OFWs applying for PERA-specific contribution limits and tax benefits must submit two documents: a Primary Proof Document confirming OFW status (such as an OEC or OFW Pass) and a Contract Proof Document verifying employment. Requirements differ slightly for land-based and sea-based OFWs, and both must be verified by the correct government agency.
Who Qualifies as an OFW for PERA Purposes?
To qualify for PERA benefits applicable to Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), the contributor must meet the Philippine government's definition of an OFW — a Filipino citizen working abroad on a temporary or employment-based status.
Filipino citizens who have obtained permanent resident, immigrant, or foreign citizenship status abroad are generally no longer classified as OFWs under Philippine government definitions. While they may still open and maintain a PERA account, they will be treated as regular PERA contributors and will not be eligible for OFW-specific contribution limits or related benefits.
Contributors who are unsure of their classification may be required to submit supporting documents to verify eligibility under OFW guidelines.
What Documents Do Land-Based OFWs Need to Submit?
You must submit one Primary Proof Document and one Contract Proof Document.
Primary Proof Document (Identity & Status)
- OFW Pass
- Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC)
- OWWA OFW e-Card
Contract Proof Document (Employment Details)
- Employment Contract (must be issued or verified by DMW, POLO, or MWO)
What Documents Do Sea-Based OFWs Need to Submit?
You must submit one Primary Proof Document and one Contract Proof Document.
Primary Proof Document (Identity & Status)
- Seafarer's Identification and Record Book (SIRB)
Contract Proof Document (Employment Details)
- Standard Employment Contract (must be issued or verified by DMW or POEA)
How Do I Avoid Rejection When Submitting My OFW Documents?
To avoid rejection of your request:
- Check the Date: Ensure the contract date is clearly visible. Expired or undated contracts cannot be processed.
- Clarity is Key: Scans or photos must be clear, readable, and high resolution.
- Capture the Full Page: Make sure no edges of the document are cut off.
- Avoid Glare: If taking a photo, ensure there is no flash reflection blocking the text.
Why Do OFWs Need a Philippine Address to Open a PERA Account?
To successfully open a PERA account, OFWs must use their Philippine address during onboarding. This address is required because your details are cross-checked with BSP PERASys records, and using a foreign address may cause verification failures.
If you see the error "residing outside the PH" during account creation:
- Update your address through Manage Profile in the DragonFi app or web.
- Once updated, please notify us so we can escalate the correction to our compliance team.
See our guide on how existing DragonFi users open a PERA account for more on this and other common account-opening issues.
Note: Submitting these documents is required to verify your OFW status in your PERA account. Once approved, you can fully access PERA features, including contributions, tax incentives, and investment options designed specifically for OFWs.
For more info, see our Intro to PERA and Frequently Asked Questions, or visit the PERA category hub for everything else you need.