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Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Saturday, September 13, 2008
Hong Kong: Treatment of Domestic Helpers Studied
It is very encouraging to see the recent comments on the importance of knowing your rights, even though not having to defend them would be a much more hopeful scenario. Still, the reality of being a domestic helper in Hong Kong is not always promising.
For those of you who have the time, an easy to read academic study of how Filipino domestic helpers in particular are treated in Hong Kong Hong, including social attitudes towards them and how the justice system treats them, has recently been made available free online.
Estelle Kennelly’s ‘Culture of Indifference: Dilemmas of the Filipina Domestic Helpers in Hong Kong’ covers the situation until 2007, but mainly focuses on the period from mid-1999 to early 2001. Kennelly worked with and around migrant women’s shelters, including those associated with the Mission for Migrant Workers.
Her major finding, which is obvious to many but should be stated openly, is that a culture of indifference towards foreign domestic helpers in Hong Kong fosters abuse.
For those of you who have the time, an easy to read academic study of how Filipino domestic helpers in particular are treated in Hong Kong Hong, including social attitudes towards them and how the justice system treats them, has recently been made available free online.
Estelle Kennelly’s ‘Culture of Indifference: Dilemmas of the Filipina Domestic Helpers in Hong Kong’ covers the situation until 2007, but mainly focuses on the period from mid-1999 to early 2001. Kennelly worked with and around migrant women’s shelters, including those associated with the Mission for Migrant Workers.
Her major finding, which is obvious to many but should be stated openly, is that a culture of indifference towards foreign domestic helpers in Hong Kong fosters abuse.
Monday, August 11, 2008
HONG KONG: Work Permit Application Procedures
CANDIDATES in HK - you must have employer support - read through before contacting our office,
Click here for Application procedures and requirements for Live-in Caregiver applicants.
Click here for Photo Specifications (Photos which do not meet these specifications will be rejected)
Click here for Instruction - Use of a Representative
Click here for Application kit if applying in Hong Kong
Click here for Processing Fee
NEW OPENING HOURS FOR VISA SECTION EFFECTIVE 15 JULY 2008
Monday to Thursday 08:00 - 10:00:
The Immigration Post will accept in-person temporary resident visa, student visa, temporary work permit and permanent resident travel document applications.
Applications will be accepted ONLY if the person submitting the application is the applicant.
Monday to Thursday 13:15 - 14:00:
Pick-up of in-person applications ONLY. Application result will be returned ONLY if the person picking up the result is the applicant.
IMPORTANT NOTE
Work permit, study permit or immigrant applications, status enquiries, submissions/pick-ups or additional document submissions by agents will NOT be accepted at the window in the Immigration Section at the Consulate. Kindly note, submitting your application directly in Hong Kong will not reduce the processing time of your visa.
Click here for Application procedures and requirements for Live-in Caregiver applicants.
Click here for Photo Specifications (Photos which do not meet these specifications will be rejected)
Click here for Instruction - Use of a Representative
Click here for Application kit if applying in Hong Kong
Click here for Processing Fee
NEW OPENING HOURS FOR VISA SECTION EFFECTIVE 15 JULY 2008
Monday to Thursday 08:00 - 10:00:
The Immigration Post will accept in-person temporary resident visa, student visa, temporary work permit and permanent resident travel document applications.
Applications will be accepted ONLY if the person submitting the application is the applicant.
Monday to Thursday 13:15 - 14:00:
Pick-up of in-person applications ONLY. Application result will be returned ONLY if the person picking up the result is the applicant.
IMPORTANT NOTE
Work permit, study permit or immigrant applications, status enquiries, submissions/pick-ups or additional document submissions by agents will NOT be accepted at the window in the Immigration Section at the Consulate. Kindly note, submitting your application directly in Hong Kong will not reduce the processing time of your visa.
Sunday, August 10, 2008
APPLYING FOR PERMANENT RESIDENCE: Live-in Caregiver Program of Canada
You need to complete at least two years of employment as a live-in caregiver to apply for permanent residence in Canada. Please note that the two-year requirement does not include any extended time away from Canada. For example, if you go away on vacation for three months, that time will not be included as part of the two years of employment. In some countries, you may need to reapply for a visitor visa to return to Canada. If you leave Canada for more than one year or if your employment authorization has expired, you will have to reapply to the overseas visa office to return to Canada under the Live-in Caregiver Program.
Program participants who wish to leave the Program and return permanently to their home country are free to do so at any time. However, adequate notice should be given to the employer.
Your application for permanent resident status could be cancelled if you misrepresented your education, training or experience to the visa officer when you first applied under the Program.
If you apply to stay in Canada, you must complete an application for permanent resident status.
At that time, you must prove you worked as a full-time caregiver for two years. To do this, you can use a statement of earnings or T4 slips as well as any other documentation you believe would help to prove your work record. If you changed jobs since your arrival, you should have a record of employment from each of your former employers. You will not have a ROE for your present job. If you have used your ROEs to apply for employment insurance, HRC staff can help you get copies if you need them.
Your application for permanent residence in Canada will not be assessed on the basis of your financial situation, skills upgrading in Canada, volunteer work, marital status or the number of dependants you may have back home. However, you could be found to be ineligible for permanent residence if you, your spouse or any of your dependent children have a criminal record or a serious medical problem.
FORMS CAN BE DOWNLOADED HERE
Forms are available at the office:
http://www.a-procare.com/
Contact Us today!
Program participants who wish to leave the Program and return permanently to their home country are free to do so at any time. However, adequate notice should be given to the employer.
Your application for permanent resident status could be cancelled if you misrepresented your education, training or experience to the visa officer when you first applied under the Program.
If you apply to stay in Canada, you must complete an application for permanent resident status.
At that time, you must prove you worked as a full-time caregiver for two years. To do this, you can use a statement of earnings or T4 slips as well as any other documentation you believe would help to prove your work record. If you changed jobs since your arrival, you should have a record of employment from each of your former employers. You will not have a ROE for your present job. If you have used your ROEs to apply for employment insurance, HRC staff can help you get copies if you need them.
Your application for permanent residence in Canada will not be assessed on the basis of your financial situation, skills upgrading in Canada, volunteer work, marital status or the number of dependants you may have back home. However, you could be found to be ineligible for permanent residence if you, your spouse or any of your dependent children have a criminal record or a serious medical problem.
FORMS CAN BE DOWNLOADED HERE
Forms are available at the office:
http://www.a-procare.com/
Contact Us today!
Saturday, August 9, 2008
Direct Hiring Process of Domestic Helpers for Hong Kong Employers
This section aims at helping current employers in Hong Kong to submit applications direct to the Director of Immigration HK for an entry visa for a new Helper.
Please follow the procedures step by step. Omitting a step may result in delay or refusal of the application:
Step 1. Arrange with the Helper to complete the Visa/Entry Permit Application Form [ ID (E) 936A), the Declaration of Applicant [ID(E) 936L], the Declaration on Applicant’s working experience [ID(E) 936F], four copies of the standard Employment Contract (ID407) and the Undertaking form (ID 407L)
Please note that :
(a) The Visa/Entry Permit Application Form [ID(E) 936A] and the Declaration of Applicant [ID(#) 936L] should be completed and signed by the Helper. A photograph of the Helper has to be affixed to the Visa/Entry Application Form [ID(E) 936A].
(b) All four copies of the standard Employment Contract (ID 407) should be completed and signed by the employer and then forwarded to the Helper for his/her agreement and signature. The completed standard Employment Contract (ID 407) should be distributed as follows :
• one copy each for retention by the employer and Helper ;
• one copy for the consulate concerned in the HKSAR; and
• one copy for the Immigration Department for the purpose of applying for a visa for the Helper. (c) When submitting the application, the employer has to enclose :
(i) photocopies of the Helper’s travel document containing his/her personal particulars, its date of expiry, details of any re-entry visa to his/her place of origin held (if applicable) ;
(ii) an original copy of the standard Employment Contract (ID 407) which should have been notarized by the appropriate consulate in the HKSAR if so required by the relevant consulate ; and
(iii) a completed Acknowledgement Card (ID 813) if the employer wants the Immigration Department to acknowledge receipt of the application.
Note : The Helper’s signatures on all the forms mentioned above and the standard Employment Contract (ID 407) are to be the same as that on his/her passport.
The Helper must hold a valid national passport. Any given permission to stay in Hong Kong will expire on a specified date which in any case shall not be beyond one month prior to the expiry of the passport.
Step 2. Complete the Application for Employment of Domestic Helper from Abroad Form [ID(E) 407K](a) Please complete every item ; and(b) Remember to sign.
Note : The employer’s signatures on all the forms mentioned above are to be the same as that on the standard Employment Contract (ID 407).
