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How to Avoid Common Application Mistakes

The number one reason applications are refused is because they are riddled with mistakes. These applications are difficult applications to pursue on your own, because, if you are unfamiliar with the process, there is a good chance you overlook certain details and submit an imperfect application. Unfortunately for applicants, the Canadian Government is not interesting in assisting others file applications; this is why they recommend you consult an immigration specialist, or a lawyer. It often comes as a surprise when an application which is incomplete is returned and refused, without any ability to re-submit it and pick up where it left off. However, one needs to understand, immigration and border protection cannot be taken lightly. Applications must be complete and robust for the security of Canada as a whole. Therefore, it makes sense that when an application is complete, it cannot simply be approved. Furthermore, the Canadian government has to devote all its time and resources to processing and approving complete applications for individuals who truly deserve to fulfill their long-worked-for-wish of immigrating to Canada. Everyone who submits an application to immigration can understand, the wait time are agonizing at the best of times, and they would not like to think their applications are being inefficient they are spending too much time processing applications. Ultimately, we have created this article to help applicants have an easier time submitting applications which will not be returned and refused, and get everyone working together to help Canadian border officers process more files successfully.

1. Always check country specific requirements before submitting your application.

Regardless of the type of application you are submitting, whether it be for permanent residence, or for temporary residence, please take the time to do this. Depending on the country and the type of application you are submitting, you could need to submit additional documents. Or for example, you could have to submit originals of some documents which other countries are only required to submit a copy of. If you do not submit original documents when required, your application will be returned as incomplete.

2. If You’re Wanting to Sponsor Your Dependent Children

Specifically, if the principal applicant is a dependent child, meaning they are under the age of 18 years old, or, qualify as a dependent child due to a disability, you must submit the Additional Family Information Form and list them as the principal applicant. The parent/legal guardian of the principal applicant who is a dependent child will be the one to sign all the forms on their behalf. If sponsoring more than one child under 18 as a principal applicant, make sure you submit separate complete applications for each child. This means submitting the Additional Family Information Form for each child, and listing each child on their own Application to Sponsor, Sponsorship Agreement and Undertaking.

3. If You Want to Sponsor Your Child to Canada, While the other Parent Does Not Accompany

If your child’s parent is not come to Canada along with the child and the sponsor, the parent/guardian applying from Canada must submit a signed copy of the Declaration From Non-Accompanying Parent/Guardian for Minors Immigrating to Canada form. In addition to the form, a piece of photo identification from the parent/guardian who is not coming to Canada along with the minor must be submitted. In situations where having this form signed from the other parent is impossible, because for example the parent’s whereabouts is unknown, a letter of explanation must be included with the application. Applications in this situation which do not fulfill this requirement will undoubtedly be returned and refused.

4. Submitting Identity Documents

All documents, not just identity documents first and foremost, must be translated by a certified translator into English. If they do not meet these requirements, they will be returned. Again, this is important regardless of whether you apply for express entry, or, to simply come as a business visitor. If you are unable to submit a document, you must include a detailed explanation of why you are unable to submit this document so that your application is not automatically returned to you.

5. Filling out the Forms

This is the area on most applications where errors congregate. Here is a checklist guide to filling out application forms:

1. Fill out ALL sections – Look very closely to ensure all places which read “applicant signature” are signed and dated accordingly. The same goes for places which read “sponsor signature.” If signatures are missing, the application will be returned without processing.
2. Press VALIDATE if it is available – this will help you determine if there is anything missing on the form.
3. Check, check, and check again to make sure they are complete and accurate.

After the Application is submitted

Pay the applicable fees upon submitting the application. Also, watch carefully of any further requests and correspondence from Citizenship Immigration Services Canada (CIC). If they request more documents from you, you will be given a deadline. If you do not meet this deadline the application will be refused and you will have to completely resubmit to have the file processed again. Finally, inform CIC if your address or contact information changes.

Contact Akrami & Associates

We have dealt with hundreds of immigration cases. We have helped our clients in their difficult situations and have guided them to draft a more effective application. We can help you draft your application and arrange the required documents. A well-planned and complete application will increase your likelihood of acceptance and will save your from hassle. Our goal is to help everyone that is interested in immigrating to Canada. Contact us and we can provide numerous options for you. Please feel free to contact Akrami & Associates at our office at 416-477-2545 for more information or if you would like to book a consultation with an immigration professional for more advise.

With Akrami & Associates, there is always a way!