Do you need the services of an immigration lawyer? Here’s the short answer: No. Canadian immigration officials state that using the services of a lawyer will in no way positively influence the result of a visa application. Having said that, it should be noted that immigration lawyers (at least the good ones!) know just how to present an application in the best light.

This could include deciding what occupational category not only fits you well but will also garner you the maximum number of points.

Canada has stringent rules about paid representatives who can help would-be immigrants with their paperwork.

The current regulations, which came into effect on April 13, 2004, state:

• immigration consultants who are members in good standing of the Canadian Society of Immigration Consultants;
• lawyers who are members in good standing of a Canadian law society and students-at-law under their supervision; and
• notaries who are members in good standing of the Chambre des notaires du Québec and students-at-law under their supervision.

If you have an application or proceeding already underway as of April 13, 2004, you may continue to use the services of your paid representative until April 13, 2008.

After April 13, 2008, if your representative is not a member of one of the organizations listed above, you may choose to either continue unrepresented or to hire an authorized representative.