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Explore answers by CHK topic
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6 FAQs
Visitor Visa & Super Visa
TRV, Super Visa, eTA basics, invitations, ties, funds, and refusal risk.
6 FAQs
Study Permits
Study strategy, SOP/LOE, funds, program logic, extensions, refusals.
6 FAQs
Work Permits (LMIA & Open)
Employer-specific vs open permits, documents, extensions, compliance.
6 FAQs
PGWP (Post-Graduation Work Permit)
Eligibility basics, timing, documents, common mistakes.
6 FAQs
Employer Services (LMIA)
Recruitment, wages/duties, transition plans, compliance.
6 FAQs
Express Entry
CRS, CEC/FSW/FST basics, profiles, documents, strategy.
6 FAQs
Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP)
Province streams, job offers, ties, documents, planning.
6 FAQs
Spousal / Family Sponsorship
Relationship evidence, genuineness, timelines, common pitfalls.
6 FAQs
Refusals & Remedies
GCMS/ATIP review, re-application strategy, reconsideration basics.
6 FAQs
Extensions & Restoration
Visitor records, maintained status, restoration timelines & evidence.
6 FAQs
Citizenship & Proof of Citizenship
Citizenship basics, proof/certificate, common document needs.
6 FAQs
Refugee Travel Document
Eligibility basics, evidence, common issues and timelines.
6 FAQs
Schengen Visa (Visitor)
Purpose, itinerary, funds, insurance, and common refusal risks.
Answers by CHK topic
Visitor Visa & Super Visa
TRV, Super Visa, eTA basics, invitations, ties, funds, and refusal risk.
Most asked in this topic
What is a Visitor Visa (TRV) in plain language?
What is a Super Visa and who is it for?
What are common reasons Visitor Visas get refused?
What is a Visitor Visa (TRV) in plain language?
A TRV is a sticker in your passport that allows you to travel to Canada as a temporary visitor. At the border, an officer still decides how long you can stay and what conditions apply.
What is a Super Visa and who is it for?
A Super Visa is for eligible parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents. Itâs designed for longer visits than a regular TRV and typically requires medical insurance and proof the host meets financial requirements.
What makes a visitor application strong (what officers look for)?
Officers typically assess purpose of travel, ties to the home country, finances, travel history, and whether the plan is realistic. Consistency across forms and documents matters as much as the documents themselves.
What are common reasons Visitor Visas get refused?
Common issues include weak ties, unclear purpose, insufficient funds, inconsistent documents, or concerns you may not leave Canada at the end of your stay. Refusal reasons vary by case and evidence profile.
Do I need an invitation letter?
Not always, but it can help when youâre visiting family/friends. An invitation letter should match the travel plan and be supported by host details (status, address, relationship) and visitor evidence (ties, funds, itinerary).
Whatâs the difference between TRV and eTA?
An eTA is an electronic travel authorization for visa-exempt travellers flying to Canada. A TRV is for travellers who require a visa. Eligibility depends on your citizenship and travel method.
Note: This Help Centre provides general information and does not constitute legal advice. For official rules, always cross-check IRCC program instructions.
What is a Study Permit in Canada?
A study permit authorizes you to study in Canada at a designated learning institution (DLI). It is not a visa by itselfâsome applicants also need a TRV or eTA to travel.
What should a strong SOP/LOE cover?
A strong SOP/LOE explains why this program, why this school, how it fits your background, how you will pay for it, and why the plan makes sense for your future outside Canada. Keep it consistent with documents and timelines.
How much funds do I need to show?
Funds depend on tuition, living costs, location, family size, and proof format. The key is showing lawful, available funds and a believable funding story supported by bank history and supporting documents.
Why do study permits get refused?
Refusals often involve weak study plan logic, insufficient funds, unclear ties, or concerns the applicantâs intent does not align with temporary residence. Clarity and consistency matter.
Can I extend my study permit inside Canada?
Yes, if you remain eligible and apply before expiry. Extensions typically require proof of continued enrollment, progress, and updated documentation.
