How to Get OWWA OFW e-Card Online
The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) has introduced the OFW e-CARD, an identification card aimed at enhancing the provision of government services to Overseas Filipino workers. This initiative is in line with President Rodrigo Duterte’s directive to better cater to the needs of OFWs, whom he considers modern heroes.
The OWWA OFW e-CARD serves as evidence of active to Get OWWA OFW e-Card Online membership and grants convenient access to a range of welfare services, including scholarships, training programs, and social benefits available to OWWA members. It goes beyond being just a government-issued ID, as it serves multiple purposes in assisting OFWs.
Overview
The information you provided is about the OWWA OFW e-CARD, which is a card issued by the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) in the Philippines. The e-CARD is designed to provide instant verification of OWWA membership and streamline the process by reducing documentary requirements.
The OWWA OFW e-cARD is considered the first phase of the government’s coverage of the 250,000 Balik-Manggagawa actions, which refers to Filipino workers who temporarily return to the Philippines from their overseas employment. By having the e-CARD, Balik-Manggagawa OFWs can easily prove their OWWA membership.
The OFW e-CARD features a unique OFW membership number and a QR code as security measures to prevent data breaches and ensure the authenticity of the card.
To apply for an OFW e-CARD, OWWA members can visit the official OWWA website at www.owwa.gov.ph. They need to present an authorization letter and a copy of the OFW’s passport identification page either when they return to the Philippines or through a family member.
All Balik-Manggagawa OFWs with an active OWWA membership, a valid Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC), and a valid passport are eligible to apply for the OFW e-CARD.
Once obtained, OFWs can present their OFW e-cards at any OWWA Regional Welfare Office in the Philippines, as well as at Philippine Overseas Labor Offices and Embassies/Consulates in their workplaces. This allows them to access various OWWA programs and services.
OWWA has also established OFW e-CARD Help Desks in all of its regional offices within the country and in overseas posts worldwide. These help desks are available to assist OFWs with any questions or concerns they may have regarding the e-CARD.
Benefits
The OWWA e-CARD will significantly benefit Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) in various ways. It not only serves as a means of proving their identities but also provides them with easier access to different OWWA programs, regardless of the country they are in.
Here are the key advantages of the OWWA e-CARD:
- Easier access to OWWA programs and services: OFWs can conveniently access various OWWA programs and services using the e-CARD. This digital platform enables them to access important information, apply for benefits, and avail themselves of assistance more efficiently.
- Accepted as a valid government-issued ID: The OWWA e-CARD is recognized as a valid government-issued identification document. OFWs can use it as proof of identity for various purposes, such as financial transactions, government processes, and other official requirements.
- Valid exit clearance: The OFW e-CARD serves as a valid exit clearance, allowing OFWs to streamline their departure processes. It facilitates smoother immigration procedures, eliminating the need for additional paperwork or clearances when leaving the country.
- Digital OWWA OFW e-CARD on the OWWA Mobile App: The e-CARD is also available in digital form through the OWWA Mobile App. This feature provides greater convenience, allowing OFWs to access their e-CARD digitally, anytime and anywhere using their smartphones.
- Valid ID for multiple government agencies: The OWWA e-CARD holds recognition as a valid identification document for several government agencies. It can be used as a valid ID for the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA), the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), the Bureau of Immigration, the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), and the Philippine Overseas Labor Offices (POLO).
Qualifications
- Must be an active member of OWWA
- Must be under the Balik-Manggagawa program with valid overseas employment certificates (OECs).
Document Requirements
- Valid Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) or Exemption Number
- Valid passport
Note: Your OWWA membership must have at least 90 days of validity from the day of your application of OWWA OFW e-CARD
How to Apply for an OWWA OFW eCard
The process of applying for the eCard is straightforward and convenient. To assist you, I have outlined the steps below:
- Access the OFW card application form: Visit the official website of the eCard program and locate the online application form. It should be easily accessible on the website’s homepage or under the dedicated section for eCard applications.
- Fill out the application form: Provide the necessary details requested on the form accurately. This typically includes personal information such as your full name, contact details, current address, occupation, and other relevant information.
- Obtain the tracking number: After submitting the application form, you will receive a tracking number. This number is crucial for monitoring the progress of your application, so make sure to keep it safe.
- Wait for the eCard processing: Once you have submitted your application, the concerned authorities will review and process it. This may take some time, so it’s important to be patient during this stage. You can use the tracking number to check the status of your application online or inquire about it through the designated contact channels provided by the eCard program.
- Collect your eCard: When your eCard is ready for collection, you will be notified through the contact information you provided during the application process. This notification can come via email, SMS, or any other communication method specified by the eCard program. Follow the instructions given in the notification to pick up your eCard.
Remember to bring any required identification documents and additional documents mentioned in the notification for verification purposes during the collection process.
