Essential Immigration Terms and Definitions
Every industry has its own language and terms. These words and phrases can be confusing to anyone who is not part of a specific industry’s daily operations, and the immigration sector is no exception.
To help you understand the terms, acronyms, and phrases extensively used when talking to an immigration professional, Global Portal Immigration Solutions Inc. has created this handy reference guide. Here you’ll find valuable information allowing you to comprehend and communicate your immigration needs effectively.
Express Entry (EE)
EE is the online application system for the economic class of immigration in Canada for permanent resident seekers.
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC)
IRCC is Canada’s federal department that is accountable and responsible for Immigration matters for Canada, which was formerly known as Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC).
Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS)
CRS determines a candidate’s position in the Express Entry pool. It ranks prospective skilled immigrants by looking at their skills, work experience, language ability, education, and other factors that lead to success in Canada. Points are awarded accordingly by categories for ranking in the EE pool.
Judaical Review (JR)
When immigration cases are not successful in the immigration courts, then only a lawyer may represent clients at the Federal courts of Canada. Before JR, immigration consultants will represent their clients at the immigration courts known as the Immigration, Refugee Board (IRB).
Appeals
When Immigration Canada refuses immigration applications, then an appeal may be made on the client’s behalf to the Immigration and Refugee Board (IRB) to overturn the decision.
Pre-Removal Risk Assessment (PRRA)
In some cases, you may be eligible to apply for a Pre-Removal Risk Assessment (PRRA) if you’re being removed from or asked to leave Canada. PRRAs are used to make sure you’re not being sent to a country where you would be in danger of torture or at risk of persecution. It’s your right to ask for legal advice before signing this document with an immigration consultant or lawyer.
Humanitarian and Compassionate (H&C)
An H&C review is a type of immigration application that is approved only in exceptional circumstances. However, any person can apply to stay in Canada on H&C grounds if you face a removal order. The application is usually undertaken as a last or near last option.
Immigration and Refugee Board (IRB)
The Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada (IRB) is Canada’s largest independent administrative tribunal (court system). It is responsible for making well-reasoned decisions on immigration and refugee matters, efficiently, fairly, and according to the law.
Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC)
The IRCC also determines the eligibility of all refugee protection claims made in Canada and refers eligible claims to the IRB for a decision.
electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)
eTA is required for most visa-exempt foreign nationals traveling to or transiting through Canada by air. A visa-exempt country doesn’t require an application for a visitor’s visa to come to Canada.
Biometric Instruction Letter (BIL)
BIL is proof that the applicant has already submitted a complete application to an Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) office and paid the biometric fee (unless the applicant is exempt from paying the fee).
If you’re looking for the best immigration consultant in Surrey, BC, reach out to the experts at Global Portal Immigration Solutions Inc.
We offer our services in the lower mainland, including Surrey & Vancouver, across Canada and abroad. We specialize in helping clients navigate all their immigration problems.
Our qualified and experienced immigration consultants are experts in Visitor Visas, Study Permits, Work Permits, Labor Market Impact Assessments (LMIA), Express Entry, Skilled Immigration, Caregivers, Family Class Sponsorships, and Refugee Cases.
View our full list of services here, or get in touch with us here.