Step 3. Complete two Mailing Labels (ID 839) in English or Chinese in full
Step 4. Enclose the following supporting documents :
(a) A copy of the employer’s Hong Kong Permanent Identity Card/Hong Kong Identity Card. If the employer is not a Hong Kong permanent resident, please make a copy of the travel document showing the employer’s personal particulars and the latest Hong Kong Immigration stamp.
(b) Evidence showing that the employer is financially capable of employing a Helper after his/her household expenditure has been deducted. In general, for every Helper to be employed, the employer must have a household income of no less than HK$15,000 per month or assets of comparable amount to support the employment of a Helper for the whole contractual period.
Examples of such evidence are :
If the employer is an employee of a company
(i) Latest notice of assessment and demand for tax issued by the Inland Revenue Department ; or
(ii) Bank passbook/statement showing auto-payment of the monthly salary for the last 3 months ; or
(iii) Salary statements/slips issued by the employer’s company for the last 3 months ; or
(iv) Evidence showing that the employer is in control of substantial assets such as a recent properties tax assessment, fixed deposits/bank savings statements for the last 6 months (with an aggregated amount of no less than HK$350,000), etc.
If the employer is self-employed or a company director
(v) Latest notice of assessment and demand for tax issued by the Inland Revenue Department ; or
(vi) Company profit tax assessment return together with evidence to show the employer’s connection with the company such as Certificate of Business Registration/Return of Share Allotment [Form 1(b)] ; or
(vii) Bank reference letter showing banking facilities granted to the employer’s company or evidence showing that the employer is in control of substantial assets such as recent properties tax assessment, fixed deposits/bank savings statements for the last 6 months (with an aggregated amount of no less than HK$350,000), etc.
(c) Proof of the employer’s residential address as reported in the standard Employment Contract (ID 407), that the latest demand for rates not or water/telephone/electricity etc. utility bills within the last 3 months.
If the contractual address refers to a flat in a housing estate run by the Housing Department/Hong Kong Housing Society :
(i) Letter of consent from the Housing Department/Hong Kong Housing Society, granting permission for the Helper to reside in the premises ; and
(ii) Copies of page 1 to 4 of the tenancy agreement with the Housing Department/Hong Kong Housing Society showing the address and personal particulars of the family members.
If the documentary evidence is not in the employer’s name, please provide additional proof to show the relationship, such as copy of birth certificate, marriage certificate, company’s annual return, Return of Share Allotment [Form 1(b)], etc.
(d) Testimonial of the Helper showing that he/she has at least two years’ working experience as domestic helper. The testimonial must contain the name and address of the writer to facilitate verification.
Step 5. Please send all the required documents above by post or in person to the following address :
Director of ImmigrationThe Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region
Receipt and Despatch Unit
2nd Floor, Immigration Tower,
7 Gloucester Road
Wan Chai, Hong Kong
Please ensure that the following documents have been enclosed by putting a “tick” against each box as appropriate :
Visa/entry Permit Application Form [ID(E) 936A]
Declaration of Applicant [ID(#) 936L]
Undertaking by the Helper (ID 407L)
An original copy of the standard Employment Contract (ID 407)
Application for Employment of Domestic Helper from Abroad Form (ID(E) 407K)
Photocopies of the Helper’s travel documentCopy of the Helper’s Hong Kong Identity Card (if any)
Copy of the employer’s Hong Kong Permanent Identity Card / Hong Kong Identity Card/passportProof of the employer’s financial position
Proof of the employer’s residential address
Declaration on Applicant’s working experience [ID(E) 936F]
Testimonial of the HelperAcknowledgement Card (ID 813)
Two Mailing Labels (ID 839)
Note :(i) Unless asked to do so, please do not send in originals of the supporting documents (except standard Employment Contract (ID 407)).
(ii) It is an offence to make false statements or representations to an immigration officer. A person who knowingly and willfully makes a statement or gives information which he/she knows to be false or does not believe to be true shall be guilty of an offence under the laws of the HKSAR and any such visa issued shall have no effect. Any aider and abettor in such offence is also liable to criminal prosecution.
(iii) An application with incomplete supporting documents will not be accepted and will be returned to the employer or his/her representative.
Additional Information
1. Notwithstanding that the employer has sent in all the supporting documents, the employer may still be required to attend an interview in connection with the application. Furthermore, other documents in support of the application may be required by the processing officer in individual cases.
2. If the application is approved, the employer will be notified by letter to collect the visa at the Immigration Department. The employer will be required to pay a visa fee of HK$ 135 and the Employees Retraining Levy upon issuance of the visa.
3. If the application is rejected, the employer will be notified in writing.
4. It normally takes about four to six weeks to process an application for the employment of a Helper upon receipt of necessary documents. Please do not make enquiries about the progress of the application unless it is absolutely necessary as it may delay the processing of the application.
5. With effect from July 10 2008, the minimum salary payable to foreign domestic helpers in Hong Kong should not be less than HK$3,580 per month. The employer should provide the helper with free furnished accommodation with light, water and food. If food is not provided, an allowance of normally not less than HK$300 per month should be paid.
Please follow the procedures step by step. Omitting a step may result in delay or refusal of the application:
Step 1. Arrange with the Helper to complete the Visa/Entry Permit Application Form [ ID (E) 936A), the Declaration of Applicant [ID(E) 936L], the Declaration on Applicant’s working experience [ID(E) 936F], four copies of the standard Employment Contract (ID407) and the Undertaking form (ID 407L)
Please note that :
(a) The Visa/Entry Permit Application Form [ID(E) 936A] and the Declaration of Applicant [ID(#) 936L] should be completed and signed by the Helper. A photograph of the Helper has to be affixed to the Visa/Entry Application Form [ID(E) 936A].
(b) All four copies of the standard Employment Contract (ID 407) should be completed and signed by the employer and then forwarded to the Helper for his/her agreement and signature. The completed standard Employment Contract (ID 407) should be distributed as follows :
• one copy each for retention by the employer and Helper ;
• one copy for the consulate concerned in the HKSAR; and
• one copy for the Immigration Department for the purpose of applying for a visa for the Helper. (c) When submitting the application, the employer has to enclose :
(i) photocopies of the Helper’s travel document containing his/her personal particulars, its date of expiry, details of any re-entry visa to his/her place of origin held (if applicable) ;
(ii) an original copy of the standard Employment Contract (ID 407) which should have been notarized by the appropriate consulate in the HKSAR if so required by the relevant consulate ; and
(iii) a completed Acknowledgement Card (ID 813) if the employer wants the Immigration Department to acknowledge receipt of the application.
Note : The Helper’s signatures on all the forms mentioned above and the standard Employment Contract (ID 407) are to be the same as that on his/her passport.
The Helper must hold a valid national passport. Any given permission to stay in Hong Kong will expire on a specified date which in any case shall not be beyond one month prior to the expiry of the passport.
Step 2. Complete the Application for Employment of Domestic Helper from Abroad Form [ID(E) 407K](a) Please complete every item ; and(b) Remember to sign.
Note : The employer’s signatures on all the forms mentioned above are to be the same as that on the standard Employment Contract (ID 407).
Step 3. Complete two Mailing Labels (ID 839) in English or Chinese in full
Step 4. Enclose the following supporting documents :
(a) A copy of the employer’s Hong Kong Permanent Identity Card/Hong Kong Identity Card. If the employer is not a Hong Kong permanent resident, please make a copy of the travel document showing the employer’s personal particulars and the latest Hong Kong Immigration stamp.
(b) Evidence showing that the employer is financially capable of employing a Helper after his/her household expenditure has been deducted. In general, for every Helper to be employed, the employer must have a household income of no less than HK$15,000 per month or assets of comparable amount to support the employment of a Helper for the whole contractual period.
Examples of such evidence are :
If the employer is an employee of a company
(i) Latest notice of assessment and demand for tax issued by the Inland Revenue Department ; or
(ii) Bank passbook/statement showing auto-payment of the monthly salary for the last 3 months ; or
(iii) Salary statements/slips issued by the employer’s company for the last 3 months ; or
(iv) Evidence showing that the employer is in control of substantial assets such as a recent properties tax assessment, fixed deposits/bank savings statements for the last 6 months (with an aggregated amount of no less than HK$350,000), etc.
If the employer is self-employed or a company director
(v) Latest notice of assessment and demand for tax issued by the Inland Revenue Department ; or
(vi) Company profit tax assessment return together with evidence to show the employer’s connection with the company such as Certificate of Business Registration/Return of Share Allotment [Form 1(b)] ; or
(vii) Bank reference letter showing banking facilities granted to the employer’s company or evidence showing that the employer is in control of substantial assets such as recent properties tax assessment, fixed deposits/bank savings statements for the last 6 months (with an aggregated amount of no less than HK$350,000), etc.
(c) Proof of the employer’s residential address as reported in the standard Employment Contract (ID 407), that the latest demand for rates not or water/telephone/electricity etc. utility bills within the last 3 months.
