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4 Ways to Give Love to Your Family this Christmas Even from Afar

Two more months and it’s already Christmas? Have you started your Christmas shopping yet? If not, then don’t worry. You still have time.

Christmas is the time when many OFWs head back home to be with their loved ones even for a few days. Unfortunately, not all are allowed to go home. In case you are one of them, don’t worry. You can still show your love to your family even if you are miles away.

Here’s how you can do it:

Send gifts back home. 

This is the most obvious way to show that you care for your family back home. Sending gifts make your family feel that you think of them and care about their happiness. Giving gifts must be carefully thought out to make sure that not only it will fit every member’s personality and interests but also they will appreciate what you gave and treasure it. This will add more value to the material thing.

Still, don’t shower them with too much material things, especially if it means you have to spend every centavo in your salary and savings account. Set a budget and pay in cash.

Do things together as a family. 

Video call is invented for a reason. Take advantage of that by using this tool to bond with your family especially come Christmas time. Opt for a video call and do things together as if you are home. You can watch a movie as a family (make sure you watch the same show or movie), put up Christmas decorations in the house (both in the Philippines and your place overseas), or cook Noche Buena virtually together. Even if you are afar, doing things together will make you feel closer to home and will surely make your presence felt.

Remember this: the most expensive thing you can give to someone is the gift of time. Give it to your family because time spent can never be taken back. Use it wisely.

Write handwritten letters. 

Technology does make communication easier. Instead of buying a prepaid card for overseas call, all you need is a decent Internet connection and you can call your family anytime of the day without spending too much.

Still, this doesn’t mean there is no more room for writing letters. In fact, another way of showing your love this Christmas is by writing them a personal letter. Use it as an opportunity to tell them how much you love and care for them, especially when you can’t say it out loud during your phone and video calls.

The best part is your family gets to keep the letter/s after all these years. This is something they could easily go back to when they misses you.

Keep communication lines open. 

This is important. Being apart doesn’t mean you should not be updated with what is happening to your family. Listen to how their day went and share them about your day and experiences as well.

Take lots of photos, especially if you plan to visit tourist spots during off days, and send the photos to them. Don’t forget to write a note saying that you love to bring them there someday. At the same time, ask for their photos. You care about your family and this includes knowing the things happening to them.

Nothing and no one can ever replace your presence especially this Christmas. It could be disheartening and depressing since this is the season where you should be with your family, if not for the circumstances. Even if you are miles away, this doesn’t mean your presence should not be felt. Remember these tips to make them feel your love this Christmas.

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OFW Guide to Living and Working in Macau

What comes to your mind when you hear the word “casino?” Normally, you would associate it with Las Vegas since that is where the biggest casinos are found, right?

Well, you don’t have to go to another continent just to plat the slot machine and Blackjack. Macau, which is also known as the “Las Vegas of Asia,” is few hours away from the Philippines and more than the casinos, it offers tons of job opportunities for Filipinos. There are many jobs waiting in the services, tourism, and hospitality sector, which accounts for Macau’s biggest source of income, but professional and skilled workers are likewise welcome.

If you are ready to see bright lights at night and give Macau a try, here are some things you need to know about this small but proud Special Administrative Region (SAR) of China:

Language

Mandarin and Cantonese are the primary languages in Macau; however, you would notice signs and some people still written and speaking Portuguese. English is also widely spoken, especially since Macau is among the tourists’ favorite destination.

Still, it wouldn’t hurt if you learn few Mandarin and Cantonese words, even the basic ones, so you will be able to communicate with the people properly and easily.

Accommodation

Normally, foreign workers are provided living quarters by their respective employers. This is especially true if you are working in the hotel industry. In case none is provided, there are apartments available that you can rent. Many apartments have basic appliances like fridge and washing machine, but if you need more, then you will have to pay for it.

Transportation

Public transportation in  Macau is commendable compared to the Philippines. Buses and cabs are available 24 hours, thereby making commuting easier and more convenient for you.

