Schedule OWWA Appointment Membership Vancouver, Canada
For Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) residing in Vancouver, Canada, renewing your OWWA (Overseas Workers Welfare Administration) membership is crucial to access the various services, programs, and benefits offered by OWWA. Additionally, Filipinos in Vancouver who do not possess OWWA membership should apply through the POLO (Philippine Overseas Labor Office) Vancouver office to gain access to the diverse benefits provided to registered OWWA members. In light of current restrictions, the application process for OWWA membership is conducted via email. This guide will provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to apply for OWWA membership in Vancouver, Canada. Schedule OWWA Appointment Membership in Vancouver, Canada
Step 1: Prepare the Required Documents Before proceeding with the application, ensure that you have the following documents ready:
- Accomplished OWWA Membership Application Form – Download the form from the official OWWA website (www.owwa.gov.ph) and fill it out completely.
- Proof of Overseas Employment – Provide a copy of your work contract, overseas employment certificate, or any document that verifies your overseas employment status.
- Proof of Residence in Vancouver – Submit a copy of any document that proves your current residency in Vancouver, such as a utility bill or rental agreement.
- Valid Identification Documents – Prepare a photocopy of your valid passport, valid government-issued ID, or any identification document that establishes your identity.
Step 2: Compose an Email Create a new email message and address it to the official email address of POLO Vancouver: vancouver@owwa.gov.ph.
Step 3: Subject Line In the subject line of the email, write “OWWA Membership Application – Vancouver, Canada.”
Step 4: Email Content Compose the email with the following details:
Dear POLO Vancouver,
I am writing to apply for OWWA membership as an OFW currently residing in Vancouver, Canada. Please find attached the required documents for your reference:
- Accomplished OWWA Membership Application Form
- Proof of Overseas Employment
- Proof of Residence in Vancouver
- Valid Identification Documents
I kindly request your assistance in processing my OWWA membership application. Should you require any additional information or documents, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Sincerely, [Your Full Name] [Contact Number]
Step 5: Attach Documents Attach all the required documents mentioned in Step 1 to the email.
Step 6: Review and Send Review the email content and attachments to ensure that everything is accurate and complete. Once you are satisfied, click the “Send” button to submit your application to POLO Vancouver.
Step 7: Wait for Confirmation POLO Vancouver will review your application and documents. They will contact you via email or phone if any further information or clarification is needed. Once your application is processed successfully, you will receive a confirmation email containing your OWWA membership details.
The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) is a government agency in the Philippines that works in conjunction with the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA). Its primary objective is to promote and safeguard the well-being of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) and their families worldwide. OWWA provides various programs and services through its membership program, aimed at improving the lives of OFWs and ensuring their protection while working in foreign countries.
OWWA membership offers several benefits to active members. These include access to educational and training opportunities, financial assistance, loans, and livelihood programs. The institution recognizes the importance of empowering OFWs and their families by providing them with the means to enhance their skills and knowledge, which can lead to better employment opportunities and financial stability.
Furthermore, OWWA membership serves as a valuable support system for OFWs facing challenges abroad. In instances where conflicts arise between OFWs and their employers, OWWA provides assistance, including legal support if necessary. Additionally, membership acts as an insurance policy for OFWs, providing coverage for disability, medical expenses, calamities, death, and burial expenses. It is crucial for OFWs to maintain an active OWWA membership to access these benefits.
In conclusion, the OWWA plays a vital role in protecting the welfare of OFWs and their families. By offering membership programs and services, the organization strives to improve the lives of OFWs, provide assistance during difficult situations, and ensure their well-being while working overseas.
Requirements
If you are an Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) in Vancouver, you can renew or apply for OWWA (Overseas Workers Welfare Administration) membership by fulfilling the following requirements:
- Duly accomplished OFW Information Sheet: Fill out the information sheet provided by OWWA with accurate details about yourself.
- Photocopy of Active and Valid Proof of Employment: Submit a photocopy of a document that proves your current employment status, such as a work contract, certificate of employment, or pay stubs.
- Photocopy of Valid Visa and Work Permit: Provide copies of your valid visa and work permit, which authorize your stay and employment in Vancouver.
- Original and photocopy of passport (showing the data page): Present your original passport along with a photocopy of the data page, which contains your personal information and photo.
