Maple News reports that a number of applicants for Canadian permanent residence may be asked to attend an interview with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) as part of their application process. These interviews, often the final stage before a decision is made, play a significant role in verifying the accuracy and authenticity of the information provided by an applicant.
IRCC officers request interviews at their discretion based on specific factors in an individual’s application. Common reasons include verifying work experience, background history, identity, language proficiency, or the sincerity of a spousal or family relationship. In many cases, interviews are also used to clarify missing or incomplete sections in an application that do not meet eligibility standards on their face.
For spousal sponsorship applications, interviews are a crucial tool to ensure the legitimacy of a marital, conjugal, or common-law relationship. IRCC aims to safeguard the integrity of Canada’s immigration system by thoroughly examining cases where there may be any doubt or inconsistencies.
To help applicants succeed, Maple News outlines key best practices for preparing for the IRCC interview. One of the most important steps is to carefully re-read the application and all supporting documents beforehand. This allows the applicant to prepare thoughtful, consistent answers — particularly if their file includes any gaps or questionable elements.
If any relevant documentation was not included in the original submission, applicants are advised to bring these to the interview. However, they should be ready to explain why the material was omitted initially.
Clear communication is also essential. Applicants should speak slowly, use plain language, and avoid unnecessary jargon. If they require accommodation due to language barriers, disabilities, or other factors, they should inform IRCC in advance or during the interview so that appropriate adjustments can be made.
IRCC officers are trained to conduct interviews in a professional and accessible manner, and applicants who come well-prepared and honest stand the best chance of a favorable outcome. By taking time to fully understand their application and the interview process, newcomers can approach the experience with greater confidence.
While not all immigration applicants are required to attend an interview, those who do receive a request should treat it as a critical opportunity to demonstrate their eligibility, transparency, and commitment to settling in Canada.