If you employer offers shuttle services, then make sure you take advantage of it to save more.

Working Condition 

Unlike in the Philippines, there is no mandatory minimum wage set in Macau, except for cleaners and security guards (about USD 3.75 per hour). It’s up to the employers as to how much they will pay you every month. Average monthly salary is MOP 17,000 or approximately USD 2,100. If you work in the gaming and recreational services, finance industry, or in the health and social services, you could be earning more since these are the industries that pay more to its workers.

The good thing is that the cost of living in Macau is lower compared to its neighboring countries like Hong Kong and Singapore. Despite earning lower, you will still be able to live a comfortable life and pay for the expenses while you’re working there.

Long working hours are something you need to prepare for as well. Most workers work six days a week and longer hours, especially if you work in the tourism sector. Nonetheless, workers are entitled to six working days of paid leave, eight statutory holidays, and 24 hours of rest day for every seven days of work. This is a big adjustment since rest days are handled differently in the Philippines.

At the end of the day, the locals will be favored more by employers. This is why it would be extra challenging for you to climb the ladder of success. Nonetheless, treat this as your stepping stone and part of your work experience.

Weather

Macau has a subtropical climate. This means summer could be hot and humid. It doesn’t snow in Macau, so no need to pack thermal jackets. Still, the wind can be cold by December to February, so make sure you have jacket on hand to keep you warm.

Working Visa

A valid working visa is required before you can work in Macau. Consequently, you should be registered as a full-time employee and carry with you a Blue Card. Don’t worry since this will be processed by your employer through the help of your recruitment agency.

Are you ready to work in Macau?

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OFW ID: What is it anyway?

Did you know that there are more than 10 million Filipinos working overseas? These are the documented ones and surely, there are tons of others out there who are undocumented.

READ: Dangers of Being an Undocumented OFW

What’s your proof that you are a documented Overseas Filipino Worker? OEC is one, which means you went through the legitimate process. Apart from OEC, it turns out that you will be given an OFW ID of iDOLE ID.

What is an OFW ID? 

The OFW ID is part of the unified ID system for OFWs that will eventually replace the (outdated) OEC system. It aims to lessen the burden among OFWs through the unified ID system and at the same time, streamlines the process every OFW have to go through just to be able to work overseas.

Benefits of OFW ID includes:

  • The unified ID system lessens paperworks, which means documentary process will be easier and more convenient not just for the worker but also for the appropriate government agencies.
  • Online access to concerned agencies such as OWWA, POEA, DFA, and the Bureau of Immigration among others. Once you created an account though the iDOLE system, all of the data collected about you from various agencies will be consolidated into a single system, specifically iDOLE OFW Identification Card system, for easier access.
  • Easier processing and payment of mandatory contributions such as SSS, PAG-IBIG, and Philhealth.
  • The OFW ID replaces the Overseas Employment Certificate, thereby reducing additional paperwork (and wasted time) before you leave abroad.. Similar to OEC, the ID will exempt you from travel tax and airport terminal fee.

There are two ways to apply for iDOLE ID – online and offline application.

How to Apply for OFW ID offline:

1. Prepare the following documents:

  • Two valid IDs, preferably issued by the government
  • Overseas employment certificate
  • If applying overseas, bring your passport

2. Visit any DOLE office, either main branch or regional office, and submit the documents. If applying overseas, you can apply in the POEA office in the country where you are located.

3. The officer-in-charge will verify your status through the POEA listing. Once verified, an ID will be issued and wait for your turn to be called.

How to Apply for OFW ID online:

Keep in mind that before you apply for OFW ID online, you still need to acquire your OEC first. Once you secured an OEC, you can now apply for OFW ID online by following these steps:

1. Visit the iDOLE website and click Create an Account. 

2. On the dropdown box, choose Valid OEC Number. If you are unsure of your OEC number, you can get a copy through the Balik Manggagawa Online Processing System.

