Leaving their home country to work abroad is a huge sacrifice for Overseas Filipino Workers. Make that sacrifice worth it by applying for OWWA membership and renewing it before it becomes invalid. If you’re an OFW in Austria, you can contact the Philippine Embassy office to get the latest updates regarding the OWWA renewal process and requirements to be submitted.
There are so many benefits that active members can enjoy including financial assistance, scholarships, loans, medical support, legal assistance, and even calamity benefits. For a minimum contribution fee, you can get two years of coverage from this life insurance offered by the Philippine government. So if you haven’t activated your OWWA account yet, now is the time to process your membership.
Requirements for OWWA in Austria
The most important requirement that OFW applicants need to secure for OWWA renewal is proof of active employment in Austria. In addition to that, you also need to prove that you are not terminated, resigned, canceled, or due for termination in order to qualify. There are generic documents that you need to complete, but some OWWA offices may ask for additional requirements to prove your identity and qualifications.
The Philippine Embassy in Austria requires OFWs to present the following documentary requirements when renewing their OWWA account:
- Duly accomplished OFW Information Sheet or OWWA Membership Form
- Copy of a valid Philippine passport with data page, signature, and photo
- Proof of active employment such as a valid Employment Contract, latest payslip, residence or work permit, bank account salary entries, company ID, MWO Milan-issued Employment Acknowledgment with English translation, or any relevant document that proves continuous employment
- For dual citizens, a copy of the Oath of Allegiance
- Payment for the OWWA contribution fee equivalent to US$25
OWWA Fees and Payment Process
When you renew your membership, you need to pay an equivalent of US$25 to euros based on the current foreign exchange rate. With this minimum fee, you will get two years of validity for the benefits and programs you can enjoy as an active OWWA member. However, make sure to prepare all the required documents before proceeding to the payment process as they will be evaluated to confirm your request.
Once you get the request approval, you can settle the payment on-site during the Consular Outreach Mission in your area, or at any DMW branch if you’re in the Philippines. On the other hand, if you’re renewing your account through the mobile app, you can pay the OWWA fee via e-wallet, over-the-counter payment centers, or online bank.
The following are the steps when paying via the On-Site OWWA Membership Application process:
Step 1: Contact the Philippine Embassy in Vienna or the MWO Milan office to get an appointment.
Step 2: Prepare the documents and proceed to the OWWA window.
Step 3: Present your confirmed appointment, if necessary.
Step 4: Submit the required documents to the OWWA representative for evaluation.
Step 5: Pay the fee and get your renewal receipt.
Here’s the payment process via the OWWA Mobile App:
Step 1: Download the app and register a new account using your email.
Step 2: Login details will be sent to you via email. Log in to the app and click Information.
Step 3: Check if you have an active or inactive membership status. If inactive, select the Renew Membership Here tab and click to accept the Terms of Service.
Step 4: Update your job information if needed, then click on the Submit button.
Step 5. Tap the Payment Option under the LandBank payment page. Select your payment method and save the reference number.
Step 6: Follow the instructions for the payment process and save your electronic receipt.
Procedure for Getting an OWWA Austria Appointment Online
Austria doesn’t have a designated MWO office so it’s basically under the jurisdiction of the MWO Milan. Moreover, they don’t have an online appointment system for OFWs who want to renew their OWWA. Therefore, you must reach out to the MWO Milan office to inquire about the application and appointment process for membership renewal and other labor-related services.
However, the MWO office in Milan provides an appointment system called OWWA OSMP Scheduler to facilitate OFWs in processing their applications for OWWA membership. But keep in mind that it is only available for Filipino migrant workers in Milan and the rest of Northern Italy. If you’re planning to renew on-site in Milan, make sure to get an appointment before you visit.
How to Renew OWWA Membership in Vienna, Austria
The Philippine Embassy in Austria in partnership with MWO Milan conducts Consular Outreach Mission services to allow OFWs to renew their OWWA account in the area. However, there are no clear guidelines as to how often they process renewals in Vienna so applicants are highly advised to contact the office for more details regarding membership applications as well as the updated list of requirements they need to submit.
It’s also important to note that the online appointment system of MWO Milan is currently for areas that are under their direct jurisdiction. So you must keep in touch with them if you are planning to apply for or renew your account in Austria. You can also contact the OWWA office in Milan and the Philippine Consulate General office for current updates.
OFWs may also reach out to the Honorary Consul in Innsbruck and Salzburg, and the Philippine Embassy office in Vienna. If you can’t process your application on-site, you can use the OWWA Mobile App to register online. This is the most convenient way for OFWs in Austria to renew their OWWA status anytime or anywhere they’d like.
Video: How to Pay Your OWWA Contribution Using the OWWA Mobile App
In this video, you will get all the details you need to renew your OWWA account using the mobile app. It provides a step-by-step guide to walk you through the actual process until you settle the payment and get your receipt.
Summary
At this point, you are now ready to process your OWWA membership renewal in Austria. Make sure to complete all the documentary requirements and meet the qualifications before you proceed to payment. You can contact the concerned office to book an appointment and check the latest updates.