Do you need a representative?

Applying to come to Canada is straight forward. Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) have made the application packages as simple as possible so that you can complete them yourself. However some people require a representative (lawyer or consultant) to:

• Apply for permanent residence
• Apply for temporary stay in Canada
• Submit a refugee claim
• Appear before the IRB or other adjudicators
• Apply for citizenship

What kind of representatives are there?

Lawyers
If you live in Canada and you want to hire a lawyer to represent you, call the law society of the province in which you reside. In many cases, you can consult a lawyer for half an hour for free before you decide to hire them.

Immigration Consultants
Before you hire an immigration consultant, ask about their experience with immigration matters. Find out from the Better Business Bureau if the consultant has a good rating.

Whichever representation you choose, CIC will require a written authorization to release information to your representative or to cancel their services.

In the sad situation that you have a dispute or serious difficulties with your representative, CIC cannot help you, but you may write to the CIC office dealing with your case. You should also inform the proper authorities as soon as possible.

If your representative is a lawyer in Canada, address your complaints to the Law society. If your representative is a consultant who is a member of a professional association in Canada, inform that association, or ask the consumer protection office in your province for advice.
If your representative is not in Canada or is not a Canadian Citizen or permanent resident, you should inform your appropriate authorities overseas.