Using an immigration representative

You don’t need to hire an immigration representative to help you with your AINP application. Your application will not be given special attention, receive faster processing, or result in a more favourable outcome.

All the forms and information that you need to apply are available for free on this website. If you follow the instructions provided, you can complete the application forms and submit them on your own.

If you choose to hire a representative they must be an authorized representative. If you hire a representative, make sure you fill out the AINP – Use of a Representative form that applies to you. See Application Forms for all AINP forms.

The AINP reserves the right to contact you directly regarding your application even if you do use an authorized representative.

Authorized representative

Any representative you hire must be one of the following:

• a member in good standing of the Canadian Society of Immigration Consultants (CSIC)
• a lawyer who is a member in good standing of a Canadian Provincial or Territorial Law Society
• a notary who is a member in good standing of the Chambre des notaires du Quebec.

Before you pay anyone a fee, check their credentials to make sure they are members of one of the organizations above.

Be aware!

• If you hire a representative who is not authorized, they may not have the adequate knowledge or training to represent you.
• If you hire a representative but do not declare this on your application forms, this is considered to be false and misleading information and will result in your AINP application being declined.

Helpful links from CIC

• How to choose a representative
• How to make a complaint about an authorized or unauthorized representative
• How to make sure you are not a victim of fraud
• Frequently asked questions about immigration representatives

Date Updated: Jul 23, 2010
RDP-946