For Overseas Filipino Workers in Brazil, keeping their OWWA membership active is important. It ensures access to various benefits and support systems offered by the Philippine government while you’re away from home. Renewing your account is simpler than you might think. You can even do it online to enjoy a hassle-free experience while staying in the comfort of your home.
This comprehensive guide aims to walk you through the process of OWWA renewal and application to ensure you can navigate this essential task with ease. All you need to do is secure all the required documents and then settle the contribution fee to update your status. If you have acquired a job using your visit visa, you are also encouraged to process your OWWA in order to maximize your benefits.
Requirements for OWWA in Brazil
Before anything else, you need to secure a copy of proof of active employment to renew your membership in Brazil. OFWs must be actively working and show relevant documents that verify their employment regardless of their job location. You cannot proceed to the payment process if you don’t complete the requirements. Your documents will also be subjected to an evaluation, so until then, your application may be rejected if there are incomplete requirements.
There is no MWO office in Brazil so you need to reach out to the Philippine Embassy for the renewal process. Here are the requirements that you need to prepare:
- Duly accomplished OWWA Membership Form or OFW Information Sheet
- Proof of active employment including latest payslip, employment offer, work permit or visa, Certificate of Employment, company ID, or other related documents
- Original copy and photocopy of valid Philippine passport with data page
- Certification issued by the employer that verifies the OFW is not terminated, canceled, or resigned
- Payment for the OWWA contribution fee
OWWA Fees and Payment Process
The renewal fee for OWWA may differ and could change over time depending on the current foreign exchange rate of US$25. It’s important to verify the actual fee before heading to the payment counter so you can prepare the exact amount and ensure a smooth renewal process. Each paid contribution has two years of validity regardless of your contract duration, job location, recruitment agency, or change of employer.
The following are the steps in paying the OWWA fee through email with MWO-Washington:
Step 1: Download the OFW Information Sheet and complete the required details.
Step 2: Prepare all the requirements and scan them.
Step 3: Send all the required documents to washington@owwa.gov.ph.
Step 4: If the request has been approved, proceed to the payment as instructed in the email sent to you.
Step 5: Take a photo of the payment receipt, then send a copy to the OWWA Washington email. An official receipt will be sent to you in return.
Step 6: You can schedule an appointment to pick up your original receipt at the OWWA office.
If you’re processing the payment via regular mail, here are the steps you need to follow:
Step 1: Complete the OFW Information Sheet.
Step 2: Secure the requirements and photocopy each.
Step 3: Include a self-addressed, prepaid, and stamped return envelope.
Step 4: Send the requirements to the Philippine Embassy in Washington DC.
Procedure for Getting an OWWA Brazil Appointment Online
Since there is no OWWA office in Brazil, OFWs can contact the Philippine Embassy and inquire about their upcoming Consular Outreach Mission near your area. You may also keep in touch with the Philippine Consulate General office to get the latest updates regarding membership renewal in Brazil. Make sure to contact these offices before processing your OWWA in order to get the actual requirements you need to submit.
How to Renew OWWA Membership in Brazil
When you keep your OWWA active you can access different services and programs to improve your life and help your dependents in the Philippines. You can also benefit from financial and legal assistance in case of emergencies in your workplace. So, how do you renew your OWWA account in Brazil?
OFWs can refer to MWO Washington as they provide OWWA applications via email and regular mail in case the PCG and Philippine Embassy don’t process employment-related services in Brazil. On the other hand, you may simply contact them if they assist OFWs in applying or renew OWWA memberships. In addition to the on-site application, you can also use the OWWA Mobile App to process your renewal online.
With the mobile app, you don’t need to get an appointment and go to the actual office to submit your requirements and pay the OWWA fee. All you have to do is download the app on your mobile device and follow the instructions to register an account. You can also check the status of your membership through the mobile app.
Video: How to Renew OWWA Membership
In this video, you will get the latest information regarding OWWA membership renewal using cash payment via 7-Eleven. It also includes all the important steps that you need to take to activate your status online. This is particularly helpful if you’re vacationing in the Philippines and need to renew your account.
Summary
Now you understand the whole process of renewing your OWWA in Brazil. It involves a straightforward sequence of steps including the preparation of required documents, paying the contribution fee, appointment booking, heading to the OWWA office, and waiting for the confirmation. Keeping your membership active helps you remain connected to essential support and benefits while working overseas.
The value of being an active OWWA member is that you are protected against the uncertainties of life, especially if you’re the breadwinner of the family. You can enjoy many benefits including legal assistance during employer-related abuses and other related problems. So make sure to renew your account at least three months before the expiration to continue claiming your benefits.
Source:
Schedule OWWA Appointment Membership Brazil | POLO-OWWA