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Reviewed September 2024
Overseas Filipino Workers, commonly referred to as OFWs, are Filipino nationals who are currently working abroad. OFW is a somewhat broad term, encompassing individuals working as domestic workers, construction workers, nurses, engineers, and others.
Here is everything you need to know about OFWs in Qatar.
Table of Contents
OFW Qatar latest news 2024
Filipino expats in Qatar can still access the Philippine government’s app (DMW Mobile App) for the new OFW Pass — a digital pass that will replace the printed OEC (overseas employment certificate). Qatar is one of the 10 countries and territories that will serve as pilot areas for this initiative.
The app would allow expats to obtain their OFW Pass with their residence permits. To know more about the OFW Pass and the process of obtaining it, please refer to our article below.
The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) reminds aspiring OFWS in Qatar that there are no placement fees enforced for the deployment of Filipino migrant workers.
Moreover, Qatar is a non-placement fee labor-receiving country. This is according to Article 33 of Qatar Law No. 14 of 2004, which “prohibits entities licensed to recruit workers from abroad from collecting any sum for recruitment fees, expenses or other associated costs.”
OFW absentee voting 2025 Qatar
OFWs’ absentee voting will run until 30 September 2024. Migrant workers participating in the 2025 Phillippine National Elections can check to see if their name is on the list on the official website of the Embassy of the Philippines in Qatar. They will find a PDF list of names, which they can download easily.
Book cheap flights to Qatar
Qatar OFW life
Qatar is a popular destination for Filipino workers looking for better job opportunities and improved living standards. The country’s thriving economy, impressive architecture, competitive salaries, and benefits attract thousands of OFWs every year.
Qatar OFW jobs
Qatar has many job opportunities for Filipinos with different skills due to its flourishing industries and ambitious ventures. Check out some popular jobs in Qatar below:
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- Healthcare professionals
- Engineers
- Hospitality-related professions
- General work (domestic helpers, housekeepers)
- Construction workers
- Tourism and Aircraft related professions
- Architects
OFW Qatar Salary
The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) in the Philippines stated that the basic salary for a company/skilled worker should be at least QR1,460. However, please note that salaries would vary depending on profession and other possible contributing factors.
Cost of living in Qatar for OFWs
OFWs in Qatar would have the following average cost of living:
- For accommodation: without company-provided accommodation, the rent of a 1BR apartment ranges from 1700 to 2500 QAR
- Commute: a minimum of 100 QAR is spent for regular transportation
- Groceries and other dietary elements: an average OFW salary can afford a minimum of 400 QAR for dietary purposes
This is a generalized overview of the costs required. It may broadly vary with the quality of living from person to person.
OFW Qatar Airways
OFWs in Qatar can easily travel between Qatar and the Philippines with Qatar Airways.
A simple search through Wego will show you the latest flight schedules, allowing you to choose the best flight deals across several airlines.
Book cheap flights to Philippines from Qatar
Direct flights between Doha, Qatar and Manila, Philippines, through Qatar Airways are approximately 9 hours and 30 minutes long. Costs of round-trip flights start at USD 1120.5, while prices start at USD 1044.2 for a one-way trip
Please note: The above prices are applicable for September 2024. All prices are accurate at the time of writing but are subject to change.
Qatar OFW repatriation
The Repatriation Assistance Program helps distressed OFWs and human remains return from Qatar. Overseas Workers Welfare Administration manages the program, providing extensive support during challenging situations or emergencies.
This helps OFWs in political instability, natural disasters, and distress emergencies. It offers prompt aid to affected OFWs, including airport assistance, temporary shelter at the OWWA Halfway Home, psycho-social counseling for stress relief, and transport services or fares to their respective provinces.
Qualifications
Qualified individuals for the Repatriation Assistance Program:
- OFW members
- other overseas Filipinos
Requirements
To use the service, you must meet some requirements.
- valid passport ID from DFA
- intake sheet form from OWWA RAD
The following special requirements may also be necessary:
- OEC or other proof of employment overseas
- travel document
- boarding pass or proof of repatriation
You can secure these documents in the Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO) and Philippine Overseas Employment Agency (POEA)
Process
Be guided by these steps when availing of the OFW repatriation.
- Go to the OWWA office that covers your permanent address in the Philippines
- Accomplish and submit the application form or Intake Form at the OWWA Regional Welfare Office
- Consult the designated case officer based on the provided tables categorized by regions and countries
- Table 1: Asian Countries
- Table 2: Kuwait, Lebanon, Bahrain, Oman, and Jordan
- Table 3: Qatar, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Africa, and other Middle East Countries
- Table 5: North and South Africa, Europe, and Seabased Workers
- Wait for a telephone call from the concerned RAD Case Officer for further instructions and coordination
- Coordinate with Legal Service and POLO
- Follow instructions and updates
