Sending Your Helper Home During Summer Holidays - OEC Guide

As the summer holiday season approaches, many families in Singapore plan vacations abroad. This often raises the question: what should you do with your domestic helper while you're away? Sending your helper home for a vacation can be a win-win solution, giving them valuable time with their families while you enjoy your holiday. However, this process requires proper planning and documentation—particularly the Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) if your helper is Filipino.

Understanding the OEC Requirement

The OEC (Overseas Employment Certificate) is a mandatory document for Filipino domestic workers returning to the Philippines for a vacation and then coming back to Singapore to resume work. This document serves as:

• Proof of legal employment abroad

• An exemption certificate for travel tax and airport terminal fees

• A requirement for exiting the Philippines to return to their employer

Without a proper OEC, your helper may face difficulties when attempting to return to Singapore after their vacation.

Timeline: Planning Your Helper's Home Trip

Here is an approximate timeline to get you started.

4-6 Weeks Before Departure

• Decide on the vacation dates that align with your family's summer holiday

• Begin the OEC application process

• Check your helper's passport validity (should be at least 6 months)

• Book a refundable flight ticket (needed for the OEC application)

2-3 Weeks Before Departure

• Ensure all OEC processing is completed

• Confirm flight tickets

• Prepare any necessary documents your helper should bring

1 Week Before Departure

• Review all travel documents with your helper

• Discuss return arrangements and expectations

• Provide emergency contact information

How White Glove Can Help

Rather than navigating the OEC application process yourself, White Glove Singapore offers a comprehensive service to handle all aspects of your helper's travel documentation. Our expertise ensures:

• Proper completion of all required forms

• Timely submission of applications

• Guidance through the entire process

• Peace of mind for both you and your helper

Important Considerations

• Work Permit Validity: Ensure your helper's work permit remains valid throughout the planned vacation period

• Insurance Coverage: Check if your helper's insurance covers their home country visit

• Salary Arrangements: Clarify payment terms during the vacation period (most employers provide paid leave)

• Return Timeline: Clearly establish when your helper should return to Singapore, ideally a few days before your family returns

Final Tips for Employers

• Keep digital copies of all important documents

• Establish clear communication channels while everyone is away

• Consider providing a small travel allowance to cover airport transportation and unexpected expenses

• Remember that this home leave is important for your helper's well-being and family connections

Next Steps

Contact White Glove Singapore for pricing information and to begin arranging your helper's OEC processing. Our professional team will ensure the process goes smoothly, allowing both your family and your helper to enjoy a stress-free summer holiday.

Note: Immigration requirements and processes may change. Always verify the latest requirements before making travel arrangements.