If the contractual address refers to a flat in a housing estate run by the Housing Department/Hong Kong Housing Society :
(i) Letter of consent from the Housing Department/Hong Kong Housing Society, granting permission for the Helper to reside in the premises ; and
(ii) Copies of page 1 to 4 of the tenancy agreement with the Housing Department/Hong Kong Housing Society showing the address and personal particulars of the family members.
If the documentary evidence is not in the employer’s name, please provide additional proof to show the relationship, such as copy of birth certificate, marriage certificate, company’s annual return, Return of Share Allotment [Form 1(b)], etc.
(d) Testimonial of the Helper showing that he/she has at least two years’ working experience as domestic helper. The testimonial must contain the name and address of the writer to facilitate verification.
Step 5. Please send all the required documents above by post or in person to the following address :
Director of ImmigrationThe Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region
Receipt and Despatch Unit
2nd Floor, Immigration Tower,
7 Gloucester Road
Wan Chai, Hong Kong
Please ensure that the following documents have been enclosed by putting a “tick” against each box as appropriate :
Visa/entry Permit Application Form [ID(E) 936A]
Declaration of Applicant [ID(#) 936L]
Undertaking by the Helper (ID 407L)
An original copy of the standard Employment Contract (ID 407)
Application for Employment of Domestic Helper from Abroad Form (ID(E) 407K)
Photocopies of the Helper’s travel documentCopy of the Helper’s Hong Kong Identity Card (if any)
Copy of the employer’s Hong Kong Permanent Identity Card / Hong Kong Identity Card/passportProof of the employer’s financial position
Proof of the employer’s residential address
Declaration on Applicant’s working experience [ID(E) 936F]
Testimonial of the HelperAcknowledgement Card (ID 813)
Two Mailing Labels (ID 839)
Note :(i) Unless asked to do so, please do not send in originals of the supporting documents (except standard Employment Contract (ID 407)).
(ii) It is an offence to make false statements or representations to an immigration officer. A person who knowingly and willfully makes a statement or gives information which he/she knows to be false or does not believe to be true shall be guilty of an offence under the laws of the HKSAR and any such visa issued shall have no effect. Any aider and abettor in such offence is also liable to criminal prosecution.
(iii) An application with incomplete supporting documents will not be accepted and will be returned to the employer or his/her representative.
Additional Information
1. Notwithstanding that the employer has sent in all the supporting documents, the employer may still be required to attend an interview in connection with the application. Furthermore, other documents in support of the application may be required by the processing officer in individual cases.
2. If the application is approved, the employer will be notified by letter to collect the visa at the Immigration Department. The employer will be required to pay a visa fee of HK$ 135 and the Employees Retraining Levy upon issuance of the visa.
3. If the application is rejected, the employer will be notified in writing.
4. It normally takes about four to six weeks to process an application for the employment of a Helper upon receipt of necessary documents. Please do not make enquiries about the progress of the application unless it is absolutely necessary as it may delay the processing of the application.
5. With effect from July 10 2008, the minimum salary payable to foreign domestic helpers in Hong Kong should not be less than HK$3,580 per month. The employer should provide the helper with free furnished accommodation with light, water and food. If food is not provided, an allowance of normally not less than HK$300 per month should be paid.
Thursday, July 24, 2008
Hiring overseas: no longer an affordable option
Dear Clients –
There are several disturbing trends occurring with respect to government policy related to the live in caregiver program. We want to make you aware of these changes, in the event that you would like to communicate with your government representatives about your family’s need for access to overseas foreign caregivers.
In recent months, the government has repeatedly slowed processing times in Hong Kong, which is the best source of live in nannies in the world. We have gone from a processing time of 4 weeks to 6 months or longer within the span of one year. At the same time, it has become more difficult for the caregivers to submit and follow up their applications in Hong Kong. This is unacceptable, particularly in light of the shortage of local caregivers in our current economic environment. The changes have very negatively affected many hundreds of Canadian families desperately waiting for help.
We have received word that Citizenship and Immigration Canada is about to make it even tougher for Canadian families to hire caregivers from overseas. Within the next four months, proposed changes to the program include the following:
There are several disturbing trends occurring with respect to government policy related to the live in caregiver program. We want to make you aware of these changes, in the event that you would like to communicate with your government representatives about your family’s need for access to overseas foreign caregivers.
In recent months, the government has repeatedly slowed processing times in Hong Kong, which is the best source of live in nannies in the world. We have gone from a processing time of 4 weeks to 6 months or longer within the span of one year. At the same time, it has become more difficult for the caregivers to submit and follow up their applications in Hong Kong. This is unacceptable, particularly in light of the shortage of local caregivers in our current economic environment. The changes have very negatively affected many hundreds of Canadian families desperately waiting for help.
We have received word that Citizenship and Immigration Canada is about to make it even tougher for Canadian families to hire caregivers from overseas. Within the next four months, proposed changes to the program include the following:
Employers will be required to pay all fees associated with the caregiver finding employment in Canada and associated with preparing their immigration applications.
Employers will be required to pay airfare for the caregiver.- These two changes alone will result in approx $3000-$5000 of additional up front expense for your family when it is time to hire your next caregiver. You will have to pay these fees before she even sets foot in your door, and without any guarantees that she will stay with your family or that her job performance will be satisfactory.
The intention of the government is that the caregiver will not make any financial investment in her efforts to work in Canada. This is a bad policy and will ultimately harm the Canadian families who so desperately need help. When a caregiver has nothing invested in the process, she has no motivation to ensure it is successful. This creates several implications for employers. With nothing invested, she could quit the process while still overseas after you have already waited several months, and you will have to start over again. She could land in Canada and disappear, having made other arrangements with her friends elsewhere. She could work for your family for a month or two, and then give her notice that she is moving elsewhere. And you are the one who will be left to foot the bill.
Canada provides the highest wage rates and the best working conditions for caregivers worldwide. Caregivers also have the opportunity to apply for Permanent Residence after working for two years – other classes of immigrants pay up to $120,000 for that privilege. This is a great place to work and live and is considered the ultimate destination for overseas caregivers. The caregivers should contribute to the costs of obtaining these opportunities for themselves and their families.
What can you do? Write to your government representatives. Tell them how important it is that your family has access to timely and affordable live in care. We will email you a form letter that you can fax or email to the various government departments. We suggest sending it to Citizenship and Immigration Canada, Human Resource and Skills Development Canada, your local MP and your local MLA.
Pass along this information to any friends who also have a caregiver. Our government needs to look out for our interests.
We know you are busy, but please take the time to communicate with the government about these planned changes before it is too late. Together we can make a difference.
Please contact our office, preferably via email, and we will be happy to send out the materials for you to use as you see fit. Our government needs to serve the interests of Canadians. Canadian families need faster access to live in caregivers, and should not be asked to incur all expenses upfront. Let’s work together to ensure that the program stays accessible for all Canadian families.
Monday, July 21, 2008
PROTECTION FOR CAREGIVERS EYED
The Sun Internet Edition Hong Kong Mid-July 2008
By Daisy C.L. Mandap
Filipinos abroad who are applying to work as caregivers in Canada may soon be asked to submit their work contract for verification at the Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO) at their host country. This was disclosed by Bernardino B. Julve, former labor attache to Hong Kong and now consular officer in charge of labor in Western Canada.
In an exclusive interview with The Sun in Vancouver, Julve said initial talks have been made with Canadian officials to bring into line agencies and individuals who have been taking advantage of a strong demand among Filipinos for work in Canada.
These include agencies which are currently recruiting Filipino domestic helpers in Hong Kong to work as caregivers in Canada, and are known to charge "placement fees" of around HK$30,000, exclusive of medical fees and air ticket.
The practice of hiring Filipino workers from HK has been largely unregulated because the recruiters are not licensed by local labor authorities, and are not required to submit to prior screening by POLO.
But this may change soon, if the Philippines gets Canada's nod to draw up uniform guidelines on hiring Filipino workers, wherever they might be. "The response that we have received so far has been positive," says Julve.
Not only will the work contracts be submitted to POLO for verification, but the Canadian employers would also be required to bear all the costs of importing a Filipino worker, including paying for the air ticket.
This is precisely what is provided for in separate memoranda of agreement recently signed by the Philippines with three western provinces in Canada-- British Columbia, Saskatchewan and Manitoba--with a fourth one with Alberta already in the pipeline.
"Canada itself insisted on requiring that no fees are charged to Filipino workers," says Julve. "Thus, makalusot man sila (agencies) sa Manila, hindi pa rin sila papasa sa Canadian embassy."
A case in point, according to him, was the recent rejection by the Canadian Embassy in Manila of a Filipino's application to work in Canada, after he admitted to paying a fee to the agency that recruited him.
"It may sound harsh to some, but that is the only way we can ensure that our agreement is followed strictly," says Julve.
On his part, he says he has been strict in checking the background of potential employers, to see if they really have the financial capability to bring in workers from the Philippines.
