FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Immigration is a life-changing journey, and no two individuals share the exact same background
or circumstances. That’s why there is no “one-size-fits-all” approach to Canadian immigration.
The initial consultation is designed to better understand your personal situation—your
education, work experience, family background, and long-term goals—so we can identify which
immigration pathway best suits you.
This FAQ provides general information to help you understand the process, but it is not a
substitute for personalized advice. Every case is unique, and the right strategy depends on your
specific circumstances.
Start-Up Visa
The Start-Up Visa Program is a direct pathway to permanent residence in Canada.
Yes, all your family members under 22 years of age will be included in your permanent
residency application.
You can apply alone, but up to five people can apply as part of the same business
venture if they each meet the requirements.
Processing times vary, but it can take over a year. While waiting, you may be able to apply for a temporary work permit to start working on your business in Canada.
Yes, you must meet minimum language requirements in either English or French.
LMIA
An LMIA (Labour Market Impact Assessment) is a document from Employment and Social
Development Canada (ESDC) that allows a Canadian employer to hire a foreign worker. It
shows that no Canadian worker is available to do the job.
Most employers who want to hire a foreign worker for a job in Canada need an LMIA before the
worker can apply for a work permit.
No. Some jobs are LMIA-exempt, such as certain work permits under international agreements
(like CUSMA), intra-company transfers, or open work permits.
The Canadian employer must apply to ESDC, provide details about the job, advertise the
position to Canadians, and show why they need a foreign worker.
Processing times vary depending on the type of job and the program stream. Some priority jobs
may be processed faster.
No. Only Canadian employers can apply for an LMIA. As a worker, you can apply for a work
permit after your employer gets a positive LMIA.
No. A positive LMIA is required for many work permits, but you must still meet all the
requirements for a work permit (such as background checks, medical exams, etc.).
Yes. In many cases, having a valid job offer supported by an LMIA can give you extra points in
Express Entry and improve your chances of being invited to apply for permanent residence.
Once approved, an LMIA is usually valid for 6 months. The worker must apply for their work
permit during that time.
Once approved, an LMIA is usually valid for 6 months. The worker must apply for their work
permit during that time.
Immigration Work
No. Only a licensed RCIC (Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant) or an authorized
professional (such as a Canadian lawyer or notary in Quebec) can legally provide paid
immigration advice or representation in Canada.
- Give immigration advice for a fee
- Represent you before Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC)
- Prepare or submit applications on your behalf
The consequences can include:
- Fines and penalties – Unlicensed individuals can face heavy fines under Canadian law.
- Criminal charges – Unauthorized practice may lead to prosecution and even jail time.
- Deportation (if not a Canadian citizen) – Foreign nationals caught offering
unauthorized immigration services could face removal from Canada. - Loss of client trust – Clients who use unauthorized representatives risk having their
applications refused or delayed, and they cannot hold the person accountable. - Professional ban – Once caught, it is nearly impossible for that person to ever become
licensed in the future.
General Immigration FAQ – Visas, Study Permits & Express Entry
A visa lets you travel to Canada and enter the country. A permit (like a study permit or work
permit) allows you to stay in Canada for a specific purpose, such as studying or working.
Yes, in most cases. For example, if you are approved for a study permit, you will also be given a
visa (or eTA) to enter Canada. Can I apply for Express Entry if I am still studying?
Yes, but you usually need skilled work experience to qualify. Many students first complete their
studies, work in Canada with a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), and then apply through
Express Entry.
A study permit is usually valid for the length of your program, plus an extra 90 days to prepare to
leave Canada or apply for another status.
Yes. Most full-time international students at a designated learning institution can work part-time
(up to 20 hours per week during school) and full-time during scheduled breaks.
Processing times vary, but once invited and you submit your application, IRCC’s goal is around
6 months.
You must either apply to extend your status before it expires or restore your status if you are
eligible. Staying without status can affect future applications.