For Overseas Filipino Workers, it should be one of their priorities to apply for OWWA membership and renew it every two years. This type of life insurance provides OFWs with assistance during emergencies, financial problems, and job loss. Active OWWA members are entitled to claim financial support, calamity assistance, loans, and educational training to keep them abreast in terms of global job opportunities.
Whether you’re looking to improve your family’s living conditions or want to take your career to the next level, processing your OWWA renewal is important. If you’re in Vietnam, you can apply for membership and claim for legal assistance in case of employer issues or get medical support during health emergencies. You just need to complete the requirements to renew your OWWA account and maximize your benefits.
Requirements for OWWA in Vietnam
Active OWWA members and their families can benefit from livelihood programs, scholarships, reintegration programs, and disability benefits. To access all these benefits, you need to prepare all the required documents for the renewal or application process. It’s important to reach out to the Philippine Embassy in Vietnam to get the exact list of the requirements you need to submit.
Generally, here are the documents you need to complete according to the Embassy’s official Facebook post:
- Duly accomplished OFW Information Sheet or OWWA Membership Form
- Photocopy of valid Philippine passport with data page
- Employment Contract, latest payslip, SSS card, work permit, residence permit, or Certificate of Employment including the signature of the employer
- For old OWWA members, official receipt of membership payment
- Payment for the OWWA contribution fee
OWWA Fees and Payment Process
The OWWA fee when renewing your account in Vietnam is the equivalent of US$25 to VND based on the current foreign exchange rate. To proceed to the payment process, you need to submit all the required documents and have them evaluated by the OWWA office near you. Once your request has been approved, you will receive an email notification with the instructions on how to pay the membership fee.
While it’s unclear regarding the application and payment for OWWA at the Philippine Embassy, OFWs can opt for the Mobile Consular Outreach Missions for more convenience. If you qualify after the evaluation, you can proceed to the payment process. Here’s how you can settle the payment via the OWWA Mobile App:
Step 1: Download the app on your mobile device.
Step 2: Register for an account by using your active email address. You will receive an email which contains your login details.
Step 3: Log in to your new account with your nominated email and temporary password.
Step 4: After logging in, select the Information tab.
Step 5: Check the status of your membership. If it’s inactive, tap on the Renew Membership Here button and click to accept the Terms of Service.
Step 6: Review your employment information to see whether you need to update some details. Once everything is good, click on the Submit button.
Step 7: Proceed to the LandBank payment page, then select Payment Option. Click on your chosen payment method to settle the fee.
Step 8: Copy your Reference Number and pay the OWWA fee according to the instructions.
Step 9: Take a photo or screenshot of the transaction or electronic receipt.
Procedure for Getting an OWWA Vietnam Appointment Online
Since there’s no online appointment system dedicated for OWWA renewal, OFWs in Vietnam are advised to contact the OWWA office located in Macau SAR via email or phone call in order to schedule their visit. On the other hand, you can reach out to the Philippine Embassy in Vietnam if you can’t go to Macau to renew your OWWA.
Based on the Philippine Embassy in Vietnam’s official website, applicants can come to the office to access all services excluding passport and visa applications. Then again, it’s not clear whether they allow walk-ins or required applicants to book an appointment before visiting the Embassy. The best way to ensure you will have a smooth experience processing your renewal is to contact the concerned office and ask for the current guidelines.
How to Renew OWWA Membership in Vietnam
One of the options to renew your OWWA account in Vietnam is through the Mobile Consular Outreach Mission conducted by the Philippine Embassy. This program offers consular services for Filipino migrant workers in more distant areas such as Ho Chi Minh City. To check for the upcoming outreach missions near you, follow the official Facebook page of the Philippine Embassy in Vietnam or their official website for updates.
Another way is to reach out to the Philippine Honorary Consulate General based in Ho Chi Minh City. Ask for the current requirements and procedure for renewing an OWWA account in Vietnam so that you can prepare your documents. Also, check whether they require confirmed appointments prior to visiting the office. Once you have settled all the requirements, you can pay the contribution fee and get your receipt.
Video: Paano Mag-Renew ng OWWA Membership Using OWWA Mobile App
In this video, you will understand why using the OWWA mobile app is the easiest way to apply or renew your membership. It will walk you through the steps in processing your renewal wherever you are in the world. In just a few clicks, you can update your OWWA status and keep it active so that you can enjoy all the benefits that OWWA offers to active OFW members.
Summary
These are all the details you need when processing your OWWA membership in Vietnam. OFWs should apply and renew their accounts at least three months before the expiration to keep it active. The validity period once payment has been settled is only two years, so make sure to plan ahead for your renewal in order to avoid the hassles. Make sure to contact the concerned office before you visit to know the exact details.