Video transcript: IRCC Explains: Immigration Representation and Advice – Hiring a Representative

Video length: 01:27 minutes

Melodic music plays. A woman with long hair wearing a maroon sweater is seated in front of a screen. She laughs. The screen has a red background and white text.

A red light filter covers the image. In white letters, there is text:

IRCC Explains: Immigration Representation and Advice

A crew member holds up a small square object with a multicoloured grid pattern in front of the woman.

Text: Should I hire someone to help me with my application?

A crew member adjusts the woman’s microphone.

A red text box with white letters appears in front of the woman:

Text: Riannon

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada

Seated in front of the screen, Riannon speaks.

Riannon: If you’re thinking about hiring a representative to help with your immigration or citizenship application, here’s what you should know. You don’t have to hire a representative:

Text: IRCC treats all applications the same

Riannon: IRCC treats all applications the same, whether you apply by yourself or you use someone to help you. However, if you decide to hire a paid representative, make sure they are authorized.

Text: Make sure they are authorized

Riannon: They must have a licence to represent people and give advice. You can confirm their status by visiting IRCC’s website. Be cautious when you notice red flags.

Text appears in white letters against a red background:

Red flags

• Promising guaranteed approval or faster processing
• Asking for large payments or cash only
• Telling you to provide false information

Riannon: For example, if someone promises you a guaranteed approval or they say they can speed up the process. If they ask for a large payment or insist on cash only. Or if they tell you to give false information on your application. These could be warning signs that something isn’t right.

Using an unauthorized representative or giving false information could delay your application, lead to a refusal or even make you ineligible to come to Canada. Finally, remember:

Text: You are responsible for the accuracy of your application

Riannon: You’re always responsible for the accuracy of your application, even if someone else prepares or submits it for you. Learn more about hiring an immigration representative on our website.

Text appears in white letters on a red background.

Text: Canada.ca/immigration-representative

On a white background, in black characters, there is text next to a small Canadian flag:

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada

Immigration, Réfugiés et Citoyenneté Canada

The word “Canada” appears in the image, below an animation of the Canadian flag.