- Letter of certification from the employer or company: Obtain a letter from your employer or company certifying that you are not listed as terminated, resigned, canceled, or due for termination. This letter should verify your current employment status.
- OWWA membership fee of US$25.00: Pay the OWWA membership fee, which is equivalent to US$25.00. The fee will be converted to the local currency based on the prevailing foreign exchange rate.
It is important to note that OFWs residing in Alberta and Saskatchewan can process their OWWA membership at POLO Vancouver, as they handle applications for these areas.
Please ensure that you have all the necessary documents and fees ready before visiting the OWWA office or POLO Vancouver to facilitate the renewal or application process.
Qualifications
Aside from the aforementioned requirements, Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) need to meet certain qualification criteria to become members of the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), whether they are renewing their membership or applying for the first time.
OWWA mandates that its members should have active and continuous employment with valid visas and work permits. Additionally, OWWA accepts both new and existing members who have obtained permanent residency status in foreign countries, as long as they have full-time or permanent employment and retain their Filipino citizenship.
However, OWWA aims to cover active and continuously working members, and therefore, certain individuals are not eligible to apply for or renew their OWWA membership. These individuals include:
- Non-working dependents of OFWs
- Retired OFWs
- OFWs who have permanently returned to the Philippines and are no longer employed abroad
- OFWs who have acquired dual citizenship and are no longer Filipino citizens
- OFWs who are undocumented or have irregular immigration status in the host country
It is important to note that OWWA’s membership qualifications and criteria may be subject to change, and it is advisable for OFWs to directly consult with OWWA or visit their official website for the most up-to-date information.
- Due for termination
- Terminated
- Due for cancellation
- Canceled
- Resigned
- No work, No pay
Booking an OWWA Appointment in Vancouver
As of now, there is no requirement for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) to schedule an appointment in order to apply for or renew their OWWA membership with POLO Vancouver. It is important to note that currently, POLO Vancouver does not provide an online booking appointment system for OWWA membership.
It is essential to keep in mind that this application process is temporary and is only in place due to the Covid-19 restrictions. Therefore, it is recommended for OFWs to regularly check the POLO Vancouver Facebook page and the official website of the Philippine Consulate General (PCG) in Vancouver for the most up-to-date information and updates.
Please note that the situation may change, so it is crucial to stay informed through official channels to ensure that you have the latest information regarding the application or renewal process for OWWA membership.
Applying for OWWA membership in Vancouver
Please note that the information provided in the following text is fictional and may not reflect the actual process or procedures of POLO Vancouver or OWWA. It is always recommended to refer to official sources for the most up-to-date and accurate information.
As stated in the Facebook post of POLO Vancouver, overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) can renew or apply for their OWWA membership by submitting their requirements to vancouver@owwa.gov.ph.
If you are an OFW located in Alberta or Saskatchewan, which fall under the jurisdiction of POLO Vancouver, you can follow the same application process, whether you are renewing your membership or applying for the first time.
To proceed with the application, OFWs should gather the necessary documents and send them to the designated email address of POLO Vancouver. However, please note that this application process via email is temporary due to the ongoing Covid-19 restrictions. It is advisable to regularly check the POLO Vancouver Facebook page and the PCG Vancouver website for any updates or inquiries regarding the application process.
It is important to communicate in the English language for better understanding and clarity of your inquiries and concerns.
Paying OWWA Membership at Vancouver
Once the necessary documents are completed, OFWs (Overseas Filipino Workers) can send them to the email address of POLO (Philippine Overseas Labor Office) Vancouver for verification. Afterward, OFWs will undergo an evaluation interview via video call on their social media account.
If the applicant meets the qualifications and completes the required documents, POLO Vancouver will notify them of an approved request for the application. They will also provide instructions for the payment of the OWWA (Overseas Workers Welfare Administration) membership fee, which is exactly US$25 or the equivalent amount in CAD based on the current foreign exchange rate.
However, OFWs should not pay the membership fee if they haven’t received an email notification from POLO Vancouver confirming the approval of their OWWA membership application. To pay the OWWA membership fee through POLO Vancouver, please follow the steps below:
- Wait for the email confirmation from POLO Vancouver stating the approval of your OWWA membership application.
- Once you receive the email confirmation, carefully read the instructions provided.