It’s important to note that specific details and procedures may vary depending on the country or organization implementing the eCard program. Therefore, it’s always advisable to refer to the official website or contact the relevant authorities for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding the application process.
STEP 1. Visit the website and fill out the online application form.
Visit OWWA’s official website at ecard.owwa.gov.ph and fill out the OWWA E-Card Application form. Here are some of the details you need to provide:
- Full name
- Birthdate
- Contact Number
- Passport Number
- POEA OEC Number
- Collection Point)
Remember to choose and tick the box next to ‘I accept the Data Privacy Policy’ and select one of the ‘I’m Not a Robot-Captcha’ options. After completing the OWWA E-Card Application form, click on the Submit application button.
STEP 2: Get the tracking application number.
Following the submission of the OWWA E-card application, a tracking confirmation will be provided. It usually takes 3-4 weeks to be ready for pickup. To check the status of the OWWA E-Card, go to the website for e-availability. Enter the necessary information
- Tracking Number
- Passport Number
- Birth Date
STEP 3: Collect the OFW eCard at your location of choice.
When the OWWA E-Card is ready to be picked up, go to the nearest pickup location.
How to Get OFW eCard Online
To apply for the OWWA OFW e-Card, please follow the steps below:
- Go to the OWWA website and locate the OFW e-card application page. You can search for it using your preferred search engine.
- Once you are on the application page, you will be required to enter and fill out all the necessary information. This may include personal details such as your full name, birthdate, contact information, employment details, and other relevant information. Make sure to provide accurate and up-to-date information.
- Select your preferred pick-up location for the OWWA OFW e-card. You will be given a list of available regional offices or authorized pick-up centers. Choose the one that is most convenient for you.
- After filling out the application form and selecting the pick-up location, review all the provided information to ensure its accuracy.
- Once you have reviewed the information, click on the “Submit” or “Apply” button to submit your application. A confirmation message should appear indicating that your application has been successfully submitted.
- As proof of your successful application, you will be given a Tracking Number. Take note of this number or save it in a secure place as you may need it for future reference or to inquire about the status of your application.
- During the application process, you will be asked to provide your email address. Enter your email address accurately to receive notifications or updates on the status of your application. Check your email regularly for any updates or requests for additional information.
- Once your application has been processed and approved, you will receive a notification via email. This email will contain instructions on how and when you can pick up your OWWA OFW e-card.
- Visit your preferred OWWA Regional Office or the authorized pick-up location you selected during the application process. Bring the necessary documents, such as valid identification, proof of OWWA membership, and any other documents specified in the notification email.
- At the OWWA Regional Office, present your Tracking Number and follow any additional instructions provided. The staff will assist you in retrieving your OWWA OFW e-Card
OFW ECard Application Form
You only need to access the OFW e-card application form online in order to sign up. You can easily access this via the link here – https://ecard.owwa.gov.ph/
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions and answers about the OFW e-Card so please be guided accordingly:
1. Is the OFW e-card a free service?
The e-card is free and can be claimed at any OWWA regional office nationwide upon return to the Philippines.
2. Can a member of my family apply for it?
A family member may also apply for it if they bring an authorization letter and a copy of the OFW’s passport identification page.
3. Is it possible for new OFWs to apply for an OFW e-Card?
As of this moment, only OWWA OFW under Balik-Manggagawa can issue can apply for an e-CARD. Maybe in the future, it will become available to all their active members.
4. Who are Considered as Balik Manggagawa?
Balik Manggagawa, according to POEA, is an OFW with a completed or active employment contract who:
- Will work for the same company in a similar location abroad.
- Will work for the same company in a new location abroad.
Note: Employees hired recently, directly, or through the Government Placement Branch (GPB) are not considered Balik Manggagawa.
5. Can I get my OWWA OFW eCard even if I’m abroad?
Yes, you can claim your eCard while abroad. You may ask family members and have them present an authorization letter with a photocopy of a proper valid ID. They may claim the card on your behalf.
6. What if I lose my OFW eCard?
The first issuance of the card is FREE. Please coordinate with the nearest OWWA Regional welfare office in order to secure a replacement for your OWWA OFW eCard.
Summary
The initial release of e-cards is expected to provide significant benefits to approximately 250,000 Balik Manggagawa workers. Recognizing that Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) are considered the new modern heroes of the country, it is essential to ensure that they have access to fast and efficient transactions and services related to their memberships and programs.How to Get OWWA OFW e-Card Online
The introduction of the e-CARD demonstrates the commitment of the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) to embrace digital innovation, ultimately making a positive impact on numerous OFWs worldwide. It is crucial not to overlook the opportunity to acquire this e-Card, as it surpasses the qualities of an ordinary government-issued identification. The e-CARD is designed to provide the utmost convenience to its users, eliminating the need for extensive documentation or requirements during the application process. What’s more, this service is completely free of charge