At the end of 2014 Mr. Dimitrakopoulos decided to explore other career opportunities and resigned from the I.C.C.R.C. in good standing.

Our Credentials

iCanada Direct Immigration Services is an Immigration Consulting firm that is located in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. The firm was led by Mr. Nicholas Dimitrakopoulos, a Licensed and Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (R.C.I.C.) from 2006-2014. And with C.S.I.C. from 2006-2011, #M-063866. He has previously worked with the C.C.R.A., C.R.A. and the C.B.S.A. 
iCanada Direct Immigration Services is prepared to assist you with all of your Canadian Immigration needs in regards to the Immigration Application process for Canada. We specialize in Foreign Workers, Foreign Students and Skilled Workers; as well as Family sponsorship, Business Investor and Refugee Cases.

We are pleased to announce that we are now also offering U.S. Immigration Services.

107 Bickerton Cres., Suite 200
Toronto, Ontario
Canada, M2J 3T2

Telephone:  +1-416-887-7382
Contact: Nicholas

We can also be contacted by email at: 

info@icanadadirect.com

Question and Answer

Who does this affect?

Individuals, whether in Canada or abroad, seeking to hire a representative with regard to their immigration application or status.

You are not obliged to hire a representative for immigration matters. The Government of Canada treats everyone equally, whether they use the services of a representative or not. If you choose to hire a representative, your application will not be given special attention nor can you expect faster processing or a more favorable outcome.

Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) realizes that the use of a representative to assist in completing your immigration application is a personal choice. Please note, the Government of Canada does not recommend or endorse any individual representative.

NOTICE:

Immigration Representatives

In accordance with the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations, C.I.C. only recognizes representatives who are members of

    A Canadian provincial or territorial law society,

    The Immigration Consultants of Canada Regulatory Council     (I.C.C.R.C.)

    The Chambre des notaires du Québec.

No other representative may charge a fee in relation to an application or proceeding, be it inland or overseas, before the Minister or an officer, or before the Immigration Refugee Board.

Applications to CIC submitted by other representatives who charge a fee will not be processed and will be returned to the applicant.

Some Services That We offered at 
iCanada Direct Immigration Services

    Express Entry & Specialized Labour

    Canadian Experience Class

    Business Class & Self Employed

    Family Class Sponsorships

    Study Permits

    Temporary Work Permits

    Visitor Visas

    Extension of Status in Canada

    Humanitarian Cases

    Citizenship Application

    Permanent Resident Card Application

In addition to completing your forms and submitting and supporting documentation your case would be prepared in a professional manner which may or may not warrant a submission letter. The submission would be used to strengthen your case with Immigration Canada, making reference to Sections of the Immigration Act, and Regulation which are relevant to each particular case. All dealings with the authorities would be handled by  iCanada Direct Immigration Services and we would facilitate all of the paperwork, and documents as required.

We would help you prepare for your interview with Immigration Canada. We would also offer a number of settlement services which could be viewed on our Settlement Package page.

If you required any immigration services for something that was not listed you were urged to contact us at 416 887 7382 or e-mail our information department for more details.

Temporary Work Permits

As a rule, employment in Canada is reserved for Canadian Citizens and Permanent residents. If a Canadian company cannot find a qualified employee within Canada and only after obtaining permission from Human Resources, the company may bring a foreign national into Canada on a Temporary Work Permit.

There are certain exceptions to this rule. Under the Free Trade Agreements with the United States, Mexico and Chile, there are special programs which allow citizens of those countries to obtain Temporary Work Permits without going through Human Resources. There are also programs for business people and for certain professionals. It is possible that some Work Permits be obtained within twenty-four hours (if they have an offer of employment).

There are numerous other programs that are detailed in IRPA for software developers, religious workers, exotic dancers, athletes, students, spouses of workers on temporary work. If you would like more information on Temporary Work Permits contact us so that we can discuss in greater detail.

Student Permits

Canadian colleges, universities and other educational institutions are open to the world. In order to attend any of these a person must obtain a study permit. If you would like more information about your Student Visa, extending it, or working while studying feel free to contact us at iCanada Direct Immigration Services Inc. for more information.

Visitor Visa

The Immigration Act requires all visitors, except those exempt by regulation, to obtain a Visitor Visa before coming to Canada. Applicants must demonstrate to visa officials that they have significant family, social, economic and cultural ties to their country of origin and that they have sufficient means to support themselves during their visit to Canada. Applicants must also satisfy visa officials that there is no risk that they will overextend their visit to Canada.

Humanitarian & Compassionate Cases

This category is provided for people who do not fit within any of the other programs for immigration to Canada, but find themselves in exceptional situations there is the option of making a request on Humanitarian and Compassionate grounds. In order to be properly represented and to provide Immigration Canada with the best case possible we urge you to contact us at iCanada Direct Immigration Services Inc. so that we can prepare your file in a professional manner.

