Applying for permanent residency can often be a daunting task, especially when trying to understand which documents are required and trying to understand instructions which need to be strictly followed. Even small mistakes can result in an application being returned or refused. The following are the top five most commonly made mistakes when submitting an application:
1- Miscalculating the points
Skilled worker programs of Canada, Australia are based on points based system. Applicants must meet the minimum required points in order to qualify for the programs. Understanding the points system could be difficult and if an applicant fails to meet the minimum required number of points for a program, the application will likely be refused.
Skilled worker programs of Canada, Australia are based on points based system. Applicants must meet the minimum required points in order to qualify for the programs. Understanding the points system could be difficult and if an applicant fails to meet the minimum required number of points for a program, the application will likely be refused.
2- Incomplete or Inconsistent Forms
Immigration forms can be complex and it is important to read all instructions on the forms carefully as the same information may be asked in several places. Applicants often forget to fill in all of their information on immigration forms or they provide inconsistent information, such as variations in the way a name is spelled (e.g. Writing Mohammad Iqbal Khan on one form and Mohammad Iqbal on another form). Information must be complete, especially when writing dates. For example, when asked to provide an address history from the age of 18, an applicant must write all addresses with absolutely no gaps in between the dates. If there is a gap in the dates, the form and application may be returned and marked as incomplete. There are several other mistakes in forms made commonly by people and it is wise to take advise from an expert Immigration Consultant.
3- Incomplete or Missing Documents
Each immigration program has its own list of required documents to be provided with an immigration application. Some documents should be provided in Original and some should be notarized copies. Not providing the correct format of documents is a common mistake many applicants make and can result in processing delays.
Some requested documents may not always be clear. Immigration programs need proof of identity for applicants, most notably, a birth certificate. But what if an applicant was never issued a birth certificate? Knowing which alternative documents to provide can be confusing and missing documents may result in an application being returned. Similarly, applicants must ensure that all government processing fees are correct or the application may be returned.
4- Wrong Occupation Code
An applicant must have sufficient number of full-time paid work experience in skill occupation lists of Canada or Australia. Understanding which Occupation code is suitable for an applicant’s work experience is not always simple. Some Codes can be very similar as the job duties listed.
Work-related reference letters are often the most problematic documents for applicants in these programs. Most of the applicants do not have any idea about what would be the acceptable format and what should be written in work experience letters. Also, what should not be written also needs consideration before submitting those letters. Al-Hamza Consulting's team review the letters and suggest any changes require or advise them if there is any update or improvement is needed.
5- Failing to convince the Immigration Office
There are many clients who file their cases by themselves and after submitting the documents and forms, they are contacted by the immigration office for any further requirements, clients either fail to understand which documents or information are required or they simply fail to convince the immigration office if there is any problem in fulfilling the requirements.
Conclusion
Submitting an application for permanent residency can be complicated. While we have noted the top five commonly made mistakes, there are others which can result in additional processing delays or lead to the return or refusal of an application. These mistakes and the resulted consequences can be avoided by using an experienced and trusted representative.
