How Filipino can verify their new Dubai visa for new company

How to Verify a New Dubai Visa for a New Company: A Guide for Filipinos

Securing a job in Dubai is an exciting milestone for many Filipinos. However, before you can board your flight and start your new career, you must ensure that your employment documents are legally recognized by the Philippine government. This process, known as Document Verification, is handled by the Migrant Workers Office (MWO)—formerly known as POLO—at the Philippine Embassy or Consulate in the UAE.

If you are being hired by a new company (a company that has not hired a Filipino through the legal channel before), there are specific steps the employer must take to "accredit" or register the company first. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to navigate this process.

Why is Verification Necessary?

Verification ensures that your employment contract complies with both UAE Labor Laws and the minimum standards set by the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) in the Philippines. This process is a prerequisite for obtaining your Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC), which allows you to exit the Philippines as a documented OFW and exempts you from travel tax and terminal fees.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Document Verification

Step 1: Employer Preparation of Requirements

Since the company is "new" to the Philippine Embassy/MWO system, they must prepare a set of documents for Initial Accreditation. The employer or their representative (PRO) usually handles this. The required documents typically include:

• Standard Employment Contract: Signed by both the employer and the Filipino worker.
• Copy of the Worker’s Visa: The newly issued entry permit or residence visa.
• Passport Copy: Clear copy of the worker’s passport data page.
• Trade License: A copy of the company's valid Dubai/UAE Trade License.
• Company Profile: A brief overview of the business.
• Contingency Plan: A signed document stating how the company will handle emergencies involving the worker.
• Authorized Signatory’s ID: Copy of the Emirates ID of the person signing the contract.

Step 2: Booking an Appointment

Verification is not usually done on a walk-in basis. The employer or the worker (if already in the UAE on a different visa status) must book an appointment through the official MWO portal. Depending on the company's location, you will choose between:

• MWO Dubai: For companies with trade licenses issued in Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah.
• MWO Abu Dhabi: For companies with trade licenses issued in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain.

Step 3: Submission and Payment

On the day of the appointment, the representative submits the physical documents to the MWO office. Note: Some MWO offices now utilize an online submission system (e-Verification) before requiring physical copies. Always check the latest advisory on their official website.

• Verification Fee: Approximately AED 40.
• Authentication/OWWA Fee: If applicable, the OWWA membership fee is roughly AED 92.

Step 4: MWO Evaluation and Approval

The Labor Attaché will review the contract to ensure the salary meets the minimum requirement (e.g., USD 400 or equivalent in AED for household workers, or higher for skilled professionals) and that the benefits (insurance, airfare, housing) are clearly stated. Once approved, the documents will be stamped and signed.

Step 5: Sending Verified Documents to the Philippines

Once the MWO verifies the documents, the employer must send the Original Verified Contract to the worker in the Philippines via courier (like DHL or FedEx). This original document is required by the DMW (formerly POEA) to process the worker's deployment papers.

Step 6: DMW Registration (In the Philippines)

The worker will then present the verified contract to the DMW office in the Philippines to complete the Direct Hire process (if they are not going through a Philippine agency). This includes:

• Phase 1 and Phase 2 Seminars (PDOS).
• Medical examination.
• Issuance of the OEC.

Helpful External Links

For the most accurate and up-to-date forms and appointment slots, please visit the following official resources:

• Migrant Workers Office (MWO) - Dubai Official Portal
• Philippine Embassy in Abu Dhabi (General Services)
• Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) - Philippines
• DMW Online Services Portal (OEC/Registration)

Important Tips for Success

• Check Your Salary: Ensure the salary on the contract matches the minimum standards for your specific profession as mandated by the DMW.
• Avoid Scams: Never pay a "placement fee" for jobs in the UAE, as this is often prohibited for many job categories.
• Patience is Key: The accreditation of a "New Company" can take longer than a simple contract renewal. Start the process as early as possible.