Kuwait-based overseas Filipino workers returning to their jobs can benefit from the Department of Migrant Workers’ e-Verify system, which allows participating airlines at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) to digitally confirm an OFW’s travel clearance.
DMW announced in September, 2026 that 37 airlines at NAIA now accept the digital OFW Pass through e-Verify.
Aside from making travel clearance verification easier, the system can help qualified OFWs receive their applicable airport terminal fee exemption or refund.
For workers returning to Kuwait after a vacation in the Philippines, this means another part of the departure process can be handled digitally.
What Does e-Verify Do?
The e-Verify system allows participating airline personnel to check an OFW’s travel clearance electronically during check-in.
Eligible workers can present their passport together with their digital OFW Pass.
The pass contains the worker’s DMW information and serves as additional proof of overseas employment for applicable airline and airport transactions.
This reduces the need to rely only on printed OFW documents when the worker’s information can already be confirmed digitally.
Already Paid a Terminal Fee?
Qualified OFWs are exempt from Philippine travel tax and airport terminal fees upon proper proof of entitlement.
But the airport terminal fee may already be included in the price of an airline ticket.
If the fee was collected from an eligible OFW, the worker may need to receive the applicable refund rather than simply having the charge removed.
Through e-Verify, participating airlines can electronically establish the traveler’s OFW status.
OFWs should check their ticket or booking receipt and ask the airline about its refund procedure if a terminal fee appears to have been collected.
The exact handling may vary depending on the airline and how the ticket was purchased.
How OFWs Can Prepare for e-Verify
Kuwait-based OFWs should check their DMW records before their scheduled flight.
Eligible balik-manggagawa workers can access the digital OFW Travel Pass through the eGovPH app.
Go to National Government Agencies > DMW > Balik-Manggagawa > Travel Pass.
If an OFW’s employment contract has expired in the DMW system, the worker may be asked to update their employer and jobsite information before a new Travel Pass can be generated.
Printed OFW Passes issued through existing DMW services also continue to be recognized as valid exit clearances and proof of overseas employment.
What Kuwait OFWs Should Do Before Flying
OFWs returning to Kuwait should check that their DMW records are correct and that their Travel Pass can be accessed before going to NAIA.
Have your passport ready during airline check-in so your information can be verified.
If your ticket already includes the terminal fee, ask the airline whether you qualify for the applicable exemption or refund and what steps are required.
The exemption comes from the traveler’s status as a qualified OFW, so having valid and updated DMW records remains important regardless of the overseas destination.