Family Sponsorship

Canadian citizens or Canadian permanent residents who reside in Canada are currently eligible to sponsor for admission to Canada the following persons:

Their Spouses, Common Law or Conjugal Partners 16 years or older
Their dependent children as defined in the Immigration Regulations
Their mother and father and any accompanying dependent children as defined in the Immigration Regulations
Their grandparent(s)
Brothers, sisters, nephews, nieces or grandchildren who are orphans; under the age of 18 and not married or in a common-law relationship

PLEASE NOTE: Canadian citizens, residing abroad, might also be eligible to sponsor their spouses and dependent children for as long as they can prove to Citizenship and Immigration Canada officials that it is their intention to return to Canada to settle in the country, permanently, upon the issuance of the immigrant visa(s) to the dependant(s) that they are sponsoring. The filing of a Sponsorship Application, Sponsorship Agreement and Financial Evaluation Form along with Application for Permanent Residence of the person being sponsored with a designated Case Processing Center in Canada are the first steps in the sponsorship process. Once the sponsorship has been approved the designated Case Processing Center in Canada sends the application to Visa post abroad and he/she must meet statutory requirements.

Business Immigration program-Please Contact us for More Details

Self- Employed Persons-Please Contact us for More Details

Start-up Visa-Please Contact us for More Details

Immigrant Investor Venture Capital Pilot Program-Please Contact us for More Details

The Investor category (Currently Suspended)

To qualify for this category, the Investor must have net assets of at least $800,000. The Investor Category provides successful applicants with unconditional permanent residence, based on a 5-year deposit of $400,000 with the Federal government or the government of Quebec. The Quebec program may in some circumstances be easier to qualify for and more beneficial than the Federal Investor Program. After the 5 years are up, the funds, which are used for economic development, are returned to the Investor without interest. Various provincial programs offer more flexibility or different options in order to attract investment. Once full permanent residence is obtained, the Investor is free to live in any part of Canada. We can facilitate financing for the $400,000, freeing you to use your remaining funds for whatever purposes you wish, and in addition our sources can make mortgage financing available to you for the purchase of a residence. We work with the major banks and securities brokers to provide funding for you. Even if you decide not to use the financing available, your funds are completely secure as they are guaranteed by the Federal Government or by the Province of Quebec.

For Investors who have children intending to study in Canada, just the difference between paying local tuition fees and paying foreign student tuition fees may justify the cost of applying in the Investor category. In addition, your children as permanent residents of Canada can benefit from the many scholarship and bursary programs available to Canadian residents and will be entitled to work in Canada after graduation without having to apply for work permits.

An overview of some additional programs

The British Columbia Provincial Nominee program is an entrepreneur program which offers rapid entry to Canada, often within 3 to 4 months, on a work permit. It is a flexible program, which allows you to negotiate with the Province the terms and conditions your business will need to meet within the first two years of operation for you to obtain permanent residence. Regional programs require a net worth of $600,000 plus.

The Prince Edward Island (PEI) Investor Program affords an alternative means of immigrating to individuals with net worth of $400,000 Canadian plus. Applicants are required to demonstrate an intention to settle in Prince Edward Island and to make an investment of $200,000 by purchasing shares in participating PEI companies. As with the Quebec or Federal Investor programs, we are able to arrange payment of a one-time fee instead of this investment.

As mentioned immigrants, with assets of over $1 million can benefit by legally avoiding payment of Canadian tax for 5 years after immigrating.

The above details of immigration programs are guidelines only. For further information or more details about immigrating as an Investor or Entrepreneur under the Federal or Provincial Programs, and how we can help you with your goal of establishing a business in Canada or obtaining permanent residence, please contact us for a free confidential assessment.

Canadian Experience Class

If you are a temporary foreign worker or a foreign student who graduated in Canada, you often have the qualities to make a successful transition from temporary to permanent residence. You are familiar with Canadian society and can contribute to the Canadian economy. You should have knowledge of English or French and qualifying work experience.

Applying to stay in Canada permanently in your case is simple. You can do this under the Canadian Experience Class. All the guides, information and forms you need to apply are included here.

Before you apply, make sure you get to know the requirements and current application procedures. After you apply, make sure you return to this website to find out about the steps that follow.

Canadian Experience Class

Who can apply

You must meet these minimum requirements to apply for permanent residence under the Canadian Experience Class. You must:
plan to live outside the province of Quebec

Be either

a temporary foreign worker with at least two years of full-time (or equivalent) skilled work experience in Canada, or
a foreign graduate from a Canadian post-secondary institution with at least one year of full-time (or equivalent) skilled work experience in Canada
have gained your experience in Canada with the proper work or study authorization
apply while working in Canada – or – within one year of leaving your job in Canada

According to the Canadian National Occupational Classification (NOC), skilled work experience means:

Skill Type 0 (managerial occupations) or
Skill Level A (professional occupations) or
Skill Level B (technical occupations and skilled trades)

Your application will be assessed on two requirements if you apply as a temporary foreign worker:

your work experience and
your ability in English or French

If you apply as a graduate of a Canadian post-secondary educational institution with Canadian work experience, it will be assessed using the above requirements, as well as: your education

Principal applicant

If you are married or living with a common-law partner in Canada, and she/he also meets the above requirements, you can decide which one of you will apply for the Canadian Experience Class as a principal applicant.

Note: A common-law partner is a person who has lived with you in a conjugal relationship for at least one year. Common-law partner refers to both opposite-sex and same-sex couples.

Find out more about how these requirements are assessed below.

