What to Do if You Lose Your Passport After LMIA and Before Work Permit Application: A Comprehensive Guide

Are you a Canadian business owner who recently obtained an LMIA (Labor Market Impact Assessment) and is in the process of applying for a work permit for an international employee? Or maybe you are planning to come to Canada yourself and have obtained an LMIA for your job search? Losing your passport can be a significant setback, especially when it’s time to travel or begin the work permit process. In this guide, we will walk you through the steps you need to take if you lose your passport after obtaining an LMIA but before your work permit application.

Understanding LMIA and its Importance

What is an LMIA? An LMIA is a legal requirement in Canada for employers who wish to hire foreign workers. This document assesses whether there are sufficient Canadian workers available to fill the position before approving the job offer and allowing the employer to proceed with the work permit application for a foreign employee. If an employer has obtained an LMIA, they can go ahead with the work permit application process.

The Risks of Losing Your Passport Before Your Work Permit Application

Lost or stolen passports can lead to severe travel disruptions and complications with immigration processes, including work permit applications. Upon losing your passport, you will not be able to travel to Canada without a valid document, and your work permit application will be on hold until your passport is replaced.

Replacing Your Lost Passport

Here are the steps you should follow to replace your lost passport:

Report the Loss: Immediately report the loss to the nearest police station and obtain a police report. This report is crucial for the passport replacement process. Notify Your Country’s Passport Agency: Contact your country’s embassy or consulate in Canada to report the lost passport. They will guide you on the next steps and provide you with a Lost Passport Certificate. Apply for a Replacement Passport: Fill out the required forms for a replacement passport. You will need to provide additional documentation like a birth certificate and proof of your identity. Submit the Application: Submit your application to the passport office along with the necessary documentation and a fee. Wait for the New Passport: Patience is key here as it may take several weeks to receive your new passport. Check the embassy or consulate’s website for estimated processing times.

Tips and Considerations

Here are some tips to help you navigate the passport replacement process more effectively:

Keep Your LMIA Documented: Make sure to keep a digital copy of your LMIA for your records. This document is essential for your work permit application and can help you in the event of any paperwork issues. Hold Off on Travel Plans: Until your new passport is issued, avoid making any travel plans that would require a valid passport. This includes any trips that might interfere with the work permit application process. Stay Informed: Keep track of the progress of your passport replacement and work permit application. Regularly check the status of your application online and respond to any requests for additional information. Consider Expedited Services: If you need your passport quickly for business or personal reasons, you may be eligible for expedited services. However, they often come with an additional cost and may not be immediately available.

Conclusion

Replacing a lost passport after obtaining an LMIA and before applying for a work permit is a critical but manageable process. By taking proactive steps and following the guidelines provided, you can streamline the process and ensure that you are fully prepared to proceed with your work permit application once your new passport is issued.