PlainDoc for OFWs — Check Your Contract Before Going Abroad
Your contract is your lifeline abroad. Make sure it protects you before you leave the Philippines. PlainDoc checks your OFW employment contract in under 30 seconds.
What OFWs should watch for
Salary below POEA minimum
Each job category and destination has a minimum salary set by the DMW (formerly POEA). Your contract should meet or exceed these standards.
Passport confiscation clauses
Any clause allowing your employer to hold your passport is illegal in most countries and a form of forced labor. PlainDoc flags this immediately.
Missing repatriation provisions
Your contract should clearly state who pays for your flight home — both at the end of contract and in case of early termination.
Vague job description
Contracts that say "household duties" or "general work" without specifics can lead to exploitation. Your exact role and responsibilities should be listed.
Common risk flags PlainDoc catches
No medical insurance coverage
OFW contracts should include comprehensive medical coverage. Without it, a hospital visit abroad could cost you months of salary.
Contract not POEA-standard
All OFW contracts should follow the POEA Standard Employment Contract. Non-standard contracts may not be enforceable.
Excessive contract bond
Some agencies require bonds of PHP 50,000+ if you leave early. These should be proportional to actual recruitment costs.