By Natoyah Alaka | 4 min read | Posted on January 28, 2025

No. You can do it yourself.

If you have the time, patience, and confidence that you can follow all the Canadian immigration requirements—and you are ready to experience the potential inconveniences that manifest during preparation and submission to Immigration, Refugee and Citizenship Canada (IRCC)—you can do it yourself.

Percentage of errors and omissions during visa application preparation

99% of the hundreds of visa applications I’ve reviewed by clients contain: 

• errors
• outdated documents
• missing information
• supporting docs that don't follow IRCC requirements

Example of errors:

• abbreviations of legal name instead of full legal name
• digital signatures instead of a wet signatures on forms
• name typed out on form instead of in signature style
• major grammar and spelling mistakes
• incorrect birth date of the principal applicant
• mix up of birth dates of the applicant's parents
• incorrect spelling of spouse's name
• incorrect spelling of children's names
• signatures made on wrong part of the forms

Examples of missing information:

• providing only a portion of an application form
• addresses not included in the forms
• family member details not inputted in the forms
• form is empty — no information added at all
• financial information not included
• purpose (activities) of travel not explained in support letters
• invitation letters not included
• contact details not mentioned in support letters
• letterheads not displayed in support letters by companies

Example of outdated documents:

• government application forms are signed over 3 months prior from the date of submission.
• date on support letter that are in the past. 

Example for support letters:

Today is January 28, 2025, and the visa application will be submitted today—but the support letter reads that the applicant must be in Toronto, Ontario by November 20-25, 2024.

The date of arrival to Toronto needs to be in future—not in the past.

Keep in mind, guidance and information are provided to all applicants before the preparation of their visa applications—but the omissions and errors are still made.

The importance of proofreading documentation

Only one client out of the hundreds I have assisted— completed all documentation at a 100% completion and accurate rate. He is a scientist—it must be his scientific attention to details.

Even me, as a Canadian immigration consultant, who prepares visa applications daily, I’ve overlooked certain things—but I review all documents—in totality—before I submit to IRCC.

This way, I can submit with confidence that the submission package is 100% complete.

Advantages of preparing your Canadian visa application by yourself

Cost savings

1. Save on consultant fees that can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars.
2. Only pay for the mandatory government fees.

Flexibility and convenience

1. Gain firsthand knowledge on Canadian immigration procedures.
2. Flexibility to submit your application at your own pace.
3. Respond to government requests at your own pace.
4. Ability to track your application status personally.

Disadvantages of preparing and submitting your Canadian visa application by yourself

Risk of Errors and Omissions

1. Greater chance of making mistakes on forms
2. Risk of submitting incomplete documentation
3. Potential oversight of crucial details
4. Missing important updates or policy changes

Time-Intensive Process

1. Significant time spent learning immigration rules
2. Additional effort needed to verify requirements
3. Time consumed organizing and preparing documents
4. Extra time needed for revisions if mistakes are made

Limited Expertise

1. No professional guidance for complex situations
2. Not knowing which government departments to contact
3. No insights from previous successful applications
4. Difficulty handling unusual circumstances

Potential Financial Impact

1. Cost of reapplying if application is rejected due to incomplete application
2. Expenses from incorrect document preparation
3. Lost opportunities due to processing delays

No Professional Support System

1. No expert advice during complications
2. Limited resources for problem-solving
3. Difficulty handling technical issues
4. No assistance with appeals if needed

Advantages of hiring an immigration consultant

Professional Expertise and Experience

1. In-depth knowledge of immigration laws and policies
2. Understanding of current trends and success factors
3. Experience with complex cases and unique situations
4. Familiarity with common pitfalls and how to avoid them
5. Regular updates on policy changes and new requirements

Application Preparation

1. Strategic presentation of your qualifications and documents
2. Guidance on strengthening weak areas in your application
3. Help in gathering and organizing supporting documentation
4. Review of all materials for completeness and accuracy
5. Assistance in preparing explanation letters

Time and Stress Management

1. Reduced research time as consultants know requirements
2. Help with organizing and prioritizing tasks
3. Clear timelines and structured approach
4. Professional handling of complex paperwork

Problem Resolution

1. Solutions based on previous case experience
2. Professional representation if complications arise
3. Guidance through requests for additional information
4. Alternative strategies if initial approach isn't suitable

Ongoing Support

1. Regular updates on application status
2. Professional assistance with follow-up queries
3. Available for questions and clarifications
4. Guidance throughout the entire process

Disadvantages of hiring an immigration consultant

Financial Investment

1. Consultation fees in addition to government fees
2. Potential extra charges for additional services
3. Possible fees for document revisions or updates
4. Payment required regardless of application outcome by IRCC

Dependency on Third Party

1. Relying on consultant's timeline and availability
2. Possible delays waiting for consultant responses
3. Limited direct communication with immigration authorities
4. Need to coordinate schedules for meetings and updates

Quality Concerns

1. Varied quality of service among different consultants
2. Possibility of receiving generic rather than personalized service
3. Potential for miscommunication or misunderstanding
4. Risk of fraudulent or unethical practices

Document Handling Risks

1. Privacy concerns with sharing personal documents
2. Potential delays in document transmission

The Best Path Forward

For those with straightforward cases, sufficient time, strong organizational skills, and comfort with official procedures, self-filing can be a cost-effective and rewarding choice. 

But, if your case is complex, time is limited, or you prefer professional guidance, working with a qualified immigration consultant may be worth the investment.

Remember that success in either approach depends on careful preparation, attention to detail, and ensuring all requirements are met. 

Whichever path you choose, thorough research and careful consideration of your specific situation will help lead to the best outcome for your Canadian visa application.

My articles

My articles are drawn from real-world experiences, handling numerous visa applications in a fast-paced corporate environment. Each insight and tip shared here comes from actual cases, challenges overcome, and solutions that work. Stay updated with practical immigration tips by following my weekly articles.

Disclaimer: The above writing is not intended to be a source of legal advice. Please seek legal advice and use your own good judgement before choosing to act on any information provided above. If you choose to rely on this article, you do so entirely at your own accountability.