Are you planning to work abroad as an OFW?
Many Filipinos have found good employment and earning opportunities abroad, whether as a professional or a skilled worker. Filipinos are known for being industrious, trustworthy, and hardworking that is why it is not surprising to know that wherever there is a job to be done in any part of the world, a Filipino is almost always in the payroll.
There are, however, certain countries where Pinoys are not allowed to seek employment. The Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) identified these countries and we are sharing the list below for your reference. If you are applying for an overseas job through an agency, make sure you are not offered a job at any of these countries. Bear in mind that some recruitment firms will try to make you believe that it is safe to work in these areas even if it is included in the banned list. Please do not fall for such claims. Always deal with legitimate agencies and recruitment firms.
Countries where the deployment ban is imposed due to unstable security:
- Afghanistan
- Somalia
- Sudan (except Khartoum and the Kenana Sugar Plantation in the White Nile)
- Rwanda
- Burundi
- Iraq
- Syria
- Yemen
- Chechnya
Countries where only OFWs with existing employment contract are allowed to return:
- South Sudan
- Libya
- Ukraine
The country with the poor working condition and local economic situation
- Palau (specific ban for domestic workers)
Countries not certified by the Department of Foreign Affairs
- Afghanistan
- Chad
- Cuba
- North Korea
- Haiti
- Mali
- Mauritania
- Niger
- Palestine
- Somalia
- Zimbabwe
- South Sudan
If you have questions regarding a job opportunity you are being offered or are not sure if the country where you will be deployed is safe for Filipino workers, call the POEA at (072) 722 1144. You may also regularly visit their website for updates at www.poea.gov.ph.
Reference: www.poea.gov.ph
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