Canadian Experience Class: Who can apply – Requirements for temporary workers

As a temporary foreign worker, you must have two years of full-time (or equivalent) work experience in Canada. Your work experience must be gained within three years of applying.
Full-time work experience means working at least 37.5 paid hours per week.
Skill level — National Occupational Classification
Your work experience must be Skill Type 0, or Skill Level A or B on the NOC.

The NOC is a classification system for jobs in the Canadian economy. It describes duties, skills, educational requirements and work settings for occupations in Canada.

Find out your NOC category

To find out if your work experience qualifies you for permanent residence under the Canadian Experience Class, see Jobs and their NOC Descriptions of Occupations in the Related Links section at the bottom of this page. Follow the instructions to find the NOC category that matches your work experience.

If the description and list of main duties for a job classified under 0, A or B match what you did while you worked in Canada, you probably meet the requirement for that type of experience.

If the description and list of main duties do not match your work experience in Canada, then you might not have the type of experience you need to apply. Look through the NOC list to see if another occupation matches your experience.

You do not meet the minimum work experience requirement if

you gained your work experience without the proper status (for example, as an undocumented worker)
your work experience in Canada is not classified as 0, A or B under the NOC list
you do not have at least two years of work experience as a temporary foreign worker.

If you do not meet the minimum work experience requirements, your application for permanent residence under the Canadian Experience Class will be refused.

For more information on NOC, see the Related Links section at the bottom of this page.

Canadian Experience Class: Who can apply – Requirements for graduates

There are two requirements specific to graduates

Work experience
Education
Work experience

As a graduate of a Canadian post-secondary educational institution, you must have one year of full-time (or equivalent) work experience in Canada after graduation. Your work experience must be gained within two years of applying.

You may get work experience by applying for the Post-Graduation Work Permit after graduation. Work permits may be valid for up to three years with no restrictions on the type of work you can do or where. To ensure that you can apply for permanent residence under the Canadian Experience Class, at least one year of work experience under the permit must be at Skill Type 0, or Skill Level A or B under the NOC. Your work experience must be gained within two years of the time you applied.

Full-time work experience means working at least 37.5 paid hours per week.

Note: Work experience gained during your studies does not count toward meeting the requirements for work experience. Only work experience gained after graduation can be counted.

Skill level — National Occupational Classification

Your work experience must be Skill Type 0, or Skill Level A or B on the NOC.

The NOC is a classification system for jobs in the Canadian economy. It describes duties, skills, talents and work settings for occupations in Canada.

Find out your NOC category

To find out if your work experience qualifies you under the Canadian Experience Class, see Jobs and their NOC descriptions in the Related Links section at the bottom of this page. Follow the instructions to find the NOC category that matches your work experience.

If the description and list of main duties for a job classified under 0, A or B match what you did while you worked in Canada, you probably meet the requirement for that type of experience.

If the description and list of main duties do not match your work experience in Canada, then you might not have the type of experience you need to apply. Look through the NOC list to see if another occupation matches your experience.

You do not meet the minimum work experience requirement if:

you gained your work experience without the proper authorization (for example, as an undocumented worker)
your work experience in Canada is not classified as 0, A or B under the NOC list
you do not have at least one year of work experience as a graduate of a post-secondary educational institution.

If you do not meet the minimum work experience requirements, your application for permanent residence under the Canadian Experience Class will be refused.

For more information on NOC, see the Related Links section at the bottom of this page.

Education

Education is only assessed if you are applying as a graduate of a Canadian post-secondary educational institution.

If you want to apply based on your Canadian credentials, you must complete either:

a full-time Canadian post-secondary educational program of at least two years or
a one-year Master’s program (certificates and diplomas cannot be counted) and an additional year of education, obtained in Canada, before admission into the one-year program (for a total of two years)

Note: English- or French-as-a-second- language courses do not count toward education requirements under the Canadian Experience Class.

The programs must be delivered by a private or public post-secondary educational institution such as a college or a university that is provincially recognized, or Private CEGEPs

Note: You must have proper status during any period of full-time study or training.

If you do not meet the minimum education requirements when applying as a graduate, your application for permanent residence under the Canadian Experience Class will be refused.

Definitions

Full-time studies – To be eligible, you must have been considered “full-time” at your school
Two years of study – At least 16 months—or four semesters—within the 24 months before completing a full-time post-secondary program of study in Canada

Canadian Experience Class: Who can apply – Language requirements (all applicants)

Being able to communicate and work in one or both of Canada’s official languages is very important. Knowing English, French or both helps you in the Canadian job market.

You must prove your ability in English or French to qualify for permanent residence under the Canadian Experience Class.

Your occupation (job) will determine the language abilities you require to immigrate under the Canadian Experience Class. The requirements vary according to job classification under the National Occupation Classification system (NOC). Consult the application guide for more information on the language ability required for your job.

If you do not meet the minimum language skill requirement for your NOC category, your application for permanent residence under the Canadian Experience Class will be refused.

Proof of your language abilities

If you have some abilities in both English and French, decide which of the two is your first official language. The other is your second official language.

You must prove your abilities in your first official language only. There are three ways to do this. You can:

take an IELTS test to prove your ability in English or
take the TEF to prove your ability in French.

