One of the best things about working as an Overseas Filipino Worker is that you get to travel to many beautiful places. You experience a new culture and meet new people that give new meaning to your life. However, with life’s uncertainties, it’s important to prepare for the unexpected. You can get life insurance to protect yourself during emergencies and other disasters that may happen in your area. That way, you can enjoy your life abroad while working for the betterment of your loved ones.
OFWs in Iceland can apply for OWWA membership to access benefits and programs that will help them and their families live well. You need to meet a few qualifications and prepare all the necessary documents to apply for or renew your account. Make sure to wait for the confirmation before you pay the membership fee. Contact the concerned office to get the latest updates regarding the renewal process in Iceland.
Requirements for OWWA in Iceland
Before you decide to renew your OWWA status in Iceland, you need to know what requirements to submit. Since you need to prove that you are actively working abroad, you must present proof of present employment such as a work permit, employment contract, or payslip. In addition to these documents, you also have to meet some qualifications. You must not be due for termination or have been terminated to qualify.
If it’s your first time applying for or renewing your OWWA account, here are the required documents you need to prepare based on the guidelines released by the Philippine Embassy in London:
- Duly accomplished OWWA Membership Form or OFW Information Sheet
- Copy of a valid Philippine passport with the data page
- Proof of present employment such as Employment Contract, company ID, latest payslip, Certificate of Employment, residence or work permit, bank account statement for salary entries, and any relevant document verifying active employment abroad
- For dual citizens, a copy of the Certificate of Oath with the Identification page
- Payment for the OWWA contribution fee equivalent to US$25 in ISK
OWWA Fees and Payment Process
Once you have completed all the documentary requirements and they are evaluated, you can proceed to the payment process. The membership fee is the equivalent of US$25 in ISK based on the current foreign exchange rate. After making the payment, your membership will be valid for two years and you can claim exclusive benefits within that period.
Since there are three ways to renew your OWWA status, there are also three options for the payment process. You can pay the membership fee on-site if you’re processing your renewal through the Consular Outreach Mission. If you’re choosing to process it through MWO London’s Facebook page or email, contact them for the instructions. Here are the steps you need to follow:
Step 1: Download the OFW Information Sheet from this link: https://polo.owwa.com/ofw-information-sheet/ and complete the required details.
Step 2: Scan your requirements and send them to their Facebook page or london@owwa.gov.ph for evaluation.
Step 3: Wait until you receive the email confirmation whether your application was approved or not.
Step 4: If you qualify, follow the instructions in the email to pay the membership fee via MWO London’s email.
Step 5: Save your payment transaction via screenshot and send a copy to OWWA London’s Facebook page or their email.
Step 6: Wait for the official receipt, or you can contact the Philippine Embassy in London to claim the original copy of the renewal receipt.
Procedure for Getting an OWWA Iceland Appointment Online
It’s important to know whether you need to make an appointment when renewing your OWWA in Iceland. Currently, OFWs can’t find an online appointment system because there is no MWO office in the country. Also, it is under the jurisdiction of MWO London which is why the requirements are the same for OFWs in the UK. You can contact the Philippine Consulate General in Reykjavik regarding membership renewal.
Moreover, you can also reach out to the Philippine Embassy in Norway to get the latest announcements regarding their Consular Outreach Mission near you. Don’t forget to inquire about booking an appointment before the event. If you’re in the Philippines for vacation, you can contact the OWWA Regional office or DMW to get an appointment and the list of requirements you need to submit.
How to Renew OWWA Membership in Iceland
One of the best options to renew your OWWA account in Iceland is through the Consular Outreach Mission service conducted by the Philippine Embassy in Norway. This is an on-site application so you also need to pay the fee during your appointment. Another way to process membership renewal is via the official Facebook page or email of MWO London. Scan a copy of your requirements and send them to their Facebook or email account for evaluation.
The last option is to renew your account through the OWWA Mobile App which can easily be downloaded on your mobile device. With the mobile app, you can process your application anytime and anywhere you want. The payment process can be made via e-wallet or online bank transfer for more convenience.
Video: OWWA Membership Online | Paano Mag Renew ng OWWA – Youtube
In this video, you will see how to renew your OWWA membership using a step-by-step guide as well as a complete list of the requirements that should be completed for evaluation. There are helpful tips to make the process much easier for OFWs looking to apply for or renew their account in order to claim benefits and special programs.
Summary
To wrap it up, you must qualify first before securing all the documentary requirements. You must be actively working abroad to renew your OWWA account and process your documents through your preferred method. With so many benefits and programs that are accessible to active members, OFWs must keep their accounts active every two years.