Many a times, Immigration Representatives are confused or interchanged with immigration consultants. For those with the above thinking, it is for them to know that there is a difference between the two. An Immigration Representative is authorized to represent an applicant by the Canadian High Commission.

However, it is not mandatory to hire the services of a representative. It is totally on the applicant since it doesn’t give any added advantage or additional points with a representative. However, he would be able to guide you better. These services would definitely help you in taking the right steps. You can avail their services to act on your behalf and present your case.

While selecting an Immigration Representative, you have to be very particular on whom to select. It is important to know that there are two types of Immigration Representatives. These are –

• Paid Representatives – These include established lawyers who are in good books with the Canadian Provincial or the Territorial Law Society. This category also involves Immigration consultants who are registered with the Canadian Society of Immigration Consultants and the Notaries who are the members of Chambre des notaires du Québec as well.
• Unpaid Representatives – These representatives do not charge any fee for their consultation. These include your own friends and family or someone from the non – governmental or a religious group or organization.

In both the cases, the Government of Canada does not comply with unauthorized representatives presenting cases on behalf of the applicants.

In case of representatives, there have been many instances where in the applicants have been duped for money. So, it is always better to do a background check of the consultancy. This could be done by interacting with other clients and being informed in prior.

All in all, a well planned step would ensure a good of your money!