Note: IELTS and TEF are the only “designated language testing agencies.” CIC uses IELTS and TEF scores to determine your level on the Canadian Language Benchmarks.

Finally, you may provide other written evidence of your abilities.

Note

If your first language is neither French nor English, CIC recommends taking either the IELTS test or the TEF before starting the application process. This will help you find out if you meet the minimum language requirement for your job.

Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC) is not a designated testing agency for applicants under the Canadian Experience Class. See IELTS and TEF in the Related Links section at the bottom of this page to find out where to get tested.

We strongly recommend that you take an official language test if you are claiming skills in English or French and it is not your first language.

If you choose not to take an IELTS or TEF, you must prove your ability to speak, listen, read and write English or French through written evidence. There are only certain types of evidence visa officers accept as proof. It is your responsibility to find out the immigration language requirement for your job AND how to prove you meet the requirement. Please see the application guide to learn about CIC’s requirements in detail.

Depending on your job, your written proof and explanation must clearly show that you meet the benchmark criteria listed for either Canadian Language Benchmarks 7 or Canadian Language Benchmark 5.

Note: There is no Canadian Language Benchmark test. The Canadian Language Benchmarks are descriptions of language abilities. CIC visa officers use these descriptions to determine your language abilities based on the written evidence you provide.

Note

Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) officers will not conduct an interview to assess your language abilities. CIC will only use test results from organizations approved by CIC or written proof in assessing language.

What happens next

A CIC officer will review the proof you include with your application.
Your submission must satisfy the officer that your language skills meet the benchmarks for the levels you are claiming.
The officer will assess your language ability based on what you send with your application.

Bill C-50

New after February 27, 2008

Skilled workers and professionals

The Skilled Worker class covers applicants who have demonstrated skills or experience in their respective profession or occupation in their home country, and have the ability to independently adapt to Canadian workforce. The skills and experience could be in a wide array of occupations included in the Positive Occupation List, consistent with the Canadian National Occupational Classification (NOC). Both self-employed and the employed persons can apply as Skilled worker, provided they satisfy the occupational requirements.

The selection is based on a combination of Selection factors and a Point system. The applicants are assessed on 6 factors like Age, education, length of experience, proficiency in Official languages (English/ French), Arranged Employment and Adaptability. Based on the individual situation, points are awarded for each of these factors, as per the Points system. An applicant with a total score more than the Pass mark can apply. The Pass mark is re-set by the department from time to time.

Who can apply

Skilled workers are people who are selected as permanent residents based on their ability to become economically established in Canada.
Federal skilled worker applications received on or after February 27, 2008 are now assessed for eligibility according to a set of instructions issued by the Minister of Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism.
Your application will be reviewed in three steps.
You can find out more by contacting us for a consultation.
According to the Minister’s instructions, your application is eligible for processing if:
You have an offer of arranged employment, OR
You are a foreign national who has been living legally in Canada for one year as a temporary foreign worker or an international student, OR
You are a skilled worker who has at least one year of experience in one or more of the occupations listed here.

If your application is eligible for processing, you must also meet the following minimum requirements to qualify as a skilled worker:

You have at least one year of continuous full-time paid work experience or the equivalent in part-time continuous employment, AND
Your work experience must be Skill Type 0 (managerial occupations) or Skill Level A (professional occupations) or B (technical occupations and skilled trades) on the Canadian National Occupational Classification list, AND
You must have had this experience within the last 10 years.

If you meet these minimum requirements, your application will then be processed according to the six selection factors in the skilled worker points grid. The six selection factors are:

Your education
Your abilities in English and/or French, Canada’s two official languages
Your work experience
Your age
Whether you have arranged employment in Canada, and
Your adaptability

You must also show that you have enough money to support yourself and your dependants after you arrive in Canada.

If you are not sure if you should apply as a skilled worker, you can:

use the Government of Canada eligibility tool to get an idea of whether your application would be eligible for processing, then try the self-assessment test to see if you might earn enough points to qualify.

There are many ways to immigrate to Canada. If you don’t meet the criteria to apply under the Federal Skilled Worker Program, you may qualify under another category. Contact us for more information.

Jason Kenney, Canada's newly appointed Minister of Immigration has announced the Ministerial Instructions governing processing of skilled worker applications. This announcement includes occupations which are presently slated for fast-track processing.

From CIC

Under changes to the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act, federal skilled worker applications are assessed for eligibility according to the eligibility criteria listed below.

Note: This does not apply to applicants intending to live in the province of Quebec.

The Selection factors are as follows:

A few salient features of Point system are discussed below:

The maximum score for the Age factor is for ages 21-49 years.

In education, University graduates score 20 while 3-yr Diploma holders score 22 points! Points are awarded for both completed education and no. of years of study. Part-time or Correspondence study may also qualify.

Work Experience in an Occupation on the Positive List in the last 10 years is considered. So, if your occupation is not on the list, you may find it difficult to qualify.

The Language points are based on either of the 2 Official languages of Canada, English & French. These are based on score in an approved Language test. IELTS and CELPIP are approved for English, whereas TEF is approved for French. Maximum possible score in the first language is 16 and in second language is

Arranged Employment: Additional points are awarded for ‘Arranged employment’ i.e. a job offer from a Canadian employer, ‘confirmed’ by Service Canada (previously Human Resources & Skills Development Canada (HRSDC)).

