Each year thousands of people apply for permanent resident status in Canada, hoping to capitalize on the opportunities offered by life in the country. The Government of Canada has set a target of welcoming over 400,000 new permanent residents in the near future as part of its 2021–2023 Immigration Levels Plan and it would be safe to presume that this target is only going to have an upward projection.
An application to become a permanent resident is not always as straightforward as you may think. While you can complete your application yourself, working with an immigration lawyer has many benefits. Here are six reasons a lawyer should help with your application for permanent residence in Canada.
Guidance through complex issues
Not all immigration cases are clear-cut. Some complications, such as criminal or medical inadmissibility, can reduce your chances of being approved. A lawyer can help you navigate filing for criminal rehabilitation or a temporary resident permit, which have proven the most effective ways to circumvent inadmissibility. They can also help identify and anticipate other issues that might pose a challenge later in the process.
Fewer mistakes
The immigration process can be complicated. If you have little or no experience, it can be harder to spot mistakes that might affect your application. Because immigration lawyers have experience handling these matters, they can easily recognize potential complications with your application. They will also help you understand the process and ensure paperwork is completed clearly and correctly, thus facilitating the smooth processing of your application.
The best return on investment
Another reason to use a lawyer when applying to become a permanent resident is they save you time and money. If you decide to complete the application process on your own and are unsuccessful, you may need to hire a lawyer to provide assistance with your second application. Hiring a lawyer at the beginning of the process is usually less expensive than hiring one after mistakes are made. The benefits greatly outweigh the costs.
Access to valuable experience
Immigration lawyers possess years of training and experience. They understand all the facts about immigration and know what makes an application successful. Every immigration case is unique. A lawyer can provide expert legal advice tailored to your specific circumstances, address any questions or concerns, and help you make the best decisions for your application. With an expert assisting you, you can feel confident and relaxed, knowing your application will be done well.
Help meeting deadlines
Immigration matters are often time-sensitive. Your application will require many supporting documents to be submitted by a stipulated deadline. Compiling the relevant documents yourself could take months, whereas it might take a lawyer just a week or two. Furthermore, overlooking a single document could cause your application to be rejected. When you hire an immigration lawyer, it is their responsibility to ensure that all forms and records are correct and submitted on time.
Advocacy
An immigration lawyer also helps to protect your rights and works in your best interests.If your application is denied, a lawyer can determine why, and if warranted, guide you with respect to filing a Judicial Review in the Federal Court, a claim or appeal before the Immigration and Refugee Board as the case may be.
Are you planning to submit an application for permanent residence in Canada?
Contact Goldman Associates – Vancouver Immigration Lawyers to help you achieve the best possible outcome for your permanent or temporary resident application. With 28 years of experience in immigration, our firm is uniquely qualified to handle even the most challenging cases. We handle a wide range of immigration matters, such as temporary, permanent residence and business applications. Our knowledgeable and highly trained team can help you start your new life in Canada on the right foot. Visit our scheduling page to book a consultation or call our office at 1 (604) 900-3259.