Nanny&Me

Developing a sound employer/employee contract is important for any type of job, but particularly when hiring a nanny because it's required as part of your LMIA application. Did you know that developing your own contract can mean longer processing times for your LMIA application?! When you write your own contract the Federal Government needs to enlist a lawyer to compare the document to their standard contract and ensure that it measures up, so use the free template (click HERE) provided by the government to ensure a speedy processing time.

Drawing up the contract is pretty straight forward and in fact, the government even provides a guide on how to fill in the template contract document. While it's not necessary to have the original document signed by both parties upon submitting it for the LMIA (but it will be required when your future nanny applies for their visa), I had our future nanny sign it and scan/email it to me so that I could include the scanned signature to put my mind at ease.

The contract that's necessary for the LMIA application really only covers the basics, but I would recommend putting together a document that covers all of the household specific items; rules (for example: will the nanny be allowed to have guests over to your home etc), expectations, specific tasks etc. This document should be included in the binder/booklet (template coming soon!) that you create and provide for your nanny upon his/her arrival or beforehand if you so choose.

Other questions about writing the contract?...just ask.