Under the agreements, potential employers are required to secure a labour market opinion (LMO) from an agency called Service Canada before they could hire workers from overseas. But even with this, Julve insists on looking into the employer's background. "I have ruffled a lot of feathers because of this," says Julve, "but this is the only way we could prevent cases where our workers were left stranded in Canada because the company or individual who hired them had become bankrupt."
Sadly, he says Filipino-Canadians appear to be the biggest perpetrators of scams to recruit Filipino workers into Canada, in exchange for large sums of money collected as placement fee.
With Western Canada opening up its labour market to overseas workers ahead of the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver, the Philippines is expecting tens of thousands of Filipinos to start flocking in. This was why Julve was tapped to man the second POLO to be set up in Canada, nearly 40 years after the first one was established in Toronto.
But Julve says that although he has been busy meeting with Canadian officials and members of the Filipino communities at his various posts, he continues to keep an eye on extending the protection provided for under the agreement to caregivers. "That will come in due time," he promised.
By Daisy C.L. Mandap
Filipinos abroad who are applying to work as caregivers in Canada may soon be asked to submit their work contract for verification at the Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO) at their host country. This was disclosed by Bernardino B. Julve, former labor attache to Hong Kong and now consular officer in charge of labor in Western Canada.
In an exclusive interview with The Sun in Vancouver, Julve said initial talks have been made with Canadian officials to bring into line agencies and individuals who have been taking advantage of a strong demand among Filipinos for work in Canada.
These include agencies which are currently recruiting Filipino domestic helpers in Hong Kong to work as caregivers in Canada, and are known to charge "placement fees" of around HK$30,000, exclusive of medical fees and air ticket.
The practice of hiring Filipino workers from HK has been largely unregulated because the recruiters are not licensed by local labor authorities, and are not required to submit to prior screening by POLO.
But this may change soon, if the Philippines gets Canada's nod to draw up uniform guidelines on hiring Filipino workers, wherever they might be. "The response that we have received so far has been positive," says Julve.
Not only will the work contracts be submitted to POLO for verification, but the Canadian employers would also be required to bear all the costs of importing a Filipino worker, including paying for the air ticket.
This is precisely what is provided for in separate memoranda of agreement recently signed by the Philippines with three western provinces in Canada-- British Columbia, Saskatchewan and Manitoba--with a fourth one with Alberta already in the pipeline.
"Canada itself insisted on requiring that no fees are charged to Filipino workers," says Julve. "Thus, makalusot man sila (agencies) sa Manila, hindi pa rin sila papasa sa Canadian embassy."
A case in point, according to him, was the recent rejection by the Canadian Embassy in Manila of a Filipino's application to work in Canada, after he admitted to paying a fee to the agency that recruited him.
"It may sound harsh to some, but that is the only way we can ensure that our agreement is followed strictly," says Julve.
On his part, he says he has been strict in checking the background of potential employers, to see if they really have the financial capability to bring in workers from the Philippines.
Under the agreements, potential employers are required to secure a labour market opinion (LMO) from an agency called Service Canada before they could hire workers from overseas. But even with this, Julve insists on looking into the employer's background. "I have ruffled a lot of feathers because of this," says Julve, "but this is the only way we could prevent cases where our workers were left stranded in Canada because the company or individual who hired them had become bankrupt."
Sadly, he says Filipino-Canadians appear to be the biggest perpetrators of scams to recruit Filipino workers into Canada, in exchange for large sums of money collected as placement fee.
With Western Canada opening up its labour market to overseas workers ahead of the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver, the Philippines is expecting tens of thousands of Filipinos to start flocking in. This was why Julve was tapped to man the second POLO to be set up in Canada, nearly 40 years after the first one was established in Toronto.
But Julve says that although he has been busy meeting with Canadian officials and members of the Filipino communities at his various posts, he continues to keep an eye on extending the protection provided for under the agreement to caregivers. "That will come in due time," he promised.
Thursday, July 17, 2008
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
Response to CBC News Report & Article
This situation is stemming from a gross misunderstanding, and A-PRO's lack of communication with the family. A-PRO Caregivers & Nannies adheres to reguations pertaining to Employment Agencies as set out by Employment Standards of BC.
Bingclaire Castillo submitted her application for services to a Relocation Service and is not operated by EL APOSTOL or A-PRO Caregivers & Nannies.
The Klose family and Nanny are waiting for VISA to be issued by Immigration Canada Singapore Post. A-PRO has completed it's first stage and is now waiting for the nanny to complete her end. Second stage, once nanny arrived at YVR -she gets picked up and completes a 3day orientation before being delivered to her family.
The article failed to mention - that the nanny has submitted her application for a Temporary Resident Visa at Immigration Canada - Singapore Post; and that there is no need for A-PRO to contact her, as A-PRO is waiting for updates from the nanny.
Excert from article:
Bingclaire Castillo submitted her application for services to a Relocation Service and is not operated by EL APOSTOL or A-PRO Caregivers & Nannies.
The Klose family and Nanny are waiting for VISA to be issued by Immigration Canada Singapore Post. A-PRO has completed it's first stage and is now waiting for the nanny to complete her end. Second stage, once nanny arrived at YVR -she gets picked up and completes a 3day orientation before being delivered to her family.
The article failed to mention - that the nanny has submitted her application for a Temporary Resident Visa at Immigration Canada - Singapore Post; and that there is no need for A-PRO to contact her, as A-PRO is waiting for updates from the nanny.
Excert from article:
Klose said she then heard nothing from the company for several weeks, despite
repeated calls and e-mails.
Unfortunately, the time frame that the family was needing me, I was out of town, and nanny was told if there was any developments in your application, call the family as well. BOTH family and nanny have access to each other.
"Desperate for child care, she began talking to Castillo directly about bringing her to Canada without the agency's involvement."
The agency's first phase -- is done. We are only waiting to deliver the nanny - which is dependant on the issuance of Visa. Immigration Processing time is out of A-PRO's control.
Castillo's information sent to CBC is wrong. Castillo delayed her application submission by 1month... it was not till pressure came that she admitted to submitting it late.... adding more time to the processing.
Bringing Castillo into Canada independently? There's nothing for the family to do only to wait for Immigration Canada - majority of the work needed has already been done.
After all this, I hope that the nanny appreciates what the Klose family is doing for her, and that she stays to complete her contract with the family. As some nannies - just grab opportunities and are two-faced.
EL APOSTOL
Centre Director
A-PRO Caregivers & Nannies
Media enquiries, please email EL APOSTOL directly at: el@elapostol.com
=============================
*** Have found defamatory comments on blogs and forums. Unfortunately, all have been signed "anonymous" where's the credibility in that? If it's truely your fight - why hide?
Friday, July 11, 2008
WAGES of Nannies/Caregivers in Vancouver
What are the current salary for Nannies/Caregivers?
Salary will depend on the experience & education that a Nanny/Caregiver brings.
But before wages can be discussed - what is the nanny/caregiver expected to do?
First a nanny is responsible for care and the safety of your children, plus childcare related duties AND if time permits, she does light housekeeping. But what's considered light housekeeping? With the introduction of the Live-in Caregiver Program -- We're seeing nannies doing more heavy duty extras.
What about the situation when the mom is at home? and the nanny/caregiver is still responsible for the children and the household?
A housekeeper in Vancouver earns anywhere between $12-18/hour.
-- Live-in Caregivers can earn between $1400-1800/gross per month - Live out Nannies/Caregivers between $1800-$3500+ per month.
A broad range of wages -- with broad range of responsibilities.
So how does a family figure out what to pay their nanny?
If you were in their shoes, how much would you like to get paid for the duties that they are expected to perform?
Salary will depend on the experience & education that a Nanny/Caregiver brings.
But before wages can be discussed - what is the nanny/caregiver expected to do?
First a nanny is responsible for care and the safety of your children, plus childcare related duties AND if time permits, she does light housekeeping. But what's considered light housekeeping? With the introduction of the Live-in Caregiver Program -- We're seeing nannies doing more heavy duty extras.
What about the situation when the mom is at home? and the nanny/caregiver is still responsible for the children and the household?
A housekeeper in Vancouver earns anywhere between $12-18/hour.
-- Live-in Caregivers can earn between $1400-1800/gross per month - Live out Nannies/Caregivers between $1800-$3500+ per month.
A broad range of wages -- with broad range of responsibilities.
So how does a family figure out what to pay their nanny?
If you were in their shoes, how much would you like to get paid for the duties that they are expected to perform?
Wednesday, July 9, 2008
Sunday, July 6, 2008
CAREGIVER Movie - starring Sharon Cuneta
OFW's who have seen this movie, please post your review here. Bravo to the writer/s who made Sarah stronger - and able to stand up for herself, rather than the usual - "never mind, I give up" response that we see often from DHs/Nannies/Caregivers.
