Frequently Asked Questions
GENERAL
What is Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultants (RCIC)?
Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultants (RCIC) are legally authorized representatives and members in good standing with the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants (CICC). They are specially trained in Canadian immigration policies, programs, Regulations and Acts.
Canada has numerous immigration policies, programs, regulations, and laws in place. Understanding all the immigration programs and the laws around these programs can be confusing. Having an RCIC assist you in your immigration application and pathway will give you the peace of mind and help you to take the right steps.
Why hire an RCIC?
Hiring a knowledgeable RCIC, who has the experience to guide you in the right direction will make you feel safe and secure knowing your visa application is in the right hands.
Immigrating to a different country can be an intricate process with a lot of paperwork and procedures that may be overwhelming. An RCIC can utilize their knowledge by ensuring your application is submitted correctly and completely the first time around, which can ultimately provide your application with a positive outcome. An RCIC has experience navigating the immigration process and can provide you the best customized plan to achieve your immigration goals, while maintaining a high level of ethical and professional standards to their clients. An RCIC has a professional obligation to be honest in providing you immigration options that specifically tailored to your needs.
Can UCIC guarantee an approval?
Our office guarantees that we will do our best in helping you and upholding our high level of standards. We won’t accept any cases that we believe may not qualify. We cannot guarantee the outcome of your application, however we can guarantee that we will work on your case with the highest due diligence possible. At UCIC, we will work with you with the highest level of standards of competence, professionalism, and integrity. At the same time providing you with our commitment for transparent communication with all our clients.
How do we complete the process while I'm overseas?
We have helped clients from many countries, and we utilize a variety of technologies to see you, speak to you, and make you feel comfortable. We will work with you and communicate with you through any avenue that is convenient for you. We will send you detailed instructions of how to complete the signing of documents, where to go to get documents, and whatever else is necessary so that the process is also cost effective and stress free.
WORK IN CANADA
I want to work in Canada, what do I need?
To work in Canada, you need to apply for a work visa and/or employment authorization known as a work permit. A work permit is a document issued by officials of the Canadian government that allows a foreign national to come to work in Canada temporarily.
What are Open and Closed Work Permits?
An open work permit enables a foreign national to work for any employer in Canada. Open work permits do not require foreign nationals to obtain a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) or a job offer when applying.
A closed work permit, also known as an employer specific work permit, requires a foreign worker to only work for the employer and the job specified on the work permit. In most cases of close work permits, the employer is required to obtain a positive LMIA and provided the foreign worker with a job offer.
Do I need to complete a medical exam to get a work permit in Canada?
Some foreign workers need to complete a medical exam if they are looking to work in a job that requires the protection of public health. Examples of such jobs include health services, childcare, or primary or secondary education.
In addition, you may need to complete a medical if you will be working in an agricultural job and lived in a designated country or territory, or if you want to work in Canada for over six months and you resided in a designated country or territory for six straight months in the year right before the date you plan to move to Canada.
Can my family come to Canada with me if I have a work permit to work in Canada?
If you are a skilled worker in an occupation under the National Occupational Classification (NOC) skill type 0, A or B and are approved to work in Canada for six months or longer, your spouse can apply to come to Canada with you under an open work permit. Your dependant children can also apply to come to Canada with you under study permit.
Can I change my employer if my work permit is still valid?
It depends on what type and conditions of the work permit you are holding. If your work permit specifies name of employer, it means you can only work for that employer. In this case, if you want to change employer, you must apply for a new work permit with the new employer and make sure you are eligible for the new type of work permit you are applying for.
How can I renew my work permit in Canada?
If you have a work permit that is about to expire or if you need to make changes to the conditions of your work permit, you will need to submit a new application. It is recommended that you submit your application at least 30 days before your work permit expires. You will not be allowed to extend your work permit beyond your passport's expiry date, so it is important to make sure your passport will be valid longer than the period that you are applying for your work permit. You must also ensure that you meet the eligibility requirements to renew your work permit.
Can I obtain a work permit with the intention of immigrating to Canada?
Yes, you can apply for a work permit on its own or in combination with a permanent residence application, (if you have applied or may apply an application for permanent residence). This is considered "dual intent." Having 2 intents, one for temporary residence and one for permanent residence is legitimate and recognized by IRCC. For example, an applicant has intent to live in Canada permanently, over the long-term, but they also have intent to work in Canada temporarily, in the short-term.
Can I leave Canada and then return if I have a work permit?
Yes, you can leave Canada temporarily and return back to Canada to resume your employment. It is important to note that your work permit is not a travel document, so it does not give you the right to travel to Canada. Rather, it gives you the right to work in Canada. In order to make sure you can enter into Canada you need a temporary resident visa (TRV) or an electronic travel authorization (eTA). To ensure that you are able to enter into Canada, you must make sure your TRV or eTA, is still valid when re-entering.
In addition, your entry back into Canada is at the discretion of a Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) Officer. You may be required to satisfy the CBSA Officer that you are still able to meet the conditions of your current work permit. For example, he or she may request proof of your employment in Canada. It is important to travel with the all the necessary documents, to prevent any delays or issues.
STUDY IN CANADA
What is a Study Permit?
A study permit is an official document issued by the Government of Canada, which allows foreign nationals to study in Canada. To apply for a study permit, you will need an acceptance letter from a designated learning institution.
What are designated learning institutions (DLIs)? How do I know if a school is DLI or not?
A designated learning institution (DLI) is a school approved by a provincial or territorial government to host international students. You can check the DLI list on the website of Government of Canada. You will need an acceptance letter from one of the educational institutes listed on the DLI to apply for a study permit. So, if you plan to attend a post-secondary school in Canada, make sure it is on the DLI list. All primary and secondary schools in Canada are considered designated learning institutions, so they are not included on the list.
Do I need to show proof of funds when applying for a study permit?
When applying to come to Canada to study, applicants will need to prove they have sufficient funds to cover their tuition fees and show their financial ability to support their living expenses for the first year of their study. The minimum funds required to support yourself as a student and if applicable, any family members who come with you to Canada are:
Is a study permit required for short term courses?
If your study program is less than six months in duration, then an applicant is not required to obtain a study permit. However, if a course is longer than six months, you will need to apply for a study permit. Even if you do not need a study permit, it may be beneficial to apply for one. If you decide to continue studying in a new program after completing your short-term studies, without a study permit, you may be required to leave the country and apply through a Canadian visa office outside Canada. To apply for a study permit for a short-term course or program, your studies must be at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
Is it possible to work during studies?
An international student may be eligible to work while studying in Canada. A student must have a valid study permit and be enrolled full-time at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI). Study permit holders may be allowed to work for up to 20 hours per week during regular academic sessions and full time during scheduled breaks. You can work as an international student in Canada if your study permit lists a condition that says you’re allowed to work on- or off-campus. You will have to meet specific eligibility requirements to qualify to work on-campus or off-campus.
An international student must stop working the day they no longer meet the eligibility requirements. There is an important exemption to this regulation: students enrolled in an English as a Second Language (ESL) or French as a Second Language (FSL) program are not authorized to work with a study permit.
Can I change schools or programs while on a study permit?
You can change your school or program at any time. If a student is transferring from one Designated Learning Institution (DLI) to another, even if it is at the same level of study, you must notify Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship (IRCC). The same applies for post-secondary students changing their level of study (i.e., from a bachelor’s to master’s program). It is important to check the conditions listed on your study permit to verify whether the permit restricts you from studying at a particular institution or program.
Am I allowed to apply for a study permit from within Canada?
Generally, you must apply for a study permit from outside of Canada. Only under certain circumstances, you may be able to apply for a study permit from within Canada.
Am I allowed to change my status from a visitor to a student in Canada?
You cannot change your visitor visa into a student visa. If you want to apply for a study permit, you must return to your home country and secure a place in any designated learning institution in Canada, then submit your study permit application from outside of Canada.
Can I stay and work in Canada after I have graduated?
Yes, before your study permit expires, you can apply for a post-graduation work permit (PGWP) to remain in Canada and work here. However, you have to meet the eligibility requirements for a PGWP. In cases where you are not eligible, you have to apply for a Labour Market Impact Assessment based work permit in order to work in Canada after your study.
What is a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)?
Students who have graduated from an eligible program of at least 8 months of full-time studies at Canadian designated learning institutions (DLIs) can apply for a PGWP. The purpose of the PGWP program is to enable international students to gain valuable Canadian work experience. The length of a PGWP depends on the length of your studies and is maximum 3 years.
How can I become a permanent resident (PR) of Canada after studying in Canada?
