Immigrating to Canada is a dream for many people around the world. However, the process can be complex and daunting, and there are many common mistakes that can be made along the way. Mistakes on your immigration application can cause your application to be denied or delayed and will cost you extra money, time and stress. Often people contact our law firm when their immigration application has been denied. In the video below, Canada immigration lawyer Evelyn Ackah discusses some of the most common mistakes people make when they DIY their Canada immigration application, then come to Ackah Business Immigration Law for help. And, we have tips on how to avoid the most common immigration application mistakes.
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How To Avoid Mistakes On Canada Immigration Applications
1. Carefully read the instructions and requirements.
The first step to avoiding mistakes on your Canadian immigration application is to carefully read the instructions and requirements. This includes reading the application forms carefully, as well as the checklist of documents that are required. If you are unsure about anything, it is always better to err on the side of caution and ask for clarification.
2. Get help from a qualified immigration professional.
If you are not comfortable filling out the application forms yourself, or if you are unsure about the requirements, it is a good idea to get help from a qualified immigration professional. An experienced Canadian immigration lawyer can help you ensure that your application is complete and accurate, and they can also help you avoid making any common mistakes.
3. Make sure you have all of the required documents.
IRCC will not process your application if you do not include all of the required documents. Make sure that you carefully review the checklist of documents that is provided on the IRCC website.
4. Be truthful and complete when providing information.
It is important to be truthful and complete when providing information on your immigration application. If you are unsure about something, it is always better to err on the side of caution and provide more information than less.
5. Proofread your application carefully before submitting it.
Once you have completed your application, take some time to proofread it carefully. This will help you catch any errors in grammar or spelling, and it will also help you make sure that you have answered all of the questions completely.
6. Use IRCC online tools to submit your application.
When possible, use IRCC's online portals and tools to submit and document your immigration application. Not all immigration applications have an online portal, so some applications need to be submitted manually.
7. Use a trackable courier service when mailing your application.
It is important to use a trackable courier service when mailing your immigration application. This way, you will be able to track the progress of your application and ensure that it is delivered to the IRCC in a timely manner.
8. Make a copy of your application.
It is important to make a copy of your immigration application before you submit it. This way, you will have a record of your application in case there are any problems.
By following these tips, you can help to avoid making common mistakes on your Canada immigration application. This will increase your chances of having your application approved and becoming a permanent resident of Canada - and save you time, money and stress.
WATCH: Calgary Immigration Lawyer Evelyn Ackah Discusses Common Mistakes On Immigration Applications
Summary of Common Canada Immigration Application Mistakes
- Failure to sign the application forms or failure to sign the application forms in the right place.
This is a very common mistake, especially for spousal sponsorship applications. It is important to carefully read the instructions and make sure that you sign all of the required forms in the correct places. - Paying the fee incorrectly or paying the wrong fee.
It is important to make sure that you pay the correct fee for your application. You can find the current fees on the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website. - Not including the correct size passport photo.
IRCC has specific requirements for passport photos that are used for immigration applications. Make sure that your photo meets these requirements before you submit your application. - Not including all of the required documents.
IRCC will not process your application if you do not include all of the required documents. Make sure that you carefully review the checklist of documents that is provided on the IRCC website. - Providing misinformation or not explaining missing information.
It is important to be truthful and complete when providing information on your immigration application. If you are unsure about something, it is always better to err on the side of caution and provide more information than less. - Misrepresenting yourself.
This is a serious offence that can result in the refusal of your application. Make sure that you are truthful about your immigration history and any other relevant information. - Illegible handwriting.
IRCC must be able to read the information on your application forms. If your handwriting is illegible, they may not be able to process your application. - Not including a cover letter.
A cover letter is a great way to introduce your application and provide context for the information that you are submitting. It is also a good opportunity to explain any extenuating circumstances that may affect your application. - Waiting for criminal record checks to be completed before submitting your application.
You can submit your application even if your criminal record checks have not been completed. However, you must provide evidence that you have applied for the checks. - Mailing your application to the IRCC instead of using a trackable courier service.
It is important to use a trackable courier service when mailing your immigration application. This way, you will be able to track the progress of your application and ensure that it is delivered to the IRCC in a timely manner. - Not making a copy of your application.
It is important to make a copy of your immigration application before you submit it. This way, you will have a record of your application in case there are any problems.
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Don't Waste Time and Money: Contact Ackah Law to Guide Your Immigration Journey
Hiring an immigration professional can save you time, money and stress. Navigating the complex Canada immigration laws can be confusing. An experienced Canadian immigration lawyer can advise you on your best options for business and cross-border immigration, and guide you through the entire process.
Ackah Business Immigration Law has offices in Toronto, Calgary and Vancouver to help clients move to new opportunities in Canada and the United States. To get in touch with Ackah Law, contact us at (403) 452-9515 or send an email directly to contact@ackahlaw.com.