Friday, July 4, 2008
Live-in Caregiver Program applications HK- post
Note: Application Forms are not available in the Canadian Consulate and must therefore be downloaded from the website.
http://geo.international.gc.ca/asia/hongkong/immigration/nivisa-en.asp
Work Permit Applications for Live-in Caregiver Program
http://geo.international.gc.ca/asia/hongkong/immigration/twapp-en.asp
Third Party submissions will not be accepted. Applicant must submit in person.
Effective July 15, 2008, new office hours will be:
Monday to Thursday: 08:00am to 10:00am
Friday : Closed
Saturday, Sunday & Public Holidays: Closed
Non - Immigrant Application:
Visiting Canada
Studying in Canada
Working in Canada
Photo Specifications (Photos which do not meet these specifications will be rejected)
Fee Schedule
http://geo.international.gc.ca/asia/hongkong/immigration/nivisa-en.asp
Work Permit Applications for Live-in Caregiver Program
http://geo.international.gc.ca/asia/hongkong/immigration/twapp-en.asp
Third Party submissions will not be accepted. Applicant must submit in person.
Effective July 15, 2008, new office hours will be:
Monday to Thursday: 08:00am to 10:00am
Friday : Closed
Saturday, Sunday & Public Holidays: Closed
Non - Immigrant Application:
Visiting Canada
Studying in Canada
Working in Canada
Photo Specifications (Photos which do not meet these specifications will be rejected)
Fee Schedule
Tuesday, July 1, 2008
A-PRO Caregivers & Nannies:
Thanks To All Who Again Made Our Annual Picnic A Success.
--------------------------------------------------------------
This year, Multicultural Helping House Society's "WE CARE" Settlement Support Services for Caregivers - came out to network with us, Vice-Pres, Felomina Piano, thank you for introducing yourself and the organization. 
Special thanks goes out to Mr. Lito Orayan, for the delicious BBQ and chopping the Lechon. Sandy for organizing the games.
If anyone have photos they would like posted here - please email it to info@vancouvernannies.com
--------------------------------------------------------------
Saturday, June 21, 2008
A-PRO Caregivers & Nannies - 7th Annual Picnic
Watch for a white tent RSVP by June 26,
Sandy: 778-319-2776 or
Email: info@vancouvernannies.com
It is a potluck with A-PRO providing the Lechon.
Then in the evening you get to work off the lechon and pancit with a dance and laraoke that evening at Pondok's 950 W. Broadway. Second Flr. The dance is 9PM till 2:am.
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
Hiring direct from the Philippines is high risk and costly!
Lately, there’s been a lot of media coverage on the Foreign Live in Caregiver Program (LCP). The Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO) in Toronto has outlined changes to the Employer-Employee contract for live in caregivers (LIC).
To read more click on link below:
http://www.immigrationhour.com/new-lcp-contract-scares-canadian-employers-away/
To read more click on link below:
http://www.immigrationhour.com/new-lcp-contract-scares-canadian-employers-away/
Tuesday, April 8, 2008
If you are 30 or older you will think this is hilarious!!!!
When I was a kid, adults used to bore me to tearswith their tedious diatribes about how hard things were when they were growing up; what with walking twenty-five miles to school every morning ... uphill BOTH ways
yadda, yadda, yadda
And I remember promising myself that when I grew up,there was no way in hell I was going to lay a bunch of crap like that on kids about how hard I had it and how easy they've got it!
But now that I'm over the ripe old age of thirty, I can't help but look around and notice the youth of today. You've got it so easy! I mean, compared to my childhood, you live in a damn Utopia!
And I hate to say it but you kids today you don't know how good you've got it! I mean, when I was a kid we didn't have The Internet. If we wanted to know something, we had to go to the damn library and look it up ourselves, in the card catalog!!
There was no email!! We had to actually write somebody a letter ...with a pen!
Then you had to walk all the way across the street and put it in the mailbox and it would take like a week to get there!
There were no MP3's or Napsters! If you wanted to steal music, you had to hitchhike to the damn record store and shoplift it yourself! Or you had to wait around all day to tape it off the radio and the DJ'd usually talk over the beginning and @#*% it all up!
We didn't have fancy crap like Call Waiting! If you were on the phone and somebody else called they got a busy signal, that's it! And we didn't have fancy Caller ID Boxes either! When the phone rang, you had no idea who it was! It could be your school, your mom, your boss, yourbookie, your drug dealer, a collections agent, you just didn't know!!! You had to pick it up and take your chances, mister!
We didn't have any fancy Sony Playstation videogames with high-resolution 3-D graphics!
We had the Atari 2600! With games like 'Space Invaders' and 'asteroids'. Your guy was a little square! You actually had to use your imagination!! And there were no multiple levels or screens, it was just one screen forever! And you could never win. The game just kept getting harder and harder and faster and faster until you died! Just like LIFE!
When you went to the movie theater there no such thing as stadium seating! All the seats were the same height! If a tall guy or some old broad with a hat sat in front of you and you couldn't see, you were just screwed!
Sure, we had cable television, but back then that was only like 15 channels and there was no on screen menu and no remote control! You had to use a little book called a TV Guide to find out what was on!
You were screwed when it came to channel surfing! You had to get off your ass and walk over to the TV to change the channel and there was no Cartoon Network either!
You could only get cartoons on Saturday Morning. Do you hear what I'm saying!?! We had to wait ALL WEEK for cartoons, you spoiled little rats!
And we didn't have microwaves, if we wanted to heat something up we had to use the stove or go build a frigging fire ...imagine that!
If we wanted popcorn, we had to use that stupid Jiffy Pop thing and shake it over the stove forever like an idiot.
That's exactly what I'm talking about! You kids today have got it too easy. You're spoiled. You guys wouldn't have lasted f ive minutes back in 1980s!
Regards,
The over 30 Crowd
yadda, yadda, yadda
And I remember promising myself that when I grew up,there was no way in hell I was going to lay a bunch of crap like that on kids about how hard I had it and how easy they've got it!
But now that I'm over the ripe old age of thirty, I can't help but look around and notice the youth of today. You've got it so easy! I mean, compared to my childhood, you live in a damn Utopia!
And I hate to say it but you kids today you don't know how good you've got it! I mean, when I was a kid we didn't have The Internet. If we wanted to know something, we had to go to the damn library and look it up ourselves, in the card catalog!!
There was no email!! We had to actually write somebody a letter ...with a pen!
Then you had to walk all the way across the street and put it in the mailbox and it would take like a week to get there!
There were no MP3's or Napsters! If you wanted to steal music, you had to hitchhike to the damn record store and shoplift it yourself! Or you had to wait around all day to tape it off the radio and the DJ'd usually talk over the beginning and @#*% it all up!
We didn't have fancy crap like Call Waiting! If you were on the phone and somebody else called they got a busy signal, that's it! And we didn't have fancy Caller ID Boxes either! When the phone rang, you had no idea who it was! It could be your school, your mom, your boss, yourbookie, your drug dealer, a collections agent, you just didn't know!!! You had to pick it up and take your chances, mister!
We didn't have any fancy Sony Playstation videogames with high-resolution 3-D graphics!
We had the Atari 2600! With games like 'Space Invaders' and 'asteroids'. Your guy was a little square! You actually had to use your imagination!! And there were no multiple levels or screens, it was just one screen forever! And you could never win. The game just kept getting harder and harder and faster and faster until you died! Just like LIFE!
When you went to the movie theater there no such thing as stadium seating! All the seats were the same height! If a tall guy or some old broad with a hat sat in front of you and you couldn't see, you were just screwed!
Sure, we had cable television, but back then that was only like 15 channels and there was no on screen menu and no remote control! You had to use a little book called a TV Guide to find out what was on!
You were screwed when it came to channel surfing! You had to get off your ass and walk over to the TV to change the channel and there was no Cartoon Network either!
You could only get cartoons on Saturday Morning. Do you hear what I'm saying!?! We had to wait ALL WEEK for cartoons, you spoiled little rats!
And we didn't have microwaves, if we wanted to heat something up we had to use the stove or go build a frigging fire ...imagine that!
If we wanted popcorn, we had to use that stupid Jiffy Pop thing and shake it over the stove forever like an idiot.
That's exactly what I'm talking about! You kids today have got it too easy. You're spoiled. You guys wouldn't have lasted f ive minutes back in 1980s!
Regards,
The over 30 Crowd
Monday, April 7, 2008
Change in China Visa Applications for PRs and other foreign nationals
Some of you may have started to experience or have heard about the change in visa applications to China.
In short, the Chinese government will not issue anymore multiple entry visas since last Monday March 31st. This will stay in effect until the end of the Olympics. To quote the SCMP page one article yesterday: “Travelers are now restricted to single- or double-entry visas valid for 30 days. Multiple-entry visas that have not expired are still valid.”
THIS AFFECTS PERMANENT RESIDENTS OF HONG KONG AS WELL. Don’t think you’re exempted. DH exiting to China for the purpose of going back the same day -- this may not be the best strategy -- check Macao entry requirements instead.