What is maintained status?
If you apply to extend your status before your current status expires, you may be allowed to remain in Canada under the same conditions until a decision is made (subject to IRCC rules).
Note: This Help Centre provides general information and does not constitute legal advice. For official rules, always cross-check IRCC program instructions.
Whatâs the difference between an employer-specific work permit and an open work permit?
Employer-specific permits tie you to one employer, job, and location (often LMIA-based or exempt). Open work permits allow you to work for many employers, with some restrictions depending on the program.
What documents usually support a work permit application?
Common items include job offer, LMIA or exemption evidence (if applicable), proof of qualifications/experience, identity documents, status documents (if in Canada), and clear explanations addressing eligibility and compliance.
Can I extend my work permit from inside Canada?
Often yes, if you remain eligible and apply before expiry. Your situation (LMIA, exemption, status history) determines the best approach and evidence requirements.
What can cause work permit refusals?
Refusals may involve eligibility concerns, incomplete evidence, unclear job genuineness, missing qualifications, or issues with status history. Strong submissions address officer concerns directly and consistently.
What is LMIA-exempt work (in simple terms)?
Some work permits do not require an LMIA because of international agreements, public policy, or other exemption categories. The applicant and employer must still meet the exemption conditions and provide evidence.
Does having a job offer guarantee approval?
No. IRCC decides based on eligibility, admissibility, and evidence. A well-prepared application reduces risk by making the officerâs assessment easy and logical.
Note: This Help Centre provides general information and does not constitute legal advice. For official rules, always cross-check IRCC program instructions.
What is a PGWP (plain language)?
A PGWP is an open work permit for eligible graduates of certain Canadian programs and schools. It can help graduates gain Canadian work experience for future pathways.
When should I apply for PGWP?
Timing depends on when you receive confirmation of program completion and your status in Canada. Apply carefully with correct documents and within required timelines.
What documents usually support PGWP?
Typical items include proof of program completion, transcripts, passport, study permit documents, and a clear explanation if there are special circumstances (gaps, part-time terms, leave, etc.).
Why do PGWP applications get refused?
Common issues include missing/incorrect completion evidence, ineligibility based on program/school, status problems, or not meeting conditions. Careful review of program rules is essential.
Can I work while waiting for a PGWP decision?
This depends on your status, the timing of your application, and IRCC conditions. Always confirm you meet the requirements before working.
How does PGWP help with PR plans?
PGWP can support gaining Canadian work experience, which may help with programs like Express Entry (CEC) or PNP streams depending on your profile.
Note: This Help Centre provides general information and does not constitute legal advice. For official rules, always cross-check IRCC program instructions.
What is an LMIA (in plain language)?
An LMIA is a labour market opinion that may allow an employer to hire a foreign worker for a specific role when they canât find suitable Canadians or permanent residents, subject to program rules.
What is a Transition Plan (and why does it matter)?
A transition plan explains how an employer intends to reduce reliance on temporary foreign workers over timeâoften through recruitment, training, and supporting workers toward permanent residence where appropriate.
What does LMIA recruitment usually involve?
Recruitment generally includes advertising the job, documenting results, offering fair wages, and showing the role is genuine and needed. Requirements vary by stream and industry.
What do officers assess for job genuineness?
They may assess business legitimacy, real need for the worker, alignment of duties/wage with the occupation, recruitment efforts, and compliance history.
How do wages and job duties affect an LMIA?
Wages and duties must align with the occupation and local market expectations. Mismatches can trigger scrutiny or refusal. Accurate job descriptions matter.
Does an LMIA guarantee a work permit approval?
No. A positive LMIA supports the job offer, but the worker must still meet work permit requirements and IRCC makes the final decision.
Note: This Help Centre provides general information and does not constitute legal advice. For official rules, always cross-check IRCC program instructions.
What is Express Entry (simple explanation)?
Express Entry is an online system used to manage certain permanent residence applications. Candidates enter a pool and may receive an invitation based on points and draw criteria.
