There are so many ways for Overseas Filipino Workers to protect themselves from emergencies and other unexpected events abroad. For instance, OFWs can apply for OWWA membership and enjoy exclusive benefits and programs offered by the Philippine government. If you haven’t considered applying for or renewing your account yet, there are some important things you need to know.
Generally, active OWWA members can enjoy many different services, programs, and assistance that not all OFWs can access. Every two years, you need to update your membership to continue claiming the benefits from OWWA. More importantly, you must pay the membership fee to get a two-year validity regardless of your job location, contract duration, and recruitment agency.
Requirements for OWWA in Mexico
You must be presently working in Mexico to renew your OWWA account in the country. There are several relevant documents you can submit to prove your active employment such as a payslip, employment contract, or bank account with salary entries. In addition, you also need to confirm that you are not terminated, canceled, resigned, or due for termination to qualify for membership.
Whether you want to apply for or renew your OWWA status in Mexico, the following are the required documents you need to submit:
- Duly accomplished OFW Information Sheet or OWWA Membership Form
- Copy of a valid Philippine passport with the data page and photo
- Proof of active employment such as Employment Contract, company ID, Certificate of Employment, residence or work permit, latest payslip, or any relevant document that confirms present employment abroad
- For dual citizens, a copy of the Certificate of Oath with the identification page
- If applying via MWO Washington DC regular mail, provide a prepaid return envelope with a stamp and address
- Payment for the OWWA contribution fee equivalent to US$25 to MXN
OWWA Fees and Payment Process
Once you have submitted all the documentary requirements, the OWWA representative will evaluate them to see whether you qualify or not. If you’ve qualified, you can proceed to the payment process to settle the membership fee equivalent to US$25 in MXN based on the current foreign exchange rate. You can contact the Philippine Consulate in Guadalajara or the Philippine Embassy in Mexico to get the latest updates regarding membership applications.
Without a designated MWO office in Mexico, OFWs are advised to contact the offices in Washington, DC, and Los Angeles for their membership payment. You can pay the fee on-site as long as you have scheduled your visit through the Consular Outreach Mission service. If you choose to renew via regular mail or email, the MWO Washington will provide you with the payment instructions.
Make sure you have all the requirements before processing your renewal or application. Also, you need to wait for the confirmation after the evaluation in order to proceed to the payment counter. If you’re paying through the mobile app, you can choose from the options including over-the-counter payment centers, e-wallet, or online bank.
Here’s how to pay the membership fee via email with MWO Washington, DC:
Step 1: Download the OFW Information Sheet and complete the details.
Step 2: Prepare the requirements and scan them.
Step 3: Email the scanned copies to washington@owwa.gov.ph and wait for the verification.
Step 4: Once qualified, check the instructions in the email and follow them to pay your contribution fee.
Step 5: Save a copy of the renewal receipt and forward it to MWO Washington through email.
Step 6: Wait for your electronic receipt in your email. You may claim your official receipt by getting an OWWA appointment via email.
If you’re paying through regular mail, here are the steps you need to follow:
Step 1: Fill out your OFW Information Sheet and secure all the requirements.
Step 2: Photocopy the documents and include a self-addressed return envelope in your mail.
Step 3: Send it to the Embassy of the Philippines, 1600 Massachusetts Ave., NW, Washington C, 20036.
Procedure for Getting an OWWA Mexico Appointment Online
With the absence of a designated MWO office in Mexico, there is also no available online appointment system for those applying for or renewing their OWWA account. The best way to process your application is to reach out to the nearest MWO offices such as in Washington DC and Los Angeles. Otherwise, you can inquire with the Embassy in Mexico about the details for OWWA renewal.
On the other hand, you can get an appointment for an on-site application at MWO Washington or Los Angeles through their Consular Outreach Mission service. If you’re in the Philippines, you may also schedule an appointment with the nearest OWWA Regional or DMW office in your area.
How to Renew OWWA Membership in Mexico
If you’re planning to apply for or renew your OWWA account on-site via the Consular Outreach Mission, make sure to contact the concerned offices including the MWO in Los Angeles or Washington, DC. Another way is to submit your application via email or regular mail to MWO Washington, DC.
For a more convenient way to renew your membership, you can use the OWWA Mobile App. Simply download it on your mobile device and register an account so you can process your renewal anytime and anywhere you want. For the payment process, you can use your e-wallet account or online bank transfer as accepted options to settle the membership fee.
Video: OWWA Membership and Renewal
In this video, you will get all the answers to how you can renew your OWWA membership including a list of the requirements you need to comply. It also provides a clear view of the actual procedure when applying for membership online.
Summary
Now you are ready to process your OWWA membership renewal in Mexico with all these helpful tips and steps. Make sure to bring all the requirements and meet the qualifications before paying the contribution fee. Any incomplete documents will not be processed and may be returned or rejected.
