Overseas Filipino Workers based in Canada are advised to renew their OWWA membership at the nearest MWO office in their area. If you’re in Vancouver, you can process your application or renewal at the Philippine Consulate General office. Keeping your account active entitles you to many benefits and programs that you can claim during difficult times.
OWWA is a life insurance for OFWs across the globe, protecting them in case something unfortunate happens. It’s renewable every two years, making it a bang for the buck at an affordable fee. Before processing your renewal, make sure to secure all the required documents and check whether you need to get an appointment online prior to your visit.
Requirements for OWWA in Vancouver
You need to present proof of active employment or any related document to be able to renew your OWWA account. In addition to that, you also have to prepare other documentary requirements to process your renewal. Once you have submitted all the documents, only then can you process the payment for the OWWA fees.
In Vancouver, you can send your requirements via email as transactions have been made online since the health crisis. Below are the required documents that you need to submit to renew your account:
- Duly accomplished OWWA Membership Form or OFW Information Sheet
- Copy of valid work visa or work permit
- Copy of valid Philippine passport with the data page and photo
- Copy of the employment contract, Certificate of Employment, or any other proof of active employment
OWWA Fees and Payment Process
The OWWA renewal fee in Canada is 30 CAD, with two years validity for every contribution paid regardless of your job site, recruitment agency, contract term, or change of employer. You need to complete all the requirements and submit them via email before you can proceed to the payment process. Before you settle the fees, however, make sure you receive the email notification that says you can proceed with the payment.
All financial transactions with OWWA are done online so it’s convenient for OFWs with hectic schedules. With just a few clicks, you can process your renewal and get your e-receipt right after. Note that after three months of being a new OWWA member, that’s the time you can enjoy the regular services, activities, and special programs of the agency.
Procedure for Getting OWWA Vancouver Appointment Online
With the recent health crisis that hit the world, OWWA offices across the globe including the one in Vancouver started to implement online processing for OWWA application and renewal. As of this writing, walk-ins will not be entertained at the office. Instead, you can reach out to MWO-Vancouver by sending them an email. Online transactions should be addressed to vancouver@owwa.gov.ph.
If you’re working outside Vancouver, you can still renew your account by printing the application form which you can download from this link: http://philcongen-toronto.com/consular/docs/ofwinformationsheet.pdf and fill it out. Once you have completed the form with your signature, forward it to the OWWA office in Vancouver and then wait for the approval. If you want the original copy of your official receipt, you can contact their office to schedule an appointment.
How to Renew OWWA Membership in Vancouver, Canada
If you’re planning to apply for or renew your OWWA account in Vancouver, Canada, here are the steps that you need to follow:
Step 1: Download a copy of the OFW Information Sheet and fill it out. Secure all the required documents and send them to vancouver@owwa.gov.ph.
Step 2: Through your social media account, you will receive a video call for the evaluation process.
Step 3: If you qualify to update your OWWA account, you can proceed to pay the fees.
Step 4: You will receive an electronic receipt through your email address.
Remember that new members can avail of the regular programs, benefits, and services of OWWA three months after their approved application.
You may also renew your status using the OWWA Mobile App. Download the app on your mobile device using the Apple Store or Google Store and then just follow the instructions on the screen. On the other hand, you can check with the OWWA Regional Welfare Office near you regarding the renewal requirements and payment process.
You can authorize a family member to renew your OWWA in the Philippines while you’re abroad. They can submit the following requirements to the nearest RWO:
- Duly accomplished OWWA Membership Form
- Copy of the authorized representative’s valid ID card
- Authorization Letter from the OFW member
- Copy of valid work visa or work permit
- Copy of the current employment contract or Certificate of Employment
- Photocopy of the passport including its personal data and photo
- Payment for the contribution fee
To get the complete list of the OWWA Regional Offices, visit this link for more information: https://owwa.gov.ph/index.php/contact-us. Keep in mind that the actual process of renewing an OWWA account may be subjective to the local office you will process the renewal with. It’s important to check the official website and social media pages of OWWA regarding the appointment booking and application process. For Vancouver applicants, you can check this page: https://www.facebook.com/POLOinVancouver/.
Video: Step by Step Guide for OWWA Membership/Renewal
In this video, you can find all the steps in applying for or renewing OWWA membership wherever you may be working overseas. It will teach you how to use the OWWA Mobile App in order to renew your account online.
Summary
Make sure to follow all the steps provided in this guide in order to process your renewal in Vancouver, Canada. In case your documents and applications are returned to you along with deficiency and compliance notes, you can resubmit them by clarifying or correcting the documents with issues indicated in the compliance letter. Make sure to check them before resubmitting to the OWWA office near you.
