Schedule OWWA Appointment Membership Calgary, Canada
If you are an Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) residing in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, it is crucial to renew your membership with the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) to access the various programs and benefits that OWWA provides. Even if you are not yet a member of OWWA, Filipinos in Calgary can still apply for membership through the POLO Vancouver office, which handles the OWWA membership application process for Filipinos in Calgary. Schedule OWWA Appointment Membership in Calgary, Canada
If you would like to schedule an OWWA appointment and apply for membership in Calgary, the process is similar to Vancouver. It requires OFWs to submit their documents via email. To assist you with your application, please follow the guide below for OWWA membership in Calgary, Canada:
- Prepare the necessary documents: Make sure you have the following documents ready for your OWWA membership application:
- Valid passport
- Work permit or permanent resident card
- An employment contract or proof of employment
- Proof of residence in Calgary, Alberta
- Scan or take clear photos of your documents: Ensure that all documents are legible and properly scanned or photographed. Make sure the files are in a supported format such as PDF, JPEG, or PNG.
- Compose an email: Create a new email and address it to the POLO Vancouver office. You can find their email address on the official website of the Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO) in Vancouver.
- Subject line: In the subject line of your email, indicate that you are applying for OWWA membership in Calgary, Alberta.
- Email content: In the body of the email, provide the following information:
- Your full name
- Contact details (phone number and email address)
- Address in Calgary, Alberta
- Attachments: Attach the scanned or photographed copies of your documents to the email.
- Review and send: Double-check that you have attached all the necessary documents before sending the email to the POLO Vancouver office.
- Wait for confirmation: After sending the email, patiently wait for a response from the POLO Vancouver office. They will provide further instructions and inform you about the status of your application.
Remember, it is important to keep your OWWA membership up to date to ensure you have access to the programs and benefits offered by OWWA. Renewing your membership or applying for membership if you’re not yet a member will help you stay connected with the support and assistance available to OFWs in Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
Overview
The Philippine Government established the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) under the supervision of the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA). The purpose of OWWA is to promote and safeguard the well-being of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and their families worldwide.
OWWA offers a membership program to OFWs, aiming to enhance their quality of life and provide protection while they are employed in foreign countries. Being an OWWA member grants OFWs access to various programs and services. These include educational and training benefits, financial assistance, loans, and livelihood programs. Membership ensures that OFWs have the backing of the government during times of crisis and can seek legal assistance when dealing with employer-related issues.
Furthermore, OWWA functions as an insurance policy, offering OFWs benefits for disability, medical expenses, calamities, death, and burial. To avail of these OWWA benefits, OFWs need to maintain an active membership.
Overall, OWWA plays a crucial role in supporting and safeguarding the welfare of Overseas Filipino Workers and their families, ensuring that they have access to various programs, services, and insurance benefits while working abroad.
Requirements
To apply or renew OWWA membership in Calgary, here are the following requirements OFWs need to secure, including:
- Complete the OFW Information Sheet.
- Make a photocopy of your current and valid Proof of Employment.
- Prepare photocopies of your valid Visa and Work Permit.
- Bring both the original and a photocopy of your passport, specifically the page containing your personal information.
- Obtain a letter of certification from your employer or company, confirming that you are not included in the list of terminated, resigned, canceled, or soon-to-be-terminated employees.
- Pay the OWWA membership fee of US$25.00, which will be converted to the local currency based on the prevailing foreign exchange rate.
Please note that the information provided is a paraphrase and may not cover all specific details or requirements. It’s always advisable to refer to the official guidelines or contact the relevant authorities for accurate and up-to-date information.
Qualifications
To become a member of the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), OFWs (Overseas Filipino Workers) need to meet certain qualification criteria set by the institution, whether they are applying for membership for the first time or renewing their existing membership. The requirements for OWWA membership include being actively and continuously employed with valid work permits and visas. Additionally, OFWs who have obtained permanent residency status in foreign countries, have full-time or permanent employment, and are still Filipino citizens are eligible to apply for or renew their OWWA membership.
However, there are certain individuals who do not qualify to renew or apply for OWWA membership based on the requirement of active and continuous employment. These individuals include:
- OFWs who are currently unemployed or have ceased their overseas employment.
- OFWs who have returned to the Philippines and are no longer working abroad.
- OFWs who have retired from their overseas employment.
- OFWs who have acquired dual citizenship and are no longer considered Filipino citizens.
- OFWs who have obtained permanent residency status in foreign countries but are not employed full-time or on a permanent basis.
Please note that these qualifications and restrictions may be subject to change, so it is always advisable to refer to the latest guidelines and requirements set by the OWWA when applying for or renewing membership.
- Due for termination
- Terminated
- Due for cancellation
- Canceled
- Resigned
- No work, No pay
Booking an OWWA Appointment in Calgary
Currently, OFWs (Overseas Filipino Workers) in Calgary do not need to make an appointment for their OWWA (Overseas Workers Welfare Administration) membership application. Additionally, there is no online booking appointment system available for OWWA membership in Vancouver, which is responsible for handling the membership application of OFWs in Alberta and Saskatchewan.
