Question 1

How do I get started?

Accepted Answer

The fastest way to get started is to run our free assessment tools or book your Expert Consultation with a licensed RCIC. We review your profile and outline the pathways available to you.

Question 2

What is an Expert Consultation?

Accepted Answer

An Expert Consultation is a paid, one-on-one session with a licensed RCIC, booked online, where we review your profile - age, education, work experience, and language ability - against Canada's immigration programs to identify your likely pathways. You can also run our free online tools instantly, and send general questions through the Contact Us page.

Question 3

Do you help people already in Canada, or only those applying from abroad?

Accepted Answer

Both - we work with clients already living in Canada on a study or work permit, as well as applicants applying from outside Canada. Your current location and status affect which pathways are available, and we factor that into our assessment.

Question 4

Do I need to decide on a program before booking a consultation?

Accepted Answer

No - many clients start with an Expert Consultation before they know which program fits them. We review your age, education, work experience, and language ability, then explain which pathways are realistic for your situation.

Question 5

What immigration services does VMC offer individuals?

Accepted Answer

VMC's licensed RCICs support individuals with Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Programs, work permits, study permits, family sponsorship, visitor visas and eTAs, citizenship applications, PR card renewals, and refused or inadmissible cases. We work with clients at every stage, from first exploring options to representation before IRCC.

Question 6

Can you help with Express Entry and Provincial Nominee Programs?

Accepted Answer

Yes - we assess your profile against Express Entry categories (Federal Skilled Worker, Canadian Experience Class, Federal Skilled Trades) and provincial streams, help you understand your CRS score, and prepare and submit your application.

Question 7

Do you help with study permits and work permits?

Accepted Answer

Yes - we help with study permits, study permit extensions, and the full range of work permits, including LMIA-based, LMIA-exempt, open work permits, PGWP, and spousal open work permits. We also help you plan how your study or work permit connects to a permanent residence pathway.

Question 8

Can you help with family sponsorship?

Accepted Answer

Yes - we handle spousal and common-law sponsorship, sponsorship of dependent children, and parent and grandparent sponsorship (including the Super Visa) to reunite your family in Canada.

Question 9

What's the difference between Express Entry and a Provincial Nominee Program?

Accepted Answer

Express Entry is a federal system that ranks candidates using the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) and issues invitations to the highest-ranked profiles. A Provincial Nominee Program lets a specific province nominate candidates who meet its local labour market needs - a nomination linked to Express Entry adds 600 CRS points.

Question 10

Do I need a job offer to qualify for Express Entry?

Accepted Answer

No - a job offer is not required for Express Entry, and since March 25, 2025 a valid job offer no longer adds CRS points either. Many applicants qualify based on education, work experience, and language ability alone.

Question 11

Can I bring my family with me?

Accepted Answer

Yes - most permanent residence programs let you include your spouse or common-law partner and dependent children on your application, and family sponsorship is available separately for Canadian citizens and permanent residents who want to reunite with family already living apart.

Question 12

Can I move from a study or work permit to permanent residence?

Accepted Answer

Yes - many applicants complete a study permit, obtain a Post-Graduation Work Permit, and later qualify for the Canadian Experience Class or a Provincial Nominee Program based on their Canadian education and work experience. We help you plan this route from the start.

Question 13

How much does it cost to immigrate to Canada?

Accepted Answer

Government application fees vary by program and are set by IRCC, and most programs also require proof of settlement funds based on your family size. Check IRCC's current fee schedule and funds requirements for the specific program you're applying under, as these figures are updated periodically.

Question 14

How long does the immigration process take?

Accepted Answer

Processing times vary by program and change regularly based on application volumes. IRCC publishes current processing time estimates on its website - we track your file once submitted and let you know about any delays or requests for more information.

Question 15

Do I need proof of funds for every program?

Accepted Answer

It depends on the program - some, like the Canadian Experience Class, do not require proof of funds if you're already working in Canada, while others do. IRCC sets the exact requirement and amount for each program and updates the figures periodically.

Question 16

What are your consultation fees?

Accepted Answer

Fees are discussed with you before you book, based on the complexity of your case and the services involved. Book your Expert Consultation to get a clear, personalized quote.

Question 17

Do you help with refused applications?

Accepted Answer

Yes - our RCICs review refused applications, identify why the refusal occurred, and advise on next steps, which may include reapplying, judicial review, or a temporary resident permit depending on your situation. Visit our refusals page for more detail on how we approach these cases.

Question 18

Do I need an RCIC, or can I apply myself?

Accepted Answer

You are not required to use a consultant - you can submit your own application to IRCC. Many applicants choose a licensed RCIC to help avoid errors, evaluate program fit, and manage complex situations such as past refusals. Only CICC-regulated RCICs and licensed lawyers may charge a fee to represent you.

Question 19

How do I verify that a consultant is licensed?

Accepted Answer

You can verify any RCIC's licence status for free on the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants' public register at college-ic.ca. Search the consultant's name or licence number to confirm they are currently in good standing before you hire them or pay any fee.

Immigration for individuals

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Work Permits

Study Permits

Family Sponsorship

Visitor Visa & eTA

Citizenship & PR Card

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Calculators & Finders

Services for Individuals - Frequently Asked Questions

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