Travel agents were informed, but the rest of the business community has been hearing about it as they found applications for multiple-entry visas were being denied. Some believe the ban could last well into October.
Also, pricing has been changed (raised). Now:
Single entry/Double entry
British nationals: $850 / $1,050
Australians, Canadians, most Europeans $500 / $600
Some are also reporting longer processing times.
So please do be aware and check with your travel agent well in advance of traveling to China to ensure less hassle when traveling.
In short, the Chinese government will not issue anymore multiple entry visas since last Monday March 31st. This will stay in effect until the end of the Olympics. To quote the SCMP page one article yesterday: “Travelers are now restricted to single- or double-entry visas valid for 30 days. Multiple-entry visas that have not expired are still valid.”
THIS AFFECTS PERMANENT RESIDENTS OF HONG KONG AS WELL. Don’t think you’re exempted. DH exiting to China for the purpose of going back the same day -- this may not be the best strategy -- check Macao entry requirements instead.
Travel agents were informed, but the rest of the business community has been hearing about it as they found applications for multiple-entry visas were being denied. Some believe the ban could last well into October.
Also, pricing has been changed (raised). Now:
Single entry/Double entry
British nationals: $850 / $1,050
Australians, Canadians, most Europeans $500 / $600
Some are also reporting longer processing times.
So please do be aware and check with your travel agent well in advance of traveling to China to ensure less hassle when traveling.
Friday, March 7, 2008
POEA suspends memo on employers’ $5,000 repatriation bond
By Veronica Uy
www.INQUIRER.net
Posted date: February 14, 2008
MANILA, Philippines — (UPDATE) The Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) has suspended a circular requiring employers to pay a $5,000 repatriation bond and direct-hire Filipino workers to post a performance bond equal to three months’ pay.
Memorandum Circular (MC) 04, series of 2007, was suspended after a directive from President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, POEA Administrator Rosalinda Baldoz said.In a phone interview, Baldoz told INQUIRER.net the suspension will remain in effect pending discussions by the POEA governing board on Monday.The suspension means direct-hires will be processed under POEA rules in effect before MC 04 was issued.MC 04 received a lot of flak from overseas Filipino workers’ (OFWs) organizations and advocacy groups when it took effect January 16 this year.
The OFWs complained the additional requirements would either be passed on to them by their employers or make them unattractive to employers abroad.But Labor Secretary Arturo Brion, who heads the POEA governing body, said the additional requirements were meant to protect the workers. Baldoz said discussions will center principally on professionals who will be adversely affected by the order.“We will review the order to see if there is a need for a more relaxed policy pertaining to professionals and countries with a long track record of workers’ protection,” she said.The POEA chief foresees a very lively discussion on Monday, particularly on the definition of professionals.The new order would “relax” the rules for direct-hire “professionals, those to be employed by reputable companies already providing adequate protection, and similarly situated employers.”Earlier, the Department of Labor and Employment (DoLE) backpedaled on the controversial order and said it would consider exempting countries with verified protective mechanisms.Some two weeks ago, Brion said of the 35 countries with a high concentration of OFWs, the Philippine Overseas Labor Offices (POLOs) in Italy, Geneva, and Hong Kong have so far confirmed that employers have been complying with the requirements guaranteeing repatriation assistance and payment of salaries.
www.INQUIRER.net
Posted date: February 14, 2008
MANILA, Philippines — (UPDATE) The Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) has suspended a circular requiring employers to pay a $5,000 repatriation bond and direct-hire Filipino workers to post a performance bond equal to three months’ pay.
Memorandum Circular (MC) 04, series of 2007, was suspended after a directive from President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, POEA Administrator Rosalinda Baldoz said.In a phone interview, Baldoz told INQUIRER.net the suspension will remain in effect pending discussions by the POEA governing board on Monday.The suspension means direct-hires will be processed under POEA rules in effect before MC 04 was issued.MC 04 received a lot of flak from overseas Filipino workers’ (OFWs) organizations and advocacy groups when it took effect January 16 this year.
The OFWs complained the additional requirements would either be passed on to them by their employers or make them unattractive to employers abroad.But Labor Secretary Arturo Brion, who heads the POEA governing body, said the additional requirements were meant to protect the workers. Baldoz said discussions will center principally on professionals who will be adversely affected by the order.“We will review the order to see if there is a need for a more relaxed policy pertaining to professionals and countries with a long track record of workers’ protection,” she said.The POEA chief foresees a very lively discussion on Monday, particularly on the definition of professionals.The new order would “relax” the rules for direct-hire “professionals, those to be employed by reputable companies already providing adequate protection, and similarly situated employers.”Earlier, the Department of Labor and Employment (DoLE) backpedaled on the controversial order and said it would consider exempting countries with verified protective mechanisms.Some two weeks ago, Brion said of the 35 countries with a high concentration of OFWs, the Philippine Overseas Labor Offices (POLOs) in Italy, Geneva, and Hong Kong have so far confirmed that employers have been complying with the requirements guaranteeing repatriation assistance and payment of salaries.
Monday, January 28, 2008
Nannies: Posting Unprofessional online Profiles...
"It may seem private but an unprofessional online profile can damage your chances in finding your next family," warnes EL APOSTOL Centre Director of A-PRO Caregivers & Nannies Inc -a childcare & household staffing agency in the Vancouver area - A suggestive e-mail address or revealing post on a Myspace profile - Facebook or Friendster can kill a person's chance of landing a job. "We've seen it happen to a number of nanny candidates, and it's why we're raising the red flag."
Apostol recounts the story of one set of parents that did an Internet search on a nanny they wanted to hire. It was a rude awakening when they found her Friendster account with details of drunken, all-night parties on her most recent long weekend. But the real deal breaker was that she had written at length about the family she used to work for, listing things she didn’t like about them and the job.
APOSTOL says her agency has added one more thing to its screening process - an Internet search of each potential job candidate’s name. “We will not represent candidates who have an unprofessional online persona. We advise them to keep their private lives private.” Candidates who make it through A-PRO’s screening process are reminded to mind their online P’s & Q’s forever.
Here are the tips A-PRO gives to the people it sends out for job interviews:
Apostol recounts the story of one set of parents that did an Internet search on a nanny they wanted to hire. It was a rude awakening when they found her Friendster account with details of drunken, all-night parties on her most recent long weekend. But the real deal breaker was that she had written at length about the family she used to work for, listing things she didn’t like about them and the job.
APOSTOL says her agency has added one more thing to its screening process - an Internet search of each potential job candidate’s name. “We will not represent candidates who have an unprofessional online persona. We advise them to keep their private lives private.” Candidates who make it through A-PRO’s screening process are reminded to mind their online P’s & Q’s forever.
Here are the tips A-PRO gives to the people it sends out for job interviews:
- If your e-mail address is suggestive or otherwise unprofessional, change it.
- Make sure your voicemail greeting has only a brief, professional message during your job search.
- If you have an Internet page or profile, make it private and available only to pre-approved viewers. (It’s a simple setting on MySpace, Facebook, hi5 or Friendster.)
FAQ's by Families
EXPERIENCE - A-PRO Caregivers & Nannies Inc enjoy an excellent reputation, we know the players, we know the rules, and we have the necessary practical experience to support our services. We're experienced in handling both your stress and issues when choosing the best care possible.
CREATIVE, PRACTICAL and ACCURATE ADVICE - Knowing the regulations and meeting the families is the easy part of our job. The more difficult aspect is balancing the two in creative and practical ways, to achieve our Families' short and long-term objectives. We take pride in our ability to meet this challenge. Before we give an opinion, or make a recommendation, the legal and practical implications are always considered. The result is that you are put in the position of making an informed and pragmatic decision.
PROACTIVE SOLUTIONS - We encourage our Nannies/Caregivers to seek our advice before problems arise. By helping them take a proactive, preventative approach to Immigration and employment issues, we can save the families time, money and aggravation. We endevour to keep you up-to-date with the current processing times as it becomes known to us.
PERSONAL APPROACH - Our staff are committed to providing individual, personalized service. We take the time to get to know our clients. Once we understand the needs, we tell the client about their options, and our recommendations.
ACCESSIBILITY - We are easily accessible in person (where applicable), by e-mail, or by telephone Mon-Fri 10am-2pm Pacific Standard Time. Extended hours are available by appointment.
VALUE - Our clients need to be able to forecast and control their expenses. Our fees are clearly set out in our Engagement of Services and in our Fees & Refunds Schedule.
NETWORK - Our clients benefit from our good working relationships with many other professionals including lawyers, accountants, realtors, employment or business consultants. We can quickly put you in the hands of other advisors if the need arises.
