How to Succeed as an Immigration Consultant in Canada
Last Updated: June 19, 2024
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Key Takeaways:
- Establish trust with professional accreditation, clear paperwork, and continuous education.
- Stay informed and adaptable to shifting immigration laws and increasing demand.
- Expand your services to address immigrants’ immediate and long-term needs.
In the competitive realm of Canadian immigration consulting, it’s crucial to distinguish your business from the rest.
To become a reliable consultant, you must guide clients throughout their whole journey, from application to settlement.
We’ll cover the basics of becoming an immigration consultant in Canada and show you how to establish trust with professional documents. You’ll also learn how to further support newcomers with housing, job searches, and estate planning.
Now, let’s delve into how to launch your business and broaden your services, so you can bring your consultancy to unparalleled success.
Becoming an immigration consultant in Canada
Canada’s immigration system is dynamic, with frequent changes in laws, regulations, and processes.
In addition, the number of people immigrating to Canada has increased significantly in recent years. According to Statista Research Department, Canada gained nearly half a million immigrants between July 1, 2022, and June 30, 2023.
Combined, these factors create a continuous demand for consultancy services specializing in immigration.
However, only consultants with a license from the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants (CICC) are allowed to sell immigration advice as a service. So, it’s essential that you establish legitimacy from the start.
To become a consultant, you must first earn a Graduate Diploma in Immigration and Citizenship Law.
This course takes about a year to complete. It’s only available at either Queen’s University in Kingston, Ontario or the Universite de Montreal.
Graduating equips consultants with the knowledge to:
- Explain immigration and citizenship options
- File and submit complex paperwork
- Represent clients in applications
Next, you must obtain a license by passing the Entry-to-Practice Exam (EPE).This competency-based assessment measures skills needed to run an ethical and efficient practice. After passing the exam, apply for a membership with the ICCRC to get your license. The application process requires you to provide proof of your education, work experience, and completion of the EPE.
Once licensed, you’ll be free to set up your immigration consultancy business.
Starting your practice
Launching an immigration consultancy involves a few key steps. First, you’ll need to choose a business structure. Then, once you’re up and running, you must continue with your professional development.
Choosing the right business structure
To begin, think about the legal impacts of how you organize your business. Different structures have pros and cons that can impact your operations, liability, taxes, and growth potential.
Let’s go over two common options for consultancies in Canada: sole proprietorship and corporation.
| Business Structure | Sole Proprietorship | Corporation |
| Description | A business that a person (i.e., the sole proprietor ) runs and owns by themself. | A business entity with its own rights and liabilities that are distinct from its owners. |
| Pros | ✔ It’s simple to set up, with low start-up and operational costs. ✔ As a sole proprietor, you have full control over all business decisions. ✔ You’ll have the chance to expand your business structure in the future. | ✔ It provides limited liability. So, the personal assets of the shareholders are typically protected against debt or legal action. ✔ As a separate legal entity, the corporation can enter into contracts, acquire assets, incur liabilities, and do business in its own name. |
| Cons | 🗙 The owner is personally liable for all debts and obligations of the business. | 🗙 The start-up fees can be costly and there are ongoing costs associated with maintaining corporate status (e.g., annual reporting). |
To decide on a business structure, you must balance the legal, financial, and personal factors mentioned above.
If you prefer simple structures where you have complete control, a sole proprietorship may appeal more to you.
Or, if you’re okay with a bit of complexity to get limited liability and other benefits, then a corporation might be the right choice.
Remember to leverage professional help when needed. You can speak with a lawyer or accountant who understands Canadian business requirements and the immigration consultancy industry. These professionals can give insight into liability concerns, tax implications, and financial planning for both structures.
Hasan Hanif, an accounting analyst at BenchSci in Toronto, Ontario, suggests new businesses assess their short-term and long-term goals. BenchSci, a software company specializing in health research and development, is a good example of how a startup can attract investors and achieve success.
“If the consultant aims to scale significantly or seek investors in the future, incorporating might be more beneficial due to its structured approach and credibility with investors,” said Hanif in an email correspondence with LawDepot. He said the key to BenchiSci’s growth was participating in accelerator programs and networking opportunities.
“BenchSci leveraged strategic introductions and built a compelling narrative around their long-term vision and potential for substantial returns,” said Hanif.
