The OFW E-Card is one of the projects of the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) to provide fast and convenient services to all OFWs. With the growing number of OFWs all around the world, the e-card will provide smoother transactions to OWWA’s programs and services.
Note: OFW eCard version 2 has been launched and it’s an even faster and more efficient way of applying. You can get this eCard printed to you within 5 minutes after applying.
The e-card is a government-issued identification and thus can be used as proof of identity when dealing with government transactions at Migrant Workers Offices (MWO), embassies, and consulates worldwide. All OWWA members are encouraged to get their OFW e-card. The e-card provides great advantages, especially to returning OFWs (Balik-Manggagawa) and OFWs’ beneficiaries.
Qualifications and Requirements
If you want to apply for the OFW e-card, your OWWA membership must be valid for more than 90 days upon application and must have the following documentary requirements.
- Active OWWA member for all returning workers (Balik-Mangagawa)
- Valid Overseas Employment Certification/Exemption Number
- Valid passport
OWWA OFW e-Card Application
The application for the OFW e-card is very easy. Just follow these three (3) steps and enjoy the benefits of having the e-card.
Step 1: Online Application
To make it accessible to everyone, the application is done online so you can do it whenever and wherever you are. Go to OWWA’s official website at https://owwa.gov.ph/ and go to e-Services. Choose the OFW e-CARD Application and fill out the form. You must provide the correct and updated information such as your First Name, Middle Name, Last Name, Birth Date, Contact Number, Passport Number, POEA OEC Number, and Collection Point. Remember to choose the nearest pick-up location from your permanent address.
Tick the Data Privacy Policy and I’m not a Robot box. Double-check all the information then click ‘Submit Application’. Please note that as of 15th March 2023, the OWWA website is undergoing maintenance.
Step 2: OFW e-CARD Tracker
After clicking the ‘Submit Application’, a tracking number will appear on your screen. This number will enable you to track the progress of your application. The application usually takes 3-4 weeks upon submission; if it takes longer, you must track it. To do so, revisit the official website of OWWA and go to OFW e-CARD Tracker. The page will then ask you to provide important information such as the Tracking Number, Passport Number, and Birth Date. Once you have entered the information needed, click ‘Submit’. At the bottom of the page, you will see the information regarding your application such as Name, Tracking Number, and Delivery Status.
Step 3: Pick-up Location
Once your e-Card arrives at your chosen pick-up location, prepare your tracking number and passport as proof of identity. Go to your chosen OWWA Regional Welfare Office (RWO).
You must also be aware that to be a member of OWWA, you must pay a membership fee of $25 or equivalent and it’s only valid for 2 years.
Video: Paano mag TRACK ng OWWA OFW E-CARD sa Cellphone? | OFW ID | OWWA ID | Tracking Tutorial
If you want to track your OFW e-card on your mobile phone, watch this tutorial video by VarTin TV on how he was able to do it in just less than 4 minutes.
Summary
We are now living in a digital world and we must take advantage of the technology we have. The OWWA OFW e-Card provides services and assistance to OFWs whenever and wherever they are. It also serves as an Exit Clearance and is recognized as a government-issued identification card and functions like a physical card.