3. Fill out the appropriate details such as name, birthdate, email address, mobile number, and password. Then, click Register OFW Account. 

4. Check your email and click the confirmation link to be able to log-in to your iDOLE account.

5. Once you logged in, on the “iDOLE One Stop Shop,” choose OFW ID Card. 

6. Choose the delivery type of your ID. You can pick it up at your Philpost branch or site. Click Submit. 

7. A window will pop saying “Your OFW ID has been generated successfully.” Take note of the OFW ID number and confirmation details. It is also best to print the details since you will need to present the printout when claiming your OFW ID.

Take note that getting an OFW ID is FREE of charge. Take advantage of this to be able to enjoy the benefits. Plus, the ID will be a permanent document that legitimizes the status of a Filipino worker, so it is best to get one.

Have you tried getting an OFW ID? If yes, we would love to read your thoughts and stories about how you acquired it (as well as any delays) on the comments section.

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From OFW to Entrepreneur: Are You Ready for It?

Admit it. Working overseas can be tiring and overwhelming. Plus, you miss your family so bad and you want to be with them. Apparently, there are mouths to feed and bills to be paid. Plus, you want to make sure that your family, especially your kids or younger siblings, will have a secure future. This is why you are willing to take the sacrifices to ensure everyone’s welfare.

Still, you can’t be an OFW forever. At one point, you have to come home and build a life in the Philippines instead of depending on an employment overseas that may or may not happen. This is why it is important to start saving early and thinking of putting your money into something more sustainable, like a business.

The question now is are you ready for it? 

Well, you need to satisfy these qualifications first:

Minimum of Six Months-Worth of Emergency Fund

One of the funds you need to prepare for is an emergency fund. You will never know what would happen, so it is best to prepared. Plus, not all businesses will succeed especially during the first year, which is why it is imperative that you have a fund that will keep you covered in case you hit a roadblock.

If you’re not convinced, then here is another reason why you need to have an EF: you could use the funds for additional working capital instead of borrowing. At least you don’t have to worry about interest rate, right?

Two Words: Financial Stability

This is the first thing you need to look into before you start with your business. In fact, you should be financially stable wherein a fixed amount of money comes in every month.

What does financial stability means? It’s about being free from debt, regardless of the kind loan. This way, when you decide to borrow money for additional working capital, you only have ONE loan to worry about.

Being financially stable also means you already diversified investments that are currently earning. You can check out this post about investment options to help you get started.

If you insist on putting up your own business even with existing loans, then at least make sure that you qualify the first requirement, which is having an emergency fund.

You Know What to Pursue

There are tons of businesses you can do. You might also be inspired by the many rags-to-riches stories, which is why you want to take your cue from them.

Is that what you really want?

Before you go home, make sure you know what you want to accomplish. At this point, you should have a business idea with a defined strategy on how to make it happen, including suppliers, marketing techniques, a defined demographic, and where to sell your product or service. Quitting your work overseas without having a clear, defined business plan is a big risk. You need to be sure first before you kiss your job goodbye.

You Understand How the Business Works

The difference between being an entrepreneur and an OFW is that being a business owner is a 24/7 job. You don’t get mandated off days and you have to work day in and day out to make sure that your business thrives. This is why you need to be equipped with necessarily business knowledge to make sure that you will succeed in this endeavor.

Eventually, problems will come along. You need to be able to solve this instead of quitting and saying you’re done with business. If that is your point of view, then you are surely better off working overseas because that’s not what a successful businessman will do.

The key here is to start small first. Also, don’t give up everything yet just to make this entrepreneurial dream happen. Take it slow and eventually, your dream of having your own business will come true.

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OFW Guide to Living and Working in Spain

History tells us that Philippines was conquered by Spain for more than 300 years. Since then, there’s always a special relationship between the two countries, which lure people to come and visit. By visit, this also means getting a job.

Did you know that despite the “conflict” in Catalonia, Spain is among the favorite destination of expats too compared to France and United Kingdom?