Adaptability: Points are awarded for Close relatives who are Canadian citizens/ Permanent Residents, for educational credentials of spouse, for previous study or work in Canada, and Arranged employment.

Settlement Package

Upon your arrival in Canada, we will assist you with the following services:

Airport Pickup

Temporary Housing (hotel or apartment) assistance

Resume Critique

Career Counseling

Referral to a real estate agent

Referral to a mortgage advisor

Referral to an English language school (if needed)

Assistance and answering questions regarding:

SIN (Social Insurance Number)

Driver's License

Bank Account

Residential and Cellular phone

Utilities

Cable TV and Internet

Buying a car

iCanada Direct Immigration Services

Is Pleased To Announce that in addition to being your

Dedicated, Professional, and Affordable Canadian Immigration Specialists

we are now also offering

U.S. Immigration Services

As you may already be aware, the US visa system is, in part, employment based in that an applicant must have an offer of US employment to qualify for an employment based visa. We have a long and successful history of assisting people with employment based visas, renewals, transfers and we welcome these opportunities.

On the other hand, there are many exceptions to this employment rule and there are quite a few US visas that do not require employment offers including temporary visas, fiancé/spousal/family visas, investor visas, student visas, L-1 visas that are used for transferring employees from an overseas office to a US branch office or for small business people that can afford an investor visa, religious workers, among many other categories.

The firm we work with has a very active criminal and civil enforcement division. Since Immigration Laws are federal in nature, we can certainly assist people throughout the entire USA. The complexities of ever changing US Immigration Laws demand a client driven Immigration strategy. Our planning satisfies Immigration Law compliance while achieving client goals.

Our clients benefit from our knowledgeable advice regarding immigration whether for the individual with exceptional abilities or for a spouse joining her US Citizen Husband in the United States. The various types and categories of visas have specific regulations that affect an individual's ability to apply for such benefits. Those with exceptional abilities and those whose knowledge and/or skills will benefit the United States' national interest qualify for particular visas that differ from a visa for a temporary, seasonal worker. There are visas for outstanding professors and researchers, and different visas for professional workers and students. Whether it is technology, healthcare, hospitality, maritime, education, or another industry, we understand that time is of the essence.

We serve our clients best when we manage expectations. While we always strive to limit immigration processing delays, we advise clients in advance of any concerns regarding possible numerical limitations on visas and of any USCIS processing backlogs. The unpredictable nature of potential visa backlogs requires a firm grasp on the issues and possible relief if one visa option is oversubscribed. We will always attempt to identify a visa category that avoids backlogs and allows for quicker processing whether it is for employees or families.

We pride ourselves on being able to work closely with our affiliates in the United States which allows us to provide practical, innovative and effective solutions to all your legal needs.

Visas that we process include

Employment-based Immigration (H, L, O, P, R, and TN) visas
Permanent resident ("green card" applications)
Visitor visas for business or pleasure
"Schedule A" Occupations for nurses and physical therapists
F-1 Student and J-1 Exchange Visitor Visa Consultation
Family and marriage-based immigration
Consular processing
United States Citizenship Applications
Foreign Investor Visas (the E-1, E-2 and EB-5) visa categories
Employer Compliance/Audits
Visa extensions and change of status
Litigation and Court representation

To find out if you qualify

Or to obtain more Information

Contact us at

iCanada Direct Immigration Services

Call:

  +1-416-887-7382

Or E-mail us at

info@iCanadaDirect.com

Frequently Asked Questions

The number of new immigrants to Canada consistently keeps rising. And it's not surprising, since the United Nations recognized Canada to be one of the best countries for living. The influx of new immigrants is constantly growing, while back in the old country all the new immigrants have friends and relatives left, that they miss, and would like to see in Canada as well. As a result Mr. Dimitrakopoulos and his associates receive a number of questions connected with immigration to Canada. Below you will find the most frequently asked questions and the answers given to them by Mr. Dimitrakopoulos.

Questions

    Is it necessary to hire a lawyer or a consultant to immigrate to Canada?

    Is it necessary to hire a lawyer or could you stick to the services of a paralegal or a consultant?

    How a client can find out whether he is hiring a Canadian lawyer or not?

    How do lawyer's services differ from services of a paralegal or a consultant?

    What guarantees do you give to your clients and how many percent?

    How much are your fees?

    Do you have representatives in other countries?

    How to start the immigration process?

    What documents are necessary to begin the work on immigration process?

    How long does it usually take to process a file?

    Where is it better to pass an interview?

    What is Permanent Resident Visa?

    Which member of the family should apply as the principal applicant?

    Which family members can be included in the application for permanent residence?

    Can I extend my immigrant visa?

    How does an employment visa differ from an immigrant visa?

    Can one apply for both visas simultaneously?

    Can I get a visitor visa, if I'd already applied for a Permanent Resident Visa?

    After the family receive Permanent Resident Visas can only one family member come to Canada at first and the other afterwards?

    What minimal sum of money must I have before arriving to Canada?

    When will I be able to become a Canadian citizen?

