For OFWs in Russia, it is important to be aware that applying for or renewing your OWWA (Overseas Workers Welfare Administration) membership can provide benefits for you and your dependents. Even if you obtained employment in Russia through a visit visa and are not yet a member, it is highly recommended to voluntarily apply for OWWA membership to avail yourself of OWWA benefits. If you’re wondering about the process of becoming a member, we have provided a detailed guide below on the different application procedures for OWWA membership in Russia.Schedule OWWA Appointment Membership Russia
The OWWA is a government agency tasked with promoting and safeguarding the welfare of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and their dependents. It collaborates with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), the Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO), and the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), previously known as the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA). These agencies assist OFWs in ensuring they have legal employment and access to OWWA benefits.
By being an OWWA member, OFWs can access various programs, services, and support to assist them and their dependents in different aspects of their lives, ranging from their careers to their living conditions. OWWA members can receive legal assistance in case of conflicts with employers and financial aid during calamities. Additionally, active OWWA members can avail themselves of diverse programs such as livelihood support, loans, education and training benefits, scholarships, repatriation, and reintegration assistance. Most importantly, OWWA membership serves as insurance for OFWs, providing medical, disability, calamity, death, and burial assistance. Therefore, we strongly encourage OFWs in Russia to apply for or renew their OWWA membership to gain access to maximum benefits.
If you require more detailed information on the application processes for OWWA membership in Russia, please refer to our comprehensive guide below.

Requirements
As stated on the Facebook post of the Philippine Embassy in Russia, here are the following application requirements OFWs should secure for OWWA membership:
- Complete the OWWA Information Sheet accurately.
- Provide a photocopy of your valid Philippine passport, displaying the data page.
- Submit a copy of your Employment Contract or any of the following documents as proof of employment:
- Company ID
- Recent payslips
- Bank statements showing salary deposits
- Work or residence permit
- Application for Philippine insurance with employer’s signature
- Any other relevant documents that verify your employment.
- Pay the OWWA Membership fee of US$25.00, converted to RUB using the current foreign exchange rate.
Please note that the OWWA stands for Overseas Workers Welfare Administration, and the documents mentioned above are typically required for various purposes related to overseas employment.
Qualifications
Although OWWA (Overseas Workers Welfare Administration) membership is primarily intended for OFWs (Overseas Filipino Workers), not all individuals are eligible to become members as they must meet certain qualification criteria set by OWWA. Firstly, OWWA requires its members to be actively and continuously employed as “legal” or “documented” workers with valid work permits and visas. OFWs who have obtained permanent residency status in foreign countries can also qualify for OWWA membership, as long as they maintain their Filipino citizenship and have full-time or permanent employment.
However, individuals who do not meet the requirement of active and continuous employment are not eligible for OWWA membership. This includes individuals who are unemployed or not currently engaged in any form of employment.
- Due for termination
- Terminated
- Due for cancellation
- Canceled
- Resigned
- No work, No pay
Booking an OWWA Appointment in Russia
As of the time of writing, there is currently no online appointment system available for OWWA (Overseas Workers Welfare Administration) membership application in Russia, as there is no designated POLO (Philippine Overseas Labor Office) in the country. However, the POLO office in Berlin has jurisdiction over Russia and offers labor-related services and assistance to OFWs (Overseas Filipino Workers).
Recently, POLO Berlin and OWWA conducted a Consular Outreach Mission in Moscow, which may require appointments. Therefore, OFWs are advised to get in touch with these offices to inquire about the schedule and book appointments for the upcoming Consular Outreach Mission in Russia.
On the other hand, if you are currently in the Philippines for vacation and your OWWA membership has expired, you can book an appointment at the DMW (Department of Manpower and Welfare) for OWWA membership renewal. OFWs in Russia can also inquire about OWWA membership at the Philippine Embassy in Moscow.
Please note that the information provided is accurate as of the time of writing, and it is always recommended to contact the relevant offices or visit their official websites for the most up-to-date information and instructions.
Applying for OWWA membership in Russia
According to the available information on the website and Facebook page of the Philippine Embassy in Moscow, there are three ways for OFWs (Overseas Filipino Workers) in Russia to renew or apply for OWWA (Overseas Workers Welfare Administration) membership.
Firstly, in a Facebook post on June 23, 2021, the Philippine Embassy in Russia encouraged OFWs to apply via email, particularly for those who face difficulties with the online application process. It is advisable to verify with POLO Berlin or the Philippine Embassy in Russia if this email application process is still in place before proceeding.
Secondly, in another Facebook post on June 24, 2021, OFWs in areas under the jurisdiction of POLO Berlin were encouraged to use the OWWA Online Membership Registration portal. Therefore, OFWs should check with POLO Berlin or the Philippine Embassy in Russia to confirm the availability of this online registration option.
