Though certainly not as sensational as the recent ‘Brexit’ vote in the UK, Canada is also bracing for a vote that could have some implications for immigration matters – at least in the short term.
The Canadian postal service (‘Canada Post’) is currently in the midst of contract renegotiation with the union representing the postal workers. Though talks are ongoing, there could be a strike or lockout as early as this Friday, July 8. Should this happen, there will obviously be an obstacle in some cases, in sending information to Immigration Canada, or receiving information from them.
In preparation for the possibility of a postal work stoppage, people should be aware that:
- There is no indication from Immigration Canada that any leniency will be extended due to the strike.
- The online system will not be affected. Certainly, anything that can be filed online should be done in that manner.
- The most common situation where the online system cannot be used, is an application for Permanent Residence Card. However, there may be situations, for example, where an original document is to be sent, etc., or even in some cases, where internet access is restricted.
- If you do need to send something to Immigration Canada, you will need to use a courier.
- Canada Post’s ‘Xpress Post’, often used as a type of courier service is in fact NOT a courier service in the ordinary sense. It is still ‘mail’ which is delivered by Canada Post workers, and it will not be of any benefit to use it during the strike.
- Traditional Couriers (e.g. FedEx, Purolator, DHL, etc.) will not deliver to a PO Box. Ensure that the address you are sending to is not a PO Box.
- If using a courier, it is important to note that Immigration Canada mailing addresses are not the same as courier addresses. You will need to check the Immigration Canada web site (www.cic.gc.ca) [and often, the guide for a particular type of application] to determine the courier address of the office you wish to access.
- With regard to LMIAs, Service Canada advises that confirmation letters will be delivered to employers and/or counsel by courier. Applications can also be sent by courier or fax.
- Even though the strike is still a minimum of two days away, if you need to mail something at this time, don’t. Even if the address is just around the corner, you should not take the chance of having your item languish at some depot for an indeterminate period.
The time to prepare for a possible strike is now. Those that are prepared, should be able to ‘weather the storm’ without difficulty. Those that are not prepared, may find themselves with issues to contend with.
The information in this article is for general purposes only, and not intended as legal advice for any particular situation.