So, what can you see in Spain anyway? Should you decide to give it a try, what are the things you need to know and expect while you’re there?

Read this post to find out.

General Facts

The largest country in Southern Europe, Spain is a secular parliamentary democracy and constitutional monarchy with separate Heads of State and Government. Its neighboring countries include Portugal, Morocco, and France, as well as near the Mediterranean Sea.

Spain is also strategically located in the Iberian peninsula, which also explains its diversity in flora and fauna. Believe it or not, this diversity is also among the reasons why travelers frequent the country every year.

Language 

Spanish, one of the widely spoken language in the world, is the official language in Spain. If you are still struggling, then don’t worry. English is still widely spoken, although it won’t hurt if you take some time to learn Spanish.  There are classes offered in Spain, which you might want to take advantage of. This will make it easier for you to converse and interact with the people. At the same time, you give yourself an edge because you can add another language under your belt.

Nonetheless, it would be different if you will work in Catalonia (yes, where Barcelona is). Catalan is their official language, as evidenced by public signs, public notices, and the language spoken in schools.

Weather 

This varies per region. Anadalusia in Catalonia is popular for its sandy beaches and warm climate, which makes it easier for you to adjust. Nonetheless, summer is cooler in Spain than in the Philippines, so better bring a jacket.

Work Permit

Apparently, working in Spain, or at least getting a work visa is not as easy as it seems. Your foreign employer should request a work permit on your behalf so that you can legally work there starting with Authorization to Work. There is a higher chance of getting approved if the job you applied for is listed as a Shortage Occupation or there is no one qualified from Spain or anyone from the European Union countries to do the job.

As soon as you are cleared and authorized to work, you can now apply for a work permit along with residence permit. Nonetheless, your employer needs to inform the Ministry of Labor about your employment.

Take note that work permit is good for one year and renewable thereafter.

Identity Card 

This is important. As soon as you arrive in Spain, you must apply for Foreigner’s Identity Card (TIE/NIE) either through local Foreigner’s Office (Oficina den Extranjeros) or local police where you are located. This must be done within 30 days from arrival in Spain. This will allow you to open a bank account, register for social services, pay taxes, and get paid for employment among others.

Spain’s healthcare system is among the best in the world and if you want to get access to that, then make sure you register so you can get your identity card.

Cost of Living 

Believe it or not, Spain is relatively cheaper compared to other EU countries, at least in terms of cost of living. Accommodation, transportation, food, and utilities are more affordable, which means you could be able to send more back home (but don’t give everything to them). Still, it is best to share expenses with someone so you don’t have to carry all the burden.

Culture 

Working in Spain allows you to immerse in their rich culture and architecture, especially if you will be based in Barcelona. Nonetheless, be prepared to go sightseeing during your off days, indulge in authentic Spanish food such as tapas and paella, visit museums, or watch a concert. Make time to visit festivals since Spain is known for that. After all, you also deserve a break.

Apparently, Spanish take siesta seriously, with some establishments even closing their stores. This is important for them because work-life balance is something Spanish people are proud of. This could mean downtime too, so make sure you make the most out of your time by, say getting a sideline.

Are your bags packed and ready to go?

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Balik Manggagawa OEC Exemption for Returning OFWs

One of the most important documents Overseas Filipino Workers should have is the Overseas Employment Certificate or OEC. This document not only legitimizes your status as an OFW but also gives you exemption on fees. This means you don’t have to pay for airport fee or transfer tax, which could cost you thousands of pesos.

Here’s the thing: getting your OEC is not a walk in the park. Believe it or not, it could take you one whole day just to get your OEC. Some even say that they cannot get it on the same day.

The good news is there are exemptions. If you are a returning OFW and you meet the criteria, you can be exempted from getting an OEC.

Who can get an OEC exemption?

