Overseas Filipino Workers currently working in Cuba with an expired OWWA membership are highly encouraged to renew their account to claim benefits and other assistance programs. Being an active OWWA member comes with many perks that not all OFWs can benefit from. This life insurance is even more helpful during emergencies in your host country as well as for your family back home.
Some of the benefits you can take advantage of include livelihood projects, financial assistance, scholarships, and legal services. Qualified dependents in the Philippines are also entitled to receive such benefits from OWWA. All you need to do is prepare all the documentary requirements for the renewal process and pay the membership fee. You must renew your OWWA status every two years to keep it active.
Requirements for OWWA in Cuba
Generally, applicants must be currently working abroad to qualify for the renewal requirements. You can present a few essential documents to prove your active employment overseas such as your latest payslip, company ID, or employment contract. In addition to these renewal requirements, you also need to secure other important papers to process your application at the Migrant Workers Office or the Philippine Embassy in Cuba.
The MWO office in Washington DC announced the requirements for the renewal on their official website. Here’s a list of the required documents that you need to submit to renew your account in Cuba:
- Copy of the Certificate of Employment, company ID, employment contract, residence or work permit, latest payslip, or other documents to prove active employment abroad
- Duly accomplished OWWA Membership Form or OFW Information Sheet
- Original copy and photocopy of a valid Philippine passport with the data page, photo, and signature
- Payment for the OWWA contribution fee equivalent to US$25
OWWA Fees and Payment Process
After submitting all the documentary requirements and receiving the confirmation, you will need to pay the OWWA fee equivalent to US$25 in CUP based on the current foreign exchange rate. There are various payment options available depending on the procedure you use, such as on-site or online applications.
If you process your renewal via the Consular Outreach Mission, you can pay the fee on-site or on the designated application site such as the MWO, Philippine Embassy, OWWA Regional office, or at any DMW branch. For transactions with MWO Washington via email or regular mail, simply follow the instructions sent through email. You can pay the fee using non-cash payment via Bank Draft or US Money Order.
With the OWWA Mobile App, you can settle the payment through an online bank transfer, over-the-counter payment center, or e-wallet option. Here’s how you can proceed with the payment process via regular mail with the MWO office in Washington DC:
Step 1: Download the OFW Information Sheet and complete the required details.
Step 2: Secure all the required documents and photocopy each of them.
Step 3: Include a prepaid return envelope with your address and stamp along with the requirements.
Step 4: Mail the documents to the Embassy of the Philippines, 1600 Massachusetts Ave., NW, Washington DC, 20036.
If processing the payment via email, follow these steps:
Step 1: Download a copy of the OFW Information Sheet and fill it out.
Step 2: Prepare all the requirements and scan them.
Step 3: Email the documents to washington@owwa.gov.ph and wait for the verification.
Step 4: Once verified, pay the membership fee by following the instructions in the email.
Step 5: Take a photo of the payment receipt, then send the copy to the official email address of the OWWA.
Step 6: Wait for the electronic receipt in your email. You can claim the official receipt by getting an appointment via OWWA’s email.
Procedure for Getting an OWWA Cuba Appointment Online
Since there’s no designated MWO office in Cuba nor an online appointment system available for OFWs applying for or renewing their OWWA account, you are advised to contact the Philippine Embassy or the MWO Washington DC to inquire about the process. The Philippine Embassy conducts Consular Outreach Mission services from time to time in order to facilitate renewal for OFWs in Cuba.
Other nearest offices that OFWs can contact include the Philippine Honorary Consulate in the Bahamas and Miami. Make sure to contact the concerned office and get an appointment before you process your renewal. In the Philippines, OFWs who are taking their vacation can also schedule an appointment at the OWWA Regional office or the Department of Migrant Workers.
How to Renew OWWA Membership in Cuba
One of the easiest ways to renew your OWWA membership in Cuba is to visit the MWO Washington DC office or the Philippine Embassy. They conduct a Consular Outreach Mission to help OFWs keep their OWWA account active and continue claiming benefits and other programs abroad. This on-site application process allows applicants to submit their requirements and pay the fee in a designated venue.
The MWO office in Washington DC processes membership applications through email and regular mail. However, it’s not clear whether they have jurisdiction over Cuba so you should contact them to get the latest updates. If you’re looking for a more convenient way to renew your status, you can download the OWWA Mobile App on your mobile device and register an account. You can pay the fee on the mobile app via an e-wallet, over-the-counter payment center, or bank transfer.
Video: How to Renew Your OWWA Membership Online
In this video, you will find a step-by-step procedure on how to renew your OWWA account online using the mobile app, including all other information you might need to know.
Summary
Now that you know how to process your OWWA membership renewal in Cuba, make sure to keep it active every two years. This life insurance comes in handy during unexpected events such as medical emergencies or other crises in your host country. Renew your expired membership to continue claiming OWWA benefits.
