During the Interview
DURING THE INTERVIEW
The visa interview is one of the most significant steps in your journey toward a safe and stable future. While the process can feel intimidating, approaching it with a simple strategy will help you share your experiences effectively and authentically. Being well-prepared is the best way to stay calm and focused, ensuring that every detail of your story is communicated with the clarity it deserves.
The visa officer will ask about your refugee story, education, work experience, and why you cannot return home. Here are some strategic points that you need to keep in mind:
- Be on time: Arrive at the specified location before your scheduled time.
- Bring your Forms: Carry the original versions of all your documents. If a document is not in English or French, you must bring a translated copy.
- Be truthful: Always tell the truth and do not exaggerate. Giving false information can lead to your application being rejected.
- Speak Clearly: Give answers that are direct and easy to understand. If you do not understand a question, ask the officer to repeat or rephrase it.
- Explain Everything: Do not assume the officer knows your culture or the specific dangers you face. Explain any traditions or risks that are important to your story.
- Take care of yourself: If you feel very nervous or upset, you are allowed to ask for a short break to compose yourself.
Rights of Refugees during the Interview
If you do not speak English or French well, an interpreter will be provided.
- Verify Understanding: Ensure you and the interpreter understand each other clearly at the start.
- Speak in Short Parts: Give your answers in small pieces so the interpreter can translate every word accurately.
- Correct Mistakes Immediately: If the interpreter makes a mistake or forgets something you said, tell the Visa Officer right away.
- Gender Preferences: If you feel uncomfortable talking about your story with someone of a different gender, you can politely ask for an interpreter of your own gender.
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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