The returning OFW or Balik-Manggagawa must meet ALL of the requirements:

  • Valid working visa
  • Returning to the same employer
  • Returning to the same job site
  • Has an existing record in the POEA database, which means an OEC was previously issued to you

If you meet all of the requirements, then yes, you can be exempted from getting an Overseas Employment Certificate. The even better news is that you don’t have to go to POEA, line up, and wait for the entire day to get your OEC exemption. In fact, you can do this online.

A Step-by-Step Guide on How to Get OEC Exemption: 

Step 1: Register.

Go to BM Online Website and fill out the New User field box. Once you filled out the necessary information, click the “I Accept the Terms of Service” and “Sign Me Up” button.

At this point, a confirmation link will be sent to the email address you provided. Make sure to check your email immediately and click the link to activate your BM Online account.

Step 2: Log-in. 

You will be redirected to a separate tab showing that you successfully activated your BM Online account. Log-in using the e-mail address and password you typed when registering for a BM online account. Click “Login.” 

Step 3: OEC Number Verification. 

Once you log-in, an OEC Number Verification pop-up screen will appear. Simply enter the last OEC number issued to you to continue.

The system will give you an update whether or not they found your OEC. If your record is found, confirm that you are returning to the same employer and job site. Then, click the “Yes” button.

Step 4: Update Profile Page.

To continue, don’t forget to update your My Profile page, including Personal Data, Contract Particulars, and Legal Beneficiaries forms. To make the necessary changes, click the “Edit” button.

Change your profile picture by uploading your photo.

Step 5: Acquire OEC Exemption. 

Thereafter, click “Acquire OEC or Exemption.” 

A new window will appear. Enter your flight details. Take note that it should be within 60-day OEC validity period. Click the “Submit” button thereafter.

Don’t forget to make a final confirmation that you will be returning to the same employer and job site by clicking the “Yes” button.

Step 6: Confirmation Message 

After assessment, a confirmation message showing that your are exempted will pop up on your screen. Take note and write down the OEC Exemption Number (this number will be automatically transmitted to the Bureau of Immigration system) since this might be asked. Take time to read the instructions on what to do in the airport as well.

Acquiring OEC exemption is easy. In fact, the system will automatically tell you if you are exempted or not upon log-in.

On the other hand, there are cases when you need to set up an appointment to acquire OEC. This instances include:

  • You did not receive a pop-up confirmation message.
  • The system found no record of your OEC number.
  • You are not returning to the same employer OR job site OR both.
  • Workers with no existing records or has discrepancy in records with the POEA.

For further questions, you can check out POEA’s FAQ post on OEC Exemption.

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10 Frugal Hacks for OFWs when Living Overseas

Let’s face it: being an OFW is hard. What makes your situation harder is the fact that you have to support your family and their (never-ending) needs, and make sure that their future is secure. This is why you are willing to take three to four jobs just to make ends meet.

You can still make it happen. It’s a matter of proper budgeting, making sure you stick to that budget, and some frugal hacks you need to know by heart.

1. Share a Space – This won’t be applicable if your employer provided accommodation. Otherwise, you need to find a space you can temporarily call your own. Apparently, renting can be expensive, so make sure you look for roommates, preferably trustworthy ones, that could help you split the bills. This includes utilities like water and electricity as well.

2. Keep a Penny Jar – Got loose change? Surely, you don’t want to bring coins everywhere you go, so put it in a penny jar. You might be surprised to find out how much money you’ll have, which you can use to buy goods.

3. Say NO to Extended Family – Yes, this is hard, but constantly giving in to your extended family’s money requests will bring you nowhere, at least financially speaking. While you appreciate the help they’ve given in taking care of your family, this doesn’t mean you’ll say yes to all their demands. Check out this post to find out how to say NO to your extended family.

4. Walk – Going from point A to point B doesn’t always mean riding the bus or train. If you can just walk or your destination is few kilometers away, then go ahead and walk. It’s a good way to relax and clear your head, plus it’s an excellent exercise too.

