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Русский Measures in Response to Typhoon Haiyan in the Philippines
Operational Bulletin 560-A – November 22, 2013
Measures in Response to Typhoon Haiyan in the Philippines
Summary
This Operational Bulletin (OB) instructs officers about the measures currently undertaken by Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) in response to Typhoon Haiyan (or Typhoon Yolanda) in the Philippines.
Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) will continue to monitor the situation carefully as it evolves. If needed, it will also provide additional instructions through subsequent Operational Bulletins (OBs).
Background
Typhoon Haiyan made landfall in the central Philippines on November 09, 2013 (EST). The city of Tacloban in the central Leyte province bore the brunt of Typhoon Haiyan. It is worth noting that Tacloban city is about 852.1 Km southeast of Manila. Other parts of the central Philippines also sustained damage. However, Typhoon Haiyan did not affect major cities like Cebu City and Metro Manila significantly.
The Embassy of Canada in Manila did not face any adverse impacts on account of Typhoon Haiyan. Therefore, it remains open for providing services and support to its clients. In addition, Visa Application Centres (VACs) in Manila and Cebu City continue to remain open. Furthermore, Panel Physicians in the Philippines also continue to remain open.
The Special Program Coding
Officers would need to use the special program code UE4 for any applications relating to Typhoon Haiyan that they process on a priority basis. Typically, these applications would come from applicants who:
- Are from the affected areas and,
- Are personally affected by the typhoon
Officers would need to use the special program code UE4 in the following systems:
- The Global Case Management System (GCMS)
- The Global Case Management System – Citizenship (GCMS – Citizenship)
- The Field Operations Support System (FOSS) or,
- The Case Processing Centre (CPC) Systems
Officers might also come across certain Computer Assisted Immigration Processing Systems (CAIPS) affected by the problem. In this scenario, the officers would need to convert these cases to the Global Case Management System (GCMS).
Agents would need to record the project title as UE4 under the project screen. However, they would only need to do this for the citizenship module of the Global Case Management System (GCMS).
The office processing the case would need to apply the program code. However, this would only take place once an officer determines that the case meets the criteria for the special program code.
The Financial Coding (Internal Order Number)
The authorities have envisaged that situations could arise where officers need to carry out various efforts and activities related to Typhoon Haiyan. These activities and efforts would entail a certain amount of incremental costs. These costs would typically include salary and non-salary expenditures.
Therefore, the authorities have asked officers to code all efforts and activities related to Typhoon Haiyan to Internal Order (IO) number 1000819. This would enable the authorities to identify the financial impact on the Department.
The Current Measures
Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) is carrying out a number of measures at present, in response to Typhoon Haiyan. In particular, it is placing an emphasis on providing priority processing for family members including:
- Spouses
- Partners and,
- Dependent children
Therefore, it is asking officers to place the applications from the above-mentioned family members at the front of the queue for processing.
However, it is only doing this for family members of Canadians and permanent residents who:
- Are from the affected areas and,
- Are personally affected by the typhoon
Therefore, the applicant or the sponsor carries the responsibility for self-identification. The applicant or the sponsor would also need to show that they:
- Are from the affected areas and,
- Are personally affected by the typhoon
The Steps Taken by Overseas (Visa Office in Manila) and In-Canada (Centralised Processing Region and Domestic Regions in Canada)
Overseas (Visa Office in Manila) and In-Canada (Centralised Processing Region and Domestic Regions in Canada) offices are:
- Providing priority processing for new and existing applications for citizenship certificates (proof of citizenship) and permanent resident cards
- Providing priority processing for applicants from affected areas who are significantly and personally affected by the Typhoon, on request
- Providing priority processing for adopted dependents of Canadian citizens and permanent residents, on request
- Monitoring messages received in the following electronic immigration mailboxes for identifying the priority cases from the affected areas:
- Assessing new temporary resident visa applications from overseas – especially those from people in the affected areas and people who are family members of Canadians and permanent residents, in a flexible and compassionate manner
- However, the authorities are not waiving the regulatory and statutory requirements in these cases
- Assessing in-Canada temporary resident extension applications received from visitors, workers and students of Filipino origin, in a flexible and compassionate manner
- However, the authorities are not waiving the regulatory and statutory requirements in these cases
The Passport Program (Passport Program’s Rapid Response Team)
The Passport Program’s Rapid Response Team is:
- Issuing the Emergency Travel Documents to affected Canadians for returning to Canada, as appropriate and,
- Waiving the requirement for affected Canadians to provide proof of travel
The Affected Areas
The affected areas include:
- Leyte Province
- Northern Samar Province
- Eastern Samar Provinces
- Samar Province
- The Northern portion of Cebu Province
- Parts of Panay Island (including Northern Iloilo and Capiz)
- Parts of Masbate Island
- Northern Palawan (Coron) and,
- Boracay Island
The Significantly and Personally Affected
The authorities denote significantly and personally affected persons as being those individuals who have lost the following on account of Typhoon Haiyan:
- Family members, especially spouses, partners and dependent children of Canadian citizens and permanent residents
- Property and / or,
- Livelihood
The Establishing Family Members
In certain cases, officers might require some functional guidance in establishing identity and relationship. For this, the officers would need to refer to OB 179-B.
