Updated 20 January 2026
For many Filipino domestic helpers, preparing to work overseas is a significant transition — one that involves courage, planning, and hope for better opportunities for their families. To leave the country and work overseas, Filipino domestic helpers are required to have a valid Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) and a valid “Fit to Work” Medical Certificate from any Department of Health-accredited medical clinic.
Airport and immigration officers check these documents to ensure that the helper is medically ready and legally allowed to work overseas. This step also gives employers peace of mind, knowing that their future helper is entering the household healthy and prepared.
What is “Fit to work” Medical Certificate?
Also known as the “Medical Certificate for Land-based Overseas Workers”, the “Fit to work” Certificate confirms a helper’s overall physical and mental readiness to work overseas. This involves:
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General physical check-up
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X-ray
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Blood tests
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Pregnancy test
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Mental wellness assessment
In Hong Kong, the medical certificate is essential as the Standard Employment Contract (SEC) for Domestic Helpers (Clause 17) requires employers to make sure that their helper is physically fit for employment.
How Long Is It Valid?
The certificate is valid for 3 months from the date of issuance. The period allows workers enough time to leave to country. If deployment to Hong Kong is delayed beyond 3 months, the helper needs to repeat the medical check-up before flying.
Both the employer and the helper may request to see the results — openness builds trust on both sides.
Where to get it?
The exam must be completed at a Department of Health (DOH) accredited OFW clinic in the Philippines.
These clinics follow standardized screening, so results are consistent across the country.
You can check DOH-approved clinics here:
https://www.doh.gov.ph/ofw-medical-exam
Most helpers complete this step upon reporting to the Philippines’s agency before departing the Philippines, even if they are heading to Hong Kong or Singapore.
Costs in 2026
Ranging from PHP2600 to PHP4000, depending on the provider. Generally, the further away from Manila, the more expensive.
If the helper fails the medical checkup (“unfit to work”), she may need to undergo treatment and a re-check before clearance is granted.
In Hong Kong, the Standard Employment Contract (Clause 8) specifies that employers have to reimburse the medical checkup fee if the domestic helper is able to present a receipt. Some agencies like HelperChoice may also cover for this fee in their package or will reimburse it when placement is done. The details should be discussed before signing the employment contract.
See HelperChoice’ direct hire visa packages here which includes the medical fees.
Compulsory medical examination in Singapore
Before receiving the work permit and commencing work in Singapore, foreign domestic helpers will have to take a compulsory medical examination specified by the country’s government within 2 weeks of her arrival. She should bring along the medical examination form when she heads for the checkup.
The domestic worker’s work permit will be processed and issued if she passes the test. She will have to be sent home otherwise. The worker will be screened for 4 types of infectious disease, namely tuberculosis, HIV, syphilis and malaria and whether she is fit to work. Employers may ask the doctor for a copy of the report if they wish to know.
Note that domestic helpers may still need to get the “Fit to Work” Medical Certificate before arriving in Singapore, as the country’s mandatory medical examination is standardised. Consult your employment agency and potential employer for details.
Gentle Reminder of Shared Support
Starting a new job in a new country can be emotional. Helpers leave family behind to support them from afar. Employers welcome someone new into their home and daily life.
Clear information and open conversations help make this transition positive for everyone.
The “Fit to Work” certificate is not just a requirement — it is part of ensuring a safe and healthy beginning to a respectful working relationship.
Hiring Soon? Choose Ethical and Transparent Recruitment
At HelperChoice, we believe employment should never start with debt.
That’s why we never charge placement fees to domestic helpers — ever.
This protects workers, and creates better, more trusting employer-helper relationships.
👉 If you are looking for a domestic helper, browse available applicant profiles here
👉If you have already chosen a helper and want to process her visa, you can check our visa packages here: