Schedule OWWA Appointment Membership Turkey
For Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) in Turkey, it is crucial to be aware of the importance of applying for or renewing your membership with the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA). This membership grants you access to various services, programs, and support provided by the government, aimed at enhancing your career and improving the lives of your dependents. Even those who obtained employment in Turkey through a visit visa are encouraged to voluntarily apply for OWWA membership. If you’re wondering how to go about renewing or applying for OWWA membership in Turkey, we have prepared a comprehensive guide below.
The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) is a government agency authorized to safeguard the welfare of OFWs and their dependents. Working in collaboration with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), the Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO), and the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) (formerly known as the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration or POEA), OWWA ensures that OFWs secure legal employment and can avail themselves of various forms of assistance provided by the Philippine government.
OWWA membership offers a range of services, programs, and support tailored to the specific needs of OFWs and their dependents. It also allows access to legal assistance in case of employer-related issues or during times of crisis such as the Covid-19 pandemic.Schedule OWWA Appointment Membership Turkey
Active OWWA members are eligible for livelihood programs, loans, education and training benefits, scholarships, repatriation, and reintegration programs. Additionally, OWWA serves as an insurance policy that provides assistance in areas such as medical expenses, disability, calamity, death, and burial. Consequently, OFWs in Turkey are strongly encouraged to maintain an active OWWA membership status to fully enjoy the extensive benefits provided.Requirements
Requirements
According to the Facebook post of the Philippine Embassy in Turkey, officials from POLO-OWWA Lebanon are providing labor-related services to overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) who are currently at the Philippine Embassy in Ankara, Turkey. These services include facilitating OWWA membership. Since there is limited information available regarding OWWA membership in Turkey, OFWs are advised to adhere to the requirements provided below by POLO-OWWA Lebanon or contact their office for further details:
- Complete the OFW Information Sheet.
- Provide a photocopy of an active and valid proof of employment.
- Submit photocopies of a valid visa and work permit.
- Present the original and photocopy of your passport, highlighting the data page.
- Include a photocopy of your employer’s passport or identification.
- OFWs must obtain a letter of certification from their employer or company, confirming that they are not listed as terminated, resigned, canceled, or scheduled for termination.
- Pay the OWWA membership fee of US$25.00, which will be converted to Turkish Lira (TL) based on the prevailing foreign exchange rate.
Please note that these requirements are subject to change, and it is advisable to reach out to the POLO-OWWA Lebanon office or refer to the Philippine Embassy in Turkey’s Facebook post for any updated information.
Qualifications
By applying for OWWA membership, overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) can avail themselves of a wide range of services, programs, and support that can greatly benefit both their careers and the living conditions of their families. However, not everyone is eligible to become a member, as OFWs must meet the qualification criteria set by OWWA.
To qualify for OWWA membership, individuals must be active and continuously employed as “legal” or “documented” workers with valid work permits and visas. Additionally, OFWs who have obtained permanent residency status in foreign countries and are still Filipino citizens with full-time or permanent employment are also eligible for OWWA membership.
Conversely, there are certain individuals who are not eligible to become OWWA members due to the requirement of having active and continuous work. This includes employees who:
- Due for termination
- Terminated
- Due for cancellation
- Canceled
- Resigned
- Under the “No work, No pay” scheme
Booking an OWWA Appointment in Turkey
Currently, the process of applying for OWWA membership in Turkey does not offer an online appointment system. Additionally, there is no specific POLO (Philippine Overseas Labor Office) office in Turkey, and the closest POLO-OWWA office is located in Beirut, Lebanon.
To cater to the needs of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) in Turkey, officials from POLO-OWWA Lebanon visit the country to provide labor-related services. These services include consultation, verification of employment contracts, and assistance with OWWA membership.
If you plan to apply at the POLO-OWWA office in Lebanon, it is important to first email their office to secure an appointment. On the other hand, if you happen to be in the Philippines for vacation, you can conveniently book an appointment at any DMW (Department of Manpower and Welfare) office to renew or apply for OWWA membership.