5. Cook, Not Eat Out – Yes, we understand that after a tiring day, you just want to eat without exerting too much effort. Buying food saves you time, which you can devote to sleep, but this would mean spending money too. The key here is to prepare your food during off days, cook in bulk, and then freeze. Thaw only when you’re ready to eat.

6. Bring Your Own Baon – You’re lucky if your employer provides free meal, usually free lunch. If not, then don’t use it as an excuse to eat out. Plan your meals ahead, go to the market to buy ingredients, and cook meals in bulk. Set aside a portion for your lunch and dinner to save you time.

7. Plan Shopping – Don’t get too excited on sales. As much as you want to fill that balikbayan box with goodies for your family, putting that pressure on will make you spend more. Know when is the sale season, make a list of the things you will buy, and stick to a budget.

8. Never Make Purchases when Hungry – Believe it or not, you will end up buying more than what you actually need. Plus, your decision-making is impaired, which means you might be spending more – a scenario that you must avoid.

9. Use Cash – This will make it easier for you to track how much money you spent and left. You can easily make adjustments in your spending because you can physically see how much money have. More importantly, at least you don’t have to worry about bills come end of the month.

10. Invest – One of the common mistakes committed by OFWs is saving and saving, and not investing. Saving is good, but your money will only grow this much. If you want to make your hard-earned money work for you, then you need to look into other options such as investment. There are many investment options available that will help you grow your money. You can check this post for further details.

Remember, if there’s a will, then there’s a way. Stop making excuses on why you are not able to save. At the end of the day, it’s about discipline and commitment. You can do it.

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OFW Guide to Living and Working in South Korea

Koreanovelo and K-pop music are taking the world by storm. This is why it’s not surprising to see many Filipinos wanting to go to South Korea to experience the culture, see the places where Koreanovela you fell in love with were shot, taste the food, and hope to bump into one of popular K-Pop artists. More than that, there are many Filipinos who are aiming to work there.

If you are one of them, then here are the things you need to know about this proud country:

General Facts

  • South Korea is located in the Korean Peninsula with China, Japan, and Russia surrounding its borders.
  • The capital of South Korea is Seoul.
  • The country is a democratic republic with power centralized in a president.
  • Main language is Korean, but the people are slowly learning the English language. They also have their own alphabet known as Hangeul.
  • South Korea has among the strongest economies in the world. Over the years, the country is among the leading shipbuilders and among the top manufacturers of electronics, automobiles, and semiconductors.
  • Its currency is Korean Won.

Religion 

Majority of the population has no religious belief. Nonetheless, there are still Koreans who practice Christianity, so practicing your faith and fulfilling your Sunday obligation won’t be a problem. Some also practice Protestanism, Catholicism, and Buddhism.

Weather / Climate

Korea has four seasons – winter, spring, summer, and fall. Make sure you pack your clothes appropriately for the weather, with January being the coldest month. Despite the typhoons visiting the Pacific region, only few, usually two to three, are actually making a landfall in Korea.

Transportation 

Going from point A to point B won’t be an issue because transportation system in South Korea is excellent and efficient. You will find lots of buses, trains, or taxis, but Korea’s subway rail system is among the best in the world. Ferry services are also available, so make sure you take time to give it a try for experience.

Culture / Way of Life 

Did you know that almost all places in South Korea is wired? They have the best and fastest Internet service in the world as well. This means connecting with your family won’t be an issue because you can talk to them anytime, anywhere.

When it comes to food, you will find lots of kimchi and bulgogi, but they have a lot to offer as well. Korean food consists mainly of rice, noodles, vegetables, tofu, meat, and fish, so getting hungry are less likely. You can try street food as well, which you will surely love.

Working in Korea

There are tons of job opportunities in Korea. You can also find work in one of the many top companies in the world like Samsung, LG, Hyundai, and ExxonMobil among others. English teachers are among the highest paid foreign workers, regardless of work experience, so you might want to give this career path a try.

