Canadian Immigration Consultant – Why To Hire One
For those looking to immigrate to Canada, there are numerous immigration programs available. Every immigration program has different requirements. More people are turning to a Canadian Immigration Consultants (RCICs) to help them meet these requirements and increase their chances of being admitted to Canada.Â
Who are RCICs, and what does an immigration consultant do? And what advantages come with hiring one? Should I hire a Consultant for Canada immigration?
A Regulated Immigration Consultant assists those who wish to immigrate to Canada temporarily or settle permanently. The roles and duties of an immigration consultant are outlined below, along with some ways they can facilitate your immigration process.Â
Who is a Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC)?
A Regulated Immigration Consultant (RCIC) must be licensed and regulated by the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants (CICC, formerly ICCRC), the regulatory authority created by the Canadian government to protect the public who want to take the service and help of an Immigration Consultant.
What an RCIC does?
An RCIC is an authorized immigration and citizenship representative hired to evaluate your visa application and submit it on your behalf. In addition, an Immigration Consultant provides you with a beneficial strategy for your temporary or permanent visa options. In general, an Immigration Consultant oversees all aspects of the Canada visa and immigration process by providing guidance and representation on all Canadian immigration matters.Â
A Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant assists those who wish to immigrate to Canada permanently (Canada PR) or temporarily (visit, work, and study). RCICs assist with the legal and documentation formalities for moving to Canada. Creating both oral and written submissions, assisting clients in obtaining visas, and representing clients in front of government authorities are all included in this.
Reasons to hire a Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC)?
There are many reasons why someone may choose to hire a Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) when going through the immigration process in Canada. Here are some important reasons to consider:
- An authorized pathway that protects your visa approval by advocating on your behalf before the immigration authorities.Â
- Decreased the likelihood of visa refusal and maximized the possibility of approval.Â
- Looking into each person’s situation in regards to immigration, verify your eligibility for Canadian immigration and get guidance on the best entry strategy and quickest route to the country.Â
- Make sure your application is of the highest calibre by assisting you in gathering and preparing all necessary & supporting papers and submitting your application to the Canadian authorities correctly and on time.Â
- Using a unique and customized immigration strategy, you may strengthen your application and organize the entire immigration procedure.Â
- Inform you of immigration alternatives and pathways that you might not be aware of while also keeping you informed on the most recent immigration policies, changes to immigration laws, and requirements.Â
- Keep you informed of your legal rights and all issues of immigration and citizenship law, as well as give guidance on how to appeal if your application is refused.Â
It’s important to note that while hiring an RCIC can be beneficial, choosing a reputable and licensed consultant is essential. You can verify their credentials by checking their membership with the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants (CICC).
What services can a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant provide?
- Immigration Program Selection: RCICs can determine your eligibility for several immigration programmes and assist you in selecting the best choice for your circumstances, aspirations, and credentials. They can give details on several initiatives, including Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Programmes (PNPs), Family Sponsorship, Study Permits, Work Permits, and more.
- Application Preparation and Submission: You can get help from RCICs organizing and putting together your immigration application. They can help you gather and examine the required supporting papers, walk you through the paperwork requirements, and ensure your application is accurate and complete before submitting it.
- Eligibility Evaluation: RCICs can evaluate your educational background, employment experience, language ability, and other pertinent aspects to determine eligibility for immigration programmes. They may thoroughly assess your credentials and counsel you on any areas that could require improvement to increase your chances of success.
- Document Review: Your application forms, supporting papers, and other materials can be examined by RCICs to ensure they adhere to immigration regulations. They can spot any possible problems or inconsistencies that can cause application denials or delays and offer advice on fixing them.
- Advice on Immigration Regulations and Policies: The most recent immigration laws, rules, and procedural modifications are kept up to date by RCICs. They can provide precise details on the conditions, procedures, deadlines, and any changes that could apply to your application. You can benefit from their knowledge to negotiate the complexity of Canadian immigration law.
- Communication with Immigration Authorities: In dealings with the immigration authorities, such as IRCC, BSA, Service Canada and IRB, RCICs can represent you. They may communicate on your behalf with the authorities, react to any questions or demands for further information, and ensure that your application is processed quickly.