- Follow the instructions to make the payment of the OWWA membership fee. It can be paid either in US dollars or the equivalent amount in Canadian dollars, depending on the foreign exchange rate.
- Ensure that you pay the exact amount specified (US$25 or the equivalent in CAD) to avoid any issues with your application.
- Retain a copy of the payment receipt or transaction confirmation as proof of payment.
- If you have any further questions or concerns regarding the payment process, you can contact POLO Vancouver for assistance.
Remember, it is crucial to pay the OWWA membership fee only after receiving an official email notification from POLO Vancouver confirming the approval of your OWWA membership application.
Step-by-step process of paying the OWWA membership
- Download and fill out the OFW Information Sheet.
- Go to the official website of POLO Vancouver or the OWWA (Overseas Workers Welfare Administration) and find the OFW Information Sheet.
- Download the form and fill it out accurately with the required information.
- Secure the necessary and complete documents, and scan them.
- Gather all the required documents, such as your passport, work contract, visa, and other supporting papers.
- Ensure that all the documents are complete and up-to-date.
- Scan each document using a scanner or a scanning app on your mobile device.
- Save the scanned files in a format accepted by the email recipient (PDF is commonly used).
- Send the scanned documents to POLO Vancouver email at vancouver@owwa.gov.ph.
- Compose an email and attach all the scanned documents.
- In the email subject, indicate your purpose, such as “OFW Membership Application” or “Document Submission.”
- Double-check that all the attachments are properly attached before sending the email.
- Address the email to vancouver@owwa.gov.ph and click send.
- Attend the evaluation interview video call via social media account.
- Wait for a response from POLO Vancouver regarding your application.
- If your application progresses, you will be notified of an evaluation interview.
- Prepare for the interview by setting up a social media account, such as Skype or Zoom.
- Follow the provided instructions to schedule and attend the video call interview.
- Next, wait for the email notification from POLO Vancouver confirming an approved request and containing instructions on how to pay the OWWA membership fee.
- After the evaluation interview, await an email notification from POLO Vancouver.
- This email will inform you whether your request has been approved or not.
- If your request is approved, the email will also include instructions on how to pay the OWWA membership fee.
- Read the email thoroughly and follow the provided instructions carefully.
- After the payment is confirmed, POLO Vancouver will send a copy of the official receipt to the applicant’s email.
- Make the payment for the OWWA membership fee as instructed in the email.
- Keep the proof of payment readily available.
- Once the payment is confirmed by POLO Vancouver, they will send a copy of the official receipt to your email address.
- Check your email regularly and ensure that you receive the official receipt.
It’s important to note that these instructions are provided based on the information you provided and may be subject to change. It’s always best to consult the official website of POLO Vancouver or contact them directly for the most up-to-date and accurate instructions for your specific situation.
Reminders with POLO Vancouver
To ensure a successful and smooth application for the OWWA membership, here are some reminders OFWs need to keep in mind with POLO Vancouver, including:
OFWs (Overseas Filipino Workers) in Vancouver who wish to apply for or renew their OWWA (Overseas Workers Welfare Administration) membership can do so through POLO (Philippine Overseas Labor Office) Vancouver by sending their documents to vancouver@owwa.gov.ph.
For OFWs in Alberta and Saskatchewan, you can also apply for or renew your OWWA membership through the POLO Vancouver office.
Before submitting your documents to the POLO Vancouver email, make sure they are complete and not blurred.
All OFWs who process their OWWA membership application with POLO Vancouver are required to undergo an evaluation interview via video call on their social media accounts.
If the applicant qualifies for the membership, POLO Vancouver will provide instructions for the payment of the OWWA membership fee.
New members will have access to the programs, services, and regular activities of OWWA after three months of being granted membership.
It’s important to note that the membership application process with POLO Vancouver is temporary due to COVID-19 restrictions. Therefore, OFWs should regularly check the POLO Vancouver Facebook page and PCG (Philippine Consulate General) Vancouver website for the latest announcements.
OWWA Membership in Vancouver
As per the information provided in the video, it is stated that the OWWA membership fee should be paid by the employer at the beginning of the contract, regardless of whether the overseas Filipino worker (OFW) is agency-hired or direct-hired.
The video also explains that OWWA membership is mandatory for first-time workers going abroad, and agencies assist in the application process for agency-hired applicants.
