The Department of Migrant Workers has launched an online system that allows Overseas Filipino Workers in Dubai and the Northern Emirates to verify their employment contracts without going to the Migrant Workers Office in person.
The new platform is designed to reduce long queues and repeated office visits, a long-standing concern for OFWs who often need to take time off work just to complete contract verification.
The system was introduced following an agreement between the DMW and DataFlow Group, a Dubai-based company that provides document verification services, according to a report by GMA News Online.
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Why this matters to OFWs
Employment contract verification is a required step before an OFW can process or renew an Overseas Employment Certificate. Without a verified contract, workers may face delays when returning to their overseas jobs.
By moving this process online, the DMW aims to make contract verification faster, more accessible, and less disruptive to workers’ schedules.
Online Employment Contract Verification System (OECVS): How this works for OFWs in Dubai
OFWs in Dubai and the Northern Emirates can now verify their employment contracts through the Online Employment Contract Verification System (OECVS), rolled out by the Department of Migrant Workers in partnership with DataFlow Group.
Instead of appearing in person at the Migrant Workers Office, the process works as follows:
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Online submission
OFWs upload their signed employment contract and required details through the official portal at dmw.dataflowgroup.com, using a phone or computer. -
Remote review
Submitted contracts are reviewed digitally, removing the need to line up or submit documents on site. -
Digital payment
Verification fees are paid online, eliminating counter payments at the Migrant Workers Office. -
Digital verification and download
If documents are complete and consistent, the contract is verified digitally and can be downloaded directly from the system for future use, including OEC processing. -
Follow up if needed
If information is missing or unclear, OFWs may be asked to submit additional documents online. -
In person visits in some cases
The DMW has clarified that complex or flagged cases may still require in-person verification.
For more details and official guidance, OFWs may refer to the Migrant Workers Office Dubai website at mwodubai.org/online-contract-verification.
What has changed and what has not
What’s new:
- Contract submission is now done online
- Verification fees can be paid digitally
- Approved contracts can be downloaded without office visits
What stays the same:
- Contract verification is still required
- Accuracy and completeness of documents remain critical
- Some cases may still need face-to-face review
Who this applies to
The online system currently applies to:
- OFWs based in Dubai
- OFWs in the Northern Emirates under the Dubai Migrant Workers Office
The DMW has not yet announced when the system will be expanded to other countries or regions.
What OFWs should know right now
The launch of the online system does not change the rules for employment contracts or Overseas Employment Certificates. It changes how verification is done, not the requirements themselves.
OFWs are still advised to:
- Review contracts carefully before submission
- Keep copies of all uploaded documents
- Monitor official DMW announcements for updates or expanded coverage
What happens next
The DMW is expected to monitor the rollout and make adjustments based on usage and feedback. Further updates, including possible expansion to other posts abroad, may be announced in the coming months.
For now, the system marks a shift toward more digital services for OFWs in the UAE, aiming to reduce delays and make essential processes easier to complete.