Lastly, for the most convenient method of renewing OWWA membership, OFWs can download the OWWA mobile app. This allows them to renew their membership anytime and anywhere, and they can make the payment for the contribution fee online or at authorized payment centers.
It is important to note that this information is based on the details provided on the mentioned sources and may be subject to change. It is recommended to refer to the official channels such as the Philippine Embassy in Russia or POLO Berlin for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding the OWWA membership renewal or application process for OFWs in Russia.
Paying OWWA Membership in Russia
I can help you with that. Here are the steps to apply for OWWA (Overseas Workers Welfare Administration) membership and make payments for OFWs (Overseas Filipino Workers) in Russia:
- Prepare the necessary documents: Before starting the application process, make sure you have the required documents ready. This may include your valid passport, work visa, employment contract, and proof of overseas employment.
- Contact OWWA through email: Send an email to the OWWA office in Russia to express your intention to apply for OWWA membership. In the email, provide your personal details, such as your full name, contact information, and current address in Russia. Attach scanned copies of the required documents mentioned earlier.
- OWWA Online Membership Registration portal: Visit the OWWA website and access their Online Membership Registration portal. Fill in the required information accurately and completely. Provide your personal details, employment information, and upload scanned copies of the necessary documents.
- OWWA Mobile: If you prefer to apply through your mobile device, you can download the OWWA Mobile application from the respective app store. Install the app and complete the registration process by providing the required information and uploading the necessary documents.
- Payment of OWWA membership: Once your membership application is approved, you can proceed with the payment of the OWWA membership fee. The fee can be paid through various methods, such as online banking, remittance centers, or through the OWWA Mobile app if available.
- Keep the proof of payment: After making the payment, make sure to keep the proof of payment, such as a receipt or transaction confirmation. This will serve as proof of your OWWA membership payment.
- Receive OWWA membership documents: Once the payment is confirmed, OWWA will provide you with your OWWA membership documents, which may include an OWWA membership certificate and an OWWA OFW e-Card. These documents serve as proof of your membership and may provide you access to various OWWA benefits and services.
It’s important to note that the specific procedures and requirements may vary, so it’s recommended to visit the official OWWA website or contact the OWWA office in Russia for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding membership application and payment processes.
Step-by-step process of Paying the OWWA membership
Via Email
- Ensure that you fulfill all the necessary requirements for the OWWA membership application.
- Send a scanned copy of your documents to owwamemb@gmail.com.
- Wait for the confirmation from POLO Berlin to verify the approval of your application.
- Once your application is approved, proceed to pay the OWWA membership fee to OWWA using the following details:Account Name: Embassy of the Philippines-OWWABank Name: DEUTSCHE BANK AGComplete Address: UNTER DEN LINDEN 13/15, 10117 BerlinBank ID Code (BIC): DEUTDEBB101
International Bank Account Number (IBAN): DE61 1007 0100 0310 9808 00
- Then, send proof of your bank transfer or remittance for the OWWA membership fee payment.
Via OWWA Online Membership Registration
To visit the online OWWA Membership Payment Registration portal, follow these steps:
- Go to the OWWA website and locate the Membership Payment Registration section.
- Click on the link to access the registration portal.
- Fill out all the required fields, which include Personal Information, Employment Details, and Legal Beneficiaries. Make sure to provide accurate and up-to-date information.
- Prepare scanned copies of your Proof of Employment and valid Philippine passport, as you will need to upload them during the registration process.
- Once you have completed all the necessary fields and have the required documents ready, click the “Submit Application” button.
- After submitting your application, wait for an email confirmation from OWWA. This email will contain your transaction number and payment instructions for the OWWA membership fee.
- Follow the payment instructions provided in the email to complete the payment process.
Remember to check your email regularly and keep an eye out for any updates from OWWA regarding your membership application.
Via OWWA mobile app
Here are the instructions to follow in order to download and register an account on the OWWA (Overseas Workers Welfare Administration) mobile app:
- Download the OWWA mobile app on your device.
- Register an account using the app. 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 details sent to you.
- Return to the OWWA mobile app and enter the login details you received in your email.
- Once you have successfully logged in to your account, click on the “Information” button located at the lower tab of the app.
- On the next screen, you will see your membership status, whether it is active or inactive.
- If your membership status is inactive, click on the “Renew Membership Here” button and accept the Terms of Service.
- Double-check or update your employment details if necessary, and then click on the “Submit” button.
- You will be redirected to the LandBank payment portal page. Click on the “Payment Option” and choose your preferred payment method.
- Copy the Reference Number provided and follow the payment instructions to pay the OWWA membership fee.
- After completing the payment, take a screenshot of your transaction or save the provided electronic receipt for your records.
Remember to follow these steps carefully to ensure a smooth process.
