The applicant interview process is conducted by IRCC staff.
For many people, preparing for an immigration interview can be a source of anxiety, especially when unsure of the process. However, rest assured that the interview process for Department of Immigration officials is clearly defined and includes specific steps. The purpose of this is to help applicants manage their information effectively and understand the interview process clearly. This article will explain each step of the interview process in detail, helping you prepare thoroughly and feel more confident.
Officials conduct interviews with applicants to:
- Ensure that the information submitted in your visa application is truthful and complete;
- Detecting and preventing fraud;
- Clarify the specific information;
- Implement quality control;
- Advise;
- Provide applicants with an opportunity to address concerns regarding elements of the application;
- Assess knowledge and language skills;
- Medical and security checks;
- Notify the applicant of the decision.
Below is a summary of the steps that immigration officers will take when conducting an interview:
| Step | Actions of immigration officials |
|---|---|
| Step 1 | Read the file first. |
| Focus on the reason for the interview and what is needed to make a decision. | |
| Prepare the necessary measures to make a decision. | |
| Step 2 | Establishing relationships |
| Welcome applicants | |
| Make customers comfortable: assist them with logistical issues, for example: where are they staying? Where are they seated? Do they have any special needs? | |
| Step 3 | Explain the purpose and format of the interview. |
| Explain the roles and responsibilities of civil servants. | |
| Explain how the interview will be conducted. | |
| If using an interpreter, ensure that the applicant and the interpreter understand each other. | |
| Ensure applicants understand the officer and the process. | |
| Step 4 | Gathering information |
| Try to make the applicant feel comfortable: most people will provide more information if they feel at ease. | |
| Keep the language simple and the sentence structure simple. | |
| Avoid jargon and rephrase the question if the applicant doesn't understand it. | |
| Step 5 | Verify customer information |
| Ask closed-ended questions about the details the customer should provide. | |
| Use closed-ended questions in the interrogation style. | |
| Observe the customer's attitude as they respond. | |
| Step 6 | Give applicants the opportunity to object/explain. |
| Remember the principle of procedural fairness. | |
| Give applicants a reasonable opportunity to: respond to the decision, clarify the facts, provide new information, or challenge the officer's interpretation of the facts. | |
| Step 7 | Explain what will happen next. |
| If the applicant needs anything done, write that down for them. | |
| Only request additional information/documents if it is necessary to make a decision. | |
| Step 8 | Answer any questions. |
| Give customers the opportunity to clarify what has been said and ensure they understand. | |
| Providing advice: directing applicants to authoritative sources of information. |