The Immigration Medical Examination
All applicants would need to complete an Immigration Medical Examination (IME). Only then would the officers be able to finalise their applications. Applicants would need to refer to the Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) website for a complete list of Panel Physicians in the Philippines.
Officers would need to process Immigration Medical Examinations (IMEs) on a priority basis. This is especially so for applications that meet the eligibility for priority processing.
The Medical Insurance
Officers would need to make sponsors and applicants aware of the availability of private medical insurance, prior to their arrival in Canada. It is worth noting that not all provinces and territories extend immediate health coverage to recent arrivals. This is applicable even to permanent residents and temporary residents.
The New Sponsorship Applications for Parents and Grandparents
The temporary pause on new sponsorship applications for parents and grandparents continues to remain in force.
Officers would need to notify applicants of the possibility of applying for the Parent and Grandparent Super Visa. The authorities would assess their applications in a flexible and compassionate manner. However, this would only apply to applicants who are parents or grandparents of Canadians and permanent residents.
The Potential Refusals
Officers could come across cases of potential refusals of applications from the affected areas only. They would need to send the case details to the specific distribution list mentioned on the Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) website. They would also need to communicate with the Case Management Branch (CMB) in this regard.
Source: Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC)
- Published in 2013
Biometrics Mandatory Coming Into Force
Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) Announcements
October 17, 2013: Biometrics Mandatory Coming Into Force
The collection of biometric information has become mandatory for the nationals of:
- Albania
- Algeria
- The Democratic Republic of Congo
- Eritrea
- Libya
- Nigeria
- Saudi Arabia
- Somalia
- South Sudan and,
- Tunisia
This has come into effect since October 23, 2013.
Therefore, applicants making applications for Temporary Resident Visas (TRVs), Work Permits (WPs) or Study Permits (SPs) would need to submit their biometric information as well.
For more information on this, officers would need to refer to the Operational Bulletin (OB) 520-A issued in September. Similarly, officers would need to refer to the Biometrics Procedures Manual, issued in May 2013 and subsequently revised in September 2013.
October 29, 2013: The Reminder to the Field: Single Journey Documents (SJDs)
The IMM 5485 – The Single Journey Document for Resettlement in Canada
The IMM 5485 is a temporary Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) document. Officers issue this to persons who:
- Cannot otherwise obtain passports or other travel documents from their countries of nationality and,
- Are coming to Canada as government-assisted refugees (GARs) and privately sponsored refugees (PSRs)
When these individuals arrive in Canada, the Port of Entry (POE) examining officers would need to port-stamp the document in the space indicated. In addition, the officers would need to cancel the affixed visa.
In many cases, this document is probably the only identification that the new permanent residents have until they receive their permanent resident cards. Therefore, the officers would need to return this document to the clients.
The IMM 5565 – The Single Journey Travel Document
The IMM 5565 is a temporary Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) document. Officers issue this in limited circumstances. They issue this document to people who are unable to obtain a prescribed travel document. This document bears close semblance to the IMM 5485 Single Journey Document for Resettlement.
When these individuals arrive in Canada, the Port of Entry (POE) examining officers would need to port-stamp the document in the space indicated. In addition, the officers would need to draw a diagonal line through the counterfoil by using a black pen.
Moreover, the officer would also need to recover the IMM 5565. On recovering this document, the officers would need to return it to Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) at the following address:
CIC – Program Integrity Division, OMC
360 Laurier Avenue West, 6th floor
Ottawa, Ontario, K1A 1L1
For more details, officers would need to refer to OB 290 and 05-028 RIL.
November 15, 2013: Always Collect Biometric Information Prior to Making a Decision
The authorities have asked officers to collect biometric information from all biometrics-required applicants. This is especially so prior to the finalisation of an application. Officers would need to do this even if the authorities are likely to refuse the application for various other reasons.
This directive is in accordance with the guidelines specified in Section 6.3 of the Biometrics Procedures Manual. Officers would need to refer to the Biometrics Procedures Manual, issued in May 2013 and subsequently revised in September 2013.
November 22, 2013: Single Name Procedures
Situations could arise where officers determine that they cannot divide the applicant’s name into two parts. In this scenario, the officers would need to define the name, as it appears on the document used to establish it, as the primary identifier. In addition, the officers would need to record this name in the family name field in Citizenship and Immigration Canada’s (CIC’s) system of record.