Please note that the given information is accurate as of writing, and it is always recommended to stay updated with the latest guidelines and procedures from the respective authorities.
Applying for OWWA membership in Turkey
“To obtain the most up-to-date information on the OWWA membership application procedure in Turkey, OFWs should contact the POLO-OWWA Lebanon office via email since their last posted visit was in September 2021. Additionally, it is advisable to reach out to the Philippines Embassy in Ankara, Turkey, to seek further details and inquire about the locations for renewing or applying for OWWA membership.
Another convenient option for renewing OWWA membership in Turkey is to utilize the OWWA mobile app. By downloading the app, OFWs can easily renew their OWWA membership online.
For those who plan to visit the Philippines soon, it is also possible to apply for OWWA membership during their vacation. To do so, they should book an appointment for OWWA membership with the DMW and inquire about the latest documentary requirements for the application process.”
Paying OWWA Membership in Turkey
In contrast, if you happen to be in Turkey and find yourself in urgent need of renewing or applying for OWWA membership, you have two available options for making the payment for the OWWA membership fee. You can either utilize the services of POLO-OWWA Lebanon or make use of the OWWA mobile app.
Via POLO-OWWA Lebanon
To remit the OWWA membership fee through POLO-OWWA Lebanon, you can get in touch with them by email or inquire at the Philippine Embassy in Ankara during the visit of POLO-OWWA Lebanon officials to Turkey, where they provide labor-related services. If you are planning to travel to Lebanon, you can also schedule an appointment with their office to pay the OWWA membership fee.
Via OWWA mobile app
“The process of renewing your membership through the OWWA mobile app offers convenience as you can complete it anytime and anywhere. Additionally, you have the option to pay the OWWA membership fee online or have your relatives in the Philippines handle the payment through your chosen Over-the-Counter merchant.
To begin, download the OWWA mobile app on your device and proceed to register an account. Make sure to provide an active email address as this is where you will receive your temporary login details. Check your email and copy the login information provided.
Return to the OWWA mobile app and enter the login details you received via email. Once you have successfully logged in, click on the Information button located at the lower tab. Here, you will be able to view your membership status, indicating whether it is active or inactive.
If your membership is inactive, click on the ‘Renew Membership Here’ option and accept the presented Terms of Service. It is advisable to double-check and update your employment details if necessary. After making any necessary updates, click Submit.
The next step will take you to the LandBank payment portal page. Here, you should click on the ‘Payment Option’ and select your preferred method of payment. Copy the Reference Number provided and follow the payment instructions to complete the payment of the OWWA membership fee. It is recommended to take a screenshot of your transaction or the electronic receipt provided for your records.
Alternatively, if you are currently in the Philippines on vacation, you have the option to pay the OWWA membership fee by scheduling an appointment at any DMW office. You should also inquire with the DMW regarding the specific requirements for the evaluation of your OWWA membership. Then, upon your visit to the DMW office, you can settle the OWWA membership fee on-site.
Please note that all the steps mentioned above can be completed in English for your convenience.”
Reminders for OWWA Membership in Turkey
Take note of the following reminders for OWWA membership application in Turkey:
In Turkey, there is no specific Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO), but labor-related services for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) are provided by POLO-OWWA Lebanon at the Philippine Embassy in Ankara.
If you need to renew your Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) membership, you can conveniently process it online through the OWWA mobile app.
OFWs in Turkey can also renew or apply for OWWA membership at any Department of Manpower and Welfare (DMW) office during their vacation in the Philippines.
When visiting the Philippine Embassy in Ankara, it is important to bring your Covid-19 vaccination card or a negative Covid-19 RT-PCR test. If you require an appointment, make sure to provide proof of your scheduled appointment during your visit.
