In recent years, there has been vigorous debate about whether potential Canadian immigrants should use a lawyer or consultant for their immigration applications. Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada does not require applicants to have a representative to submit an immigration application. So, do you need an immigration lawyer?
I started working in the immigration law field in 2004. Since that time, I have seen so many cases that have been delayed or refused because of small errors in an application. For example, one client submitted his application in the wrong category and missed out on a time-limited opportunity to become a permanent resident of Canada. Another client made an innocent mistake on a work permit application and was not able to work or get health care coverage in Canada for five months. Another student failed to submit the right documents in her application and had to re-do an entire semester at university. These are costly errors, arguably much more expensive than lawyer fees.
At a minimum, I recommend consulting an immigration lawyer to get advice about your case, including what category to apply in, what documents you need and other important tips. A lawyer can point you in the right direction, provide you with a long-term immigration strategy and help you determine how complex legal systems affect you. Hiring a lawyer to represent you in your immigration process can also greatly reduce the number of hours you spend on your application and may ease your stress related to the immigration process.
But you must choose your immigration representative wisely! Only lawyers in good standing with a Canadian provincial law society or registered immigration consultants are authorized by law to give advice on immigration matters in exchange for a fee. There is unfortunately so much fraud in this area, including unlicensed and "ghost" representatives who may take your money and disappear, as well as representatives who do not have sufficient expertise to advise you properly. Even accepting advice from friends and family is tricky, as Canadian immigration law and policy change constantly and the facts of each case are unique.
Do your research before choosing a representative and ask for recommendations or a second opinion if you are unsure. I get most of my clients via referrals from past clients or other lawyers, who know that I have a proven track record of legal expertise in Canadian immigration.
Do you need assistance with immigrating to Canada? Please contact me to discuss your options.