Additionally, the speakers discuss the validity of OWWA membership for seafarers with six-month contracts. It is clarified that OWWA membership still applies if the seafarer will board again for work, and the benefits of membership will last for up to two years.
Please note that the information provided is based on the content of the video you mentioned. It is always recommended to refer to official sources or consult with relevant authorities for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding OWWA membership and its requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Please check out these FAQs about the OWWA appointment membership in Vancouver office:
1. How to book an appointment with OWWA in Vancouver?
There is no appointment system for the OWWA membership application in Vancouver. However, OFWs cannot walk into their office since the application is via email.
2. How do I renew my OWWA membership in Vancouver?
- Complete the necessary documents: Gather all the required documents for OWWA membership renewal. This may include a filled-out application form, proof of employment, proof of remittance, and any other supporting documents as specified by OWWA.
- Qualification criteria: Ensure that you meet the qualification criteria set by OWWA for membership renewal. These criteria may include being an active overseas Filipino worker (OFW) or a dependent of an OFW.
- Scan and email the documents: Scan all the completed documents and send them via email to the Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO) in Vancouver for verification. Make sure to provide all the necessary information and attachments as requested.
- Evaluation interview video call: Once your documents are verified, you will be scheduled for an evaluation interview via video call. This interview will be conducted through your social media account, so make sure you have a reliable internet connection and a functioning account.
- Notification and payment instructions: If you qualify for OWWA membership renewal, you will receive a notification from POLO Vancouver. This notification will include instructions on how to proceed with the payment of the OWWA membership fee. Follow the provided instructions to complete the payment process.
You can successfully renew your OWWA membership in Vancouver by following these steps. Make sure to comply with all the requirements and communicate with POLO Vancouver for any further assistance or clarification you may need.
3. How to renew OWWA membership online?
To renew your membership online, download the OWWA mobile app and sign up for an account. Login to and click Renew Membership Here and select your preferred payment method.
4. How much is OWWA membership in Vancouver?
The OWWA membership fee in Vancouver is CAD$32.03 or US$25 converted to local currency monthly foreign exchange rate.
5. Can I pay for the OWWA membership online?
Yes, the membership fee can be paid online through the OWWA mobile app. When you renew your membership on the app, you will have the option to make the payment online using methods such as bank transfers or e-wallets.
6. How long is OWWA membership valid?
The OWWA membership is only valid for two years and will last on the date of the application.
7. Why my OWWA membership is inactive?
The OWWA membership becomes inactive if its two-year validity period has passed. Additionally, your membership will become inactive if your work visa has expired or if you have changed to a new employer. It’s important to note that the OWWA membership validity is applicable only to the employer listed during the application process. Therefore, if you change employers within a period of less than two years, your membership status will become inactive.
8. Is OWWA membership mandatory?
Yes, the OWWA membership is mandatory for first-time OFWs processing their employment at POEA.
9. Are all OFWs, members of OWWA?
No, not all overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) are members of the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA). Membership in OWWA is contingent upon meeting certain qualification criteria and submitting the required documents. Therefore, OFWs who do not meet the eligibility requirements cannot become members of OWWA.”
10. Who can avail of OWWA benefits?
The OWWA benefits are available to registered or active members of the institution. Moreover, inactive members can avail of OWWA benefits, but only limited programs and services.
Summary
The OWWA membership in Vancouver, Canada, provides a convenient application process for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) to easily renew or apply for active membership status.
OFWs can also choose to renew their membership through the OWWA mobile app for efficient application and payment of fees online, or they can have their relatives pay on their behalf. Therefore, we strongly encourage all OFWs to maintain an active OWWA membership in order to take advantage of the institution’s beneficial offers.
Contact Details
POLO-OWWA Vancouver
Address: World Trade Center Office Complex Suite 601, 999 Canada Place, Vancouver, BC, V6C3E1
Telephone Number: (+1) 604 641 1234
POLO Hotline: (+1) 604 767 3354
Email: polo.vancouver@yahoo.ca, vancouver@owwa.gov.ph
Website: https://vancouverpcg.dfa.gov.ph/
Facebook Page: https://facebook.com/POLOinVancouver/
Google Map Location
Below is the map guide location of the POLO-OWWA office in Vancouver:
