What is a representative? A representative is someone who conducts business with CIC for you and with your permission. They may be a family member, friend, citizen, immigration consultant, lawyer, or other. The person you appoint may fill out your forms, submit your application or talk to CIC about your file.
You are not required to hire a representative. The Government of Canada treats all applicants equally, whether they have a representative or not. If you hire a representative, it will not affect the final decision made about your application. You can appoint only one representative for each application you submit.
Do I need a representative to help me apply?
No. The Government of Canada treats everyone equally, whether they use a representative or not.
If you decide to use an immigration representative, be careful whom you ask for advice.
Your immigration representative can be paid or unpaid.
Examples of unpaid representatives are family members, friends, or members of a religious organization.
Examples of unpaid representatives are family members, friends, or members of a religious organization.
- Immigration Consultants of Canada Regulatory Council (ICCRC)
- Law Society of Ontario (LSO).
If you use a non-authorized paid consultant, your application may be returned to you.
What should I look for in a consultant?
Be careful of scams and fraudulent consultants. It is important to work with someone who has proper knowledge and training.
You can:
- Ask about their experience with the Canadian immigration process
- Ask for references
- Speak to people who have used them
- Find out if they belong to any other professional associations in Canada
Contact professional consultants who are authorized by the ICCRC to help you with your immigration needs.