Don’t get too excited yet. South Koreans are welcoming to foreigners but when it comes to foreign workers, they tend to be strict.

Since August 2005, foreign workers are mandated to take the Employment Permit System – Test of Proficiency in Korean (EPS-TOPIK) before recruiting. When you pass, you will be offered an Employment Contract, which will be coursed through an accredited agency in the Philippines.

Appropriate visa is likewise required to be able to work in Korea legally. Non-professional employment (E-9) visa is usually given to foreign workers, which is good for three years. Otherwise, there are corresponding working visa for each specific profession (E1 to E7).

Since Korean is the primary language, employers expect that you know few words and phrases. You might be required to take Korean Language Proficiency Test to check and assess your practical communication skills. This is not required by all employers, but it is best to learn Korean before you apply for job. TESDA offers free language courses with priority given to OFWs, so make sure to take advantage of it.

Work Culture 

Working long hours in Korea is normal. Despite the mandated 40-hour work week, majority of the people render 52 working hours per week or 40 normal working hours and 12 hours overtime. This means you need to be prepared to put in longer working hours if you plan to work in this country.

Don’t worry. Public holidays are 10 to 16 times per year, which means you get some rest. Recognition is important for many Korean companies, so you will find regular staff awards night as part of the annual agenda.

When it comes to working relationship, trust is crucial among Koreans, which is something they truly value. This explains why majority of Korean companies are into company events and staff lunches or dinners to develop that relationship. Nonetheless, avoid getting too personal especially on your bosses since this is considered disrespectful for them.

Given this information, are you willing to give South Korea a try? Go ahead.

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Dangers of Being an Undocumented OFW

Let’s face it: following the guidelines set forth by POEA before you can work overseas takes time – or months. Don’t even get started with direct hire workers because that is a different (and more complicated) ballgame.

Even if you submitted all the documents, there is no guarantee that you will get your Overseas Employment Certificate immediately so you can leave the country legally. This explains why many Filipinos opt to go “back door” so they could leave the country immediately, start working, and send dollars back home.

Unfortunately, there is a danger (or dangers) to that. Being an undocumented Overseas Filipino Worker means:

You will not be entitled to OFW benefits.

Tax-free shopping at Duty Free, exemption on travel tax and airport terminal fee, housing loan benefits, and benefits from OWWA. These are just some of the many things you can enjoy if you are a documented OFW, which you could take advantage from.

READ: Perks of Being an OFW 

You may be exposed to harsh working conditions. 

Being a documented worker means you have an existing employment contract that is in accordance to the labor laws between the two governments. If you are among those Filipinos who are TNT or tago ng tago, your protection when it comes working conditions is limited.

For instance, you might be asked to work longer hours or render service seven days a week. Your employer could be paying you less than what you agreed. Benefits like leave or medical assistance might not be given to you as well. Worse, you can’t complain because there is no contract that will serve as a guide for your employment.

You will have a hard time looking for a job. 

It’s not just about harsh working conditions. Sometimes, you will have a hard time looking for a decent job because most employers will require you to present a valid working visa. Even if you found a job, you will still go back to possible harsh working conditions.

You only have limited channels to seek help with. 

Being an undocumented worker in the country means you are not a law-abiding citizen. This also means you won’t be able to enjoy the benefits that could be experienced by workers who went through legitimate channels. This could put you in danger.

What does this mean? In case you were subjected to abuse or your employer is not complying with the employment terms set forth in the contract, there are few people who could help you. You can’t go to the police because you don’t have the required permit or visa to work in that country. The Philippine Embassy will help you, but they can only extend limited help because you are not covered by OWWA.

You are at a higher risk of being punished. 

Foreign countries are very welcoming of Filipino workers because of skill, talent, and passion among others. Nonetheless, they prefer that you go there legally instead of opting for the back door.

If your status is compromised, there is a tendency of deportation, detention, or even being blacklisted in that country. You’re lucky if you were asked to go home immediately because some countries impose harsher punishments, which you don’t want to go through.

