TL;DR (Summary Box)
Hiring Filipino workers abroad involves a regulated process through the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA). Foreign employers must partner with a licensed recruitment agency in the Philippines, secure accreditation, and follow legal documentation and deployment protocols. Costs vary depending on job type and country, but transparency is key. Avoid illegal hiring practices and streamline the process with expert guidance.
Quick Summary
Foreign employers looking to hire Filipino workers must follow a legally structured process set by the POEA. This guide will walk you through every step, from accreditation to deployment, to help you recruit Filipino workers legally, avoid hidden costs, and ensure compliance with Philippine labor laws.
Why Hire Filipino Workers?
Filipino workers are globally known for their:
- Strong work ethic
- English proficiency
- Cultural adaptability
- Loyalty and professionalism
Whether you’re in healthcare, hospitality, construction, or domestic work, hiring from the Philippines ensures quality and reliability.
Step-by-Step Guide to Hiring Filipino Workers Abroad
1. Understand the Legal Framework
Before diving in, it’s crucial to know that hiring Filipino workers abroad is regulated by the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA), now under the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW).
Foreign employers must comply with the POEA hiring process to legally hire OFWs.
2. Partner with a Licensed Philippine Recruitment Agency
Foreign employers cannot directly hire Filipino workers unless exempted (e.g., diplomatic entities).
To comply:
- Work only with POEA-licensed recruitment agencies
- Verify the agency’s license on the POEA website
- Sign a recruitment agreement with the agency
3. Secure Employer Accreditation with POEA
Accreditation is the first official step to formalize your intent to hire from the Philippines.
Documents typically required:
- Valid business license in your country
- Manpower request or job order
- Employment contracts
- Company profile
- Special power of attorney (SPA) for the Philippine recruitment agency
Once approved, you’ll receive a POEA accreditation certificate.
4. Submit Job Orders
Your accredited agency will post job orders on POEA’s platform to start sourcing candidates.
Details should include:
- Job title and description
- Number of vacancies
- Salary and benefits
- Duration of employment
- Work location
5. Conduct Screening and Selection
Your partner agency will:
- Advertise the job opening
- Pre-screen applicants
- Arrange interviews via video call or in-person
- Administer skill or language tests if needed
You will select final candidates, while the agency handles paperwork.
6. Employment Contract Verification
Employment contracts must be:
- Written in English
- Compliant with Philippine labor standards
- Verified by the Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO) in your country
Typical inclusions:
- Salary and payment frequency
- Working hours and conditions
- Accommodation and food (if provided)
- Insurance and repatriation terms
7. Pre-Deployment Orientation and Clearance
Once contracts are verified:
- Workers undergo Pre-Employment Orientation Seminars (PEOS)
- Complete medical exams and background checks
- Attend Pre-Departure Orientation Seminars (PDOS)
- Get final clearance from POEA
What Are the Costs Involved?
Typical Cost Items:
- POEA processing fees
- Visa and work permit costs
- Airline tickets
- Medical exams
- Training and testing fees
- Recruitment agency fees
These vary by country and job type.
💡 Tip: Clarify who pays for which items—some are employer responsibilities.
Who Pays?
- Most employment-related costs are shouldered by the employer, except for personal documents (e.g., passport, NBI clearance).
Compliance and Ethical Recruitment
Following the POEA hiring process ensures:
- Legal protection for both employer and worker
- Transparency in fees and expectations
- Higher retention and satisfaction
Avoid direct or illegal hiring, which can lead to bans or legal issues.
Benefits of Working with a Consultant or Agency
Hiring Filipino workers abroad can be complex. A professional consulting firm or licensed agency can:
- Speed up paperwork and processing
- Ensure full POEA compliance
- Reduce hiring risks
- Provide access to a pool of pre-qualified candidates
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can foreign companies legally hire Filipino workers?
Yes, but they must do so via POEA-accredited agencies and follow the formal recruitment process.
2. How can I hire a Filipino worker from abroad?
Partner with a licensed agency, secure POEA accreditation, and follow all required documentation and pre-deployment steps.
3. What is the step-by-step process for hiring OFWs?
Start with agency partnership and accreditation, then post job orders, screen candidates, verify contracts, and finalize pre-deployment.
4. What are the POEA requirements for hiring Filipino workers?
Accreditation documents, job orders, valid contracts, and proof of business legitimacy.
5. Do I need to work with a licensed agency to hire from the Philippines?
Yes, unless you fall under exempted categories (e.g., diplomatic missions, international organizations).
6. How much does it cost to hire a Filipino worker legally?
Costs vary depending on job role, location, and agency fees. Budget $1,500–$3,000+ per worker.
7. What documents do foreign employers need to hire OFWs?
Business registration, recruitment agreement, manpower request, job orders, and SPA.
8. How long does the hiring process take for Filipino workers?
Typically 1–3 months, depending on how fast documents are submitted and processed.
9. What are the responsibilities of foreign employers hiring Filipinos?
Provide fair compensation, legal working conditions, proper accommodation (if needed), and pay for visa/work permits.
10. Can I directly hire a Filipino worker without an agency?
Generally no. Direct hiring is restricted and only allowed under certain exemptions approved by the POEA.
Final Thoughts
Hiring Filipino workers abroad offers tremendous value—but only if done legally and ethically. Understanding the POEA hiring process and working with a reputable agency will help you avoid costly mistakes and delays.
If you’re a foreign employer looking to streamline recruitment from the Philippines, we can help. Contact us for a free consultation on how to hire the best Filipino talent—compliantly, efficiently, and professionally.
