The Role and Importance of Immigration Consultants in Canada

Navigating through the complexities of immigration processes can be challenging, hence the essential role of immigration consultants. In Canada, these professionals are regulated by the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants (CICC), a body committed to ensuring the highest standard of services for individuals seeking immigration advice. This article seeks to answer some of the most frequently asked questions regarding the services of immigration consultants in Canada, such as cost, the need for their services, and the best consultancy for Canadian immigration.

The Cost of Hiring an Immigration Consultant in Canada

The cost of hiring an immigration consultant in Canada varies based on numerous factors, including the complexity of the case, the experience of the consultant, and the services required. Typically, fees can range anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. It's always wise to seek an initial consultation and quotation before proceeding to ensure transparency in the process. It's also important to note that the cost is usually commensurate with the level of service received.

Choosing the Best Consultancy for Canadian Immigration

With numerous firms offering immigration consulting services, it can be challenging to decide which consultancy is best for Canadian immigration. A few key aspects to consider are the firm's reputation, its level of experience, the success rate of its applications, and its adherence to the regulations set out by the CICC. Reviewing testimonials and seeking recommendations can provide valuable insights.

The Need for an Immigration Consultant in Canada

While hiring an immigration consultant is not mandatory, their expertise can often be invaluable in navigating the intricate immigration landscape. Immigration consultants are familiar with the ever-changing immigration laws and processes. Their expertise can help prevent potential pitfalls and increase the likelihood of a successful application. Furthermore, they can save applicants considerable time and effort by handling the paperwork and following up on the application process.

The Value of Hiring an Immigration Consultant in Canada

There's often a debate on whether it's better to hire an immigration consultant in Canada. While it may seem more cost-effective to handle the process independently, the value offered by immigration consultants should not be underestimated. Their in-depth knowledge of the system, attention to detail, and ability to handle complex cases can significantly increase the chances of a positive outcome. Additionally, consultants regulated by the CICC are held to a high standard of ethical conduct, providing an additional layer of security for clients.

In the complex world of immigration, having a professional consultant by your side can be invaluable. Despite the cost, their expertise, adherence to ethical standards, and familiarity with the immigration process can make your journey to becoming a Canadian resident much smoother. Remember, when choosing a consultant, ensure they are registered with the CICC and consider their reputation, success rate, and client reviews.

Global Opportunities understands the importance of reliable and professional immigration services. Our team of experienced consultants, regulated by the CICC, is dedicated to providing high-quality assistance, tailored to each individual's circumstances. Contact us today to start your journey towards Canadian residency.

HOW TO CHOOSE A REPRESENTATIVE TO ADVISE YOU ON CANADIAN IMMIGRATION

If you want to move to Canada, you may need help, while some people prefer to do their immigration process on their own, many others look for legal counselling and look for an immigration consultant in Canada to immigrate. Applying for immigration to Canada may have different ways to do it. Canada immigration has more than 60 programs to apply. Let’s explore the benefits of getting the help of professionals and how to choose the representative that will look after your best interests.

The Canadian immigration process is a very complex one. If you are considering Canada as your destination to move abroad -to study, work or begin a new life- you will have to make many choices, from the immigration program that is best suited to you, to the province that will become your new residence destination, among others. Making these decisions can become an overwhelming situation for many, not only financially but also mentally. Also, even though there is plenty of information online, and the Government of Canada has detailed instructions on how to follow each step of the various processes, doubts can emerge. That is why some individuals prefer to use immigration and citizenship representatives to support them during this long and complicated process.

HOW TO CHOOSE THE BEST IMMIGRATION CONSULTANT?

First things first, you need to know that you can choose between two different types of representatives: paid and unpaid. According to the Government of Canada, paid representatives are also authorized to offer legal advice, and they must be in good standing with any of these groups: The Immigration Consultants of Canada Regulatory Council, The Canadian Provincial or Territorial Law Society OR the Chambre des Notaires du Québec.

The Government of Canada will not recognize any paid representative who is not authorized by any of these organizations, and they can reject your application if you decide to use someone that is not approved by them. People who choose to use an uncertified representative will do it at their own risk or being rejected.

Unpaid representatives, as their name suggests, could be any family members or friends, even organizations that will volunteer their help but won’t charge you for their services. No matter if you choose a paid or unpaid representative, you will need to notify it to the Canadian Immigration Office when you submit your application. Always bear in mind that if you choose a paid representative, it must be authorized, it should have a license to practice Canadian Immigration and it should also be authorized to represent you in the province you are applying to.

A widespread mistake is thinking that a Regulated Immigration Canadian Consultant is the same as a Paralegal and it is not. According to Bill C-35, An Act to Amend the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act came into force on June 30, 2011, and paralegals who are licensed by the Law Society are now eligible to provide certain legal services in the field of immigration law. Paralegals who are licensed by the Law Society can appear before the Immigration and Refugee Board (IRB) to represent a client or clients in an IRB hearing and can provide legal services to clients for matters relating to an IRB hearing.  Drafting of documents or other legal services practices that are not related to an IRB hearing remain outside of a Paralegal’s scope of practice.

If you are applying to the province of Saskatchewan, for example, you should have an authorized representative with a license to practice immigration in this province as this requires an extra license.

Procedures and laws can vary from province to province, and it is important you check before applying if you representative is authorized o practice for such province.

BENEFITS OF HIRING A PAID AUTHORIZED REPRESENTATIVE FOR YOUR IMMIGRATION PROCESS

 An authorized representative with a license to practice immigration law also can:

  • Help you choose the right immigration program according to your profile

  • Speak in your behalf with the Canadian government or represent you in court

  • Assist you in filling out and submitting your immigration application properly

  • Inform you about any changes in the Canadian Immigration Law, regulations or policies

  • Ensure that all your documents are in conformity with the Canadian office of Citizenship and Immigration

 If you are in the process of choosing a paid representative to help you with your immigration case, here are some ideas on what to look for:

 Always ask your potential representatives how much experience they have with immigration processes.

  • Ask around for references about them

  • Ask them if they belong to any other professional associations in Canada

  • Check them online at ICCRC and/or the Law Societies of each territory like Saskatchewan or Quebec if applicable. Please keep in mind Paralegals although they do have a licence to practice from the Law Society for immigration purposes they can only carry those related to the Immigration and Refugee Board.

  • Before even thinking about giving them money, discuss the services they will provide you and the terms of your contract.

When you choose your representative, make sure you sign a written contract and read it carefully before signing it. It would be best if you were clear of the extension of the services your representative will offer you and that should be clearly stated in the contract. People who immigrated to Canada and already moved prefer to have an immigration consultant to help with the process.

Remember, you want your immigration process to be as smooth and direct as possible. You need to be well-versed and weigh in all the information available so you can make the right decision, the one that will grant you success in your immigration plan.