Many Overseas Filipino Workers dream of working abroad, especially in the Netherlands where picturesque landscapes, windmills, and tulips are found. However, the journeys of OFWs in a foreign land are marked by resilience and challenging experiences. With the uncertainties that come with overseas employment, it’s important for all Filipino migrant workers to apply for OWWA membership and renew it every two years.
Whether you obtained employment via a recruitment agency or a visit visa, you are encouraged to apply for OWWA in order to maximize your benefits while working abroad. Active members can enjoy various programs including education, livelihood, reintegration, repatriation, scholarships, training benefits, and loans. To claim these benefits, you need to meet the qualifications and submit all the requirements to the designated OWWA office in the Netherlands.
Requirements for OWWA in The Netherlands
Before you decide to renew your OWWA account in the Netherlands, you need to consider the qualifications that applicants should meet. One of the most important requirements you need to present is proof of active employment. There are relevant documents that you can show as proof that you’re actively working overseas such as a work permit and the latest payslip.
According to the Philippine Embassy in the Netherlands’ Facebook post, the following are the documentary requirements you should secure to apply for or renew your status:
- Duly accomplished OFW Information Sheet or OWWA Membership Form
- Copy of Philippine passport with data page, full name, signature, and photo
- Copy of proof of employment such as Employment Contract, work permit, latest payslip, company ID, bank account statement for salary entries, application for Philippine insurance with the signature of the employer, or any relevant document that verifies active employment
- Proof of bank remittance or bank transfer for the membership contribution
- Payment for the OWWA contribution fee equivalent to US$25
OWWA Fees and Payment Process
The OWWA contribution in the Netherlands is the equivalent of US$25 in euros based on the current foreign exchange rate. Regardless of the duration of your contract, recruitment agency, job location, and change of employer, each paid contribution gives you a validity of two years. After that, you will have to renew your account to stay an active member who is eligible for OWWA benefits and programs.
Once you have completed all the requirements and your request has been approved, you can proceed to the payment process which depends on your preferred method. For instance, you may have chosen the OWWA Online Membership Registration portal. You need to follow the payment instructions through the portal. While it’s easier to pay the fee when you use the mobile app or process your application via email, it’s important to know the steps.
Here’s how to pay the OWWA fee via email:
Step 1: Prepare the documents and scan each of them.
Step 2: Email your requirements to owwamemb@gmail.com.
Step 3: If the application is approved, you will get a confirmation from MWO Berlin.
Step 4: Pay the fee to the Philippine Embassy in Berlin.
Step 5: Take a photo of the bank transfer and send it to the concerned office to get your official receipt.
If you’re paying via the OWWA Online Membership Registration portal, here are the steps to follow:
Step 1: Go to the OWWA Membership Payment Registration online portal.
Step 2: Complete the required details such as your full name, legal beneficiaries, and employment details.
Step 3: Upload a copy of your proof of active employment and Philippine passport.
Step 4: Check all the information and then click on the Submit Application button.
Step 5: You will receive a confirmation via email which includes your transaction number and the instructions for the payment process.
Procedure for Getting an OWWA Netherlands Appointment Online
As of this writing, there’s no online appointment system for renewing or applying for OWWA in the Netherlands based on the Philippine Embassy in the Netherlands’ Facebook page. However, you can reach out to the Embassy to confirm this or inquire if there are new changes in booking an OWWA appointment.
The MWO in Berlin handles all labor-related services for Filipino migrant workers in the Netherlands. Together with the Philippine Embassy, they conduct Consular Outreach Mission programs which require booking an appointment. If you’re planning to renew your account through the consular mission, make sure to contact the Embassy prior to their scheduled visit to get an appointment.
How to Renew OWWA Membership in the Netherlands
There are many options for OFWs when it comes to the process of OWWA application and renewal. According to an advisory posted by the Philippine Embassy in the Netherlands via their official website, OFWs can apply or renew via email. To make sure this is still available, you are highly encouraged to contact the concerned office for the latest updates.
Since the Netherlands is under the jurisdiction of MWO Berlin, you can also process your renewal using the OWWA Online Membership Registration portal. This must be a convenient way to renew your account and keep it active so that you can benefit from the services and programs of OWWA. However, you can download the OWWA Mobile App to apply for membership or renew your account anytime and anywhere.
Video: How to Renew Membership Using OWWA App
In this video, you will get a complete guide on how to renew your OWWA membership via the mobile app. It also mentions all the benefits that Overseas Filipino Workers can get from being active members in the long run.
Summary
So now that you’ve learned how to process your OWWA membership in the Netherlands, it should be easy for you to renew it every two years. Keeping your account active entitles you to a lot of benefits, services, and programs that are helpful during emergencies. Make sure to prepare all the required documents before you get an appointment online for your renewal.