The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration offers a lot of services, programs, benefits, and projects that will assist Overseas Filipino Workers during emergencies, calamities, and other unexpected events while working abroad. OFWs in Malaysia, for instance, can enjoy social and financial assistance by applying for or renewing their OWWA membership.
When it comes to processing your OWWA, there are a few important things to consider such as the requirements, fees, and booking an appointment. Not all MWO offices across the globe require an appointment, so make sure to check with the nearest OWWA in your location whether they require a prearranged visit. Nevertheless, you need to secure all the required documents as well as the payments to renew your account.
Requirements for OWWA in Malaysia
Before you process your OWWA, it’s important to prepare all the requirements as the MWO-Kuala Lumpur office will not process any incomplete documents submitted. Also, you need to schedule an OEC appointment to renew your account. You can apply for an OEC and reactivate your status, but make sure to comply with the following required documents:
- Copy of valid passport
- Copy of Work Permit
- Duly accomplished OWWA Membership Form or OFW Information Sheet
- Declaration of Intent to become a member of OWWA
- Proof of employment from the employer or company such as the latest pay stub, company ID, Certificate of Employment, or Employment Contract
- For natural-born citizens with dual citizenship, a Sworn Citizenship Re-acquisition Petition with an Oath of Loyalty that is verified by the Consulate
Only after receiving the Overseas Employment Certificate can OFWs renew their memberships. Don’t hesitate to reach out to the MWO office in Kuala Lumpur if you have questions or concerns regarding your renewal.
OWWA Fees and Payment Process
The contribution amount for OWWA membership is RM 120, or it could be less depending on the monthly average equivalent rate of US$25. Each contribution is valid for two years no matter your job site, duration of contract, recruitment agency, or change of employer. You will need to provide proof of active work in order to renew your account.
When paying for the fees, you first need to show your confirmed appointment at the gate in order for the security officer to let you in. Then you need to present all your requirements to the staff at the OWWA window. After submitting the required documents, you will need to settle your fees to renew your account.
Procedure for Getting OWWA Kuala Lumpur Appointment Online
Since you need to schedule an appointment for your OEC application before you can renew your account, it’s important to understand how to get an OEC appointment online if you’re living in Malaysia. The processing of documents will be done at the Philippine Embassy located in Kuala Lumpur.
Here’s how you can set an appointment online while working in Malaysia:
Step 1: Go to the official website of the Philippine Embassy in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia via this link: www.philembassykl.org.my.
Step 2: Under the OFW Corner section, choose the Click Here To Schedule An Appointment to proceed.
Step 3: For new users, sign in using the nominated email address and then tap on Sign Me Up. Confirm the registration by checking the email sent, then tap on the confirmation link provided.
Step 4: Once you are registered, log in with your details such as your recent OEC number. If there’s no record found, you need to schedule an appointment.
Step 5: Update your information including your personal details, beneficiaries, and contract particulars if a record was found.
Step 6: Choose the Acquire OEC or Exemption option for the online assessment. Provide your travel date and put a check on the box to confirm your return to the same job site and employer.
Step 7: If you’re returning to the same job site and employer, you will see a notification message confirming your exemption from getting an OEC as well as paying the fee.
Step 8: If you’re not exempted, you will be directed to the Appointment section. Select the nearest POEA location in your area and choose your preferred time for your OEC appointment and payment process.
Step 9: A confirmation message via email will be sent to you to confirm your date of appointment. During your scheduled visit, make sure to bring a copy of the confirmation message to the MWO office.
How to Renew OWWA Membership in Malaysia
On your appointment day, the following are the steps you need to follow in order to activate your OWWA account in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia:
Step 1: Present a copy of your confirmed appointment to enter the premises.
Step 2: Submit your requirements to the OWWA window.
Step 3: Settle your OWWA fees at the payment counter.
Step 4: Get your official receipt and enjoy the benefits of being an active member valid for two years.
Video: Paano Kumuha ng OEC, OWWA Membership
In this video, you will learn how to get an OEC and apply for or renew your OWWA in Malaysia. Since you need to get an OEC appointment to renew your account, this video provides all the steps you need to take in order to become an active member and enjoy the OWWA benefits and programs while you’re currently working abroad.
Summary
Now that you know how to renew your OWWA and become an active member to enjoy all the benefits, programs, and services available to OFWs, you can have peace of mind that you and your family are protected from unexpected events such as medical emergencies. Keep in mind that only clients with confirmed appointments are allowed to enter the Philippine Embassy in Malaysia.
More importantly, you need to secure all the requirements and pay the cost of OWWA renewal in order to continue receiving benefits and assistance from the Philippine government in times of crisis. By keeping your OWWA status active, you can access some exclusive services that not all OFWs can enjoy.