- Interview Preparation: RCICs can offer direction and preparation to help you succeed if an interview is necessary as part of the immigration process. They may conduct practice interviews, offer advice on answering questions well, and assist you in gaining confidence before the actual interview.
- Follow-Up and Representation: RCICs can help resolve problems if your application is troubled or needs further supporting documentation. To achieve a successful resolution, they can represent you in subsequent discussions with immigration officials, submit the necessary paperwork, and argue your case.
It’s important to note that while RCICs can provide valuable service throughout the immigration process, they cannot guarantee the approval of your visa application, as the final decision rests with the immigration authorities (IRCC officers). However, their expertise, knowledge, and support can significantly enhance your chances of a successful immigration journey.
Reasons why you must not apply for a Canada visa without an RCIC?
Moving to a new country is a life-changing decision with significant stakes. When the future of your work and family hinges on the approval of your visa or PR application, you cannot afford anything to go wrong.Â
Frequently, submitting incorrect documentation, missing a deadline, or neglecting to provide information is enough to cause a visa delay or even refusal. Here are just crucial reasons why hiring a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant is a worthwhile investment in your future:Â
- They know the Canadian visa application process and system well.Â
- They can craft a tailored strategy to maximize your visa approval.Â
- They contact and deal with the Canadian Immigration Authorities (IRCC, CBSA, IRB and Service Canada) and employers on your behalf for your sake.
- They takes care of the documentation for you.Â
- They are Licensed, Certified, authorized and Regulated.Â
- They can personalize your immigration plan. Legal Counsel can offer an alternate point of view on your immigration options.
What is the risk of not having an Regulated Immigration Consultant?
Not having a Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) when navigating the immigration process can come with several risks and challenges. Here are some potential risks of proceeding without an RCIC:
- Lack of Expertise and Knowledge: Immigration laws, rules, and policies in Canada can be complicated and are frequently updated. You could find it challenging to comprehend the prerequisites, eligibility standards, and documents needed for your particular immigration programme without the experience and skills of an RCIC. This raises the possibility of committing errors or omissions that can cause application rejections or delays.
- Incomplete or Inaccurate Applications: Immigration applications must include many supporting documents, and supplying them incorrectly or incompletely might cause delays or rejections. Applications prepared and reviewed by RCICs have a history of being accurate, comprehensive, and compliant with all standards. With their advice, you can forget crucial information or fail to provide necessary supporting documents, risking the outcome of your application.
- Limited Understanding of Options: Numerous immigration programmes are available in Canada, each with specific requirements, procedures, and advantages. Without an RCIC, you might not know all the possibilities that fit your requirements and objectives. This can prevent you from applying to a programme that might be more advantageous or fit for your circumstances.
- Increased Risk of Application Refusals: Applications are evaluated by immigration officials using particular standards. Without an RCIC, it is difficult to successfully explain your case, offer the necessary proof, or respond to the immigration officer’s concerns. This raises the possibility that your application may be rejected, wasting time and money.
- Difficulty in Navigating Procedural Challenges: The immigration procedure entails several formal processes, including interviews, physicals, and police checks. An RCIC may assist you with these processes, prepare you for interviews, and ensure you satisfy all standards. They might help you comprehend and complete these procedural requirements, which could cause delays or issues.
- Limited Representation and Advocacy: An RCIC can represent and fight for you when your application is met with obstacles, questions, or requests for further information. They may represent you in communications with immigration officials, address any issues, and offer any required explanation or evidence. If you don’t have an RCIC, you’ll have to manage these contacts independently, which might result in misunderstandings or poor replies.
While it is possible to navigate the immigration process without an RCIC, the risks involved can be significant. Having an experienced and qualified professional by your side can provide peace of mind, increase your chances of a successful application, and help you navigate the complexities of Canadian immigration law and procedures more effectively.
How to check an RCIC license?
