Saudi Arabia Contract Verification for OFWs: A Guide for 2026

Last updated: May 6, 2026

Many Overseas Filipino Workers in Saudi Arabia need a verified employment contract before they can get an Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) and work abroad.

Without it, you can’t get your OEC and without your OEC, you could face problems at the airport.

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What Is Contract Verification and Why Does It Matter?

Contract verification is the process where a Philippine Labor Attaché reviews your employment contract to make sure it follows both Philippine and Saudi labour laws.

The Labor Attaché checks that your salary, benefits, working hours, and other terms meet the minimum standards set by the Philippines and Saudi Arabia.

It confirms you’re a documented, legally employed worker, not someone working under the table
It validates that your employer has agreed to the terms in writing
It’s a mandatory requirement for getting your OEC, the exit clearance every OFW needs to leave the Philippines for work

Without a verified contract, the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) will not release your OEC.

Who Needs to Get Their Contract Verified?

Not every OFW in Saudi Arabia needs to go through contract verification every time they travel.

Here’s who actually needs it, according to the MWO Riyadh:

Household workers (kasambahay) going home on vacation at the end of their 2-year contract and returning to the same employer — your renewed contract must be verified
OFWs who changed employers or sponsors (transferred iqama) — your new contract must be verified
Filipino workers without existing POEA/DMW records who are already working in Saudi Arabia
OFWs with a new employment visa approved by Saudi immigration
OFWs rehired by the same employer after a contract ends

You may NOT need in-person verification if you’re a skilled/company worker returning to the same employer with no changes to your position or job site.

In that case, you can apply for your OEC online through the DMW e-Registration portal, provided your contract was already verified previously.

What Documents Do You Need?

For Household Service Workers (Kasambahay, Drivers, etc.)

Employment contract (POEA Standard Contract), signed by both you and your employer — must have a Chamber of Commerce stamp
Copy of your valid passport (at least 6 months validity)
Copy of your valid iqama
Copy of your employer’s national ID
Copy of your exit/re-entry visa
Copy of your airline ticket (round-trip preferred)

Important: The Chamber of Commerce will not stamp the contract unless it bears the employer’s signature. Make sure your employer signs first.

For Skilled or Company Workers

Qiwa or company employment contract, signed by both you and the employer
Copy of your valid passport
Copy of your valid iqama
Copy of the company’s commercial registration (optional)
Copy of your exit/re-entry visa (if going on vacation)
Copy of your airline ticket, round-trip preferred (if going on vacation)

Bring the originals of all documents plus photocopies. MWO staff will check the originals at the gate. Don’t forget a ballpen — MWO Riyadh advises bringing one to avoid delays.

How to Verify Your Contract at MWO (Step by Step)

MWO Riyadh uses a strict appointment-only system — you cannot walk in. Here’s the process from start to finish, according to the MWO Riyadh appointment page:

Step 1: Visit the MWO Riyadh website and book an appointment for contract verification
Step 2: Select your preferred date and time, fill out the required fields, and confirm
Step 3: Check your email for the confirmation — screenshot or print it
Step 4: Go to MWO Riyadh on your appointment day with your confirmation, valid ID, and complete documents
Step 5: Get a queue number at the office, then submit your documents at the processing counter
Step 6: Pay the fees — cash only
Step 7: Collect your receipt and wait for the release of your verified contract

Processing takes about 3 to 5 working days. You’ll be notified when your verified contract is ready for pickup.

Fees

Contract verification fee: 40 SAR
OWWA membership fee: 94 SAR (if your membership is expired or about to expire)
Total: up to 134 SAR if both apply

These fees are based on the current MWO Riyadh schedule. Bring exact cash — no card payments are accepted.

MWO Locations in Saudi Arabia

The MWO Riyadh contact page lists three MWO contact points in Saudi Arabia:

MWO Riyadh: 3267 Makkah Al Mukarramah Branch Road, Al Mutamarat, Riyadh — Hotline: +966 50 285 0944
MWO Jeddah: serves OFWs in the Western Region — visit mwo-jeddah.org for appointment booking and requirements
MWO Eastern Region: 8675+PRR, King Fahd Bin Abdulaziz Road, Al Hizam Al Thahabi, Al Khobar — Hotline: +966 56 232 9926

OFWs in Al Khobar and the Eastern Province can use the MWO Eastern Region contact details listed by MWO Riyadh, or contact MWO Riyadh directly if advised.

The New Online System: OECVS Is Coming to Saudi Arabia

A fully online contract verification system is rolling out to Saudi Arabia in 2026, which means you may soon be able to skip the office visit entirely. It’s called the Online Employment Contract Verification System (OECVS).

The DMW and DataFlow Group signed a memorandum of agreement in January 2026 to expand the system worldwide. Saudi Arabia is among the first wave of countries in the global rollout, alongside Abu Dhabi and Hong Kong.

The Saudi Arabia rollout is expected to begin through MWO Jeddah-covered workers from 10 May 2026. Check the MWO Jeddah website, the MWO Riyadh website, and official social media pages for the latest announcement covering your area.

The in-person process at MWO offices is expected to remain available even after the online system launches.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I travel to the Philippines without contract verification?

Technically yes, but it’s risky. You can fly home, but without a verified contract you won’t be able to get your OEC — and you may face issues at Philippine immigration when you try to leave again for work.

Can I do contract verification in the Philippines instead?

No — contract verification must be done at the MWO in your host country. If you’ve already returned to the Philippines without a verified contract, contact the DMW main office for assistance.

What’s the difference between contract verification and the OEC?

Contract verification comes first. It’s the government check on your contract. The OEC (Overseas Employment Certificate) is the exit clearance issued after your contract is verified — you need the verified contract to get the OEC.

How long is a verified contract valid?

Your verified contract is valid for the duration of your employment contract. You’ll need a new verification if you change employers, transfer sponsors, or sign a new contract upon renewal.

Will the online OECVS system replace the in-person process?

No — at least not initially. Based on the Dubai experience, the online system is an additional option. You can still visit MWO in person if you prefer.