As a general rule, you must qualify for a PR program to apply for permanent residency in Canada. If you already have some work experience, you may qualify for one of the Express Entry streams or Provincial Nominee Programs from the province you have graduated. Some provinces allow international post-graduates from their provinces to apply for PR without obtaining a job offer.
Another pathway is to obtain a Post-Graduation Work Permit to work in Canada after you graduate. Canadian work experience in National Occupational Classification (NOC) skill type 0 or skill level A or B may help you to qualify for permanent residence in Canada through the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) within Express Entry.
VISIT CANADA
How long can a visitor stay in Canada?
In most cases, a visitor can stay up to 6 months in Canada from the date of their entry into Canada. However, when you enter Canada at the port of entry, a Canadian Border Services Agency agent (CBSA) may allow you to stay for less than six months (or more than six months, depending on your situation) by putting a date you need to leave Canada on your passport or by issuing a visitor record that would have an expiry date. If you wish to stay longer, you need to apply for a visitor record by submitting a visitor extension application to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Do I need an immigration medical exam if my visit is 6 months or less?
Generally, you do not need a medical exam if your visit is 6 months or less.
What can I do if my visitor visa application from outside of Canada is refused?
There is no formal appeal process for a refused TRV (visitor visa) application that was made outside of Canada. However, you may reapply if you are able to provide considerable new information and/or documents to your new application or if your situation has changed substantially from the last time you have applied.
Can I extend my visitor status?
Yes, you can extend your stay as a visitor beyond six months by applying for a visitor record. However, you must apply before the expiration of your current visitor status. If your visitor status expires and you have already applied for an extension and are waiting for a decision on your application, you will have implied status until a final decision is made on your visitor extension application.
Can I work in Canada on a visitor visa?
In most cases a foreign national must obtain a work permit to work in Canada. You need to have a job offer from a Canadian employer to apply for a work permit. You must also meet other program requirements.
There are some exemptions, that will allow foreign nationals to work without a permit. One example would be business visitors to Canada. This category has very specific criteria set, and the scope of the work as a business visitor is limited as well. It is the utmost importance to understand and know the exact situations that will allow you to work without a work permit while in Canada as a visitor, to ensure you are following the laws and regulations of your visitor status.
Can I study in Canada on a visitor visa?
International students generally require a study permit to pursue an educational program in Canada. However, there are few exceptions to this rule. If your program in Canada is less than six months, you do not require a study permit. However, it may be a good idea to apply for a study permit, just in case you decide to continue with your studies. Another example would be if you are in Canada on a work/study permit, your minor children can study at the secondary or elementary level without a study permit. However, it may also be a good idea to apply for a study permit for the minor child, as in some provinces and territories will require a study permit for your child to receive certain provincial social services, such as medical coverage.
family sponsorship
How much money do I need to sponsor a family member in Canada?
The income required will vary depending on the type of sponsorship you will be undertaking and the number of family members you have in your care. Some sponsorship options will also require you to demonstrate that you have a minimum income to be eligible to sponsor.
For example, for the Parent and Grandparent Sponsorship Program, you must exceed the Minimum Necessary Income (MNI) requirement set by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for each of the past 3 taxation years before the date that you submit your application. Your MNI is assessed based on your Canada Revenue Agency Notice of Assessment. You will be required to sign a promise to provide for the basic needs of the family member you are sponsoring. The length of undertaking will differ from each stream under the family sponsorship class.
(For sponsors living in the province of Quebec must meet different income requirements.)
What is the definition of common-law partnership?
A common-law partnership is a couple that has been living together for 12 consecutive months and is not legally married. Any time spent away from each other was because of valid obligations and was short and temporary. This term refers to opposite-sex and same-sex relationships.
What is the definition of a Conjugal Partnership?
A conjugal partner is a person outside of Canada who has had a binding relationship with a sponsor for at least one year but couldn’t live with their partner. They were not able to live together or get married for reasons beyond their control, due to significant immigration or legal barriers. This term refers to opposite-sex and same-sex relationships.
What does “basic needs” mean?
When a sponsor is signing an undertaking, the sponsor is agreeing to provide their sponsored family members with financial support for their basic needs of:
- food, clothing, shelter, and other necessities of life
- dental and eye care and other health needs not covered by public health services available to all Canadian citizens and permanent residents.
