In Taiwan, brokers for OFWs (Overseas Filipino Workers) are licensed agencies or individuals that help facilitate the employment of Filipino workers in Taiwan. They usually coordinate between Taiwan employers and Philippine recruitment agencies, handling documents, job placements, and sometimes even housing or worker concerns.
As per Taiwan's Ministry of Labor regulations, brokers can charge a maximum of NT$1,800 per month during the first year, NT$1,700 in the second year, and NT$1,500 from the third year onward.
Main Responsibilities of Taiwan Brokers for OFWs:
1. Match OFWs with Employers
They work with recruitment agencies in the Philippines to find the right workers for Taiwanese employers (factories, households, farms, etc.).
2. Process Work Permits and Documents
They help with the application for work permits, visa processing, health checks, and labor insurance in Taiwan.
3. Airport Pick-Up and Orientation
Brokers usually meet the OFW upon arrival, bring them to their workplace or dormitory, and give a short orientation on work and life in Taiwan.
4. Accommodation and Basic Needs
For factory or caregiving jobs, brokers may provide dormitories or help arrange housing and meals.
5. Communication and Translation
They often act as interpreters between the OFW and employer (especially when there's a language barrier).
6. Monitor and Mediate Work Issues
Brokers handle concerns like salary delays, working conditions, or conflicts with employers. They also help in cases of emergency or if a worker wants to transfer jobs (within legal bounds).
7. Renewal or Transfer of Contracts
They assist with renewing contracts or transferring to another employer if the first contract ends early or the employer can no longer continue employment.
8. Repatriation Assistance
When contracts end, or in cases of termination or emergency, brokers help with the process of returning to the Philippines.
Meanwhile, Philippine recruitment agencies are permitted to charge a placement fee equivalent to one month's salary, along with documentation costs amounting to approximately PHP 10,000.