What is CRS and why does it matter?
CRS is the Comprehensive Ranking System score that ranks candidates in the Express Entry pool. Your score depends on factors like age, education, language, and work experience.
What documents are commonly needed later (after ITA)?
Common documents include identity, education (ECA if required), language results, work proof, police certificates, and medicals. Accuracy and consistency are crucial.
How does Canadian work experience help?
Canadian work experience can increase CRS and may help under CEC eligibility. The quality of your work proof (duties, dates, pay evidence) is important.
Do I need an immigration consultant for Express Entry?
Not required, but professional review can help avoid mistakes, strengthen work proof, and build a clean narrative that makes officer review easier.
Does a high CRS guarantee invitation?
No. Draw criteria and cut-offs change. A strong profile and backup pathways (like PNP) can reduce uncertainty.
Note: This Help Centre provides general information and does not constitute legal advice. For official rules, always cross-check IRCC program instructions.
What is a PNP in plain terms?
A PNP is a program where a province nominates you for permanent residence based on its labour market needs and eligibility criteria.
Do I always need a job offer for PNP?
Not always. Some streams require job offers; others focus on education, experience, or ties to the province. Requirements vary widely.
How does PNP connect with Express Entry?
Some PNP streams are linked to Express Entry. A nomination can significantly increase your CRS, depending on the stream type.
What makes PNP applications risky?
Risks include ineligible work proof, unclear settlement intent, weak ties, or inconsistent timelines. Documentation needs to match the streamâs rules.
What proof is important for job-offer PNP streams?
Often: employer support, job details, wage/duties alignment, and your qualifications. Pay and employment records help prove genuine work.
Can PNP support my spouse/partner too?
Family composition affects documentation and sometimes eligibility. Each program has rules for accompanying family members.
Note: This Help Centre provides general information and does not constitute legal advice. For official rules, always cross-check IRCC program instructions.
What does IRCC assess in spousal sponsorship?
IRCC assesses whether the relationship is genuine and not entered primarily for immigration. Consistent evidence over time matters.
What evidence is strongest for relationship genuineness?
Common strong items include: communication history, shared finances, cohabitation proof (leases, mail), photos/events, travel records, and statements from family/friendsâmatched to your story and culture.
Do we need a big wedding to prove genuineness?
No. IRCC looks for genuineness, not extravagance. Cultural context, family circumstances, and practical realities can be explained with credible evidence.
What causes sponsorship refusals?
Common issues include inconsistent evidence, weak explanations for red flags, missing documents, or credibility concerns. A clear narrative with well-labeled exhibits helps.
Can my spouse visit Canada while sponsorship is in process?
Possibly, but the visitor application must still meet temporary residence requirements. Dual intent may apply, and strong ties + purpose evidence matters.
How do we present our relationship story effectively?
Use a timeline, label key documents, address gaps, and explain cultural or practical details honestly. The goal is an officer-friendly package.
Note: This Help Centre provides general information and does not constitute legal advice. For official rules, always cross-check IRCC program instructions.
What should I do right after a refusal?
Start by identifying the refusal reasons and gaps. If appropriate, request GCMS/ATIP notes, then rebuild the evidence and explanations to address officer concerns directly.
What are GCMS notes and why do they matter?
GCMS notes are IRCCâs internal case notes that can show what the officer saw as concerns or missing evidence. They can help you fix the right issues rather than guessing.
What is reconsideration (and when is it realistic)?
Reconsideration is a request for IRCC to re-check a decision. Itâs typically considered when there may be an error or when key evidence was overlooked, and it should be supported with clear, respectful reasoning.
Is it better to re-apply or request reconsideration?
It depends on the refusal reason, timelines, and whether you can add stronger evidence quickly. A strategy should be chosen case-by-case.
Will a refusal ruin all future applications?
Not necessarily. Refusals should be disclosed when required, and you should address the exact concerns with stronger evidence and clearer explanations going forward.