“This approach, combined with their technological innovation and proven success in the market, ultimately convinced major investors like Google’s Gradient Ventures to invest in the company.”
Whatever you decide, it’s worth noting that your initial choice isn’t permanent. Many businesses start as sole proprietorships and transition to a corporate structure as they grow.
The key is to make a decision that aligns with your current situation and risk tolerance.
For more information about launching a business, check out our article: How to Legally Start Your Own Business.
Ongoing professional development
You must continue learning to maintain your professional accreditation.
Within a year of obtaining a license, you’ll need to complete the Practice Management course through the CICC. The program covers the key competencies needed to run a professional consulting practice. There are deadlines for completion, so it’s crucial to manage your time effectively.
You must also complete 16 hours of programmed learning activities each year of practice. These activities must be approved by the CICC. What’s more, you’ll need to report your learning experiences to the College each year for proof of professional development.
Mark Damsgaard, the founder of Global Residence Index, a visa and migration agency in the United States, says navigating the constant changes in laws and policies is one of the biggest challenges in his career as a consultant.
“These changes can significantly impact our clients’ plans and require us to stay vigilant and adaptable,” said Damsgaard, adding that’s why he regularly attends industry conferences, workshops, and webinars.
Building client trust with professional documents
Start building trust with your clients by using professional, standardized documents. Organized paperwork will streamline your business operations and significantly enhance credibility.
In particular, a Consulting Agreement is a foundational document for an immigration consultant. This contract outlines the scope of work, terms of service, fees, and obligations of both parties. By providing a well-drafted contract at the outset of a client relationship, you can set a professional tone.
This line of work involves potentially life-changing outcomes for clients. As such, your Consulting Agreement isn’t just a formality, but also a crucial pillar of trust.
You can use LawDepot to generate a custom contract for each of your clients. Our documents adhere to professional standards. So, you can rest assured they will help facilitate clear communication and legal protection while working with clients.
Key documents for immigration consultants
Consulting Agreement
A Consulting Agreement provides clarity, legal protection, and a structured framework for your business.
Each client and case may need specific considerations. However, there are standard terms that should be present in your contracts:
- Scope of services: Clearly define what your consultancy will and won’t cover. This may include an assessment of immigration options, application assistance, legal representation, work and study permits, pathways to citizenship, etc.
- Fees and payment terms: Your fees may vary based on services, experience, and reputation. Some consultants charge an hourly rate, while others may offer a flat fee for the entire process. Depending on the complexity of the immigration case, the range may be a few hundred to several thousand dollars.
- Confidentiality: Your clients may need to disclose sensitive personal information. A confidentiality clause is crucial for reassuring them that their information is protected.
- Liability and indemnification: It’s crucial to protect yourself against potential legal claims. A liability and indemnification clause specifies the extent to which you’re protected against legal actions.
Affidavit
Immigration consultants often use Affidavits as a strategic component of an application. An Affidavit is a statement of facts that a person swears to be true. This document is sometimes also known as a Statutory Declaration.
Part of your role as a consultant involves advising clients on the legal weight of an Affidavit and how to use it to present information accurately. This includes warnings about false statements, which can severely undermine an application (and lead to legal consequences).
As an immigration consultant, you cannot administer oaths yourself (unless you are also a notary or commissioner of oaths). But, you can organize appointments for clients to swear their Affidavits in front of an authorized person.
You may also review drafted Affidavits to ensure compliance with Canadian immigration law. You may check for consistency with other submitted documents and verify that the Affidavit includes all relevant aspects of your client’s case.
Letter of Recommendation
A well-crafted Letter of Recommendation has the power to influence the outcome of an immigration application.
A strategic consultant may use this letter to provide a trustworthy perspective on their client’s skills, character, and contributions to society.
For example, the Express Entry system in Canada prioritizes skilled workers. So, a Letter of Recommendation from past employers can significantly boost an application in this regard. For employment or business-based programs, these letters are invaluable tools for demonstrating work experience and economic success.
Beyond the professional context, Letters of Recommendation can also serve as character or academic references:
- An application may require a demonstration of good moral character. A letter from a community leader, volunteer organization, or other community members can testify to the applicant’s personality.
- Students applying for study permits may use a Reference Letter to show their academic achievements.
