Filipinos hoping to work abroad need to be sure that they are engaging with a legitimate recruitment agency that will link them with the right employers in other countries. For years, the Philippine Overseas Employment Agency (POEA), has been the government agency responsible for overseeing and regulating the overseas employment of Filipino workers.
The POEA sets standards, guidelines, and requirements to ensure the ethical operation of recruitment agencies and compliance with labor laws. Additionally, the agency develops policies and programs related to overseas employment, monitors job markets abroad, facilitates job matching, and provides pre-employment orientation and training to equip OFWs with the necessary information and skills. The POEA also prioritizes worker protection, enforces employment contracts, provides legal assistance, and maintains a database of registered OFWs. By coordinating with other government agencies and foreign counterparts, the POEA fosters collaboration to ensure the welfare and rights of Filipino workers are upheld throughout the overseas employment process.
Recently, the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) was created through Republic Act No. 11641. Today, the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) is now called the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) and has the role of POEA as its backbone. Having this new department protects the welfare of OFWs even more.
The DMW now plays a significant role in assisting Filipinos in finding employment opportunities abroad. The department ensures that the overseas employment process is conducted lawfully and ethically. When looking for jobs abroad through a recruiter, ensure that it is accredited by DMW.
DMW-accredited agencies are recruitment agencies in the Philippines that have obtained accreditation from the mentioned institutions. These agencies are authorized to engage in the recruitment and placement of Filipino workers for overseas employment. The accreditation ensures that these agencies comply with the standards, guidelines, and regulations set by the DMW (formerly POEA) to protect the rights and welfare of Filipino workers.
The DMW (formerly POEA) maintains a list of accredited agencies on its official website, which can be accessed by individuals seeking overseas employment opportunities. The list includes the agency’s name, address, contact information, and the date of its accreditation. Job seekers can refer to this list to verify the accreditation status of recruitment agencies they are considering for their overseas job applications.
It is important for individuals seeking overseas employment to choose recruitment agencies that are DMW-accredited. Dealing with accredited agencies provides a level of assurance that the recruitment process will be conducted legally and ethically, minimizing the risk of illegal recruitment, and ensuring compliance with labor laws and regulations.
It is advisable to check the DMW official website or contact the DMW directly for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding accredited agencies, as the DMW or POEA list of agencies with valid license may be subject to changes or updates over time.
When choosing an accredited agency for overseas employment, it is essential to consider several factors to ensure a safe and reliable recruitment process. Here are some tips to help you select a reputable and trustworthy DMW-licensed recruitment agency (formerly POEA-licensed recruitment agency):
Check the official list of DMW-accredited agencies on the DMW’s website. Ensure that the agency you are considering is included in the list and its accreditation is valid and up to date. Avoid dealing with agencies that are not listed or have expired accreditation.
Conduct thorough research on the agency you are interested in. Look for information about their track record, years of operation, reputation, and client testimonials. Consider reading online reviews or seeking recommendations from trusted sources to gather insights into their reliability and professionalism.
Some recruitment agencies specialize in specific industries or countries. Determine if the agency has experience and expertise in the field or country where you intend to work. Specialized agencies may have better knowledge of industry requirements, job opportunities, and specific procedures related to the country of employment.
Reputable agencies are transparent in their operations. They provide clear information about their services, fees, job placements, and contracts. Ensure that the agency provides you with a written agreement that details the terms and conditions of the recruitment process and employment abroad.
If possible, visit the agency’s office in person. This allows you to assess their physical presence, professionalism, and legitimacy. Interacting with the agency’s staff can also provide insights into their customer service and responsiveness.
Ask for recommendations from friends, family, or acquaintances who have previous experience with overseas employment or have worked with recruitment agencies. Their firsthand experiences and insights can help you make an informed decision.
Inquire about the agency’s recruitment process, including how they source job opportunities, conduct screenings, and verify employment offers. A reputable agency should have a systematic and transparent process that prioritizes candidate welfare and compliance with labor regulations.
Exercise caution if an agency makes unrealistic promises regarding job offers, salaries, or visa processing times. Be vigilant about potential scams or illegal recruitment practices. Remember that legitimate agencies can facilitate the recruitment process but cannot guarantee employment or specific outcomes.
Filipinos have various job opportunities across different sectors in Austria. Sectors where Filipinos commonly find employment opportunities in Austria include Healthcare and Nursing, Information Technology, Hospitality and Tourism, Engineering and Construction, Education and Language instruction, Domestic and Caregiving Services, and Manufacturing and Engineering.
If you want to work in these sectors in Austria, be sure that you transact only with a DMW-licensed agency (formerly a POEA-licensed agency). Remember, choosing a reputable and reliable DMW-accredited agency (formerly POEA-accredited agency) is crucial for a smooth and secure overseas employment experience. Taking the time to research and evaluate agencies will help minimize risks and increase the chances of finding a legitimate and suitable job opportunity abroad.
For a hassle-free process, job seekers should reach out to recruitment agencies in Austria for foreigners. One recruitment agency in the Philippines accredited by DMW (formerly POEA) is Staffhouse International Resources. It was established and licensed in DMW (formerly POEA) in 1999.
Staffhouse has a strong track record of successfully placing candidates in reputable companies in Austria across various industries. Their extensive network and connections enable them to access a wide range of job opportunities that align with the candidates’ skills and qualifications.
Moreover, Staffhouse offers personalized and comprehensive support throughout the recruitment process. They provide valuable guidance to help candidates navigate the job market with confidence. It has also established a reputation for ethical practices and transparency, ensuring that candidates are treated fairly, and that all legal and contractual obligations are met.
By choosing Staffhouse, job seekers can increase their chances of finding suitable employment in Austria. Contact us today to know more.