    Can I have dual citizenship?

    How is the immigration process affected by acquiring property in Canada?

    How realistic is it to come to Canada as a refugee?

    Does a Skilled Worker have any financial requirements?

    Are there any residency requirements?

    What is the new Permanent Resident Card?

    What are the Canadian Government fees?

    Must I attend an interview?

    Must I visit Canada before applying for immigration?

    Who must the principal applicant – my spouse or myself?

    What is the screening process for  iCanada Direct Immigration Services?

Answers

1. Is it necessary to hire a lawyer or a consultant to immigrate to Canada?

It is possible to apply for permanent residence in Canada by oneself. It is also possible to hire the assistance of an intermediary, which can be a professionally licensed and trained Canadian lawyer, specializing in immigration law or any Consultant or paralegal. We here at  iCanada Direct Immigration Services have seen many cases where the applicant who had all the qualifications and requirements to pass as an independent immigrant failed to do so. Due to mistakes in filling in the application forms or because of incorrect responses given at the interview, This is why a Consultant is needed, to proficiently introduce the client to all immigration authorities and to properly prepare him for an interview, thus ensuring the successful immigration to Canada.

2. Is it necessary to hire a lawyer or could you stick to the services of a paralegal or a consultant?

Lawyers are professionally trained and educated, and thus may provide the most professional and competent service, assuring the maximization of your family’s chances of successfully immigrating to Canada. Lawyers are regulated by the Law Society, and are accountable as to the quality of their work. Should the lawyer make mistakes, or act in a negligent manner, he or she may lose their license to practice law. Lawyers are insured against liability and should a lawyer cause damages to his client, due to the lawyer’s negligence or incompetence, the client can be reimbursed for his losses by the lawyer’s insurance. Therefore, lawyers are held accountable to their clients. In Canada, such a licensed lawyer is called Barrister & Solicitor.

Paralegals and consultants are also subject to mandatory regulation and are accountable to The Immigration Consultants of Canada Regulatory Council (I.C.C.R.C.). Anyone can declare themselves to be a consultant or paralegal, but only a select few are licensed and regulated thus making them “Immigration Specialists”. They are regulated, insured, and accountable, and have a lot to lose if they mislead (misdirect) their clients. It is important that no matter who you hire, it is somebody you trust. Here at iCanada Direct Immigration Services we treat our clients and potential clients like our friends, we are honest and straight forward, providing them with the “Professional, Affordable and Dedicated Services they deserve”.

3. How a client can find out whether he is hiring a Canadian lawyer or not?

That is very easy. Each Regulated Consultant is issued an I.C.C.R.C. membership number which allows them to legally practice and to be recognized by Citizenship and Immigration Canada, The Canadian Border Services Agency, Human Resources and Skills Development Canada as well as a number of other Government Agencies they might be required to deal with. Therefore, it is important that before you hire a consultant you check their status with The I.C.C.R.C. You can do so by visiting the I.C.C.R.C. website (www.iccrc-crcic.ca) and looking under the membership list, if you search for Nicholas Dimitrakopoulos you can view his current status.

4. How do lawyer's services differ from services of a paralegal or a consultant?

A lawyer and Consultant both have the right to represent the client's interests on any stage of immigration, legal and appealing processes. Therefore, the Canadian immigration officials must treat the representative’s client in a most respectful manner and make a correct decision, according to the Canadian law.

The main difference being that a Consultant is limited when it comes to representing their clients in front of the federal court. Besides this the lawyer and Consultant both have a high level of responsibility, since they are responsible not only to the client and court, but he is also responsible to the Law Society, or the I.C.C.R.C., which can find them liable in cases of serious mistakes. And one of the most important issues to us is that the consultants at iCanada Direct Immigration Services. put the client's money into a safe account. It is an account, which holds the clients' money in the name of each client and shows the exact sum paid by the client. This account is completely monitored and accounted for. If a client believes that his Consultant does not fulfill the conditions of the contract, which is signed by both, the Consultant and the client before the beginning of the work, then the client can go to the I.C.C.R.C. and complain about the Consultant. Each Consultant carries insurance, so if he makes an error or is negligent during the process, the client can sue the Consultant, and the insurance will cover the client's losses. This is one of the guarantees that the work will be done in a professional manner. Paralegals and Consultants who are not licensed do not carry such insurance, which is very important since this is the only real guarantee that you have when you hire someone.

5. What guarantees do you give to your clients and how many percent?

Consultant can never provide guarantees, since only an officer of the immigration service can make the final decision on a specific immigration matter. A Consultant can only guarantee that the application will be completed in a professional manner. In order to ensure a high success rate we here at  iCanada Direct Immigration Services will only take a case after the client has filled in our detailed questionnaire, and, if necessary, a careful preliminary assessment of the client's documents. Only after that can we tell the client how good their chances for success are or explain to the client their other options, in cases where we unfortunately cannot help them. Clients should always be leery of Professionals who offer guarantees, after all how can one be so sure to offer a guarantee when they are not the ones making the decision. The ultimate approval or disapproval is at the sole discretion of Immigration Canada.