In short, immigration consultants should advise on the specific criteria and qualities that should be highlighted in each letter. The letters should be tailored to the requirements of different immigration programs and provide concrete examples of an applicant’s abilities and potential.
Expanding your service offerings
Broadening the services you offer can significantly add to the growth and diversification of your business.
Here are a few ways to enrich your consultancy’s services to cater more comprehensively to the needs of immigrants.
Housing assistance
Immigrating is a formidable journey, and settling into a new home is a grand achievement. A consultant who can assist with housing needs is sure to make a positive impact on their clients’ new lives.
Language barriers, a lack of local connections, and discrimination can impede an immigrant’s house search. However, you can bridge these gaps by educating your clients on the rental process and helping them find suitable accommodations.
Help those who plan to rent understand and negotiate rental agreements. Explain common lease terms and advise on how to negotiate lease durations, rent prices, and conditions (such as pet policies). Familiarizing your clients with their rights and responsibilities as tenants gives them the confidence to communicate with landlords.
Your service might also include a list of available properties that meet the client’s needs and budget. For instance, you may know which neighbourhoods suit their lifestyle, or you can provide tools and resources for online property searches.
Job search support
Supporting clients with their job search is a straightforward process that doesn’t typically require legal expertise.
Immigration consultants can play a pivotal role in helping their clients start a new life in Canada by offering services that help them craft compelling Resumes and Cover Letters
Understanding how to communicate with potential employers is vital. You can help clients adapt their applications to meet Canadian standards and appeal to employers.
This guidance might include educating clients on the Canadian job market, accreditation or certification requirements, and strategies for job searching. You can also offer interview preparation services to help clients understand what to expect and how to present themselves effectively in interviews.
Estate planning documents
Navigating the intricacies of estate laws in a new country can be daunting. Addressing the importance of estate planning can position your consultancy as a service that considers both the immediate and long-term needs of immigrants.
Helping your clients understand various estate planning documents can help secure their assets and family’s future according to the laws of their new home.
Consultants can outline the general process and benefits of having important estate documents in place (e.g., a Last Will and Testament).
Using online services such as LawDepot, consultants can give their clients the resources to create their estate plans.
However, it’s crucial to refer clients to reliable legal professionals who specialize in estate law, especially when their needs are complex. Newcomers, especially non-citizens, might have properties in their home countries and beneficiaries in different jurisdictions, adding layers of tax laws and legal implications to their estate plans.
Remember the limits of your expertise as an immigration consultant and avoid providing legal advice directly. Expand your services responsibly by offering information and general guidance. Refer clients to other professionals as needed.
Collaboration and partnerships
For housing assistance, job search support, and estate planning, establishing partnerships with professionals in respective fields can enhance the quality of services you offer:
- Meet with real estate agents, housing organizations, and community resources to help clients find suitable accommodations and navigate the rental process.
- Connect with recruiters, HR professionals, and other industry experts who can share valuable insights and opportunities for new immigrants.
- Collaborate with lawyers and legal professionals to ensure clients receive expert advice on estate planning in Canada.
There are several ways to form these partnerships, each with its own benefits and structures. First, let’s discuss how to use contracts to establish formal business relationships:
- General Partnership Agreement : This contract creates a legally binding agreement. In this case, partners might co-manage certain aspects of a client’s needs. For instance, a consultant who partners with a lawyer might jointly handle cases, sharing client meetings, co-branded marketing materials, and integrated service offerings.
- Joint Venture Agreement : This contract allows two parties to collaborate on a specific project or business activity while maintaining their separate legal entities. For example, you could form a joint venture with a housing organization to develop a comprehensive housing assistance program.
- Referral Agreement: A referral system allows you to direct clients to trusted experts while receiving a referral fee or reciprocal referrals in return. For instance, you could set up a network where you refer clients to recruiters for job placement, and recruiters send individuals needing immigration help your way.
If you prefer an informal relationship, it’s still effective to build a network of professional contacts where there is an understanding of mutual support. These relationships are usually based on trust and mutual benefit, where you recommend each other’s services as client needs arise. So, it’s helpful to regularly engage with lawyers, HR professionals, and other relevant experts through industry events, workshops, and seminars.
In sum, adding these services can help your clients navigate their new lives more effectively, enhancing the value provided by your consultancy. Whether through formal agreements or informal networking, working with other professionals ensures your clients get comprehensive support tailored to their unique needs.
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