Working abroad can be a great challenge for Filipinos, but the fascinating beauty of other countries makes the sacrifice worth it. For instance, the interesting culture and history of Luxembourg attract more Overseas Filipino Workers to work in Western Europe. If you’re an OFW in this tiny country, you need to consider applying for OWWA member account insurance to better enjoy life abroad.
Active OWWA members are entitled to a lot of benefits, programs, services, and assistance during difficult times. In addition, you can also help your loved ones in the Philippines by renewing your account every two years to access education and financial assistance for qualified dependents. So, make sure to prepare all the required documents to process your OWWA renewal in Luxembourg.
Requirements for OWWA in Luxembourg
When applying or renewing your OWWA, there are some important requirements you need to secure. More importantly, you must be actively working abroad to qualify for the renewal or application process. You need to complete all the required documents and have them evaluated before you will be allowed to pay the contribution fee.
Based on the Philippines Embassy in Belgium’s announcements, OFWs in Luxembourg should prepare the following requirements to renew their membership:
- Duly accomplished OFW Information Sheet or OWWA Membership Form
- Copy of Philippine passport with data page, photo, and signature
- Proof of active employment such as work permit or residence permit, latest payslip, company ID, Employment Contract, bank account statement showing salary entries, Philippine insurance application with the signature of the employer, or any relevant document verifying employment
- Payment for the OWWA contribution fee
OWWA Fees and Payment Process
Based on the current foreign exchange rate, the OWWA fee is equivalent to US$25 converted to euros. To settle the payment, you must submit all the requirements and prove that you are not terminated, canceled, resigned, or due for termination or cancellation. Each paid contribution gives members two years of validity wherein they can claim benefits and programs to improve their living conditions.
Since there are different options to process OWWA applications and renewals for OFWs in Luxembourg, there are also different ways to pay the contribution fee. If you’re choosing to pay via email, here are the steps you need to do:
Step 1: Complete the required documents and scan them.
Step 2: Send the scanned copies of the requirements to owwamemb@gmail.com.
Step 3: MWO Berlin will send a confirmation email if your request is approved.
Step 4: If you get the approval, proceed to the payment process by addressing the bank transfer to the Embassy of the Philippines-OWWA, DEUTSCHE BANK AG, UNTER DEN LINDEN 13/15, 10117 Berlin, DEUTDEBB101 (BIC), DE61 1007 0100 0310 9808 00 (IBAN).
Step 5: Save a copy of the bank transfer and send it to the Embassy’s email.
If you’re paying via the Consular Outreach Mission, reach out to MWO Berlin or the Embassy in Belgium to get an appointment and the procedure for renewal. Make sure to bring all the required documents and claim the official receipt for future purposes. On the other hand, you can use the OWWA Online Membership Registration portal through these steps:
Step 1: Log onto the OWWA Membership Payment Registration portal here: https://membership.owwa.gov.ph.
Step 2: Provide your personal details, legal beneficiaries, and employment details.
Step 3: Upload a copy of your Philippine passport and Employment Contract.
Step 4: Review all the details and then click on the Submit Application button.
Step 5: Wait for the confirmation that will be sent to your email including the payment instructions and transaction number.
For OFWs who will be using the OWWA Mobile App to process their renewal payment, simply download the app and register a new account. Follow the prompt until you settle the payment and get the electronic receipt.
Procedure for Getting an OWWA Luxembourg Appointment Online
Luxembourg is under the jurisdiction of MWO Berlin, hence there’s no online appointment system available for OFWs renewing their OWWA status. You need to reach out to the MWO office in Berlin regarding any labor-related concerns. If you’re applying for OWWA membership on-site via the Consular Outreach Mission in Luxembourg, you can inquire from the MWO Berlin or the Philippine Embassy in Belgium.
The consular mission requires booking an appointment so you must contact the Embassy or concerned MWO office to schedule your visit. If you’re taking a vacation in the Philippines, you can process your renewal at the nearest DMW office. However, this also requires booking an appointment to be accommodated. Feel free to contact the Philippine Consulate in Luxembourg if you have questions.
How to Renew OWWA Membership in Luxembourg
The Philippine Embassy in Belgium and Berlin’s official websites and Facebook pages have announced that there are three options for OFWs who want to apply or renew their OWWA. You can send your documentary requirements for your OWWA application or renewal via email. Another way to activate your status is through the Consular Outreach Mission conducted by the Philippine Embassy in Belgium together with MWO Berlin.
If you don’t have enough time, you can choose a more convenient way to renew your account using the OWWA Membership Payment Registration portal. The last option would be the OWWA Mobile App which you can easily download on your mobile device. Depending on the option you choose, the payment process may vary.
Video: OWWA Membership and Renewal
In this video, you will get all the information about the OWWA membership renewal process including the requirements you need to submit to activate your OWWA account.
Summary
At this point, you already know how to process your OWWA registration and renewal in Luxembourg. Make sure to secure all the requirements and pay the contribution fee on time to enjoy all the benefits and programs offered by OWWA to OFWs and their dependents.