6. How much are your fees?

We here at iCanada Direct Immigration Services do more than one might imagine, not only do we complete the application forms, and include any additional letters, forms to strengthen your case but we also represent our clients at all stages of the immigration process. Therefore, the price of our services depends on how much work the case involves the category through which the client is processed, and consequently, the price is determined in each specific case. For a quote of our fees feel free to arrange a consultation to discuss in detail. In addition to our fees the client is responsible for any additional fees which are payable to the government, their medicals, and criminal background check, as well as any other fees that we might accumulate.

7. Do you have representatives in other countries?

At the current moment we have no such representatives. It is expensive to have local offices and we strive to keep our costs low and endeavor to pass on the savings to our clients. We strive to communicate with our clients through the internet, by telephone, fax, and any other means possible. This allows us to offer personal service while holding down our prices. Moreover, we have found out from others that having representatives in various countries it is very expensive and problematic, because what ends up happening in these situations is that unqualified representatives misinform our clients or use the name of our firm for their own purposes, which caused problems not only for our clients but also the reputation of our firm. Therefore, after careful consideration, we came to a conclusion, that it would be more beneficial for both our clients and our firm if we, ourselves, deal with our clients personally, instead of spending the money on the local representatives, who sometimes were not quite competent.

8. How to start the immigration process?

First you must decide to immigrate. Then you must send us an email explaining you details. We will have somebody get back to you shortly afterwards with any follow up questions we might have. We like to keep in touch with all of our clients and to let them know what that can do, and how we can help them begin their new life. We believe that being honest and straight forward with our clients is the best policy.

9. What documents are necessary to begin the work on immigration process?

Among the documents that are necessary to start work on immigration file there must be copies of birth certificates, educational certificates and diplomas, marriage and divorce certificates, passports, police certificates, employment reference letter and some other certificates. The applicant receives a more complete list of necessary documents after the preliminary assessment of his immigration application. These copies need to be certified and translated.

10. How long does it usually take to process a file?

This is the most common question we get here at iCanada Direct Immigration Services. The time varies from case to case. The processing of the file can usually take from a year to two years.

11. Where is it better to pass an interview?

The interview can be passed in any embassy of Canada. We have an individual approach to each file, and always give reasons for our recommendations to the clients.

12. What is Permanent Resident Visa?

It's a document that allows its beneficiary to live and work anywhere in Canada, this document also confirms the status of the permanent resident of Canada. Permanent Resident Visa allows its beneficiary to have the same rights (except for voting) and responsibilities as Canadian citizens. Permanent Resident can lose the status of the permanent resident if he is absent from Canada for a longer period of time than allowed by the law or commits a crime.

13. Which member of the family should apply as the principal applicant?

The principal applicant should be that member of the family whose application can get the most points. This could be either the Husband, or the Wife depending on each particular instance. This decision plays the decisive role, because whether the principal applicant is approved or refused, the result automatically affects the entire family. The family means a husband, a wife, and their under-aged or dependent children.

14. Which family members can be included in the application for permanent residence?

They are the spouse and children under 22. The family members whom you included in your application must pass medical examination and have no criminal record. Other family members, for example, such as parents, cannot be included in your application, but you can sponsor them after you come to Canada and have worked in the country for no less than a year.

15. Can I extend my immigrant visa?

No, this visa cannot be extended. If you couldn't arrive in Canada before the time shown on you Permanent Resident Visa, then you will have to start the whole immigration process from the very beginning.

16. How does an employment visa differ from an immigrant visa?

Employment authorization allows its possessor to live and work in Canada for a certain period of time; it also limits the possessor's ability to work in Canada. Employment visa doesn't give the right for the permanent immigrant visa. As for the Permanent Resident Visa, it gives its possessor the right to work and live in any place in Canada, have the privileges of a Canadian citizen, receive Canadian citizenship after three years, and sponsor close relatives to come Canada if you have an appropriate income.

17. Can one apply for both visas simultaneously?

Yes, you can do that. However your application for employment visa can suffer, since you have the intentions to remain in Canada after it is expired. Therefore it is better to first apply for employment visa, and only after that for the Permanent Resident Visa.

18. Can I get a visitor visa, if I'd already applied for a Permanent Resident Visa?

The decision of issuing you a visitor visa for temporary stay in Canada will be affected not by the application for permanent residence, but by the definite answer to the question, “what is the possibility that you will stay in Canada after the expiry of your visitor visa”.

19. After the family receive Permanent Resident Visas can only one family member come to Canada at first and the other afterwards?

In each Permanent Resident Visa there is a date of its validity, you must enter Canada before the expiry of this date. As a rule it is a year after the medical examination. The immigration law allows that first the principal applicant can enter Canada and the rest of the family can come later but certainly before the expiry date on the Permanent Resident Visa.

20. What minimal sum of money must I have before arriving to Canada?

The independent immigrant should have $10,000 Canadian for the principal applicant plus $2,000 for each additional family member who will live in Canada. These expenses are necessary for living and the adjustment of the family in Canada during the first 6 months in the country.

21. When will I be able to become a Canadian citizen?

You will be able to become a Canadian citizen after you have lived in the country for 3 years.

22. Can I have dual citizenship?

Yes, you can, if the country, from which you immigrate, recognizes it. Canada recognizes dual citizenship.

