For Overseas Filipino Workers in Japan who want to apply for or renew their OWWA membership can visit the Migrant Workers Office at the Philippine Consulate General office in Osaka. The advantage of being an active member is that you can enjoy the benefits, programs, and services of the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration. This life insurance will help you during emergencies and unexpected events such as job loss and calamities.
OWWA protects and promotes the welfare of all OFWs and their dependents by providing them social services and assistance during crisis. OFW members need to renew their accounts in order to continue accessing these benefits including some programs that are exclusive to those with active status. Therefore, it’s important to prepare the requirements and understand how to process your application or renewal in the MWO-Osaka office.
Requirements for OWWA in Osaka, Japan
Since the health crisis, the OWWA office in Osaka requires clients to make transactions via email. Also, you need to present proof of active employment in order to process your membership renewal. Below are the required documents that you need to complete for your OWWA renewal in Osaka, Japan:
- Duly accomplished OWWA Membership Form or OFW Information Sheet
- Photocopy of a valid Philippine passport including the name, signature, and photo
- Photocopy of the residence ID or valid visa stamp on the passport
- Copy of the Certificate of Employment or employment contract with English translation signed by the translator
- Corporate registration number of the company or Kaishahojin Bango of Tokibo Tohon
- National ID number or Residence Card number if employer is individual
- For new applicants, a copy of Declaration of Intent to Join the OWWA
- Payment for the contribution fee
You can mail your renewal requirements or visit the OWWA office to renew your account in Japan. For applicants in Osaka, the requirements are forwarded to OWWA-Tokyo office. In addition, you may also choose to renew your status using the OWWA Mobile App for more convenience.
OWWA Fees and Payment Process
The OWWA contribution fee in Japan is JPY 3,000 or could be less based on the monthly average equivalent rate of US$25. The validity of each paid contribution is two years, and you need to renew your account at least three months before it expires so that you can avoid the rush. You can pay the fee through the walk-in process, here are the steps:
Step 1: Download a copy of the OFW Information Sheet or OWWA Membership Form via https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/101nUnzzTrVxzgjUrXGMymfjV8-Q6dTD2 and complete the required details.
Step 2: Download the Declaration of Intent to Join the OWWA and fill it out if you’re applying for a new account instead of renewing your status.
Step 3: Prepare all the required documents that you need to submit for the renewal process.
Step 4: Before you go to the MWO office in Osaka, make sure you have all the requirements in order to enjoy a smooth experience.
Procedure for Getting OWWA Tokyo Appointment Online
As of this writing, getting an appointment for the application or renewal process is not required in the OWWA-Osaka office. Therefore, you can visit the office directly and then fall in line to settle your payment. Just make sure you have all the required documents so you can renew your account. Otherwise, any incomplete requirements will not be processed by the OWWA staff.
If you want to clarify some important things before going to the OWWA office, you can send them a message via email at osaka.laborsection@gmail.com for labor concerns, or at laborsection.welfare@gmail.com for welfare concerns. You can also contact them through +81 665 757 593 or +81 702 447 4016.
How to Renew OWWA Membership in Osaka, Japan
The OWWA office in Osaka, Japan is open during weekdays except on holidays. If you want to reach out to the office before renewing your account, you can email them at pcg.osaka.laborsection@gmail.com for your concerns. At the moment, you don’t need to present a confirmed appointment at the gate because walk-ins are allowed to enter the premises.
The documentary requirements can be submitted through regular mail or in person, whichever is convenient to you. To renew your membership in Osaka through regular mail, here are the steps you need to follow:
Step 1: Get a copy of the OFW Information Sheet or OWWA Membership Form and provide all the required details.
Step 2: Download the Declaration of Intent to Join the OWWA for new applicants.
Step 3: Scan your requirements and other necessary documents. Make sure they are clear and readable.
Step 4: Mail the copy of the requirements to OWWA, Philippine Embassy, 5-15-5 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo 106-8537, Japan.
Step 5: To get back your receipt, you can include a return postal envelope with stamp and complete name and address.
Video: Renewal of OWWA Membership in Japan
In this video, you can learn about the actual process of renewing OWWA membership in Japan. It includes all the requirements and steps to apply for or renew your account so that you can continue enjoying the benefits of this life insurance.
Summary
Now that you have learned how to process your OWWA account in Osaka, Japan, it’s easier to renew your status and keep it active every two years. You need to be an active member in order to enjoy the programs, benefits, and assistance offered by OWWA to OFWs around the world. You only need to present proof of active employment and submit all the required documents to process your renewal.
Whether you’re a new applicant or already a member looking to reactivate your account, an active membership comes with a lot of advantages, especially for OFWs in distress. You can get financial assistance in case something happens while your family will receive all the help they need in terms of scholarship or livelihood.