Although the Philippine Consulate General (PCG) in Calgary offers an online appointment system for non-passport services, as stated on their official website, the OWWA membership application is not included in the online appointment system.
However, it is advisable to regularly check their website and Facebook page for any updates, as the application process may change over time.
Applying for OWWA membership in Calgary
As mentioned in a Facebook post by PCG Calgary, the procedure for applying for OWWA membership through POLO Vancouver, whether for new or renewal, involves submitting the necessary documents to vancouver@owwa.gov.ph.
Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) need to fill out the relevant forms and send them via email to POLO Vancouver for verification.
It’s important to note that this process is temporary and has been implemented due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Therefore, it is advisable to regularly check the PCG Calgary Facebook page and website for the most recent updates and announcements.
Please let me know if there’s anything else I can assist you with.
Paying OWWA Membership at Calgary
- After submitting your documents to POLO Vancouver, they will initiate a verification process.
- As part of the evaluation process, OFWs are required to undergo a video call assessment on their social media account.
- If you are deemed qualified, you can proceed with the payment for OWWA membership. However, do not pay the membership fee without receiving a notification confirming an approved request for OWWA membership.
- To pay the OWWA membership fee to POLO Vancouver, follow the steps below:a. Wait for the notification confirming your approved request for OWWA membership. b. Once you receive the notification, you will be provided with instructions on how to make the payment. c. The membership fee is exactly US$25. To determine the amount in CAD$, convert the fee based on the monthly foreign exchange rate. d. Follow the instructions provided in the notification to make the payment. Ensure that you pay the exact amount specified. e. Complete the payment process according to the given instructions. f. Retain proof of payment for future reference.
Please note that the above information is subject to change, and it is recommended to stay updated with the latest guidelines and instructions from POLO Vancouver regarding the payment process for OWWA membership.
Step by step process of paying the OWWA membership
- Download and fill out the OFW Information Sheet.
- Complete and scan the necessary documents.
Send the complete documents to POLO Vancouver email at vancouver@owwa.gov.ph.
- You should wait for the scheduled video call on your social media account to finish the evaluation process.
- After the video call, wait for a notification informing you that you have qualified. The notification will also include instructions on how to pay the OWWA membership fee.
- Once you have paid the OWWA membership fee, POLO Vancouver will send you an electronic copy of the official receipt via email.
Please note that this is a rephrased version of the provided information and may not represent the exact process. It’s always best to refer to official guidelines and instructions for accurate information.
Reminders for OFWs in Calgary processing their OWWA membership
Before proceeding with the application, here are some of the reminders OFWs in Calgary need to remember when applying or renewing their OWWA membership, including:
“OFWs (Overseas Filipino Workers) in Calgary can process their OWWA (Overseas Workers Welfare Administration) membership application with POLO (Philippine Overseas Labor Office) Vancouver. The POLO Vancouver office handles the membership application of OFWs in Alberta and Saskatchewan as well. It is important to note that the OWWA membership process in Vancouver also applies to OFWs in Calgary.
When submitting your documents to the POLO Vancouver email, make sure they are complete, clear, and not blurred. This will help facilitate the processing of your application.
POLO Vancouver requires applicants to undergo an evaluation interview via video call on their social media account. This interview is part of the membership application process.
If you qualify for the membership, follow the instructions given by POLO Vancouver to pay the OWWA membership fee. They will provide you with the necessary details and steps to complete the payment.
For new members, it is important to know that you can access the programs, services, and activities of OWWA three months after being granted the membership. This waiting period allows for the processing of your membership and ensures that you can fully benefit from OWWA’s offerings.
To stay updated with the latest announcements, visit the PCG (Philippine Consulate General) Calgary Facebook page and website. They will provide you with the most recent information regarding OWWA and other relevant matters.
If you have any further questions or need additional assistance, feel free to ask.
OWWA Membership in Calgary
As shown in the video, Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) have the option to renew their membership through the OWWA mobile app. The process is made convenient with various payment methods available, ranging from banks to payment centers.
The speaker emphasizes that having an active OWWA membership status is beneficial for OFWs and their families, particularly during unforeseen events. He shares his personal experience of how his family was able to seek calamity assistance through their OWWA membership.
Overall, the video highlights the importance of maintaining an active OWWA membership, as it provides OFWs with access to necessary support and assistance in times of need.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions and answers about the membership process in POLO Calgary:
1. How to book an appointment with OWWA in Calgary?
OFWs in Calgary do not have to book an appointment to renew their membership, and POLO Vancouver manages their OWWA membership application.
2. How do I renew my OWWA membership in Calgary?
- Gather the Required Documents: Collect all the necessary documents for renewing your OWWA membership. This typically includes your valid passport, proof of overseas employment, and proof of OWWA membership from previous years.
- Scan and Submit Documents: Scan all the required documents and submit them via email to the POLO Vancouver office. Make sure to attach the scanned copies of your documents to the email.
