In the United States, Overseas Filipino Workers can process their OWWA membership application and renewal in Washington DC if they are near the area, the other location is in Los Angeles, California. The advantage of becoming an active member is that you are covered by social and welfare benefits since OWWA serves as a life insurance for OFWs in case of unexpected events.
For a minimum contribution, you get a two-year coverage which is renewable so you can continue enjoying the benefits, programs, services, and projects of the government agency for OFWs. One of the Migrant Workers’ Offices in the USA is located in Washington DC where you can inquire about OFW-related assistance and process government services such as SSS and Pag-ibig.
Requirements for OWWA in Washington DC
Knowing the value of updating your OWWA status is important, especially during difficult times. When your membership loses its validity, you may not be able to benefit from certain OWWA benefits and programs. So before your account expires, make sure to renew it in order to stay protected from any crises in the future.
One of the most important requirements when renewing your OWWA is proof of active employment abroad. In addition, you also need to complete the following required documents to process your application or renewal in the MWO Washington DC office:
- Duly accomplished OFW Information Sheet or OWWA Membership Form
- Copy of a valid Philippine passport with personal information and photo
- Work contract, work permit, pay stub, Certificate of Employment, company ID, employment offer, or any proof of employment
- Payment for the contribution fee
OWWA Fees and Payment Process
To activate your OWWA account, you need to pay a contribution of US$ 25. Each contribution is valid for two years and comes with many benefits and programs that OFWs can take advantage of. No matter your location of employment, contract duration, recruitment agency, or change of employer, you are entitled to OWWA benefits as an active member.
Note that only US Bank Drafts or US Money Orders payable to OWWA are accepted for non-cash payments. There’s no option for a credit/debit card or personal check when paying for the fees during your appointment. Make sure to bring all the requirements on your visit so that you can proceed to the payment counter and get your receipt on the same day.
Here’s how you can pay your renewal for the OWWA account:
Step 1: Submit your requirements and other necessary documents to the OWWA window.
Step 2: Pay the contribution fee.
Step 3: Get the receipt from the payment counter.
Procedure for Getting OWWA Washington DC Appointment Online
While it may not be required to get an appointment when visiting the MWO office in Washington DC, it’s still highly advised to check whether they accept walk-ins or not. You can reach out to OWWA at the Philippine Embassy in order to schedule an appointment. They can be contacted via email or their official website for inquiries and other related concerns.
How to Renew OWWA Membership in Washington, DC
There are two options for OFWs to renew their OWWA memberships in Washington DC, through email and regular email. You can reach out to MWO-Washington DC to see whether they accept walk-ins or if a confirmed appointment is required prior to visiting. Below are the steps for renewing OWWA via email:
Step 1: Download a copy of the OFW Information Sheet or OWWA Membership Form at https://polowashingtondc.dole.gov.ph/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/OWWA-OFW-INFORMATION-SHEET.pdf and complete all the required details.
Step 2: Scan the required documents and make sure they are readable.
Step 3: Review the scanned documents before submitting them.
Step 4: Send a copy of all the required documents to washington@owwa.gov.ph.
Step 5: You also need to send a copy of the payment receipt to OWWA Washington email address.
Step 6: OWWA will send an official receipt to your email address once the payment screenshot has been received.
Step 7: Inform the OWWA that you want to get your original copy of the OWWA receipt so they can schedule an appointment for you. Official receipts are available in the Philippine Embassy located in Washington DC.
For regular mail, here are the steps you should follow:
Step 1: Get a copy of the OFW Information Sheet or OWWA Membership Form.
Step 2: Fill out the form and photocopy all the requirements.
Step 3: Review the documents and make sure they are readable and clear.
Step 4: Put an address on the return envelope, attach the stamp, and pay for the mailing fee.
Step 5: Send the required documents to the MWO office at the Philippine Embassy in Washington DC.
This option may be convenient for some, but the email method is still much faster when it comes to processing your OWWA application or renewal.
Video: How to Renew OWWA Membership Online Using OWWA Mobile App
In this video, you will see how to use the OWWA mobile app in order to renew your account online. It includes all the steps you should follow, from getting an appointment to paying the contribution at the Philippine Embassy. There are helpful tips to make sure you can enjoy a convenient and fast way for OWWA renewal.
Summary
Now that you know how to apply for or renew your OWWA account in Washington DC, USA, it’s important to keep it valid and active in order to take advantage of the benefits and programs offered by the government to OFWs around the world. Make sure you have everything you need before visiting the MWO office at the Philippine Embassy to enjoy a hassle-free and convenient processing experience.
Remember to bring cash for OWWA payment so that you can have a smooth transaction at the office. Any incomplete requirement will not be processed so secure the required documents and make a prearranged visit on your day-off. You can renew your OWWA three months before it expires so that you can avoid the rush.