2. How does A-PRO Caregivers & Nannies (A-PRO) find quality candidates?
Our organization has been successfully bringing together employers and candidates since 2001. A-PRO Caregivers & Nannies represents a diverse group of experienced, skilled and professional private service professionals from around the world. We are proud to work with candidates who refer their sons, daughters and grandchildren to us for placement. Our marketing, advertising and referral programs combined with our established network, allow us to work quickly to fill clients staffing needs with quality candidates.
Since 2001, we have been successfully placing experienced candidates. Many candidates have a long term relationship with us. Each time their job comes to an end they return to us for a new position.Candidates are required to have verifiable previous work experience in a home or similar industry. For many years, candidates interested in working in a home could only learn the trade by on the job training. In the past 10 years, schools have opened that now train nannies, and household managers, Candidates will also have transferable experience and training from fields such as education, hospitality and health care.As the employer, your job description will determine the type of experience and background a candidate needs to meet your requirements. Based on your information we will execute a search to match your requirements. Candidates that are not authorized to work in CANADA are not eligible for placement through A-PRO.
A-PRO requires all candidates to complete a rigorous pre-screening, personal interview, reference verification and independent background check process. Initially, candidates are pre-screened for work eligibility in CANADA (Overseas caregivers), work history, skill assessment, communication skills, attitude and job preference. If the candidate passes our initial screening they are personally interviewed and individually assessed. Each candidate completes a 12page application which provides us with their personal and work history, work style, education and work preferences.Upon completion of the interview, the candidate's references are checked by phone. You will be provided with detailed reference summaries for review. Local candidates: Criminal background checks are performed by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. As there are fees involved for these background checks, they are conducted after a job offer has been made and accepted. Additional background check - driving record when applicable.
5. Does A-PRO have a Registration Fee/Retainer Fee?
NO, A-PRO does not charge a Registration Fee/Retainer Fee to begin your search.
6. What is your agency fee? The fee for our service is due if a candidate is hired, directly or indirectly by an employer who has listed their job opening with our firm. Our placement fee is $1200. Our fee is due upon submission of Service Canada (HRDC) Foreign Worker Job Validation Application to A-PRO. Fees for pre-employment background checks are included in our placement fee after a job offer has been made and accepted. If you're interested in these services prior to hiring a candidate you will be required to pre-pay the fee for these services.
7. Indirect fee: Employers who introduce candidates who have been introduced to the employer by our firm to another employer will be responsible for payment of the placement fee. Our services include an initial phone consultation or on-site consultation.
8. What are the current salary for Nannies/Caregivers? Salary will depend on the experience & education that a Nanny/Caregiver brings. Live-in Caregivers coming from outside Canada can be between $1400-1600 while others who are available locally, between $1500-$1800. Live out Nannies/Caregivers between $1800-$2500+ (View salary)
9. How do I know if the person I hire is the right person for the job?
When you list your job opening with us, your consultant will spend time going over your family needs assessment form. Your consultant will begin formulating a job description, the required personality profile to compliment the household, preferred experience and other details. We will identify and present appropriate candidates for your consideration.
Currently we are staffing Live-in childcare and household employees in the British Columbia area only. Geographic placement is concentrated in Vancouver, North Shore, Burnaby and select locations in the South Surrey area, and East to Mission.Nationwide we staff Live-In Nannies and Domestic Helpers by request.
Please fill out our family needs assessment form: your first step.
A-PRO Caregivers & Nannies Inc. Site Links:
Please fill out our family needs assessment form: your first step.
A-PRO Caregivers & Nannies Inc. Site Links:
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
LTO announces new policy on driver's license renewal for OFWs
The Philippine Consulate General is pleased to inform the public that Filipinos overseas whose Philippine driver’s licenses have expired may now renew their driver’s licenses through an authorized representative in the Philippines.
This privilege is extended to Filipinos who had valid authentic Philippine driver’s licenses at the time of departure from the country and who are currently staying abroad.
Click here to download a copy of Administrative Order No. RIB-2007-011 issued by the Land Transportation Office, Philippine Department of Transportation and Communications, which details the procedure for the renewal of the driver’s licenses for overseas Filipinos.
Email us if link above is broken.
Driving School/Training Link
Nanny Agency in Vancouver
http://www.a-procare.com
This privilege is extended to Filipinos who had valid authentic Philippine driver’s licenses at the time of departure from the country and who are currently staying abroad.
Click here to download a copy of Administrative Order No. RIB-2007-011 issued by the Land Transportation Office, Philippine Department of Transportation and Communications, which details the procedure for the renewal of the driver’s licenses for overseas Filipinos.
Email us if link above is broken.
Driving School/Training Link
Nanny Agency in Vancouver
http://www.a-procare.com
FILIPINO NATIONALS - in Vancouver needing to renew passport
*** IT WILL TAKE 6WEEKS for passport renewal --- cheaper if you can do it in the Philippines. Plan your trips!!
What documents should you submit if u wish to renew your passport?
The regular requirements for the renewal of your passport (for holders of green passports) are:
A. Your original old or expired passport;
B. Accomplished passport application form (affix left and right thumbmarks on spaces provided for) and affidavit of immigrant status;
If you cannot appear in person, you must have your application form notarized by a notary public or barrister.
C. Three (3) recent photos (45mm x 35mm) taken in a photo studio or professionally taken within the last six months before application;
D. Photocopy of passport data page;
E. Photocopy of permanent resident card, work permit or record of landing; and
F. The passport processing fee of Can$ 57.50 (Can$ 69.00 for a 64-page passport)
If you’re holding a brown passport, you should submit the documentary proof of your complete middle name (original and one photocopy) in addition to requirements A to F.
You may present your birth certificate, baptismal certificate, landing papers or you driver’s license as the documentary proof of middle name.
Applicants who applied in person but who want their passports/visas/documents mailed back to them should also submit a self-addressed Canada Post registered mail or ExpressPost envelope along with the regular requirements.
PASSPORT FORMS:
Please print documents on legals size paper. All forms in Word format unless specified.
Passport Application Form (Word Format) and Requirements for Passport Renewal/Application
Affidavit of Immigration StatusAffidavit of Loss of PassportAffidavit for Use of Maiden Name RequestForm for Passport AmendmentReport of Birth Form (PDF Format)Report of Marriage Form (Word Format / PDF Format)
Parental Consent Form
Last Updated ( Monday, 07 July 2008 )
If the above forms return a dead link - please email us with subject: Dead Link on Blog
Vancouver - Nanny - Caregiver OFW's
http://www.a-procare.com/
What documents should you submit if u wish to renew your passport?
The regular requirements for the renewal of your passport (for holders of green passports) are:
A. Your original old or expired passport;
B. Accomplished passport application form (affix left and right thumbmarks on spaces provided for) and affidavit of immigrant status;
If you cannot appear in person, you must have your application form notarized by a notary public or barrister.
C. Three (3) recent photos (45mm x 35mm) taken in a photo studio or professionally taken within the last six months before application;
D. Photocopy of passport data page;
E. Photocopy of permanent resident card, work permit or record of landing; and
F. The passport processing fee of Can$ 57.50 (Can$ 69.00 for a 64-page passport)
If you’re holding a brown passport, you should submit the documentary proof of your complete middle name (original and one photocopy) in addition to requirements A to F.
You may present your birth certificate, baptismal certificate, landing papers or you driver’s license as the documentary proof of middle name.
Applicants who applied in person but who want their passports/visas/documents mailed back to them should also submit a self-addressed Canada Post registered mail or ExpressPost envelope along with the regular requirements.
PASSPORT FORMS:
Please print documents on legals size paper. All forms in Word format unless specified.
Passport Application Form (Word Format) and Requirements for Passport Renewal/Application
Affidavit of Immigration StatusAffidavit of Loss of PassportAffidavit for Use of Maiden Name RequestForm for Passport AmendmentReport of Birth Form (PDF Format)Report of Marriage Form (Word Format / PDF Format)
Parental Consent Form
Last Updated ( Monday, 07 July 2008 )
If the above forms return a dead link - please email us with subject: Dead Link on Blog
Vancouver - Nanny - Caregiver OFW's
http://www.a-procare.com/
Friday, January 18, 2008
Another Child Killed
http://www.canada.com/vancouversun/news/story.html?id=bb9a55e6-c33f-4c1c-a1b4-8ae4e94efd89&k=85900
A father has been arrested after a one-year-old girl was found dead inside the family's North Delta home early Friday. Police have not confirmed the identity of the suspect or his relationship to the victim, but neighbours say the girl was the youngest daughter of Lakhvinder Kahlon and his wife, Manjit.
A close friend of the family, Surinder Johal, said Kahlon had been depressed for the last five or six months over the birth of another girl. According to Johal, Manjit walked her two older daughters to school and came back to find that the baby girl had been stabbed multiple times with a kitchen knife. Delta police spokesman Const. Paul Eisenzimmer said officers were called to a possible homicide in the home in the 7800-block 116th Ave. just before 9 a.m.
