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Essential Insights: Navigating the Pre-Departure Orientation Seminar (PDOS) for a Successful Journey Abroad

January 02, 2025

Essential Insights: Navigating the Pre-Departure Orientation Seminar (PDOS) for a Successful Journey Abroad

An Example of Seminar: Photo credited to Dr.Stephen Dann

Preparedness before working abroad is the key to success and securing a career in other countries. One way to get ready is to take the PDOS or pre-departure orientation seminar. This seminar orients applicants on what they expect when they go to other countries. 

Importance of PDOS for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs)

Since you will be living in a foreign country, knowing how to live in your host country, just like in your home country, makes seminars mandatory and necessary for survival. PDOS is very important for a number of reasons, including:

  • Equip yourself with a knowledge of the immigration & local laws of a host/foreign country.

  • Enhanced informed decision-making: This includes understanding cultural norms and legal rights.

  • Enhance skills development focusing on successful adaptation and integration in a foreign land.

  • Prepare financially before going to your home country.

  • Expand networking opportunities with OFW support groups or community
     

Who conducts PDOS?

PDOS is conducted by either the DMW, OWWA or an accredited recruitment agency. PDOS can also be accessed online, and students can earn certificates.

What are the key topics in PDOS?

PDOS, or Pre-Departure Orientation Seminar, covers many important things to prepare you for your trip abroad. The seminar covers:

  1. Cultural Adjustment: Understanding the culture of your host country is key. PDOS sessions will cover cultural norms, etiquette, and how to navigate cultural differences.

  2. Legal and Immigration: You’ll learn the legal requirements for your stay, visa regulations, work permits, and other immigration-related matters. So you’ll be prepared and compliant.

  3. Health and Safety: Your health is crucial. PDOS covers health precautions, vaccinations, and safety tips to keep you healthy and safe in your new surroundings.

  4. Financial Management: Managing your finances abroad can be tough. PDOS will guide you on budgeting, banking, and understanding the local currency so you can make the most of your money.

  5. Employment and Education: If you’re going abroad for work or study, PDOS will cover job search strategies, resume writing, and navigating the education system in your host country.

  6. Support Services and Resources: You’ll find out about the support services and resources available, as well as counseling, community organizations, and emergency contacts.

  7. Reverse Culture Shock: Going back home after an extended period abroad can be tough. PDOS will cover reverse culture shock and how to re-integrate back into your home country.

 

Who Needs to Attend PDOS?

Any OFW applicants who successfully passed the screening and medical check process. PDOS is required before an OFW can fly to the host country. After an application completes the seminar, they receive the PDOS certificate, which is also required for the OEC (overseas exit clearance) and CFO (commission on Filipino overseas). First-timers, student visa holders, and experienced OFW need PDOS before they depart the Philippines.

 

How to Register for PDOS.

Step 1: Prepare one or more of these documents:

  • Government-issued ID.

  • Notarized undertaking from the Local agency or sponsor

  • Passport bio page copy

  • Payment registration 400 PHP

  • Valid visa attached to passport

  • 30 PHP for documentary stamp

  • Nula Osta (for Italy)

Step 2: Choose the PDOS provider.

  • Option 1: Through the recruitment agency that you applied.

  • Option 2: Through OWWA or CFO.

Step 3: Take note of the seminar schedule and details

Step 4: After PDOS completion, you’ll receive the certificate that you can present at the airport.
 

What are the Frequently Asked Questions on PDOS?

  1. Do tourist visa holders require PDOS?
    Yes, because tourists will live in a foreign country for days, weeks, and even months or more.

  2. Who is exempted from a tourist visa?

    Emigrants who are 60 years old or above. They only need to register with the Commission on Overseas Filipinos (CFO). Emigrants who are also 12 year old and younger are also exempted.
     

  3. What is CDEP?

    CDEP stands for Comprehensive Pre-Departure Education Program is a 1-week seminar designed for domestic workers or household service workers.
     

  4. Do I have to attend PDOS if I have already participated in CDEP?

    No, you’re only required to take one. PDOS is country-specific.
     

  5. Are PEOS and PDOS the same?

    No, PEOS or Pre-employment Orientation Seminar is free and geared towards aspiring Filipinos seeking information about employment opportunities, responsibilities, and rights before getting a job abroad. Here, an individual has not yet secured a job. PEOS also covers the job application processes, legal rights, and workers' responsibilities.

    PDOS is for individuals who have already secured a contract, visa, and employment before they go aboard.

 

External links for PDOS and OFWs.

 

 

 

 

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