OWWA Membership in the USA: Who Joins and How to Renew
Quick answer
OWWA membership is for overseas Filipino workers, meaning Filipinos working in the US under an employment contract. It costs USD 25 and lasts two years, even if you change employer. You can renew in person at the OWWA desk of the MWO or online through the OWWA Mobile App (up to 90 days before your membership expires). In the US, the OWWA desks are at MWO Washington, D.C. and MWO Los Angeles.
What the membership covers is explained in OWWA membership and benefits.
What are the requirements?
What MWO Washington, D.C. asks for when you enroll or renew on site:
- A copy of your passport page with your photo, personal data and signature.
- The OFW Information Sheet (OWWA form), filled in.
- A copy of your US work visa or work permit.
- Your latest employment contract, verified by the Migrant Workers Office.
On-site enrollment covers members whose membership has expired and first-time members who are working in the US when they register.
How much does it cost?
| Item | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| OWWA membership | USD 25 | One payment |
| Validity | 2 years | Not shortened by a change of employer or contract |
How do you apply, step by step?
Online
1. Install the OWWA Mobile App from the App Store or Google Play
2. Check whether your membership shows as active or inactive
3. Renew and pay in the app
Allow 1 to 3 banking days for the payment to show.
Walk-in
1. Contact MWO Washington, D.C
or MWO Los Angeles for a schedule.
2. Bring the documents above and your verified contract
3. Pay USD 25 and keep the receipt
How long does it take?
At the desk, renewal is done during your visit if your papers are complete. In the app, the payment posts within 1 to 3 banking days.
Where to go
- OWWA at MWO Washington, D.C.: Embassy of the Philippines, 1600 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, D.C. 20036. OWWA hotline +1 202 467 9413. Email washington@owwa.gov.ph.
- OWWA at MWO Los Angeles: 3435 Wilshire Boulevard, Suite 2285, Los Angeles, California 90010. OWWA hotline +1 213 800 2836. Email losangeles@owwa.gov.ph.
- From anywhere: the DMW-OWWA 24/7 hotline 1348, or +632 1348 from abroad.
Frequently asked questions
I am a green card holder. Should I join OWWA?
OWWA membership is for Filipinos working abroad as OFWs, and the MWO asks for a verified employment contract. If you live in the US as an immigrant without such a contract, ask MWO Washington or MWO Los Angeles whether you qualify.
I work in the US on an H-1B visa. Where do I renew?
At the OWWA desk of MWO Washington, D.C. or MWO Los Angeles, or in the OWWA Mobile App.
Does changing hospitals or employers end my OWWA?
No. Each payment covers two years, whatever changes in your contract or employer.
Who helps with a work problem in the US?
MWO Washington, D.C. or MWO Los Angeles. For urgent help, call the 1348 hotline.
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