Whether you need to apply for membership or renew your account, it’s important to keep up to date with the latest guidelines in processing your OWWA in Switzerland. As an active member, you are entitled to claim different benefits, assistance, programs, and services to enhance your living conditions as well as protect your family from unexpected events. This life insurance will give you peace of mind while working abroad.
Make sure to process your renewal every two years to keep your status active and access OWWA benefits, especially when you need them most. If you’re working in Switzerland using your visit visa, you are also encouraged to apply for membership. For Overseas Filipino Workers looking to process their OWWA renewal in Geneva, you need to complete the requirements and pay the fee to activate your status.
Requirements for OWWA in Switzerland
To become an active OWWA member, you need to renew your account by submitting all the requirements. For example, you need to provide proof of active employment to qualify for the renewal or application. If you want to access these benefits including livelihood programs, scholarships, training benefits, loans, and repatriation assistance, make sure to prepare the following required documents to renew your account:
- Completed OWWA OFW Information Sheet
- Proof of employment such as latest payslip, company ID, Employment Contract with signature, Carte Legitimacion, Application for Philippine Insurance, or any related employment document
- Payment for the OWWA contribution fee
OWWA Fees and Payment Process
The OWWA contribution fee when renewing your account in Geneva, Switzerland is the equivalent of US$ 25 to CHF according to the current foreign exchange rate. Before you can proceed to the payment process, you need to complete all the requirements and meet the qualifications. You need to have active and continuous work abroad as a documented OFW with valid work visas and permits.
OFWs who obtained a permanent residency status but still remain Filipino citizens with permanent, full-time jobs are qualified to apply for membership. Generally, as long as you are not terminated, canceled, resigned, or due for termination or cancellation, you can renew your account in the OWWA office in Geneva.
Here’s how you can book an OWWA appointment for the on-site renewal or application and payment:
Option 1: Contact these numbers 0227163258 to get an appointment to renew your account.
Option 2: Email this address polo_geneva@dole.gov.ph with your requirements.
Option 3: Send a message to the official Facebook page of the Philippine Embassy in Switzerland to get help.
Procedure for Getting an OWWA Switzerland Appointment Online
The OWWA in Geneva, Switzerland currently doesn’t implement an online appointment system for applying for or renewing accounts. However, make sure to check the latest updates via the Philippine Consulate General in Switzerland’s official website to see whether they require OFWs to get an appointment before visiting the actual office for OWWA renewal or application.
From time to time, walk-ins can visit the office to process their OWWA activation. There’s no clear guideline, however, regarding this matter so you are advised to reach out to the OWWA-Geneva office to see if you still need to schedule an appointment or you can go directly to the office to process your renewal.
How to Renew OWWA Membership in Geneva, Switzerland
Before you go to the OWWA office in Geneva, check whether they require an appointment or accept walk-ins. There are three options you can choose from to renew and pay your OWWA contribution fee. You can process the renewal via email, on-site application, or mobile app. Check out the following steps to activate your account.
On-site Renewal
Step 1: Reach out to OWWA in Geneva to schedule your visit.
Step 2: Make your appearance during your confirmed appointment.
Step 3: Present your confirmed appointment to the security office at the gate.
Step 4: Go to the OWWA window and submit the required documents for evaluation.
Step 5: Pay the contribution fee and get your renewal receipt.
Mobile App Renewal
Step 1: Download the OWWA mobile app and launch it on your mobile device.
Step 2: Register an account and log in with your details.
Step 3: Check your email for your username and password to log in to your new account.
Step 4: After successfully logging in, select Information at the bottom of your dashboard.
Step 5: For inactive OWWA accounts, click on the “Renew Membership Here!” to proceed.
Step 6: Review the Terms of Service before clicking the accept button. Once you have paid the fee, it will reflect after three days of payment.
Step 7: Complete the employment details or update the page before clicking Submit.
Step 8: Proceed to the payment option via LandBank’s payment portal.
Step 9: Choose a payment method and then tap the Proceed button. Depending on the payment merchant, you may need to pay a convenience fee.
Step 10: Go to the Payment Result page and copy your Reference Number. Follow the instructions in order to settle the payment.
Email Application
Send an email to polo_geneva@dole.gov.ph to renew your account online. You will be given instructions to submit your documentary requirements for assessment. Wait for the confirmation before paying the fee.
Video: How to Renew Your OWWA Membership Online Step-by-Step
In this video, it will help you renew your OWWA via online processing with all the steps that you need to do. It provides a detailed guide on the requirements that you need to submit as well as the payment process to become an active OWWA member successfully.
Summary
Now you have all the information you need to apply for or renew your OWWA account in Geneva, Switzerland. Make sure you have all the required documents before going to the OWWA office. Also, it’s important to check if they require an appointment for OWWA application and renewal. Don’t forget your receipt once you have completed all the requirements and paid the contribution fee.