Immigrating to Canada would be one of the most important decisions you make in your life, so you need to feel comfortable with your choice of immigration consultant.
Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultants (RCIC’s) are licensed professionals who specialize in immigration consulting and act on behalf of a client who makes an application to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
RCICs are regulated by the Immigration Consultants of Canada Regulatory Council (ICCRC). This council has been established to you protect and safeguard the rights of immigrant applications. You must make sure your consultant is registered with the ICCRC to as they are required to uphold the standards of conduct outlined in the Code of Ethics to protect the public from unethical or incompetent practice.
Immigration Consultants are required to complete academic training and a language test before writing the RCIC Entry-to-Practice Exam. On successful completion of the exam the RCIC applies to become a licensed immigration consultant with the ICCRC.
While Immigration Consultants don’t have any influence over any decision-making process regarding your application, a consultant will ensure that your application sufficiently represents you and your situation, and that all information is provided in the required format and that all ambiguity is addressed in your application. They make the application process seamless, and stress free for you.
Immigration Consultants cannot represent applicants at Federal Court. If you want to file an Application for Leave and for Judicial Review, you must use a lawyer. In all other immigration applications or appeals, an Immigration Consultant can act as your representative.
The scope of an immigration consultant encompasses the following:
- Provides a professional assessment of the likelihood of your success
- Presents personalized options and solutions based on your situation
- Guides you in the preparation of your documents
- Prepares detailed submission letters and explanatory, addressed to the appropriate IRCC office
- Advises on additional case specific documentation which should be provided for your particular situation in order to maximize the chances of success
- Completes and submits your full application package
- Communicates on your behalf with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and (where required) the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA)
Hiring the right representation is very important. Find a representative you trust and whom you feel comfortable with.