Eisenzimmer confirmed the child was "apparently murdered," and that police arrested one man. Eisenzimmer wouldn't confirm the exact age or sex of the child, nor the relationship of the suspect to the victim. But he said more information would be available at a media briefing at 1 p.m. Friday.
I believe that culture should enter into this discussion.
The facts are this:
Because of these traditional beliefs still held by many, it is imperative that the Indian community strongly condemn this murder and take further action to ensure that girls are valued and protected.
I have met so many smart and strong Indian women that I'm puzzled why these traditional values still persist.
It is such a disappointment to see a baby murdered in Canada by her parent just because she happened to be the wrong gender.
Tonight I will light a candle for her.
EL APOSTOL
http://www.a-procare.com
A father has been arrested after a one-year-old girl was found dead inside the family's North Delta home early Friday. Police have not confirmed the identity of the suspect or his relationship to the victim, but neighbours say the girl was the youngest daughter of Lakhvinder Kahlon and his wife, Manjit.
A close friend of the family, Surinder Johal, said Kahlon had been depressed for the last five or six months over the birth of another girl. According to Johal, Manjit walked her two older daughters to school and came back to find that the baby girl had been stabbed multiple times with a kitchen knife. Delta police spokesman Const. Paul Eisenzimmer said officers were called to a possible homicide in the home in the 7800-block 116th Ave. just before 9 a.m.
Eisenzimmer confirmed the child was "apparently murdered," and that police arrested one man. Eisenzimmer wouldn't confirm the exact age or sex of the child, nor the relationship of the suspect to the victim. But he said more information would be available at a media briefing at 1 p.m. Friday.
I believe that culture should enter into this discussion.
The facts are this:
Traditionally Indians have valued baby boys higher than baby girls.- This father was depressed because his baby was his 3rd consecutive girl, when he wished for a boy.
- His cultural norms reinforce his belief that boys are more desirable. The baby would likely be alive today if it had been born a boy.
Because of these traditional beliefs still held by many, it is imperative that the Indian community strongly condemn this murder and take further action to ensure that girls are valued and protected.
I have met so many smart and strong Indian women that I'm puzzled why these traditional values still persist.
It is such a disappointment to see a baby murdered in Canada by her parent just because she happened to be the wrong gender.
Tonight I will light a candle for her.
EL APOSTOL
http://www.a-procare.com
15mins Cleaning routines
CLEAN OUT YOUR CAR -- a good rule is to clean out your car when you fill up. You do not have to be on EMPTY to fill up.
- Do you have room for your children? Check your childrens' car seats to make sure they are securely fastened to the seat.
- Do you have UFOs that could become a hazard if you had an accident? Clean them out. Does stuff fall out when you open the door?
- Do you smell something bad and can't find it?
- Are there 2 changes of clothes and a couple of sweaters in your car?
- Do you still have boxes of items waiting to be dropped off?
Let's go out there and empty our cars of clutter. Drop off the stuff that needs to be given away.
Monday, January 7, 2008
Nannies: An affordable option
When most families need a nanny or caregiver they shop the old fashioned way. Some will spend two to three hours calling different agencies from the phone book. Others will place their own ads and then have to deal with many unqualified applicants.
This is where A-PRO Caregivers & Nannies, a nanny agency based in Vancouver, comes into the picture. The company’s goal is to help you focus your search and take the worry and frustration out of the selection process. For most of us, free time is often in short supply. A-PRO will do the legwork for you so you can spend the time doing what you enjoy instead.
"Most families who opt to hire a live-in nanny aren’t even aware of the tremendous advantages that a nanny can bring," says El Apostol, owner of A-PRO Caregivers & Nannies Inc. "A nanny can have a positive effect on the time saved by families."
This is where A-PRO Caregivers & Nannies, a nanny agency based in Vancouver, comes into the picture. The company’s goal is to help you focus your search and take the worry and frustration out of the selection process. For most of us, free time is often in short supply. A-PRO will do the legwork for you so you can spend the time doing what you enjoy instead.
"Most families who opt to hire a live-in nanny aren’t even aware of the tremendous advantages that a nanny can bring," says El Apostol, owner of A-PRO Caregivers & Nannies Inc. "A nanny can have a positive effect on the time saved by families."
The advantages of hiring a live-in nanny include:
- Not having to deal with the politics of using a relative;
- Set daily routine of pick-ups and drop-offs;
- Child stays in familiar surroundings;
- Mornings will be less stressful;
- Scheduling is more flexible with a nanny than a daycare centre;
- Household chores can be done during the week, leaving your weekends free.
A-PRO helps families find the best in childcare, eldercare or special needs. For more information, call 604-568-7099 or visit http://www.a-procare.com/
***TIP: Deal locally - you'll get better service when you deal with an agency in your Province.
Tuesday, January 1, 2008
3.5 Mistakes Families Make when choosing childcare
Choosing someone to care for your child is a big responsibility one of the most important decisions you will make as a parent. That's why it's important to avoid making any of the following all-too-common mistakes:
- Not understanding what makes for a good childcare arrangement: Most parents spend more time researching car purchases than they do in educating themselves about what makes for a good childcare arrangement. Before you start evaluating various childcare arrangements, you'll want to arm yourself with the facts. Find out what options are available. Analyze what you want for your child and for yourself. Know health and safety features you should be looking for when you're evaluating a childcare center or home daycare; and what makes for a fun and stimulating childcare program. >> Live-in Nannies: an affordable option
- Leaving your search until the last minute: Childcare spaces are always in short supply, so it pays to start your childcare search as soon as possible especially if you're looking for childcare for an infant. A rule of thumb, you should have your search well underway by the end of your second trimester of pregnancy. In the case of hiring overseas – 3-5month lead time is required. Keeping in mind Immigration Canada processing times differ from country to country.
- Neglecting to consider your family's long-term needs: Changing childcare arrangements is hard on both you and your child. That's why it's important to consider your family's long-term needs before settling on a particular arrangement. Will the quiet home daycare environment that is ideal for your sleepy newborn be an equally suitable setting when she becomes a rambunctious toddler? Will your child's space in the company daycare center disappear if you decided to change jobs? Is the nanny you're thinking of hiring committed to your family for the long term or for just a year or two? These are the types of questions that you need to consider before settling on a particular childcare arrangement.
3.5 Failing to understand your responsibilities: - as an employer in the event that you decide to hire a nanny: The moment you hire a nanny or other in-home caregiver, you automatically become her employer; at least in the eyes of Canada Customs Revenue Agency (CCRA). That means that you are responsible for finding out whether she's legally entitled to work in Canada; paying her the minimum wage and complying with other provincial and federal labor laws; withholding EI and CPP, and federal income tax from her pay checks; carrying Worker's Compensation Insurance (where applicable); and notifying the BC Employment Standards Branch that this person is working for you.
Just a quick word of warning: you shouldn't assume that you're off the hook if your caregiver happens to work for you on a part-time basis: even if she makes less than $1000 from you per calendar quarter, the government might still consider her to be your employee.
While there are plenty of other issues to consider when you're choosing childcare for your child, you'll be well on your way to making a good decision if you manage to avoid making these 3.5 mistakes.
Good luck!
EL APOSTOL - Centre Director www.a-procare.com
6.5 Safety Tips: Vancouver Nanny Job Search
Whether you are answering an ad on Craigslist, on a local newspaper website or through one of the big nanny recruiting sites you need to be cautious and smart. Just think of it this way, if you were answering a personal ad for a potential date, would your first meeting be at his house? NEVER! The same should hold true for a first time meeting with an employer. Here are more common sense tips for safely using the internet to find a nanny or babysitting job.
*** A telephone interview is your first screening. Treat the interview - not just for the family to know a little bit about you, but for you to know them. Ask for references - if they have hired before ask to speak to previous nanny or babysitter.
If reading the ad, seems strange -- vague, and lack the genuine feel of need - lack information on childcare needs - don't go on the interview.
- Read the ad carefully. If it seems strange - vague - lack the genuine feel of need - lack information on childcare needs - MOVE ON....
- Stay away from services that are completely free to families. Online nanny databases that charge a subscription fee and monitor their subscribers will help weed out the less scrupulous.
- If you had posted the want ad, and the responder seems to have answered the wrong ad, don't reply. They just want your contact info. Families who are seriously searching for a nanny do not make these mistakes. Be choosy about who gets your phone number. It only takes seconds to do a reverse search.
- The location of the nanny job - if it sounds strange, don’t go on the interview. Trust your gut.
- Do a reverse check on http://www.canada411.ca/ both for addresses and telephone numbers. Verify the name and phone number/address match.
- If the family is a two parent household and you have only dealt with Dad, ask to speak with Mom. If there are excuses for her absence, do not pursue the job any further.
If you are meeting only a “father”, request that the children be present. Ask a friend to accompany you to the nanny interview and have them wait in the car.
6.5 Keep track of what the family has told you in previous conversations and make sure their answers are consistent.
EL APOSTOL -Centre Director www.a-procare.com
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