Recruitment Agency Fee

[Mldsmith]

Hello,

We are attempting to hire a TFW as an in-home caregiver from the Philippines. We have a positive LMIA and have identified a candidate, however she is saying she must use a POEA approved recruitment agency' and that we must sign a recruitment agreement which includes a $1200 fee arable by the employer to the agency. Is this common and required?

 

[k.h.p.]

Hello,

We are attempting to hire a TFW as an in-home caregiver from the Philippines. We have a positive LMIA and have identified a candidate, however she is saying she must use a POEA approved recruitment agency' and that we must sign a recruitment agreement which includes a $1200 fee arable by the employer to the agency. Is this common and required?

Yes, because that's the fee the agency charges the employer. It's how they make their money.

You cannot charge the employee this.

 

[Mldsmith]

Yes, because that's the fee the agency charges the employer. It's how they make their money.

You cannot charge the employee this.

Okay, but why am I obligated to use this agency? I have already obtained approval in Canada and found a preferred candidate. What services are they providing? Is this a fair/market rate?

 

[k.h.p.]

Who is telling you that you must use this agency?

 

[yael]

Yes. POEA requires you to use an accredited agency from the Philippines, even though you have the preferred candidate. The employer will pay the agency and the verification from POLO and authentication of the documents from the Philippine Consulate general, which cost you less than $150.