Aspiring immigration lawyers must pass the ICCRC Exam, also referred to as the Full Skills Exam, to qualify as Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultants (RCICs) in Canada. This test assesses candidates’ understanding of immigration laws, rules, moral obligations, and job duties. The ICCRC Exam must be passed to prove one’s proficiency and readiness to engage in immigration process. To improve your chances of passing the exam, study the necessary materials, sign up for review sessions, and take practice tests. After passing the exam, candidates can move forward with their registration application with the ICCRC and start a business as certified immigration lawyer.

The Good Character Requirement is one of the most important requirements for becoming an immigration lawyer. Aspiring immigration lawyer must obtain a Police Clearance Certificate and pass a rigorous background check to prove their good character and integrity. The GCR’s mission is to safeguard the immigration reputation, protect the public interests and ensure that clients receive advice from trusted and ethical immigration consultants. Adhering to the GCR emphasizes the obligation to maintain ethical standards throughout a career as an immigration consultant.

Professional liability insurance protects you and your clients from mistakes or misstatements in your work. Having enough coverage protects you from financial losses and gives you and your client peace of mind throughout your immigration process. As a lawyer, one of the most important things you can do to protect yourself and your clients is to get professional liability insurance. You should prioritize getting insurance to reduce your risks and show that you are committed to ethical and responsible immigration consulting practices.

To become a Licensed Immigration Lawyer in Canada, there are several steps required to complete the application and registration process. Candidates must submit a complete application to the ICCRC, which must include personal information, educational qualifications, and relevant work experience. The application fees must be paid, and the applicant must undergo a comprehensive document verification and assessment conducted by the ICCRC. During the assessment, the applicant must provide a Police Clearance Certificate to demonstrate their good character and good conduct.

The Code of Professional Ethics was established by the International Council for the Prevention of Cruel, Deceitful and Incompetent. Activities ICCRC requires consultants to adhere to transparency, confidentiality and to prioritize the best interests of their clients. Consultants must avoid any potential conflicts of interest and uphold professionalism and integrity throughout all interactions. Education of clients on the immigration process and the reporting of unethical conduct are essential components of ethical practice, thereby building trust and credibility in the industry.

CPD is a compulsory requirement for immigration lawyers licensed in Canada. It involves ongoing educational and training activities designed to keep consultants informed of the most recent immigration legislation, regulations, and industry best practices. CPD is a three-year cycle that covers the duration of a consultant’s RCIC designation, during which they must complete approved activities and training courses. CPD assists consultants in advancing their knowledge and providing quality services to their clients, thereby enhancing their professionalism and credibility in the immigration sector.

To maintain your immigration license as an RCIC, fulfill Continuing Professional Development (CPD) requirements, and uphold the Code of Professional Ethics set by the ICCRC. Adhering to these ensures ongoing competence and ethical practice.

There can be variations in the requirements for becoming an immigration lawyer in different provinces in Canada. Some provinces may have additional criteria or specific regulations, in addition to the federal requirements set by the Immigration Consultants of Canada Regulatory Council (ICCRC). Aspiring lawyers should research and be aware of the specific requirements in the province in which they wish to practice to ensure compliance and obtain a license.