PH Government Launches OFW Travel Pass Under eGovPH App for Faster, Digitalized Deployment

The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) has officially announced the implementation of the OFW Travel Pass, a new digital requirement designed to streamline overseas deployment processes and strengthen the welfare and protection measures for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs).

The policy, issued under Advisory No. 38, Series of 2025, aligns with the government’s broader digitalization initiative and mandates the use of the OFW Travel Pass through the eGovPH super app.

Initial Coverage: Returning OFWs

The first phase of implementation covers rehire or returning workers (Balik-Manggagawa), including OFWs who previously secured OEC (Overseas Employment Certificate) exemptions through the DMW’s online systems.

How the New System Works

The DMW outlined three key steps for OFWs to obtain the Travel Pass:

1. Downloading and Registration

OFWs must download the eGovPH app, available on both the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. The app is free and requires user verification.

2. Accessing the OFW Travel Pass

Once registered, users should navigate to the National Government Agencies (NGA) section within the app and select the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) tab. From there, OFWs can access the Balik-Manggagawa service and generate their Travel Pass.

3. Automated Issuance

The system automatically issues a Travel Pass to OFWs with active and existing contracts recorded in the DMW database.

For OFWs whose contracts have expired, the system will prompt them to update employer and jobsite information before issuance.

Part of a Larger Digital Reform

According to the advisory, the introduction of the OFW Travel Pass is part of ongoing efforts to simplify procedures, reduce manual processing, and enhance the government’s ability to provide timely protection and services to Filipino workers abroad.

The advisory was released by the DMW’s General Services Division and officially disseminated on November 28, 2025.