GCash Verification for OFWs Middle East Foreign IDs Now Accepted

#GCash accepts government-issued foreign IDs to simplify app verification for OFWs in the Middle East

Kababayans in the Middle East can now access essential financial services faster with fewer steps until July 11, 2026

To expedite access to essential digital financial services for Filipinos abroad, GCash now supports the use of foreign-issued IDs: Emirates ID (UAE), Iqama ID (Saudi Arabia), Kuwait Civil ID, and Qatar Residency Permit for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) in the Middle East for account verification. This enhancement helps streamline the onboarding process, allowing eligible users to complete verification more efficiently and access services faster, subject to standard security and eligibility checks.

Starting May 12, 2026, OFWs in the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Qatar can complete their GCash app verification by using their government-issued foreign IDs.

Previously, applicants were required to submit additional documents to help establish ties to the Philippines, often involving manual email exchanges and extended processing times. For OFWs managing demanding work schedules, limited connectivity, and time constraints, these additional steps frequently delayed full account activation and limited timely access to essential financial services, with verification requirements varying by individual circumstances.

With the updated flow, verification is fully completed within the GCash app from registration to ID upload and submission, with approvals processed within 48 hours.

Accepted IDs include the Emirates ID (UAE), Iqama ID (Saudi Arabia), Kuwait Civil ID, and Qatar Residency Permit. Once verified, users gain full access to core services such as Send Money, Bank Transfer, and Pay Bills, enabling more seamless financial management and faster remittance support for families in the Philippines.

The initiative is focused on newly registered users in the Middle East, particularly those within their first seven days of sign-up. It will run from May 12, 2026, to July 11, 2026, with previously submitted applications under the old process eligible for resubmission to benefit from faster processing.

Given the scale of Filipino migration in the Gulf region and the critical role of remittances in household and national economic support, the update strengthens access to essential financial tools where they are needed most. By reducing onboarding barriers, GCash enables more OFWs to manage money digitally, send support home more efficiently, and participate more fully in the digital financial ecosystem.

These enhancements reflect the commitment of GCash in helping address real-world conditions abroad, making financial services more accessible, responsive, and immediately usable for Filipinos wherever they are.

For more information, please visit www.gcash.com.