Types of Canadian Immigration Interviews and What to Expect
How to Prepare for Your Canadian Immigration Interview Successfully
Summary
Immigration interviews play a critical role in Canada’s application process, though not every applicant will be called for one. These interviews can occur for permanent residence, citizenship, work and study permits, or humanitarian and refugee cases. They help Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) verify identity, assess eligibility, and clarify application details. Understanding when an interview is required, how to schedule it, and how to prepare can make the process smoother and increase your chances of success.
On This Page You Will Find:
- Overview of Interview Requirements
- Types of Immigration Interviews
- Scheduling and Logistics
- Preparing for Your Interview
- What to Expect on the Day
- Common Questions and Tips
- Post-Interview Follow-Up
Overview of Interview Requirements
Interviews are not automatic for all immigration streams. IRCC uses them selectively to:
- Confirm identity and authenticity of documents
- Verify the genuineness of relationships (e.g., spousal sponsorships)
- Assess language ability or work/study intentions
- Evaluate refugee or humanitarian claims
Applicants will receive a written request detailing the purpose, location, and format (in-person, virtual, or over the phone).
Types of Immigration Interviews
Permanent Residence Interviews
Mostly conducted in exceptional cases—such as when further clarification is needed on admissibility, security, or medical concerns—these are in-person at a local IRCC office or visa post abroad.
Citizenship Interviews
Applicants aged 18–54 typically attend an interview to test knowledge of Canada and language ability. These are held at local citizenship offices.
Work and Study Permit Interviews
Rare but possible when officers need to verify a student’s academic plans or a worker’s job offer. May be conducted virtually or at visa application centres.
Refugee/Protected Person Interviews
A formal “Eligibility Interview” is a mandatory step for asylum seekers, held by the Refugee Protection Division of the Immigration and Refugee Board.
Scheduling and Logistics
- Notification: IRCC sends a letter or email with instructions, including date, time, and location.
- Formats:
- In-Person: At an IRCC Case Processing Centre, visa office, or designated CIC office.
- Virtual/Phone: Increasingly common for simple clarifications or in-Canada permit cases.
- Rescheduling: Requests must be made in writing or via the IRCC web form before the deadline.
Preparing for Your Interview
- Review Your Application: Know every detail you submitted—dates, addresses, employment history.
- Gather Original Documents: Passports, identity documents, sponsorship proof, job letters, or study offers.
- Practice Common Questions: Reasons for immigration, long-term plans, relationship history, or study/work objectives.
- Language Practice: If a language assessment is part of the interview, rehearse speaking in English or French.
- Professional Presentation: Dress smartly and arrive early for in-person interviews; ensure a quiet, well-lit space for virtual interviews.
What to Expect on the Day
- Check-In: Sign in at reception or join the virtual meeting room.
- Verification: Officer confirms identity and reviews key application points.
- Questioning: Officer may ask follow-up or scenario-based questions.
- Document Review: Originals may be examined for authenticity.
- Duration: Typically 15–45 minutes, depending on complexity.
Common Questions and Tips
- “Why Canada?” – Articulate clear personal, professional, or educational reasons.
- “How will you support yourself?” – Be ready with financial proof or job offer details.
- Relationship Probes: For family streams, prepare joint bills, photos, and correspondence.
- Stay Calm and Honest: If you don’t know an answer, say so rather than guess.
Post-Interview Follow-Up
- Decision Timeline: Officers may take weeks or months to render a decision.
- Additional Requests: IRCC may issue a follow-up on missing documents or further clarification.
- Outcome Notification: You’ll receive an update via your online account or by mail.
- Next Steps: Upon approval, complete landing steps for PR, schedule citizenship ceremonies, or finalize permit issuance.
Whether mandatory or exceptional, the interview is your opportunity to reinforce the strength of your application. Proper preparation, clear communication, and professionalism will help you navigate this crucial stage of the Canadian immigration journey.