To verify the license of a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC), you must first check CICC’s Public Registry of Immigration Consultants. The registry lists the Immigration Consultant members and all the country’s RCICs, their designated Identification Number, and their status regarding their capability to practice. Only Legal Counsels with an “Active” group can provide immigration advice or services. You can follow these steps:
- Visit the website of the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants (CICC), the regulatory body for immigration consultants in Canada. Their website is www.college-ic.ca.
- On the CICC website, navigate to the “Find an Immigration Consultant” section. You can find this option in the main menu or on the homepage.
- In the “Find an Immigration Consultant” section, Alphabetic list of RCICs by last name OR Advanced RCIC Search to explore a consultant. Click on the appropriate option to proceed.
- Enter the name or registration number of the RCIC you want to verify. Searching using that information is usually more accurate and efficient if you have the registration number. However, if you only have the name, you can still search using the immigration consultant’s full or last name.
- Submit the search query, and the CICC database will provide the results. It will display the consultant’s name, registration number, and current status as a member of the CICC.
- Review the details in the search results to confirm that the RCIC you verify is listed as an active member in good standing with the CICC. This ensures that they are authorized to provide immigration consulting services.
- If the consultant you are searching for is not listed in the search results, or their status is inactive or expired, it may indicate that they are not currently licensed or their license has been revoked. In such cases, it is advisable to avoid seeking immigration advice or services from them.
- Finally, click on Contact to explore their direct contact information, including country, company name, email and phone number, and ensure you communicate with them via their official contact information.
By verifying the RCIC’s license through the official CICC website, you can ensure that you deal with a legitimate and regulated immigration consultant. This helps protect you from potential Immigration fraud or unethical practices and ensures that you work with a qualified professional.
How to Select an Immigration Consultant Canada?
When selecting an immigration consultant in Canada, it’s essential to follow these steps to ensure you choose a reputable and qualified and professional Immigration Consultant Canada:
- Are they regulated? The problem of Canadian immigration fraud is spreading to other countries and Canada. There are numerous unauthorized representatives providing immigration consulting services. As a result, when choosing a Legal Counsel, make sure you choose a licenced, reputable professional. Immigration Consultants are qualified licensed professionals who adhere to strict academic, professional, and moral standards. Therefore, when selecting an Immigration Consultant, first check The College’s Public Register of Canadian Immigration Consultants. Â
- Are they experienced? Check to see if the Legal Counsel has expertise in offering your needed services. Inquire about their experience in your sector/industry and the exact visa entry option you’re pursuing (such as the Temporary Foreign Worker Program, etc.). Legal Counsels should be chosen based on their experience in the field. Ask them about their certification, education, and work history. Watch out for people who don’t provide clear answers to your questions. Please ensure the services they will offer you are specified in the contract.Â
- Get advice from several RCICs: Make a particular choice for your representative. Ideally, you should consult several Legal Counsels before selecting the best one. Another option is to use the free consultations that many Legal Counsels offer to compare services offered at various pricing points.Â
- Consider unlawful recommendations or activities: Avoid a Legal Counsel who advises you to withhold information or give misleading information. Whenever you pay an RCIC, always demand a signed receipt. Never put your signature on a blank application form, document, or contract you don’t fully comprehend. Obtain copies of any documents that your Legal Counsel creates on your behalf.Â
- Review Experience and Expertise: Look for immigration consultants with a proven track record and extensive knowledge of Canada. Consider their experience, areas of expertise, and success rates with prior clients. A consultant knowledgeable about your particular immigration streams or circumstance can provide insightful advice.
- Seek Recommendations and Reviews: Consult with friends, relatives, or coworkers who have hired immigration consultants for referrals. Their experiences might provide light on the professionalism and grade of service offered by various experts. To learn more about their reputation and client happiness, browse internet reviews and testimonials.
- Conduct Consultations: Once you have identified potential experts, set up consultations with them. This enables you to evaluate their expertise, responsiveness, and communication style. Prepare a list of questions regarding your particular immigration objectives and assess their capacity to answer your issues effectively.
- Understand Fees and Services: Ask for a detailed explanation of the consultant’s charges and the services they will offer. Ensure you know all associated costs, including additional expenditures like government fees. Be wary of experts that ask for advance money or make exaggerated promises about their skills.
