Use of representatives

Some people seek advice from a number of different individuals or organizations – for example, lawyers, consultants, friends/family or other third parties who offer advice. Only authorized representatives can legally provide support and guidance to their clients for a fee or other form of consideration. IRCC also has measures in place to deter the use of unauthorized representatives. These Program Delivery Instructions apply to both citizenship and immigration applications and proceedings.

Who can act as a representative

• General guidelines
• Compensated representatives
• Uncompensated representatives
• Guidelines for other stakeholders

Intake

• Complete applications
• Initial screening

Procedures

• Processing applications
• Counselling applicants during interview
• Communicating with representatives
• Handling complaints
• The investigation process
• Misrepresentation

Administration

• Entering the required information into the Global Case Management System (GCMS)
• Number formats for authorized representative membership

See also:

• Legal references
• Glossary