How to Prepare for Your IRCC Interview
When you receive the interview invitation from IRCC, it’s usually the last step before a decision is made on your Canadian immigration application. The most important thing to remember is not to panic. Always tell the truth, stick to the facts, and give straightforward answers to the questions that are being asked.
Whether you’re applying for permanent residence, a spousal sponsorship, or temporary status like a study permit or work permit, your IRCC interview is the chance to tell your story with honesty, clarity, and confidence. In this article, we’ll walk you through some of the most commonly asked IRCC interview questions and best practices.
Why Does IRCC convoke interviews for immigration applicants?
If you’re asked to appear in the interview, it’s often for one (or more) of the following reasons:
- To clarify details in your application
- To confirm the sincerity of a relationship (in sponsorship cases)
- To verify your identity or background
- To assess language skills or settlement concerns
- IRCC has discovered discrepancies in your application information or supporting documentation
Top Tips to Prepare
- Know Your Application Inside Out
Review every detail you submitted. Officers may ask you to explain or expand on your responses. - Bring Original Documents
Always bring the documents required. When an interview is convoked, IRCC will tell you which documents, if any, they want you to bring. Bring everything that they ask for including originals (if requested) of passports, marriage certificates, diplomas, letters, photos, etc. - Always be honest
Your honesty can keep you safe! If you don’t know something or made a mistake, it’s better to say so honestly. Take your time to answer the questions being asked. Answer the question asked by the officer; do not answer a question that you have not actually been asked. A dishonest answer can lead to a finding of misrepresentation. - Practice Calm Communication
Practice answering questions out loud with a friend or a legal representative so that you will be less nervous.
Top IRCC Interview Questions & How to Approach Them
These are some commonly asked questions across different types of immigration interviews.
1. Why do you want to immigrate to Canada?
Be honest about your real motivations. What are your plans after you arrive? What are your short, medium, and long term goals that your migration to Canada will help you achieve?
2. Can you take me through your educational and work background?
Present a clear background of your past as well as present qualifications and work experiences. Include details of your credentials earned and graduation dates.
3. Where will you live once you’re in Canada?
Show that you’ve made a clear plan. Whether it’s temporary housing with a relative or a short-term rental. Don’t forget to mention the city or area that you will be living in and your reason for choosing it. If you have already found a property to lease, mention this.
4. Do you have family or friends in Canada?
Tell them the truth if it’s yes or no, and if applicable, describe who they are, how close you are, and how they’re supporting you. If not, highlight your own independence and planning.
5. How will you finance your stay in Canada?
Give detailed information about your account and the work you’ll be doing to manage your living. The goal here is to show them that you have sufficient funds and will not become a burden for the Canadian system or be unable to pay your tuition.
Final Thoughts
The IRCC interview isn’t about having “perfect” answers, but it’s all about being real, prepared, and consistent as well as being honest to avoid misrepresentation.
If you don’t understand a question, it’s okay to ask the officer to repeat or clarify it. If you’re unsure about a date or detail, say it with honesty. The worst thing to do is to guess or invent something on the spot.
We’re Here to Help
At Doherty Fultz Immigration, we understand how stressful this part of the process can be. That’s why we work closely with clients to prepare for IRCC interviews on all types of Canadian immigration applications.
