All Overseas Filipino Workers in Turkey must know the importance of processing their OWWA member account to maximize their benefits. Whether you’re applying for the first time or renewing for the third time, you need to keep your account active to claim benefits and access special programs for OFWs and their families. Everyone is encouraged to voluntarily apply as long as they meet the qualifications..For first-time applicants in Ankara, it’s important to be aware of the current guidelines in processing OWWA applications.
Some OWWA offices require an appointment before allowing applicants to enter the premises. Therefore, you are advised to contact the concerned office in order to see whether you need to book an appointment and the exact documents you need to prepare. The following are the existing guidelines that you need to consider when renewing OWWA in Turkey.
Requirements for OWWA in Turkey
According to the Philippine Embassy in Turkey’s official Facebook post, the OWWA officials in Lebanon provide job-related services to Filipino migrant workers at the Embassy in Ankara including OWWA membership. While there is limited information regarding OWWA application in Turkey, it’s important that OFWs comply with all the required documents to renew their account.
The following are the requirements that you need to prepare when processing your OWWA application or renewal:
- Duly accomplished OWWA Membership Form or OFW Information Sheet
- Proof of active employment
- Copy of current work permit or visa
- Original copy and photocopy of valid Philippine passport with data page
- Copy of the employer’s ID card or passport
- Letter of Certification issued by the employer that verifies the OFW is not canceled, terminated, or resigned
- Payment for OWWA contribution equivalent to US$25
OWWA Fees and Payment Process
The OWWA fee when renewing membership in Turkey is the equivalent of US$25 based on the current foreign exchange rate. Regardless of your job location, duration of job contract, recruitment agency, or change of employer, each paid contribution has a validity of two years. Ideally, you should renew your account at least three months before the expiration to avoid the rush.
There are two main options to pay for the membership application or renewal, via the mobile app and the OWWA office in Lebanon. If you’re paying through OWWA-Lebanon, you can contact them through email or ask about any upcoming labor-related outreach services that their officials will conduct in Turkey. You can also visit the actual office by booking an OWWA appointment in Lebanon.
Now, if you want to settle the payment using the OWWA Mobile App, the following are the steps you need to follow:
Step 1: Download and open the app on your mobile device.
Step 2: Register a new account by providing your email wherein you will receive the login details.
Step 3: Check the email notification for your temporary login details.
Step 4: Go back to the app and key in your email and password.
Step 5: After successfully logging in, click Information at the bottom of the screen.
Step 6: Check your membership whether it’s still active or not.
Step 7: If it’s already inactive, tap on the Renew Membership Here button and click accept Terms of Service.
Step 8: Review your employment information and update any necessary details before clicking on the Submit button.
Step 9: Click the Payment Option under the LandBank portal page. Select your payment method to proceed.
Step 10: Save your reference number and proceed to payment according to the instructions.
Step 11: Take a photo of the transaction or electronic receipt.
Procedure for Getting an OWWA Turkey Appointment Online
Presently, OWWA membership in Turkey doesn’t implement an online appointment system since there’s no dedicated OWWA office in the country. However, you should reach out to the MWO office in Beirut, Lebanon to ask for the current guidelines in OWWA renewal such as booking an appointment. You can wait for the scheduled visit of the OWWA officials from Lebanon to conduct job-related services such as Employment Contract Verification, consultation, and membership application.
If you’re applying for membership in the MWO office in Lebanon, you can email them in order to get an appointment. On the other hand, you can also schedule an appointment through the DMW office if you’re in the Philippines for a short vacation. Whether you’re renewing your OWWA or applying for the first time, make sure to contact the concerned office for the appointment details.
How to Renew OWWA Membership in Ankara, Turkey
To check for the latest OWWA renewal procedure in Turkey, OFWs must reach out to OWWA-Lebanon via email. If you’re in Ankara, you can visit the Philippine Embassy to get the latest information regarding the OWWA application or renewal process. In addition, you can also download the OWWA Mobile app on your smartphone to renew your account online.
If you don’t have enough time to process your membership in Turkey and you’re planning to take a vacation in the Philippines, you can visit the nearest DMW office in your local area to get an appointment to renew your OWWA. Don’t forget to ask about the list of requirements that you need to submit for the membership application.
Video: How to Apply for OWWA Membership and Become a Member of OWWA
In this video, you will learn how to process your OWWA application and enjoy the benefits of being an active member regardless of your job location. In addition, It also includes all important information such as requirements, qualifications, and step-by-step procedure when applying or renewing an OWWA account for OFWs.
Summary
Overall, this simple guide will help you process your OWWA membership in Ankara, Turkey so that you can claim benefits for you and your family in times of need. Whether you’re renewing your account online or via on-site, it’s important to secure all the documentary requirements to avoid getting rejected.