What is the biggest mistake after refusal?
Re-applying with the same package. The best approach is to fix the officerâs concerns with stronger, targeted evidence and a clean narrative.
Note: This Help Centre provides general information and does not constitute legal advice. For official rules, always cross-check IRCC program instructions.
What is a Visitor Record (in plain language)?
A visitor record is a document that extends or changes your visitor status inside Canada. It is not a travel document; it confirms your status and conditions in Canada.
What is maintained status and why is timing critical?
If you apply to extend your status before it expires, you may remain under the same conditions until a decision is made. Late applications can remove that protection.
What is restoration of status?
Restoration is a process to regain temporary resident status after losing it, if you meet conditions and apply within the allowed timeframe. Evidence and explanation must be strong.
What documents help with extensions/restoration?
Typically: proof of current status, reason for staying, financial support, compliance history, and a clear explanation. Consistency and timelines are key.
Can I travel while my extension is processing?
Travel can create risk depending on your status, documents, and whether you need a TRV/eTA to return. Consider travel plans carefully.
What makes an extension application weak?
Vague purpose, insufficient funds, lack of compliance explanation, or repeated extensions without clear rationale can increase scrutiny.
Note: This Help Centre provides general information and does not constitute legal advice. For official rules, always cross-check IRCC program instructions.
What is proof of citizenship?
Proof of citizenship is documentation (often a certificate) that confirms you are a Canadian citizen. It can be important for passports and other processes.
When might someone need a citizenship certificate?
Common reasons include replacing lost proof, confirming citizenship for people born abroad to Canadian parents, or updating records.
Does a PR card make someone a citizen?
No. A PR card confirms permanent resident status. Citizenship is a separate status with different requirements and documentation.
Can family changes affect citizenship proof applications?
Sometimes. Name changes, marital status changes, or identity document changes should be reflected consistently across the submission.
Do I need professional help for citizenship proof?
Not required, but a guided approach can reduce mistakes and ensure your identity/family evidence is presented cleanly.
Note: This Help Centre provides general information and does not constitute legal advice. For official rules, always cross-check IRCC program instructions.
What is a Refugee Travel Document (RTD)?
An RTD is a travel document issued to certain protected persons/refugees in Canada. It can allow international travel, subject to conditions and country restrictions.
Can I use my home country passport instead?
This depends on your status and circumstances. Travel choices can have serious implications; itâs important to assess risks carefully before travelling.
What documents usually support an RTD application?
Common items include identity/status documents, photos, forms, and explanations where needed. Consistency and eligibility evidence are key.
Why do RTD applications face delays?
Delays may be caused by incomplete identity evidence, processing volumes, or additional verification requirements.
Do I need visas to visit other countries with an RTD?
Often yesâvisa requirements depend on the destination country and your travel document. Always confirm before booking travel.
How can CHK help with RTD files?
We can help ensure forms and evidence are complete, organized, and consistent, and that risks are explained clearly where needed.
Note: This Help Centre provides general information and does not constitute legal advice. For official rules, always cross-check IRCC program instructions.
What is a Schengen visitor visa?
A Schengen visitor visa can allow short stays in participating European countries, subject to entry conditions and itinerary rules.
What do strong Schengen files usually show?
Clear itinerary, accommodation, travel insurance, funds, ties to return, and consistent documentation across the application.
Do I need travel insurance for Schengen?
Often yes. Requirements depend on the specific Schengen rules and your trip details.
Why are Schengen applications refused?
Common issues include unclear purpose, weak ties, insufficient funds, or inconsistencies. A clean narrative supported by documents reduces risk.
Can I apply from Canada?
Depending on your status and the consulate rules, you may be able to apply from Canada. Requirements vary by country/mission.
How does CHK approach Schengen files?
We focus on a coherent itinerary, strong ties evidence, and consistent documentation that makes decision-making straightforward.
Note: This Help Centre provides general information and does not constitute legal advice. For official rules, always cross-check IRCC program instructions.
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