23. How is the immigration process affected by acquiring property in Canada?

Until you become a Permanent Resident, buying property in Canada gives you no advantages; it does not help your immigration process. Furthermore, if you decide to come to Canada on a visitor visa after you have bought the property, immigration officials will have more reason to refuse you. As for the entrepreneurs who already live in Canada, putting their money into real estate won't help them to remove the conditions, which exist for this class of immigrants, as the authorities don't consider this as an active business.

24. How realistic is it to come to Canada as a refugee?

The refugee category includes people who are persecuted be-cause of their race, religion, nationality, belonging to a certain social group, or political opinion. Also, their own country won't or can't assist them. The general rule is this: the greater the democracy, the fewer refugees they have. Nonetheless, our firm also helps people, who make refugee claims.

25. Does a Skilled Worker have any financial requirements?

Skilled Worker applicants, as a general rule, must demonstrate that they have sufficient funds to support themselves, and any accompanying dependants, for six months after their arrival in Canada. The applicant’s funds will be measured against the most current "Low Income Cut-Off" figures published by Statistics Canada.

26. Are there any residency requirements?

A permanent resident must comply with a residency obligation with respect to every five-year period. The permanent resident complies with the residency obligation provisions if, for at least 730 days (2 years) in that 5 year period the permanent resident is present in Canada or is:

Outside of Canada accompanying a Canadian citizen who is his or her spouse or common-law partner or a child accompanying a parent.
Outside Canada employed on a full-time basis by a Canadian business.
Is an accompanying spouse, common-law partner or child of a permanent resident who is outside Canada and is employed as a full-time basis by a Canadian business.

29. What is the new Permanent Resident Card?

The Canadian Government is providing all permanent residents with the opportunity to obtain secure proof of their status in Canada. A new permanent resident (PR) card will be given to all individuals who become permanent residents after June 28, 2002. Existing permanent residents may apply for the PR card beginning in September 2002. The PR card in most cases is valid for 5 years and renewable thereafter. In certain cases the PR card may be issued for only 1 year. While permanent residents are under no obligation to apply for a PR card, transportation companies (airlines) will not carry permanent residents to Canada without a valid card after December 31, 2003.

30. What are the Canadian government fees?

In the Skilled Worker category the principal applicant must pay a non-refundable processing fee of CDN$550. The accompanying spouse must also pay CDN$550. Accompanying children under 22 years of age each pay CDN$150 and those 22 years and older pay CDN$550. In addition, a refundable right of landing fee of CDN$490 is charged to each newly arriving immigrant 22 years of age or older.

31. Must I attend an interview?

It is at the discretion of an immigration officer who processes your application to decide whether you need an interview or not. You may need to attend an interview at which an immigration officer will access your education, knowledge of your profession, and work experience, your ability to speak, read, write and comprehend the English or / French language. Some skilled worker applications can be approved or refused without an interview. Business immigrants are usually required to attend an interview.

32. Must I visit Canada before applying for immigration?

It is not necessary for the applicants applying under skilled worker class to visit Canada prior to submitting the application to the embassy. Nevertheless, potential business immigrants should visit Canada prior establishing or buying business there or making an investment to the Canadian economy.

33. Who must the principal applicant – my spouse or myself?

Each of you can be the principal applicant – it depends on which of you gets more points. That is something that we here at iCanada Direct Immigration Services will help you decide.

33. What is the screening process for iCanada Direct Immigration Services?

We here at iCanada Direct Immigration Services would like to save our clients time and money. In order to accomplish this we have various levels of screening. Initially we like to gather information.  At this point we will communicate with our clients in order to obtain more information so that we can further assess their case. Eventually when we have enough information we direct our clients to the Free Online Assessment Tool provided by the Government of Canada. 

This is usually one of the last stages for us to decide on how we will approach any particular case.

As a person who is aspiring to come to Canada, we here at iCanada Direct Immigration Services realize how important it is for you to receive assistance in submitting a complete and accurate application. Our experienced immigration consultants will do whatever is necessary to make your application successful. For example, we will:

Provide a cover letter to the Visa or Immigration Officers at Citizenship and Immigration Canada, submitting and advocating your position.
Provide a copy of our professional assessment of your situation to Citizenship and Immigration Canada.
Ensure that all necessary documents have been prepared, collected and properly translated.
Ensure that you submit your application at the fastest and nearest case processing centre.
Ensure that the proper governmental fees are paid.
Ensure that you are properly prepared on interview techniques.
Assist in finding an accepted physician for necessary medical examinations.
Assist in the preparation of criminal record checks.
Should a problem arise, we will advocate and mediate on your behalf.

We stand by our services. Should your application fail, we are prepared to assist in an appeal or other legal recourse on your behalf.

Once your application has been approved, and you have received your visa, we will continue to assist you in providing extensive tours or settlement services for a nominal fee.

iCanada Direct Immigration Services is in the business of providing full immigration services. We welcome your business, and appreciate your patronage.

Should you be interested in our services we can be contacted at:

+1-416-887-7382

Or E-mail us at: 
info@icanadadirect.com

Even though Mr. Dimitrakopoulos was a member

From 2005-2011 with C.S.I.C.

And from

2011-2015 with the I.C.C.R.C.