Applicants should adhere to appropriate attire when visiting the Philippine Embassy in Ankara. Wearing sleeveless or tank tops, sando, shorts, miniskirts, ripped jeans, and slippers is strictly prohibited. Failure to comply with the dress code will result in being denied entry to the premises.
Since there is limited information available online regarding the OWWA membership application procedure in Turkey, OFWs are advised to contact the Philippine Embassy in Ankara and POLO-OWWA Lebanon for specific details.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How to book an appointment with OWWA in Turkey?
As of writing, there is no POLO-OWWA office in Turkey, so an appointment isn’t available.
2. How do I renew my OWWA membership in Turkey?
In Turkey, you have the option to renew your OWWA membership through either the OWWA mobile app or by visiting the POLO-OWWA office in Lebanon. Both of these methods are available for your convenience.
3. How to renew OWWA membership online?
Download and log in to OWWA mobile app to renew your membership online.
4. How much is OWWA membership in Turkey?
The OWWA membership fee is US$25.00 converted to TL based on the foreign exchange rate.
5. Can I pay for the OWWA membership online?
“You have the convenience of paying for your OWWA membership online through the OWWA mobile app. Simply use the app to select your preferred payment method, which can be an online bank or an e-wallet.”
6. How long is OWWA membership valid?
OWWA membership is valid for two years.
7. Why my OWWA membership is inactive?
The OWWA membership becomes inactive if the validity has expired or you changed employers.
8. Is OWWA membership mandatory?
OWWA membership is mandatory for OFWs processing their employment documents at DMW.
9. Are all OFW member of OWWA?
No, not all OFWs are members of OWWA, as they have to meet the qualification criteria for the application,
10. Who can avail of OWWA benefits?
OWWA benefits are available to active members, while inactive members can only access limited benefits.
OWWA Membership/Renewal Updated Requirements 2022
As mentioned in the video, obtaining or renewing OWWA membership often involves scheduling an appointment. Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) have the option to renew their membership either at their workplace abroad or upon their return to the Philippines for vacation. It is important to note that the specific requirements may differ depending on the worker’s status. Therefore, it is advisable to reach out to the appropriate offices to guarantee a successful application or renewal of OWWA membership.
Summary
In conclusion, OFWs in Turkey have different options to renew or apply for their OWWA membership. They can choose to do it online through the OWWA mobile app or through POLO-OWWA Lebanon. Additionally, if they are on vacation in the Philippines, they have the option to apply for or renew their OWWA membership in person at the DMW offices. Therefore, if your membership is about to expire or if you are not yet a member, you can follow the steps in this guide to apply for or renew your OWWA membership.
Contact Details
Philippine Embassy in Ankara, Turkey
Operating Hours: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm, Monday to Friday
Address: Kazım Özalp Mahallesi, Kumkapı Sokak, No:36 Çankaya 06700 Ankara, Ankara Province, Turkey
Telephone Number: (+90)(312)442 3824, (+90)(312)442 3825, (+90)(312)442 3827 (Available during operating hours only)
Consular Hotline: (+90) 530 447 9743
Emergency Hotline: (+90) 534 577 2344
Email: ankara.pe@dfa.gov.ph
For Civil Registration, Notarials, and Visa: ankarape.consular@dfa.gov.ph
Website: https://ankarape.dfa.gov.ph/
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/PHinTurkey/
POLO-OWWA Lebanon
Operating Hours: 9:00 am-4:00 pm, Monday to Friday
Address: 2nd Floor W. Building, Mar Geries St., Hadath, Baabda, Lebanon
Website: https://pololebanon.weebly.com/, https://beirutpe.dfa.gov.ph/
Facebook Page: https://web.facebook.com/PHinLebanon/, https://web.facebook.com/pololebanon/
Telephone Number: POLO: +961 05 953 523, +961 71 418 657; OWWA: +961 05 953 524
Email: pololebanon@yahoo.com, lebanon@owwa.gov.ph
Google Map Location
Here’s a map guide to the location of the PH Embassy in Ankara, Turkey
