The main purpose of the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration is to preserve the rights and interests of Overseas Filipino Workers all over the world. To promote their welfare, OWWA provides a wide range of programs, services, and benefits that are accessible through an active membership. If you haven’t applied for an OWWA account yet or need to renew your status, the steps are quick and simple.
For OFWs who are based in Spain, they can go to the OWWA office in Madrid to renew their accounts. Active members are entitled to enjoy insurance coverage, legal support, loan packages, airport assistance, repatriation services, and other welfare services to ensure that OFWs get all the assistance they need. It’s important to renew your membership every two years in order to keep it active.
Requirements for OWWA in Madrid, Spain
Since the health crisis, the OWWA-Madrid office requires a confirmed appointment for clients who need to process their OWWA and other government contributions. So make sure to schedule your visit before you visit the office. In addition, you also need to provide proof of active employment when processing your OWWA renewal.
Keep in mind that any incomplete requirements will not be processed in the OWWA office. In addition to that, when scanning documents, make sure they are clear and visible. Below are the renewal requirements you need to complete before visiting the OWWA office to process your account:
- Copy of current employment contract
- Copy of valid work visa or permit
- Copy of valid Philippine passport with personal details and photo
- Duly accomplished OWWA Membership Form or OFW Information Sheet
- For new members, one 2×2 colored ID picture with a white background
- Payment for the OWWA contribution fee
OWWA Fees and Payment Process
The OWWA contribution in Madrid, Spain is €21.31 and must be paid every two years to keep your status active. The validity is the same for all OFWs around the world regardless of their employment location, recruitment agency, contract duration, and change of employer. During your appointment, here’s what you should do to pay the renewal fee:
Step 1: Show a copy of your confirmed appointment to enter the MWO office.
Step 2: Submit your requirements to the OWWA window.
Step 3: Pay the contribution fee.
Step 4: Get the renewal receipt and remember to renew your account every two years.
Procedure for Getting OWWA Madrid Appointment Online
You won’t be accommodated in the MWO office unless you can present a confirmed appointment. To get an appointment online, just follow these easy steps:
Step 1: Go to the Embassy of the Philippines-Madrid, Spain’s official page or visit this link: https://www.philembassymadrid.com/epassport-renewal-appointments to get an appointment.
Step 2: Scroll down and find the Passport & Visa News, click on the Online Appointment for Consular & Labor Services button.
Step 3: Provide all the required details.
Step 4: Select a location and the service you need.
Step 5: On the calendar, select the date. For unavailable dates, you will need to choose another day on the calendar.
Step 6: Choose the time from the drop-down menu. Time slots in red are still available, while those in gray with black print are already taken.
Step 7: When you have chosen a specific date or time, the color will change to green from clear. Then complete your personal details under the Personal Information section.
Step 8: Review the information under the Booking Overview in order to make sure it’s correct.
Step 9: Before you continue, read the terms and then agree to the conditions by checking the box.
Step 10: Click on the Submit button and wait for the email confirmation that will be sent to you.
How to Renew OWWA Membership in Madrid, Spain
In May 2020, OWWA-Madrid started offering an option for OFWs to renew their accounts through online submission. By using a web-based application, you can process your renewal without the hassle of regular submission. However, you will need to attend a video conference call to verify your status and identity as a Filipino migrant worker in Spain.
You can pay the fee through remittance, bank transfer, or any options that don’t need personal appearance. Once your payment has been confirmed, you will receive the official receipt via email. New applicants can fully benefit from the programs and services after three months of applying for membership.
Before heading to OWWA in Madrid, Spain, make sure to check the latest announcements from their official page in order to see the current process of OWWA renewal. They also post on their Facebook page regarding the current activities and other information OFWs may need to know. This is where you can also check the upcoming outreach mission of the agency near your location.
Video: OWWA Membership Registration in Madrid, Spain | Step By Step
In this video, you will see how to register for an OWWA account in Madrid, Spain. It includes some helpful tips on how to find the OWWA office in the city. You can also learn the exact steps in registering and renewing your account so that you can enjoy OWWA benefits as well as welfare services that OFWs can take advantage of.
Summary
With all this information regarding how to process your OWWA renewal in Madrid, Spain, OFWs in the area can easily renew their accounts. Before showing up at the MWO office, you have two options to choose from. You either join OWWA activities during their outreach missions or get an appointment online.
Depending on the specific service you need, make sure to secure all the required documents prior to your visit to the MWO office. If you’re far from the OWWA Madrid office, you can email them at spain@owwa.gov.ph in order to inquire or raise any concerns you may have. More importantly, you need to present proof of active employment to be allowed to renew your account.