The undertaking is a binding promise of support, meaning that it is your responsibility to support the applicant(s) for the length of the undertaking period even if your situation changes.
What are the different types of Spousal Sponsorship?
Inland Spousal Sponsorship: You can sponsor your spouse through Inland Spousal Sponsorship as a Canadian citizen or permanent resident if they are already living with you in Canada. You must be able to financially support your spouse’s basic needs during their stay. The sponsored person will be required to clear all admissibility requirements for permanent residency. They will also be eligible to apply for an open work permit, while waiting for a decision on their permanent residence application, as long as they are able to meet all eligibility requirements.
Outland Spousal Sponsorship: Outland Spousal Sponsorship allows you to sponsor your spouse, common-law partner, conjugal partner living in another country. You must be able to financially support the basic needs of your spouse and not be a previous applicant for spousal sponsorship in the 5 years preceding the application. You may have a right to appeal to the Immigration Appeal Division (IAD) if your sponsorship application is refused.
Can I sponsor my spouse or partner if I don’t have a job?
In most cases, you will not have to submit proof of income when sponsoring your spouse, common-law partner, or conjugal partner for permanent residence to Canada. However, an immigration officer may request an interview and ask how you will support yourself and your spouse (including other family members in the application – if applicable).
How long am I financially responsible for the family member I sponsor?
The period during which you will be financially responsible for the person you are sponsoring begins on the day they become a permanent resident and varies depending on the type of family member:
Will marrying a Canadian automatically give the foreign spouse permanent residence in Canada?
No, marrying a Canadian citizen or permanent resident of Canada will not automatically give you a permanent resident status. You can only become a permanent resident of Canada, once you are married or in a common-law relationship, your spouse/sponsor has applied for a spousal sponsorship, and your sponsorship application was approved by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
What is a Spousal Open Work Permit?
The Spousal Open Work Permit allows eligible individuals living in Canada to obtain a temporary work permit while their spousal sponsorship application is being processed by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). A permanent residence application must be submitted under the Spouse or Common-law Partnership in Canada Sponsorship Program and meet other eligibility criteria to qualify for the spousal open work permit. This spousal open work permit enables the person awaiting sponsorship to work for any employer in Canada.
Can I sponsor more than one person in the program for parents and grandparents?
Yes. To do so, you will need to submit separate applications for each person (or couple) you are sponsoring. Applications will be processed separately.
Who isn’t eligible to sponsor a relative in Canada?
Some circumstances that may make you ineligible for sponsorship if you:
- are in prison
- have not paid your child support payments
- have declared bankruptcy and have not yet been discharged
- have defaulted on an immigration loan, made late payments, or defaulted on payments
- have sponsored another relative in the past and have not complied with the terms of the sponsorship agreement
- were convicted of a violent crime
EXPRESS ENTRY
What is Express Entry?
Express Entry is an innovative system introduced in early 2015, where foreign nationals can apply for permanent residency of Canada by entering a pool of candidates. Candidates are awarded points based on the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). The higher their points are, the better chance they have to receive an Invitation to Apply (ITAs).
What is the Express Entry pool?
Those individuals who are entered into the pool of candidates must be eligible for one of the immigration programs including the Federal Skilled Worker program, the Federal Skilled Trades Class, Canadian Experience Class, or the Provincial Nominee Program. The Government of Canada and Canadian employers are able to select candidates from this pool and will issue them an “Invitation to Apply” for one of the above immigration programs.
How long does a candidate’s profile remain in the Express Entry pool?
A candidate's profile remains in the pool for a period of 12 months, or until he or she has been selected for a federal skilled worker program. After 12 months, a candidate may create a new profile.
What is the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS)?
Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) is a points-based system which is used to score a candidate’s profile in Express Entry system. CRS assesses candidates according to a set of criteria including age, skills, work experience, language ability, education, and other factors.
Can Express Entry profiles be updated?
Yes, your Express Entry profile remains valid for 12 months from the date you created it. You can update your profile at any time if it can help increase your CRS score. For example, if you obtain a higher certificate while your profile is valid in the Express Entry pool then you should update your education in your profile to earn more points for level of education.
How can I increase my Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score?
There are several ways to increase one’s CRS score for examples:
- Having Provincial Nomination (600 Points). With additional 600 points from receiving a Provincial Nomination, it is almost certain that you will receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA).
