Perhaps, you’re a first-time Overseas Filipino Worker and you want to know how to apply for OWWA membership or renew your account in Hungary. The application process will depend on the method you choose, it can either be on-site or online. Some OFWs find it easy to use the OWWA Mobile App since they can process their renewal anytime and anywhere they want. Just make sure you have all the requirements before you go to the application site.
There are a few qualifications to meet, but the most important one is that you must be actively working abroad to renew your OWWA account. You can present proof of current employment such as company ID or employment contract. Keeping your membership active will allow you to enjoy many benefits, programs, and special services that are not available to all OFWs. Qualified dependents can also benefit from this life insurance.
Requirements for OWWA in Hungary
Every two years, you need to update your OWWA account to continue claiming benefits and assistance programs. You should prioritize this because it’s beneficial when you need to return home during emergencies. You and your family can get financial assistance, scholarships, livelihood assistance, and other benefits to improve your living conditions.
If you want to apply for or renew your membership in Hungary, the following are the required documents that you need to submit according to the Philippines Embassy:
- Original copy and photocopy of Philippine passport with the data page, photo, and signature
- Duly accomplished OFW Information Sheet or OWWA Membership Form
- Proof of current employment abroad such as a residence or work permit, company ID, Certificate of Employment, Employment Contract, latest payslip, or other related documents to prove your present employment
- Payment for the OWWA contribution fee equivalent to US$25
OWWA Fees and Payment Process
To proceed with the payment process, you must submit all the documentary requirements for evaluation. Then OWWA will tell you if you are qualified and you can go to the payment counter or choose an online payment method to settle the fee. For a minimum amount, you can get two years of validity wherein you are eligible to get government assistance and other benefits. The fee is equivalent to US$25 in HUF based on the current foreign exchange rate.
Again, there are two ways to settle the payment, online or on-site. For the mobile app, you can use an e-wallet, over-the-counter payment center, or bank transfer to pay the fee. Your relatives may also do it for you if you are not in the Philippines. Here’s the step-by-step process for OWWA payment via the Consular Outreach Mission with MWO Milan:
Step 1: Reach out to the Philippine Embassy in Hungary or the MWO office in Milan.
Step 2: Schedule an appointment for the registration or renewal process through the Consular Outreach Mission.
Step 3: Prepare all the required documents that you need to submit.
Step 4: Take a photo of the confirmed appointment and bring it during your scheduled visit.
Step 5: Go to the venue for the renewal or application process.
Step 6: Proceed to the payment counter and pay the fee. Don’t forget to get your official receipt.
If you’re paying the fee via the OWWA mobile app, just open the app on your phone and follow all the instructions on the screen until you complete the last step.
Procedure for Getting an OWWA Hungary Appointment Online
For OFWs in Hungary, they should contact the MWO office in Milan for membership applications and other labor-related concerns and services. There’s no designated MWO in Hungary or an online appointment system so make sure to reach out to the concerned office to help you with the renewal process.
You can keep updated with the Consular Outreach Mission that the Philippine Embassy in Budapest and the MWO office in Milan will be conducting near you in the future. Contact these offices to inquire about their appointment booking policy. Make sure you have a confirmed appointment before going to the outreach mission.
The MWO-Milan office may have the OWWA OSMP Scheduler, an online appointment system, but note that it is only available for Northern Italy and Milan applicants. If you’re in the Philippines, you can also contact the nearest OWWA Regional office or DMW to get an OWWA appointment and renew your account there as long as you have all the requirements in place.
How to Renew OWWA Membership in Hungary
If you have time, you can renew your status through the Consular Outreach Mission that the MWO Milan and the Philippine Embassy in Hungary will conduct in your area. It’s highly advised to reach out to these offices to get information on the actual process and any other additional documents that they may require.
OFWs who are having their vacation in the Philippines can visit the OWWA Regional office or DMW branch near them to apply for or renew their accounts. If you’re looking for a more convenient way to process your application, you can do it via the OWWA Mobile app. With this online application, you can also pay the OWWA fee online through the available payment options.
Video: How to Renew Your OWWA Membership Online
In this video, you will see the actual process of how to process your renewal online using the OWWA Mobile App. In just over a minute, you will understand how it works and which one to click to go to the next page. This short guide makes it easier to navigate the app so you can keep your membership active every two years.
Summary
With this knowledge on how to process your OWWA membership application and renewal in Hungary, it should be easy for you to keep your account active so you can claim benefits when you need them the most. This life insurance will protect you from unforeseen events such as political conflicts in your host country or other emergencies.