Filipino workers in Kuwait whose OWWA membership has expired may still be eligible for certain forms of cash assistance.
The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) provides financial relief through its Welfare Assistance Program (WAP).
The program covers qualified active and inactive OWWA members and their families who are not eligible under the agency’s other existing social benefit programs.
What Financial Assistance Is Available?
OWWA identifies five main categories under WAP.
1. Calamity assistance
Workers and families affected by natural disasters, emergencies, or other major crises may qualify for financial relief.
2. Bereavement assistance
Families of deceased OWWA members may receive assistance if they are not eligible for the regular death and burial benefit.
3. Disability assistance
OFWs who become disabled because of accidents or crimes may request financial support.
4. Medical assistance
This covers eligible medical needs that are not included under OWWA’s MEDPlus program.
5. Relief assistance
Workers displaced through mass layoffs, company bankruptcy, or economic, political, or health crises may qualify for assistance.
Can OFWs With Expired Membership Apply?
Yes, inactive OWWA members may still be considered for WAP assistance.
However, this does not mean everyone with an expired membership will receive money.
OWWA assesses applications based on individual circumstances, eligibility, and the particular type of assistance requested.
The agency does not publish one fixed cash amount for all WAP cases.
OFWs who want to reactivate their membership can refer to our guide on renewing OWWA membership in Kuwait.
For other available benefits, read our complete list of OWWA assistance programs for OFWs.
How to Contact OWWA Kuwait
Filipino workers who need guidance may contact OWWA’s Overseas Welfare Office in Kuwait.
OWWA Kuwait contact details:
- Email: kuwait@owwa.gov.ph
- OWWA Hotline: +965 9403 9063
- MWO Email: mwo_kuwait@dmw.gov.ph
- MWO Hotlines: +965 6558 5355 / +965 6040 3858
The office is listed at Sabah Al Salem, Block 2, Street 213, Building 257.
Applicants should first contact OWWA to confirm the requirements for their specific situation.
For workers experiencing serious employment-related difficulties, the Migrant Workers Office in Kuwait may also provide guidance on available welfare services.
What Kuwait OFWs Should Know
Inactive OWWA membership does not automatically remove all possibilities for financial assistance.
Qualified workers and families may still receive support through the Welfare Assistance Program.
OFWs should contact OWWA Kuwait before applying to confirm whether their situation is covered and which documents are needed.