Renewing OWWA membership for Overseas Filipino Workers in Japan can be done in the OWWA Tokyo office. For those who don’t have an account yet, it’s important to apply and be an active member to enjoy the services and programs offered by the government to OFWs. This serves as a life insurance that covers all members during emergencies and other unexpected events at their job site.
Moreover, you can claim your benefits in case you need financial aid to send your kids to school or recover from an illness. You can personally visit the MWO office or mail your requirements to renew your OWWA in Japan. If you haven’t thought of keeping your status active, now is the time to consider the best reasons why an OWWA account renewal is a must.
Requirements for OWWA in Tokyo
As an active OWWA member, you can get assistance from the government in case you encounter some problems with your employer in Japan. Whether you need legal, livelihood, or educational assistance, you are eligible to claim such benefits to improve your living. So make sure to renew your OWWA before it expires in order to enjoy these benefits and services.
Below are the minimum requirements you need to submit when processing your account renewal in Tokyo:
- Duly accomplished OWWA Membership Form or OFW Information Sheet
- Copy of Declaration of Intent to Join OWWA for new applicants
- Photocopy of current Certificate of Employment or Employment Contract including Employer’s Hanko which was issued one month after applying for OWWA
- Photocopy of valid passport with official stamp for OFWs holding mission visa
- Photocopy of current residence ID
- Original copy and photocopy of valid passport including the personal information
- Proof of employer or company validity and existence
- If renewing with a previous employer, a copy of your National ID Number or Corporate Registration Number
- If renewing with a new employer or company, a photocopy of the Corporate Registration Certificate or Tokibo Tohon, or National ID Number
- Return letter envelope with complete name, contact number, and address for the official receipt and other documents
- Payment for the OWWA contribution fee
In addition to these requirements, you also need to meet some important qualifications before renewing your OWWA. For instance, you need to show proof of active employment and that you are a documented OFW with a valid visa and work permit. On the other hand, OFWs who are due for termination, cancellation, resignation, or no work or no pay are not qualified to renew their accounts.
OWWA Fees and Payment Process
The OWWA contribution for renewal is JPY 3,000 or could be less depending on the monthly foreign exchange rate of US$25. To pay this fee, you can head to the OWWA-Tokyo office and follow these steps:
Step 1: Get a copy of the OFW Information Sheet and provide all the details required
Step 2: For first-time applicants, get a copy of the Declaration of Intent for OWWA Membership and fill it out.
Step 3: Secure all the required documents that you need to submit.
Step 4: Go to the OWWA office and submit the requirements for verification.
Step 5: Pay the contribution fee and don’t forget to claim your receipt which will be issued on the same day.
Procedure for Getting OWWA Tokyo Appointment Online
Currently, the OWWA office in Tokyo doesn’t require an appointment when processing account renewal. Since they don’t have an appointment system, OFWs can walk directly to the office to renew their accounts. Whether you’re applying for a new membership or renewing your account, you can visit the office anytime as long as it’s within their office hours.
While walk-ins are allowed, the OWWA-Tokyo office currently implements online transactions only as of the moment. Make sure to reach out to the nearest OWWA office in your area or their official Facebook page and website to know the latest updates regarding appointments. The most convenient way to process your renewal is through regular mail.
How to Renew OWWA Membership in Tokyo, Japan
Based on the latest announcement of OWWA in Tokyo, you can apply for or renew your account via mail or walk-in visit. Here are the steps you need to follow to reactivate your status through the letter pack:
Step 1: Download a copy of the OFW Information Sheet via this link: https://polotokyo.dole.gov.ph/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/OWWA-OFW-INFORMATION-SHEET.pdf and complete all the required details.
Step 2 Get a copy of the Declaration of Intent for OWWA membership here: https://polotokyo.dole.gov.ph/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/POLO-TOKYO-DECLARATION-OF-INTENT-FOR-OWWA-MEMBERSHIP-rev-27Jan2022-1.pdf for those applying for the first time.
Step 3: Prepare all the required documents to be submitted.
Step 4: Send your requirements via mail to OWWA, Philippine Embassy, 5-15-5 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo 106-8537, Japan.
Step 5: Attach a return letter pack and include your complete name, contact number, and address in order to get your official receipt and other documents back.
Step 6: For the contribution fee, send another mail to the same mailing address of OWWA in Tokyo via Genkin Kakitome
Video: OWWA Membership Requirements & Fees POLO-Tokyo
In this video, you will find everything you need to know about processing OWWA membership in Tokyo, Japan, the requirements and fees to be paid. It also includes how to verify your contract and renew your account so that you can enjoy the benefits and services that OWWA offers to OFWs.
Summary
With all these tips to help you apply for or renew your OWWA in Tokyo, Japan, you can easily complete the process in no time. You just need to secure all the requirements and other necessary documents to process your renewal at the office or via regular mail. Being an active member comes with many benefits and programs that will help improve your living. Renewing your OWWA status is a must every two years to continue enjoying the perks.