Additionally, OFWs can process their OWWA membership via Consular Outreach Mission in Russia or DMW when vacationing in the Philippines. So you can pay the OWWA membership on-site through these two processes.
Reminders for OWWA Membership in Russia
Whether it’s your first time or renewing your OWWA membership in Russia, please take note of the following reminders:
As of the time of writing, there is currently no designated Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO) and online appointment system for the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) membership in Russia.
The jurisdiction over Russia falls under POLO Berlin, which provides labor-related services and addresses concerns of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs).
OFWs in Russia can process their OWWA membership application through various channels, including email, the OWWA mobile app, and the OWWA Online Membership Registration portal. However, please note that the online membership registration portal is only accessible to areas under the jurisdiction of POLO Berlin.
For OFWs who wish to process their OWWA membership application through the POLO Berlin Consular Outreach Mission in Russia or at the Department of Manpower and Welfare (DMW) in the Philippines, it is important to contact the respective offices to book an appointment.
When visiting the Philippine Embassy and other government offices, OFWs should adhere to the dress code and wear proper attire. It is strictly prohibited to wear sleeveless or tank tops, sando (undershirts), shorts, miniskirts, ripped jeans, and slippers. Failure to comply with the dress code may result in being denied entry, even if you have an appointment.
If you choose to apply for OWWA membership on-site, make sure to bring proof of your confirmed appointment schedule, a COVID-19 vaccination card, or a negative RT-PCR test taken within 48 hours prior to your visit.
Since information on Facebook pages and websites may not always be up to date, it is advisable for OFWs to contact the Philippine Embassy in Russia and POLO Berlin for more accurate and detailed information regarding OWWA membership application and related processes.
MGA OFW NA HINDI QUALIFIED MAKAKUHA NG OWWA MEMBERSHIP.
As mentioned in the video, certain individuals are not eligible for OWWA (Overseas Workers Welfare Administration) membership. This includes terminated Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), individuals holding spouse visas, business partner visas, and canceled visas. In essence, OWWA membership is exclusively accessible to legal and employed OFWs, provided that they can fulfill the necessary documentary prerequisites.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How to book an appointment with OWWA in Russia?
As of writing, an online OWWA appointment isn’t available in Russia.
2. How do I renew my OWWA membership in Russia?
“Renewing your OWWA membership in Russia is possible through various methods such as email, Consular Outreach Mission, OWWA Online Membership Registration portal, or the OWWA mobile app.”
3. How to renew OWWA membership online?
Download and register an account on OWWA mobile app to renew your OWWA membership online.
4. How much is OWWA membership in Russia?
The OWWA membership fee in Russia is US$25.00 converted to RUB based on the foreign exchange rate.
5. Can I pay for the OWWA membership online?
You can pay for the OWWA membership online via OWWA mobile app.
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 two-year validity has passed or you’ve changed employers.
8. Is OWWA membership mandatory?
OWWA membership is mandatory if processing employment at DMW.
9. Are all OFW member of OWWA?
Not all OFW since OWWA has since OWWA has qualification criteria applicants should meet.
10. Who can avail of OWWA benefits?
OWWA benefits are available to active members, while inactive members can only access limited benefits.
Summary
In summary, Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) in Russia have various options available to them when applying for or renewing their membership with the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA). Additionally, OFWs in Russia can utilize the OWWA mobile application to conveniently renew their OWWA membership. With the availability of different methods to process their membership, we strongly encourage OFWs in Russia to maintain an active OWWA membership to take advantage of the benefits offered by the organization.
Contact Details
Philippine Embassy in Moscow, Russia
Operating Hours: 9:00 am-5:00 pm, Monday to Friday
Address: Karmanitsky Pereulok 6/8, 121099 Moscow
Website:Â https://moscowpe.dfa.gov.ph/
Facebook Page:Â https://www.facebook.com/PHLinRussia
Email:Â moscow.pe@dfa.gov.ph
Telephone Numbers: +7(499)241-0563/ 241-0564/ 241-0565
24-Hour Hotline Number: +7(906)738-2538
Fax Number: +7(499)241-2630Philippine Embassy in Berlin, Germany
Operating Hours: 9:00 am-4:00 pm, Monday to Friday
Address: Luisenstrasse 16 10117 Berlin Mitte Germany
Website:Â http://philippine-embassy.de/
Facebook Page:Â https://web.facebook.com/PHinGermany/
Email:Â info@philippine-embassy.de
Telephone Number: +49 (0) 30 864 9500
Emergency Hotline: +49 (0) 17 3521 5703Fax Number: (030) 87 32 55 1
POLO-OWWA Berlin, Germany
Email: owwamemb@gmail.com, polo_germany@dole.gov.ph
Telephone Number: POLO- +49 (0) 30 864 95 0 301, OWWA- +49 1523 765 7614
