Although Canada has one of the friendliest immigration policies in the world, it doesn’t mean that everyone who applies for a visa is automatically given one. Applicants still have to meet certain requirements and undergo a stringent screening process to migrate to the Land of the Maple Leaf successfully.
Because of this, you have to avoid being too relaxed and unprepared when applying for a skilled migration visa. If you do, you will end up wasting a lot of time and money on the whole process.
Moreover, you will have to go through the same process a second time (or even more), thereby spending time and money all over again.
If you want to increase your chances of completing a successful visa application to Canada, take note of these key dos and don’ts:
Dos
1. Make sure you are applying under the right program
The biggest mistake you can make when applying for a Canadian migration visa is selecting the wrong category or class.
To avoid all the hassles and inconveniences that come with this misstep, ensure you are applying for the right type of visa. Think about your qualifications and experiences and determine which program you are eligible for.
There are various websites you can use to find out which class you can apply for. One of these is the official site of the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada or IRCC, the department responsible for dealing with all immigration matters.
You can also use the online assessment tools of Canadian immigration consultants, which you can find on their websites. Once they have evaluated your completed form, they will inform you which program is best suited for your qualifications and the type of visa you will have a higher chance of getting.
2. Complete and organize your requirements before finalizing your application
Each Canadian migration visa category has a specific list of requirements you have to meet and you must show evidence to back your claims.
For instance, if you are applying for the Federal Skilled Worker or Express Entry visa, you have to submit copies of your employment certificates as proof that you have the relevant work experience. You also have to prepare documents that show your level of competency in using English as your second language.
You also need to submit your college or university credentials and proof of funds.
It would be best to complete all these requirements first before you finalize the visa application forms since many of the questions will be based on these documents. By doing so, you will avoid writing down responses that you are not sure of because you don’t have a certificate to revert to.
3. Ensure you will submit the right visa application forms
All consulates and immigration departments regularly update the visa application forms they require the applicants to submit.
If you complete the old forms, you will be asked to answer and submit the latest ones. This can cause delays and prolong the whole application process.
Also, make sure you are completing the right forms required by the visa class you are applying for. Ensure that you will submit all the specified application forms. The absence of just one form can result in delays.
Use the checklist on the IRCC website as a guide to ensure you are submitting all the right forms.
4. Double-check all your responses on the forms
Incomplete, inconsistent and incorrect answers on the forms can also cause your application to be returned to you. As such, double- and even triple-check all the items you will submit before sending them electronically or by courier.
Make sure all the details you provide are correct and true. If a question or condition does not apply to you, write NA or none.
If you have to provide answers in sentence or paragraph forms, ensure your statements are clear and direct to the point.
Lastly, check for any inconsistencies in dates, addresses, and other key information. Correct any errors before submitting the form.
Don’ts
1. Provide fraudulent information and false documents
No matter how much you want to have a successful visa application, resorting to providing false information to appear as a desirable applicant won’t do anything good for you.
Additionally, do not support these false statements with fraudulent or forged documents.
If you are found guilty of misrepresentation and providing fake documents, not only will your visa application be denied, but you may also be banned from entering Canada.
2. Provide photos that do not meet the requirements
When submitting your visa application, you have to include a photo. However, you can’t attach just any pictures you like. Moreover, you can’t cut the image or reduce it to fit the space where you have to place it.
Your photo needs to meet all the specified requirements, which include size, format, background color, and lighting.
Additionally, when having your photo taken, do not wear a hat, cap, scarf, or any accessory that covers your head, neck, and parts of your face, unless you have to because of your religion. This will be rejected immediately.
3. Try to do everything on your own
Applying for a Canadian migration visa is not as straightforward and easy as it seems. One simple mistake can cause delays in your application. It can lead to its refusal as well.
As such, if you are having difficulties starting and navigating the whole application process, get help from immigration consultants. They have the experience and expertise to guide you and boost your chances of getting an approved visa.
With their assistance, you will reduce the likelihood of making several mistakes on your visa application, too.
4. Get visa advice from just anyone
Lastly, as already mentioned, if you need help, consult only registered migration agents that specialize in Canadian immigration pathways.
Try to avoid seeking help from friends and other people who are offering assistance based on their experience.
Keep in mind that not all visa applications are the same. Immigration officers take into account the complete profile of an individual and his or her submitted documents. Because of this, what may have worked for them may not give you the same results.
Applying for a Canadian migration visa can be tricky. But if you take note of these important dos and don’ts, you can avoid making several mistakes and experiencing the hassles of getting your application delayed or refused.
AUTHOR BIO
Bevan Berning is an Immigration professional and owner of Pathway Visas, an Immigration Agency dealing mostly with skilled immigration to Canada and Australia. Bevan’s enthusiasm for the industry has kept in the Immigration field for the past seven years. Bevan is South African by birth and has been residing in Dubai for the past eight years.