- Application Verification: Once your application and documents are received, the POLO Vancouver office will verify your application. They will check if all the required documents are complete and valid.
- Evaluation via Video Call: If your application passes the verification process, you will be scheduled for an evaluation via video call. The evaluation will take place on your social media account (such as Facebook or Skype). Ensure that you have a stable internet connection and the necessary equipment for the video call.
- Qualification and Approval: During the video call evaluation, the evaluating officer will assess your eligibility for OWWA membership renewal. If you meet the qualifications and your application is approved, you will proceed to the next step.
- Membership Fee Instructions: Once your OWWA membership renewal is approved, the POLO Vancouver office will provide you with instructions on how to pay the membership fee. Follow the given instructions to complete the payment.
Please note that these steps are a general guideline, and it’s advisable to contact the POLO Vancouver office directly for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding the OWWA membership renewal process in Calgary.
3. How to renew OWWA membership online?
“In addition to the option of renewing through the POLO Vancouver email, overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in Calgary have the opportunity to renew their membership online by utilizing the OWWA mobile application. Users can download the app and register for an account. Once logged in, they can access the ‘Renew Membership Here’ section, complete the necessary fields, and select the most convenient payment method provided.”
4. How much is OWWA membership in Calgary?
The OWWA membership fee in Calgary is $32.03 or US$25 converted to local currency monthly foreign exchange rate.
5. Can I pay for the OWWA membership online?
- Download the OWWA mobile app from the app store and install it on your device.
- Open the app and create an account if you don’t have one already. Provide the required information and complete the registration process.
- Once you’re logged in, navigate to the membership renewal section within the app.
- Select the online payment option, which could be through an online bank or an e-wallet.
- Follow the instructions provided by the app to proceed with the payment. This may include selecting your preferred payment method, entering the necessary details, and confirming the transaction.
- Once the payment is successfully processed, you should receive a confirmation of your renewed membership.
If you prefer not to pay online, another option is to ask your relatives or a trusted representative in the Philippines to pay the membership fee on your behalf. They can visit the nearest OWWA Regional office or payment centers and settle the payment there. Make sure to provide them with the necessary details and documentation to complete the transaction smoothly.
Please note that it’s always a good idea to double-check with OWWA or visit their official website for the most up-to-date information and specific instructions regarding membership fee payment methods.
6. How long is OWWA membership valid?
The OWWA membership offers two-year validity, expiring on the date of application.
7. Why my OWWA membership is inactive?
“If the two-year validity of OWWA membership has expired, it will become inactive. Furthermore, if an overseas Filipino worker (OFW) has an expired work visa or changes employers within the validity period, the OWWA membership status will automatically become inactive.
The two-year validity of OWWA membership only applies to the employer specified in the application. Therefore, switching employers or having an expired work visa will lead to the OWWA membership becoming inactive.”
8. Is OWWA membership mandatory?
“Yes, it is mandatory for OFWs processing their employment through POEA to be a member of OWWA. However, OFWs who obtained a job while on a visit visa are not obligated to apply for OWWA membership. Instead, they have the option to voluntarily register and become members.”
9. Are all OFW member of OWWA?
“No, not all overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) are members of the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA). As mentioned earlier, OWWA has qualification criteria and requires OFWs to obtain specific documents. Therefore, if an OFW is unable to fulfill the document requirements or meet the qualification criteria, such as undocumented workers, they are ineligible to become members of OWWA.”
10. Who can avail of OWWA benefits?
The varying benefits OWWA offers are accessible to registered or active members. Inactive members can also access OWWA benefits, but there’s a limitation on which programs and services they can avail.
Summary
The process of applying for or renewing OWWA membership in Calgary is comparable to Vancouver, as both involve sending the required documents via email. This method is not only secure but also more efficient since overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) are not obligated to take a day off from work to complete the application or renewal process.
Nevertheless, it is advisable for OFWs to regularly visit the official website and Facebook page of the Philippine Consulate General (PCG) in Calgary to stay updated on the latest application procedures. However, for OFWs who intend to renew their membership, utilizing the OWWA mobile app offers a more convenient option, eliminating the need for an evaluation via video call.
Contact Details
POLO Calgary – PCG Calgary
Opening Hours: 9:00 am-4:00 pm,
Address: Suite 100, 1001 1st Street SE Calgary, AB T2G 5G3
Trunk Line: 1.403.455.9457
Emails:
- OWWA- vancounver@owwa.gov.ph
- Passport- calgarypcg@gmail.com
- Philippine Visa- calgarypcg.visa@gmail.com
- Assistance to Nationals- calgarypcg.ATN@gmail.com
- Dual Citizenship Application- calgarypcg.RA9225@gmail.com
- Civil Registration- calgarypcg.civreg@gmail.com
- Cultural Section- calgarypcg.culturalsection@gmail.com
- SSS- calgary@sss.gov.ph
- Notarization/Legalization of Documents & NBI Form verification- calgarypcg.notarials@gmail.com
Website: https://philcongencalgary.org/
Facebook Page: https://facebook.com/PHinCalgary