- Having a Canadian Job Offer 50-200 Points: the number of points is based on the NOC level of the job (NOC 0, A, or B)
- Increase language ability. This is considered as one of the easiest and fastest way to increase score by many candidates.
- Obtaining higher education
Can you apply to the Provincial Nominee Program using Express Entry?
Yes, you can apply to the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) using Express Entry. Firstly, create an Express Entry profile. Then, there are two ways to apply for a provincial nomination under Express Entry:
1. You can contact the province or territory directly and apply for a nomination under their Express Entry stream:
- If the province accepts and agrees to nominate you, you can update your Express Entry profile to show you have been nominated.
- If you get a nomination through your account, you can accept it online.
2. You can contact the province or territory directly, and apply for a nomination under their Express Entry stream:
- If you receive a “notification of interest” on your account, it means that a province or territory has taken note of your profile. You can then contact them directly.
- If you are nominated, you will receive approval through your account, which you can accept online.
Note: If you are nominated by a Province or Territory, you are awarded an additional 600 points in the CRS (Comprehensive Ranking System).
Do I need a job offer for Express Entry?
No, you don’t require a job offer for Express Entry. Candidates can still be selected for Express Entry when they don’t have arranged employment in Canada. However, a valid job offer for a skilled, full-time position can boost your Express Entry CRS score by 50 to 200 points. Generally, a valid job offer is usually supported by a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).
PROVINCIAL NOMINEE PROGRAMS
Do I need a Job Offer from a Canadian employer to apply for Permanent Residency (PR) of Canada?
No. There are several PR programs to Canada that do not require a job offer from a Canadian employer. Obtaining a valid job offer from a Canadian employer, however, it will significantly increase your score and chance of helping you to qualify for the Provincial Nominee Program where the employer is located.
What is a Skilled Worker in Canada?
A skilled worker is any person who has special skills, training, qualifications, and experience in a certain skilled job position. The Canadian government uses the National Occupational Classification (NOC) to categorize skilled job positions for immigration purposes. Skilled jobs are divided into three types, 0, A and B:
Skill type 0: Management jobs, for example:
- Restaurant managers
- Mine managers
- Advertising, marketing and public relations managers; and
- Financial managers
Skill level A: Professional jobs that usually require a degree, like:
- Doctors
- Architects
- Investment dealers and brokers; and
- Human Resource professionals
Skill level B: Technical jobs and skilled trades that usually require a diploma or apprentice training, for example:
- Chefs
- Electricians
- Medical administrative assistant; and
- Sport and fitness instructors
Can my family come to Canada with me if I obtain a provincial nomination?
Yes, close family members can move to Canada with you and also obtain permanent residence. Close family members include:
- your spouse or common-law partner
- dependent children
- dependent children of your spouse or common-law partner
- dependent children of dependent children
Dependent children are:
- under 22 years old and not a spouse or common law partner
- 22 years of age or older, depended significantly on financial support from their parents before the age of 22 and cannot support themselves financially due to a physical or mental condition
Which PNP has the lowest language (IELTS/CELPIP) score requirements?
Saskatchewan, Manitoba, and Northwest Territories require the lowest language (IELTS/CELPIP) score (CLB 4) out of all the Canadian provinces.
Can I move to another province after immigrating to Canada through the PNP?
Canada's Charter of Rights allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to move freely within the country. You are allowed to move to another province after you have obtained permanent residence through one of the provincial nominee programs. However, at the time of submitting your PNP application, you are strongly encouraged to be honest about your residency intentions. There could be possible serious consequences if you misrepresent your residency intentions in your application. It is best to pursue a PNP stream in a province or territory that you believe will be where you want to reside with your family and work.
CANADIAN CITIZENSHIP
Does Canada allow dual citizenship?
Yes, Canada allows individuals to hold dual (or multiple) citizenships. This means that new Canadian citizens may also retain the citizenship of another country, if that country also allows dual citizenship, while enjoying the rights and privileges of being a Canadian.
What happens if I fail the citizenship test?
If you don’t pass your first written test, but meet the other requirements for citizenship, IRCC will schedule you for a second test. The second test usually takes place 4 to 8 weeks after the first test, but it may be longer. If the second test also results in failure, IRCC will invite you to attend for a hearing with a citizenship official.
