Before the Interview
Before the Interview
Preparing for your interview is the most important step in your journey. Use this guide to make sure your information is ready and your story is clear.
Step 1: The Document Checklist
Review the application forms you sent to IRCC. If you are missing these copies, contact your sponsors immediately. Here are some strategic points to look at when checking your documents:
- Family Updates: Is the information about your family still correct? You must report any new marriages, births, or deaths.
- The "Full List": Check that every family member is listed—including your spouse and all children under 22. Even if a family member is missing or deceased, their name must be on the forms.
- Contact Details: Ensure your phone number and email address are correct. If these are wrong, you will not receive your interview invitation.
- Fact-checking: Double-check your history of addresses and jobs. If you find a mistake, tell your sponsor right away to update the Visa Office.
Step 2: Gather your proof
| Category | What to include |
|---|---|
| Personal ID | Passports, ID cards, and refugee registration documents/papers. |
| Family Proof | Birth, marriage, and divorce certificates. |
| Your Story | News articles, police reports, or letters from friends. |
| Official Documents | Anything from the UNHCR or your current government. |
| Health Record | Medical records or reports from a doctor or psychologist. |
Step 3: Master your story
The visa officer will compare what you say in the interview to what you wrote in your application (specifically the Schedule 2 form).
- Be accurate: read your written story several times. Ensure all dates and locations are exactly as they happened.
- Create a Memory Aid: Write down a timeline of "Who, What, Where, and When." This helps you stay calm if you get nervous during the interview.
- Practice Interview: Exercise answering questions with someone you trust. Explain why you left your country and what challenges you face now.
- Correcting Errors: If you realize you forgot an important detail or made a mistake in your written story, you must notify the Visa Office and your sponsor in writing before the interview.
WHO WE ARE
Canadian Association for Immigrants and Refugees (CAIR) is a Canadian non-for-profit organization dedicated to sponsoring and resettling refugees. Our mission is to sponsor as many refugees as possible, ensuring their safe arrival and providing them with the necessary support to settle in Canada.
Charitable Status : Federal Non-for-profit Corporation
Registration Number : 1387893-7
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