Job Discussion Forums

wanna_teach · Joined: 08 Jul 2009 Posts: 36 Location: Canada

Why do recruiters want your passport info when you apply for a position?

I feel uncomfortable sending that information. I'm a little worried about identity theft.

Has anyone ever had a problem with this?

basiltherat · Joined: 04 Oct 2003 Posts: 952

it would help to know where you are applying for the job; i mean which country.

i know, in syria, we had to send our passport details to the employer who forwarded the details on with a signed contract so the local immigration knew who we were when we did arrive. we were then given an employment stamp in our passports at the airport. Never had any issues with doing this.

best
basil

wanna_teach · Joined: 08 Jul 2009 Posts: 36 Location: Canada

Thanks for your reply Basil

I guess what I was wondering is why do they need this information when you are applying? They don't even know if you are suitable for the position.

Has anyone ever had a problem with giving this info to potential employers?

veiledsentiments · Joined: 20 Feb 2003 Posts: 17644 Location: USA

It is very common, but be careful who you send it to... first make sure that the ad and the employer are legitimate. You can usually do so here. There are many scams out there.

If you have any doubts... don't send it. The normal procedure is that you send a CV, you do an interview, they make you an offer and ask you to send this information.

VS

basiltherat · Joined: 04 Oct 2003 Posts: 952

my apologies. i didn't read your post carefully enough. yes, i would agree with VS.
best
basil

Never Ceased To Be Amazed · Posted: Sun Jul 12, 2009 9:57 pm Post subject:

I would say the only information from your passport that your prospective employer should be privy to is the country of origin and the expiration date. What else would be relevent...assuming they already know yer name?

NCTBA

veiledsentiments · Joined: 20 Feb 2003 Posts: 17644 Location: USA

Normally once you have accepted job, you have to send a copy of the first page of your passport, which allows them to start the visa procedures.

VS

wanna_teach · Joined: 08 Jul 2009 Posts: 36 Location: Canada

Thanks all
This is what I thought, but some recruiters are asking for passport info before they even consider your application and it sounded fishy to me. I haven't sent anyone this info..just completed the app without it, but Just wondered whether it was common in the ME to ask for that info before the visa process begins.