During this oral hearing (may be in person or video conference), the officer may assess your knowledge of Canada and assess your language ability in English or French. If you don’t pass the test after 3 tries, IRCC will refuse your application. You then would have to re-apply again with a new application.
Do I become a Canadian citizen when I marry a Canadian?
You do not automatically become a Canadian citizen if you marry a Canadian citizen. It may be possible for your spouse (the Canadian citizen) to sponsor you to become a permanent resident. Both you and your spouse will have to meet the eligibility criteria for family sponsorship.
I am Canadian, but my child was born outside Canada. Is my child Canadian?
Your child is likely a Canadian citizen if at least 1 parent (legal/biological parent) was born in Canada or became a naturalized Canadian citizen before the child was born. In this circumstance, you can apply for a proof of Canadian Citizenship Certificate.
Can I leave Canada after I submit my citizenship application?
Yes, you can leave Canada after IRCC receives your application. If you need to leave Canada and want to stay eligible for Canadian citizenship, you must:
- Make sure that you live in Canada long enough to keep your Permanent Resident (PR) status.
- Make sure you are a permanent resident (when you apply).
- Make sure you don’t lose permanent resident status, by keeping a clean criminal record, before you take the Oath of Citizenship.
- Make sure you bring your PR card with you when you leave Canada, so you can return to Canada with no issues, as this is considered as an important status ID and travel document
Do I need to reside in Canada after becoming Canadian Citizen?
LABOUR MARKET IMPACT ASSESSMENT (LMIA)
What is a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA)?
A Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is a document that an employer in Canada may need to get before hiring a foreign worker.
What is a positive LMIA?
A positive LMIA gives employer a permission to hire a foreign worker. It will show that there is a need for a foreign worker to fill the job. It will show that no Canadian worker or permanent resident is available to do the job. A positive LMIA is sometimes also called a confirmation letter. A positive LMIA means that Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) has determined that hiring foreign nationals in the specified occupation and the work location is likely to have a positive or neutral impact on the Canadian Labour Market.
Who can apply for an LMIA?
To apply for a LMIA an employer must be operating a business that is providing goods or services in Canada and provide document proof to demonstrate that the business is a legal business that provides goods or services in Canada. In addition to this, the business must be in good financial standing, and employer is required to submit a proof that support the employer’s ability to pay the salary of foreign worker. We can help you determine what document you can include with your application.
How to get an LMIA?
The LMIA is issued by Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC). The application process depends on the type of program you are hiring through. There are multiple categories/streams that you can apply under LMIA program. We can help you choose the best suitable program for your business needs.
What happens after positive LMIA is obtained?
After the positive LMIA is received the employer can choose the suitable candidate from inside or outside Canada and provide them with copy of positive LMIA so they can apply for work permit to be able to come to Canada and work in Canada.
Is there any fees associate with my application for LMIA with ESDC?
The processing fee amount you will have to pay ESDC will depend on the LMIA categories/streams you are applying under. For example, positions that fall under primary agriculture are exempt from LMIA fee and certain caregiver positions are exempt as well. If you were applying positions that fall under Low-wage or High-wage positions, most of the positions under these categories would be subject to a $1000.00 application fee per position that is requested on the LMIA application. We can help you determine if you are exempt from paying a LMIA fee.
Restoration of Status
What does restoration of status in Canada mean?
When a foreign national in Canada has failed to apply to extend their temporary status before it expired, they lose their status in Canada. In this case, the foreign national may still be eligible to restore their status as a visitor, student or worker to continue to stay legally in Canada. However, it is important to make sure you meet the eligibility requirements for the restoration of your status.
What are requirements for restoration of status in Canada?
To qualify for restoration of status, a foreign national must be in Canada and:
- Must apply for restoration of status within 90 days of losing their status or within 90 days of the expiry of their status document
- Must continue to meet all the initial requirements of their stay
- Must have not failed to comply with the other conditions imposed
Will my application for restoration of status be approved?
If you are qualified for restoration of status and wish to continue stay in Canada, you can apply for restoration; however, there is no guarantee that your application will be accepted by IRCC. An IRCC officer will evaluate your application and if approved will process your request and then advise you of any further action to be taken. Nonetheless, UCIC has a proven track record to help our clients to receive a positive outcome to restore their status in Canada
Can I work or study after having applied for restoration of status?
If you have lost your status as a worker or student and have applied to restore your status, you will not be able to legally work or study in Canada until you receive a positive decision on your application.