation Seminar (PEOS) certificate. You can get this at the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), formerly the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA).
Medical certification (depends on employer and pre-application screening procedures).
Important: Get a Document Translation if Needed
Ensure you get a reputable translation service to handle your documents in case a certified translation is needed.
Elite Translations, for example, is a widely recognized translation service Philippines-based authorities and applicants trust.
Go for a translation company you can trust with your documents’ quality, accuracy, and security.
Tip 2: Vet Your Recruiter
Don’t put your future on the line with dubious recruiters! This includes fixers, who promise a faster application process for an exorbitant fee.
If you find an ad for OFW jobs on social media, make sure to check if the recruiter or agency is registered with DMW.
Working under an agency registered under DMW and the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) will help you get protection as a foreign worker.
DMW also posts job orders, which may help you filter out legitimate hiring opportunities for OFW jobs.
Additionally, it pays to be aware of red flags such as a lack of online presence, upfront payments of placement fees, and meetups outside a legitimate office.
Tip 3: Don’t Go for a Tourist Visa First
You may be thinking that getting a tourist visa before securing OFW jobs abroad is the best way to fast-track your overseas journey.
Getting tagged as a job hunter on a tourist visa could get you deported, which leads to all sorts of unfavorable consequences!
If your agency promises employment but intends to give you a tourist visa as a prerequisite, don’t transact further.
Tip 4: Don’t Forget Resume and Interview Basics
As with any job, you need to put your best foot forward when applying for work as an OFW.
Make sure to:
- Research your target industry and market beforehand
- Update and proofread your resume
- Communicate in a clear, concise, and confident manner
- Mind the dress code (if any)
- Learn the basics of your host country’s language
- Ask questions about the job’s details (work arrangements, housing, paid time off, etc.)
Professional and Certified Document Translator
Ready to take the plunge into overseas employment? Let us help out.
Elite Translations is a bona fide translations company with years of experience helping OFW aspirants, students, and travelers with all their document translation needs.
As a trusted translation service provider, we have an extensive network of language experts with linguistic and subject-matter expertise to deliver top-notch translations of virtually any document.
More than that, we adhere to strict data security and privacy guidelines to keep your most vital information safe.
Contact us today for a FREE quote, and let’s get to your translation needs!
