⚖️ Legal Assistance for OFWs
Comprehensive guide to Philippine government legal support in Europe – Updated 2026
The Two Pillars of Legal Aid
Labor & Work Issues
Managed by: Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) / Migrant Workers Office (MWO)
What it Covers:
- Unpaid wages and salary disputes
- Illegal dismissal or termination
- Contract violations by employers
- Workplace abuse and exploitation
- Labor court representation
Who Can Use It:
All OFWs (documented or undocumented) facing employment-related legal battles in Europe.
Key Service:
The government will hire local lawyers to represent you in European labor courts at no cost to you.
Criminal & Immigration Cases
Managed by: Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) / Embassy “Assistance to Nationals” (ATN)
What it Covers:
- Cases where an OFW is a victim of a crime
- Cases where an OFW is accused of a crime
- Complex immigration issues
- Deportation proceedings
- Human trafficking cases
Key Services:
- Payment of legal fees
- Bail bonds (where allowed under local law)
- Court-appointed interpreters
- Emergency shelter and repatriation
📍 European Service Hubs & Hotlines
In Europe, labor and legal aid are centralized into “Hubs.” If your country doesn’t have a Migrant Workers Office (MWO), contact the Hub in charge of your region.
🇮🇹 Hub: Rome (Central/Southern Europe)
Note for Malta OFWs: If you are working in Malta, the Rome Hub handles all your labor and legal cases.
🇩🇪 Hub: Berlin (Northern/Eastern Europe)
🇪🇸 Hub: Madrid (Southwestern Europe)
🇬🇧 Hub: London (UK & Ireland)
📋 How to Request Legal Assistance
Document the Issue
Keep copies of your employment contract, pay slips, and any communication with your employer or the police. Take photos, save emails, and record dates.
Contact the MWO/ATN
Call the 24/7 hotlines listed above for your region. If you are in Malta, contact the Rome Hub.
Submit the “Distressed OFW” Form
Most offices will ask you to fill out a formal request for the AKSYON or LAF funds. They will guide you through this process.
Wait for Case Evaluation
A labor attaché or consul will review your case. If approved, the government will assign and pay for a local lawyer to represent you.
🌍 Local European Legal Resources (Pro Bono)
In addition to Philippine government help, OFWs have the right to local legal aid provided by European Union states.
| Resource | Country/Region | Services Provided |
|---|---|---|
| Legal Aid Malta | Malta | Free lawyers for employment and immigration appeals for low-income residents |
| ELENA Network | Pan-Europe | A network of specialized immigration lawyers across 38 European countries |
| Caritas / Red Cross | All Europe | Humanitarian legal aid and shelter for victims of trafficking or domestic abuse |
| Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) | Remote/Mobile | Pro bono legal advice via email: legalaid@ibp.ph |
💡 Important Reminders
⏰ Act Quickly
Many labor and legal cases have strict time limits. Contact the embassy or MWO as soon as a problem arises.
Don’t wait until it’s too late!
📱 Save These Numbers
Save the hub hotlines in your phone right now. In an emergency, you’ll need them immediately.
Enable WhatsApp for faster communication with MWO offices.
🤝 You’re Not Alone
Thousands of OFWs have used these services successfully. The Philippine government is here to protect you.
Don’t be afraid to ask for help!