- Professionalism and Ethics: Look for experts that uphold strict moral principles and professionalism. They should operate in your best interests, give you transparent and accurate information, and protect client confidentiality. Steer clear of consultants who make phoney promises or participate in other unethical behaviour.
- Contract and Agreement: After selecting a consultant, read the contract or agreement thoroughly before you sign. Ensure it includes information on the range of services, RCIC fees, refund procedures, and other applicable terms and conditions. Ask questions and get answers on anything you need clarification on or are worried about.
Hiring a Canadian immigration consultant is an important decision that can significantly impact your immigration process. Take your time, thoroughly research, and choose a knowledgeable, reputable, and trustworthy immigration consultant in Canada.
What are the immigration consultant fees?
The fees charged by Canadian Immigration Consultants (RCICs) can vary depending on several factors, including the complexity of your case, the services provided, and the consultant’s experience and reputation. Here are some common types of fees associated with RCIC services:
- Consultation Fees: For an in-depth discussion about your immigration goals, eligibility, and choices, many RCICs charge an initial consultation fee. The consultation charge might range from around $100 to $300 or more, depending on the consultant and length.
- Application Preparation Fees: For creating and filing immigration petitions, RCICs often charge fees. Depending on the type of application and the amount of complexity, the expenses may change. For instance, there can be different Express Entry or family sponsorship application fees. Depending on the specifics, application preparation costs might range from a few hundred to several thousand Canadian dollars.
- Hourly or Flat Fees: Some RCICs bill by the hour, particularly for complicated matters that need in-depth investigation, legal analysis, or continuous representation. Depending on the experience and competence of the consultant, hourly prices range from $100 to $500. In other situations, RCICs could impose a set rate for particular services, including document review or interview preparation.
- Government Fees: It’s crucial to remember that government fees, which are paid directly to the appropriate immigration authorities, are not included in RCIC costs. Depending on the particular immigration programme and the number of applicants, different government fees may apply. For instance, RCIC payments are distinct from expenses for applying for Express Entry, work permits, or permanent residency, which the government sets.
- Additional Expenses: You could also need to pay for additional costs associated with your immigration procedure, such as language tests, evaluations of your educational credentials, police certifications, medical exams, and courier fees, in addition to professional fees. Usually, these expenses are not covered by the RCIC charge.
It’s essential to clearly understand the fees and services offered by an RCIC before agreeing. Ensure that the fees are clearly outlined in a written contract or agreement, along with a breakdown of the services provided and any refund policies. Transparent communication about costs and services will help you make an informed decision and avoid misunderstandings.
Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC): FAQs
You must pass the College’s Entry-to-Practice Exam (RCIC EPE), finish the graduate diploma programme, and score CLB9 on an acceptable English or French language proficiency test to become an RCIC. Submit an application to the CICC, maintain good standing, and keep your licence active.Â
The primary point of contact for those who emigrate to another country is an immigration consultant. To ensure a seamless entry into the country, the immigration consultant offers legal advice and help in the documentation and immigration processes.Â
A Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) is an authorized immigration and citizenship representative hired to evaluate your immigration visa application and submit it on your behalf. In addition, an RCIC provides you with a beneficial strategy for your visa options.Â
Yes, you can apply for permanent residence in Canada without a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant, but you will have to handle all the issues and challenges independently.Â
Yes, the Government of Canada treats everyone equally, whether they use a representative or not.Â
- Be at least 18 years of age and be a Canadian PR or citizen.Â
- Complete the Graduate Diploma Program (Queen’s University Graduate Diploma in Immigration and Citizenship Law or the D.E.S.S. en réglementation canadienne et québécoise de l’immigration offered in French by the Université de Montréal) or have completed the Immigration Practitioner Program (IPP) within the last 3 years;Â
- Achieve at least the minimum required score on a College-approved English or French language ability test (required for all candidates except graduates from the Queen’s University and Université de Montréal graduate diploma programs, as these two programs have integrated the College’s language ability requirement into their admission requirements); andÂ
- Pass the College’s Entry-to-Practice Exam (RCIC EPE).Â
The fees of the Canadian immigration process vary from consultant to consultant. They frequently vary by profile, depending on your application’s difficulty and the RCIC you hire. This price is set by the services provided and the costs the immigration consultant must pay for administrative procedures.Â
The price range for this service level can be between $1,000 to $10,000. If your case is straightforward, you should expect to pay less for an experienced and reputable representative.
