Q: I am the employer for a live in caregiver who resides in the Philippines. She just obtained her work permit but was told that she cannot leave the Philippines until she obtains the proper documents from the POEA. The POEA is now requiring me (the employer) to go to the Toronto Philippine Consulate to pay a fee and sign some forms. Is this a new procedure?

A: I contacted the Philippine Consulate and the POEA/POLO (Philippines Overseas Labor Office) introduced this new policy recently. It is my understanding that Filipino LCP workers can be prevented from leaving Manila unless they get their contract verified by the POEA. As well, the employer must sign an addendum undertaking to be responsible for:

- the cost of two way transportation

- health coverage

- termination shall be for cause

- cost of repatriation of remains to the Philippines

It will cost the employer $38.75 to have the signature verified. After that the Philippine Consulate contacts the POEA who in turn issue the exit visa to the worker.

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Atty. Henry Moyal is a certified and licensed immigration lawyer in Toronto. The article above is general advice only is not intended as legal document. Send your inquiries on live in caregiver program to his office phone 416-733-3193 or visit his website www.moyal.com

Q: I entered Canada using someone else’s passport. I tried to obtain a visa using my own passport but was denied three times. i have met a man who now wants to marry me. I am using my real name for all the documents except the marriage licence. The marriage office wanted to see my passport so I showed them the one I used to come to Canada. How can I get out of this mess?

A: Yes, it is a mess. For starters, it is never a good idea to continue with the lie. It is one thing to come to Canada using a fake passport but do not keep using that person’s name. It will only get you deeper into trouble. You have not yet married (a marriage licence application is not a marriage) so that is good. You must use your real name. The problem you face will involve using the proper application for sponsorship and then convincing immigration of your entry upon arrival. It can be tricky. I suggest you obtain a professional advice.

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Atty. Henry Moyal is a certified and licensed immigration lawyer in Toronto. The article above is general advice only is not intended as legal document. Send your inquiries on Canada immigration to his office phone 416-733-3193 or visit his website www.moyal.com