For many OFWs in the UAE, contract verification is one of those required steps you just have to deal with—important, but often time-consuming and confusing.
Started end of January 2026, Overseas Filipino Workers in Dubai and Abu Dhabi will be able to process employment contract verification through VFS Global, following a partnership with DBP Data Centre Inc. (DCI), a government-owned corporation in the Philippines. The service supports contract verification for OFWs working in the UAE and is coordinated with the Migrant Workers Office (MWO).
How the process works
OFWs can begin the process online through a dedicated website where they can:
- Get step-by-step guidance
- Pay the required fees
- Book an appointment
After that, applicants will visit the nearest VFS Global Contract Verification Centre (CVC) in Dubai or Abu Dhabi for in-person document submission.
Once the contract is reviewed and verified by the MWO, applicants will receive an email notification when their documents are ready for collection at the CVC. For those who prefer additional convenience, optional services such as SMS status updates and courier delivery of documents are available for an extra fee.
Why contract verification still matters
Contract verification remains a critical requirement for OFWs. It ensures that employment terms meet Philippine government standards and that worker protections are in place. More importantly, it is one of the requirements for securing an Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC), which Filipino workers need before leaving the Philippines for overseas employment.
Whether you’re a first-time OFW or renewing documents, this step is non-negotiable.
What the new centres offer
The Contract Verification Centers are designed to support OFWs with the following features:
- No service fee for the first 30 days of operations
- Accessible and comfortable facilities
- Online appointment booking
- Extended working hours with seven-day operations (Monday–Sunday)
- 24/7 helpline support
- Real-time application status tracking
- Optional courier service
- Secure online payment for MWO verification fees
These are practical improvements, especially for workers managing tight schedules and limited leave.
VFS Global’s experience with Philippine government services
VFS Global has been working with the Philippine government since 2019, providing passport renewal services in 13 locations worldwide, including Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Since 2025, it has also handled Philippine visa services for Chinese nationals in multiple locations in China.
Globally, VFS Global supports 16 client governments through digital platforms and in-person service centers.
For OFWs, contract verification is still a process that requires time and preparation—but having a structured system and clear touchpoints can help reduce uncertainty and unnecessary back-and-forth.
For more information, visit the VFS Global website.