Worse, you put the Philippines in a bad light, which is something Filipinos don’t want because those who go overseas legally could be affected when there is this kind of impression.

You will “burden” the government. 

Whatever you status is, you are still a Filipino citizen and the government will still take care of you. This means if you are asked by the host country to go home, the government will shoulder your repatriation costs including setting aside budget for food and rental spaces instead of assisting those who are truly distressed.

The bottom line is this: go legal. We know how hassle it would be for you because of the documents you need to submit and the time you have to wait before you can leave the country. What money cannot compensate for is the peace of mind that being a legal, documented worker will give you.

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OFW Guide to Living and Working in Canada

The United States of America has and will always be a favorite among many Filipinos. Apparently, there is another country in the north that are more welcoming to foreign workers – Canada. 

Canada has become a haven for many Filipinos. At present, FIlipinos are the third largest Asian group in Canada (next to Indian and Chinese) and the largest group from Southeast Asia. Filipino immigrants also contributed to country’s economic growth by working as teachers, doctors, nurses, workers, caregivers, and technicians among others. More importantly, Canada has “multiculturalism” as part of its policy wherein everyone is treated equally and has high regard for ancestry. This explains why this country is a favorite among Filipinos, especially for those who are thinking to settle down there.

Do you plan to work here as well? If yes, then here’s what you need to know about living and working in Canada:

General Facts 

  • Located in the Northern part of North America that has 10 provinces and three territories.
  • Canada is also the second largest country by total area.
  • It is a federal parliamentary democracy and constitutional monarchy with Queen Elizabeth II as the Head of State
  • The country is considered as one of the world’s most ethnically diverse and multicultural nation because of its policies that welcomes immigrants from all over the world.
  • This developed country is among the highest in the world when it comes to economic freedom, civil liberties, transparency in the government, education, and quality of life.

Language 

English is the official language in Canada, which means you won’t have difficulty talking to people, especially your employers. Aside from English, French is also widely spoken, particularly in Quebec, which listed this as the official language in the area. Don’t be surprised to see laws written in French as well.

Since Canada is a home to diverse culture and people, it’s not surprising to hear people speak in other languages such as Chinese Mandarin, Filipino, Spanish, Arabic, German, and Italian among others.

Weather 

Canada’s weather is among the biggest challenge among Filipinos. Weather can be extremely hot or cold (you could experience a drop in temperature of up to 30 degrees below zero), depending on the season. It is best to be prepared in terms of clothing by the time winter season starts.

Work Permit

Before you can work in Canada, you need to pass the Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), a screening mechanism required to all Canadian employers before they can hire foreign workers. The exception for LMIA would be if you are hired under the International Mobility Program. Don’t worry because this is all taken cared of by your employer.

If you passed, the employer will provide you with a job offer (must be submitted by the employer in the Employer Portal), which is also needed when applying for a work permit. You will also need to submit an employment contract to apply. You can check out the documents and forms required here.

Keep in mind that there is no maximum time set when you work as a temporary worker in Canada. Nonetheless, the duration of work permit would depend on the agreement with your employer, length of time listed in the LMIA, and the validity of your passport.

Higher Taxes

Tax is the life-blood of every nation. Without this, the government won’t be able to provide services to its citizens. Unfortunately, Canada imposes high taxes. You will be asked to pay somewhere between 20 and 30 percent, depending on the tax income bracket you belong to. There is an additional 15 percent when you buy goods.

The consolation is that Canada provides excellent benefits to everyone. Health care system is among the best in the world. The government also offers free education, but make no mistake because quality is not compromised.

If you plan to migrate, the Canadian government offers child tax incentives, which you could benefit from.

Transportation

Public buses and trains are available in Canada so that you could go from point A to B. Some Filipino immigrants buy cars than riding public transport since it is more convenient.

Given this information, are you willing to take the risk, apply for a job, and go to Canada? Why not, right?