Overseas Filipino Workers based in Sweden are encouraged to apply for or renew their OWWA membership to enjoy all the benefits and programs. Documented OFWs are protected under the employment laws, customs, and norms of Sweden and the Philippines. If you’re an active OWWA member, you can claim special benefits including legal assistance, scholarships, and financial aid.
To process your renewal or application, you can visit the Philippine Embassy in Sweden. This Philippine government office provides services such as OWWA application and OEC processing. However, you need to meet the qualifications and submit the required documents in order to renew your OWWA account. You also need to pay the contribution fee which gives you a validity of two years.
Requirements for OWWA in Sweden
The most important requirement in renewing your OWWA is proof of active employment in your host country. OFWs must also be properly documented to qualify for the renewal processing at the nearest OWWA office. If you’re in the Philippines for a quick vacation, you can visit your local OWWA Regional Welfare Office to get assistance. Here are the renewal requirements that you need to submit to the OWWA office in Sweden:
- Duly accomplished OWWA Membership Form or OFW Information Sheet
- Copy of the current work permit or work visa
- Copy of valid employment contract
- Copy of valid Philippine passport with date page and photo
- Payment for the contribution fee
Note that these are only the general requirements that OFWs should present when renewing their OWWA account. Some OWWA offices in different countries may ask for additional documents to evaluate your qualifications. It’s highly recommended to verify the exact requirements before you process your renewal.
OWWA Fees and Payment Process
The OWWA fee for the renewal process is the equivalent of US$ 25 based on the current foreign exchange rate. You should renew your membership at least three months before the expiration in order to enjoy all the benefits and programs of OWWA. If you acquired a job abroad with your tourist or visit visa, you are advised to register for an OWWA account.
The payment process depends on the renewal method you choose such as on-site, via email, or through the mobile app. If you’re processing your OWWA renewal at the OWWA office, you can pay the fee on-site. For mobile app and email processing, you can settle the payment online. Make sure you have all the requirements and confirmation before you proceed to the payment.
Procedure for Getting an OWWA Sweden Appointment Online
As of this writing, there is no online appointment system for OWWA renewal in Sweden. Therefore, you may go directly to the OWWA office at the Philippine Embassy to process your application. But if you want to make sure, you can contact the concerned office to check whether they still require clients to confirm an appointment before visiting.
A more convenient way to apply for or renew your account is to use the mobile app or send the requirements via email. You can visit the official website of OWWA-Sweden in order to see the latest updates regarding the process for renewing your membership and paying the contribution fee. You may also follow their official Facebook page to get more information.
How to Renew OWWA Membership in Sweden
OFWs must understand how the renewal process really works. It’s important to familiarize yourself with the entire procedure because you need to do it every two years. To activate your OWWA status in Sweden, you need to follow these steps:
Step 1: Prepare all the required documents to renew your OWWA account including a copy of your valid passport, employment contract, work permit, duly accomplished OFW Information Sheet, and payment for the fee.
Step 2: Go to the OWWA office and present your requirements. Make sure to follow the instructions that will be given to you by the officer in charge.
Step 3: Pay the contribution fee and get your renewal receipt which will be released on the same day. After the payment, your membership is automatically activated and is valid for two years.
If you want to process your renewal online, here’s what you need to do:
Step 1: Secure all the required documents including the OWWA OFW Information Sheet which can be downloaded from their official website www.owwa.gov.ph.
Step 2: Go to the designated website of OWWA in Sweden to check their active email address.
Step 3: Send your requirements via email.
Step 4: Once you have submitted all the requirements and paid the fee, you will get the official receipt for the transaction.
Step 5: Pay the fee using the available payment options.
You can also renew your account using the OWWA Mobile App. Simply download the app on your mobile device and follow the instructions on your screen. Sign up or log in with your details to use the app. Go to the Profile page and review your employment contract information. Under the Member Online Payment System of LANDBANK-BANCNET, pay the fee for renewal.
Video: How to Renew OWWA Membership Using OWWA Mobile App
In this video, you will learn how to renew your OWWA account online by using the mobile app. There are comments and tips to help you open the app and use the features. It also includes how to process cash payments via the mobile app. You also have the option to use other bank payment methods in order to renew your OWWA in a more convenient way.
Summary
Now that you have all the information you need in processing your OWWA application or renewal, you can become an active member who is eligible to claim benefits and financial aid during tough times. OWWA offers many services and projects to improve the overall quality of life of every Filipino migrant worker around the world. If you’re planning to renew your account in Sweden, this simple guide will help you throughout the process.