Canadian visa processing is a specialty of immigration consultants. They assist you in completing the process successfully. Additionally, they persevere despite any obstacles brought up by refusal in your instance.
If this is the case, you shouldn’t waste time and money by going through a lengthy visa application procedure. It is usually advised to use an immigration consultant.
Most of the services Canadian lawyers or Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant provide in immigration law are similar. However, lawyers can represent clients in complex situations in federal court. In contrast, consultants are only permitted to represent clients when there is a problem with an application up to the appeal tribunal level.
Immigration consultants will offer helpful services that will make applying for a visa much more accessible than doing it alone. Where exactly you need one will depend on this. Consider hiring an immigration consultant if you require assistance filling out the immigration forms or a translation. Immigration Consultants can ensure that your initial application is filed correctly, giving you the best chance of approval and ensuring that it is appropriately optimized. You will be able to communicate with your immigration consultant about the progress of your application and comprehend all matters on it.Â
A. There are approximately 8,000 RCICs and 300 RISIAs licensed by the College (CICC). A. Individuals providing Canadian immigration/citizenship services abroad are subject to Canadian law even if they reside outside Canada.Â
A member of the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants (CICC), also known as ICCRC, which assists you with your visa application and submits it on your behalf, is known as a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC). Choosing a certified RCIC consultant is crucial for a smooth process.
You must check the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants’ online public register to determine if your RCIC consultant is authorized. RCIC consultants with the word “Active” next to their names are permitted to render services.
The College under IRCC regulates two kinds of immigration and citizenship consultants for Canada:Â
- Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultants (RCICs), andÂ
- Regulated International Student Immigration Advisors (RISIAs).Â
The CICC only regulates consultants for Canadian immigration, overseas and in Canada. The College does not process immigration applications or have any influence over immigration.
The statutory authority of the College will apply to immigration and citizenship consultants for Canada, whether they practice –Â
- Â Overseas, orÂ
- In Canada.Â
The College must license all paid consultants for Canadian visas and immigration to work with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).Â
You can be protected against unlicensed consultants who give immigration or citizenship advice without authorization from the CICC, which regulates consultants.
The College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants Act gives the current regulatory body more authority and resources to punish consultants and look into ethical lapses.
The College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants (CICC) is the official regulator of immigration and citizenship consultants in Canada. The College opened on November 23, 2021. The previous regulating authority was the Immigration Consultants of Canada Regulatory Council (ICCRC).Â
- Work only with active RCICs,Â
- Don’t trust anyone that guarantees you a visa (It is illegal in Canada),Â
- Stay away from too-good-to-be-true deals,Â
- Take the time to research from reliable sources,Â
- Always sign a written retainer agreement,Â
- Ensure you and your immigration consultant sign the retainer agreement,Â
- Sign Form IMM5476, Use of a Representative,Â
- Never sign blank forms,Â
- Get recipes and invoices for all payments,Â
- Don’t pay in cash,Â
- Get a copy of all forms you sign, andÂ
- Never lie or withhold information even if asked to do so.Â
Why Choose Arnika Visa?Â
Careful planning and understanding Canadian immigration regulations are key to avoiding delays, banes, or refusals of visas. Our RCIC (Canadian Immigration Consultant) and his expert team provide professional advice to make the immigration process as smooth and efficient as possible.Â
The regulations governing immigration to Canada are well and thoroughly understood by qualified and specifically trained Legal Counsels. You can speed and simplify the application process for a Canada visa application by seeking professional advice from a qualified, skilled and experienced RCIC. While no one can guarantee you visa approval, professional advice from a Legal Counsel can maximize the potential of your visa being granted.Â
Planning carefully and being aware of Canadian immigration laws are essential for avoiding delays, penalties, and visa refusal. To make the immigration procedure as efficient and smooth as possible, our Immigration Consultants provides expert advice.
