Filipinos in South Korea who want to apply for or renew their OWWA membership can visit the Migrant Workers Office in Seoul. The MWO office is located near the Philippine Embassy, making it easier for OFWs to process their renewal and keep their accounts active. It’s important to consider the benefits of having this life insurance because it’s helpful in times of need, especially during medical emergencies.
The consequence of not renewing your OWWA is that you can lose the benefits that come with it. For instance, you cannot claim financial assistance, scholarships, or loans when you need them the most. If you’re looking to maximize your benefits as an OFW in Korea, make sure to update your OWWA status to enjoy all the programs, services, and protection benefits. But before that, you need to comply with the requirements and qualifications to access these benefits.
Requirements for OWWA in Korea
The main requirement for OWWA renewal is proof of active employment which can be in many forms. In addition, you also need to meet some qualifications in order to get your application approved before you can proceed to the payment process. Securing all the required documents, however, doesn’t guarantee request approval. So make sure to contact the MWO office near you to get the exact details you need for the renewal processing.
Keep in mind that incomplete documents will not be processed, so secure all the necessary papers before you submit your application. Here are the following documentary requirements you need to submit to register and renew your OWWA account in South Korea:
- Duly accomplished OWWA Membership Form or OFW Information Sheet
- Copy of the current employment contract
- Copy of a valid Philippine passport with photo page and signature
- Copy of Alien Registration Card or ARC
- Proof of previous OWWA membership such as the official receipt, if necessary
- Payment for the OWWA contribution fee in South Korean Won
OWWA Fees and Payment Process
The OWWA fee to renew your membership in South Korea is KRW 30,000 (South Korean Won) or less depending on the current foreign exchange rate for US$ 25. Each paid contribution gives you a validity of two years regardless of your recruitment agency, contract duration, job site, and change of employer. You can renew your account three months before the expiration to ensure continuous access to the benefits and programs of OWWA.
Wait for the request approval before settling the payment for your renewal or registration. Some of the payment options include on-site, via email, or through the OWWA Mobile App. To pay the membership fee, here are the general steps you need to follow:
Step 1: Secure all the required documents to process your renewal or application.
Step 2: Visit the MWO office in Seoul and present a copy of your confirmed appointment at the gate, if applicable.
Step 3: Submit your requirements to the OWWA window and wait for the evaluation.
Step 4: Once evaluated and accepted, pay the KRW 30,000 OWWA fee at the payment counter.
Step 5: Wait for your OWWA renewal receipt to be released.
Procedure for Getting an OWWA Korea Appointment Online
As of this writing, there is no clear guideline in terms of booking an OWWA appointment before visiting the MWO office in Seoul, South Korea to renew or apply for an OWWA account. You can contact the concerned office in order to check whether they require applicants to schedule an appointment prior to visiting. Generally, clients with confirmed appointments or official transactions with the MWO office are allowed to enter the premises.
How to Renew OWWA Membership in Seoul, South Korea
There are many ways to renew your OWWA account such as on-site, email, or mobile app. If you’re planning to renew your status on-site, you need to contact the MWO-Seoul office to schedule an appointment if it’s required. When renewing via email, you need to scan your documentary requirements and send it to the official email address of the OWWA in Korea. However, the most convenient way to process your membership is through the OWWA Mobile App.
If you’re using the mobile app, you just need to download it on your mobile device and register an account. Log in to the app and check your status whether it’s active or inactive. If it’s already inactive, you need to click on the Renew Membership Here and follow the instructions on your screen. Then set your preferred payment method to complete the process.
Video: How to Renew Your OWWA Membership Online: Step by Step
In this video, you will see how to process your OWWA membership renewal online with all the steps that you need to take and some helpful tips to make things easier for you. This is based on an actual experience so you will know the exact procedure when renewing your account online. If you haven’t explored the OWWA Mobile App yet, this will help you take advantage of a more convenient and faster way to keep your status active.
Summary
To sum it up, you need to secure first proof of active employment to qualify for OWWA membership renewal in Seoul, South Korea. In addition to that, you also have to complete all the documentary requirements and have them evaluated before you can proceed to the payment counter. Make sure to double-check your documents because incomplete applications may be returned or rejected.
The MWO office in Seoul is open between Sundays and Thursdays from 10 in the morning to 3 in the afternoon. Clients with confirmed appointments will be prioritized for the consular services and other related transactions. You can follow the official Facebook page of the OWWA in Seoul, South Korea in order to get the latest updates regarding the renewal services for OFWs in the country.
Source:
How to Renew OWWA Membership in Seoul, South Korea – OWWA Member
