Looking For A Good Immigration Consultant? Then Follow These Rules
In the following, we will be discussing an important topic that is “Looking for a good immigration consultant? Then you need to follow these rules” and will discuss it thoroughly within the article. If you decide on to be advised or represented by a paid consultant, IRCC has rules about who can legally do this. If you want, you can have someone help you with:
- Your immigration application
- Representation to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), the Immigration and Refugee Board (IRB) or the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA)
Special treatment isn’t given to your file if you use a consultant or representative. To protect your privacy, IRCC will not share any of your personal information with your representative unless you give written consent. You must fill out a Use of a Representative (IMM 5476) form to give consent.
Types Of Consultants
Your immigration representative can be paid or unpaid. A few examples of unpaid representatives are family members, your friends or even members of a religious organization. If you decide on to be represented by a paid representative or consultant in Ontario, this person must be in good standing with the:
- ICCRC (Immigration Consultants of Canada Regulatory Council)
- LSO (Law Society of Ontario)
If you use a non-authorized paid consultant, your application could also be returned to you. Find out more about who will represent you on IRCC’s web site.
What Should I Look For In A Consultant
Be careful of scams and fraudulent consultants. IRCC has a tip sheet on how to avoid immigration scams. It is available in more than 15 languages. It is vital to work with somebody who has proper knowledge and training. You can:
- Ask them about their experience especially with the Canadian immigration process
- Ask for references
- Speak to people who have used them
- Find out if they actually belong to any other professional associations in Canada or not
Read tips on choosing an immigration consultant. Find out how to complain concerning an immigration consultant.
Can I Change My Representative
Yes, you’ll be able to change your representative at any time. You must notify IRCC immediately if you change your representative. You must fill out a new Use of a Representative (IMM 5476) form as well as send it to the office processing your file. If you wish to make a complaint concerning your paid representative, read how do I complain about a lawyer?
For More Information
- Do not be a Victim of a Disappearing Act (Video) – It is a video about consultant scams. From Immigration, Refugees as well as Citizenship Canada.
- Immigration Consultants of Canada Regulatory Council (ICCRC) – The organization that regulates immigration consultants in Canada.
- LSO (Law Society of Ontario) – Which is the governing body for Ontario lawyers. The LSO regulates the practice of law in Ontario and protects members of the public when they hire a lawyer.
- LSRS (Law Society Referral Service) – The LSRS or Law Society Referral Service is an online service making it possible for residents of Ontario to obtain referrals online, 24 hours a day. The referral process, online request, as well as your initial consultation of up to 30 minutes, is free.
- CLEO – Which is the Immigration and Refugee Law – Clear language publications on legal topics relating to immigrants as well as refugees?
- IRCC Help Centre – A tool that helps answer frequently asked questions on immigration matters. It offers many ways of searching through the information available, including search by keyword. From Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada.