It is worth noting that officers could use either the family name of the given name, in this regard. In addition, the officers would also need to leave the given name field in Citizenship and Immigration Canada’s (CIC’s) system of record blank.
For example, consider a situation where a client’s travel document displays:
- The name “Harry” in the given name field and,
- A blank in the family name field
In this scenario, the given name “Harry” becomes the primary identifier. Therefore, the officers would record this name in the family name field. In addition, they would leave the given name field as blank in in Citizenship and Immigration Canada’s (CIC’s) system of record.
This is in accordance with the instructions specified in Section 4.1.2 Single Names mentioned in IM1 Naming Procedures. It is also consistent with the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) guidelines. Following this process would help in facilitating future name searches.
Source: Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC)
- Published in 2013
An Overview of the Transfer of the International Experience Canada (IEC) Program
Operational Bulletin 557 – November 05, 2013
An Overview of the Transfer of the International Experience Canada (IEC) Program
Summary
With effect from August 31, 2013, Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) assumed responsibility for the International Experience Canada (IEC) program. Earlier, the Department of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Canada (DFATD) was responsible for administering the International Experience Canada (IEC) program.
Issue
This Operational Bulletin (OB) provides guidance on the International Experience Canada (IEC) program at Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC). It specifies details on the:
- Roles and responsibilities of the new International Experience Canada (IEC) staff within Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC)
- Contact information for the International Experience Canada (IEC) team at Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) Headquarters
- Provision of functional guidance for International Experience Canada (IEC) Participation Eligibility Requirements
At present, Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) and the Department of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Canada (DFATD) are developing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) carries details concerning the transition of the International Experience Canada (IEC) program. Once they finalise the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), they will share the details.
Background
The transfer of the International Experience Canada (IEC) program to Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) will provide a better alignment of the program with:
- Government priorities and,
- Labour market demands in Canada
It will achieve this by linking the International Experience Canada (IEC) program to other immigration programs. This move will serve to strengthen Canada’s strategy for developing its human capital and attracting talent.
By transferring the International Experience Canada (IEC) program to Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC), the authorities also want to capitalise on the department’s existing expertise. This especially refers to the department’s existing expertise in centralised electronic processing of applications for this program.
In addition, the transfer will also enable Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) to streamline the application process for International Experience Canada (IEC) participants to one federal government department.
The Roles and Responsibilities of the International Experience Canada (IEC) Staff Within Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC)
Previously, International Experience Canada (IEC) staff were the Department of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Canada (DFATD) GLEE staff. At Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) Headquarters, the International Experience Canada (IEC) staff would continue to:
- Process the first stage of the International Experience Canada (IEC) application for 18 satellite countries through KOMPASS, International Experience Canada’s (IEC’s) online application system
- Provide functional guidance on International Experience Canada’s (IEC’s) participation eligibility requirements i.e. the first stage of the International Experience Canada (IEC) application process
- Provide guidance and support to International Experience Canada (IEC) Hub missions in countries such as:
- Australia
- France
- Germany
- Japan
- Korea and,
- Sweden
- Manage the content of the International Experience Canada (IEC) pages on mission websites
- Answer general enquiries from the general public on the International Experience Canada (IEC) program including:
- Canadians and,
- Foreigners abroad
- Lead negotiations for the 2014 program on matters including:
- Agreements
- Quotas and,
- Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs)
- Participate in policy development for the alignment of International Experience Canada (IEC) with Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) immigration programs
- Liaise with recognised organisations and,
- Attend outreach events and activities
Contact Information for the International Experience Canada (IEC) Team at Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) Headquarters
The authorities have created a centralised mailbox. This mailbox will receive queries from Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) and mission staff. Therefore, officers would need to send all questions to the mailbox: [email protected]. These queries could include questions about:
- Participation eligibility processing and,
- International Experience Canada (IEC) specific operational matters including outreach and promotion
The Provision of Functional Guidance on International Experience Canada (IEC) Participation and Temporary Work Permit Process
Functional Guidance on International Experience Canada (IEC) Participation Eligibility Requirements (Stage 1)
The formerly Department of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Canada (DFATD) GLEE staff will continue to provide guidance to International Experience Canada (IEC) staff overseas – as prior to the transfer. This is especially so on matters concerning the International Experience Canada (IEC) participation eligibility requirements.
The authorities would provide the relevant updates concerning contact information. This is especially so in case there are any changes following the physical office move that took place on October 04, 2013.
Functional Guidance for Temporary Resident Work Permits (Stage 2)
The Temporary Resident Program Division within the Operational Management and Coordination Branch will continue to provide functional guidance on the processing of work permits. This is especially so for work permits connected with the International Experience Canada (IEC) program.
In addition, the authorities have also updated OB 490-A (International Experience Canada Work Permit Processing). This Operational Bulletin (OB) provides additional information on the changes made to the processing of work permits as a result of this transfer.
Situations could arise where officers have additional questions on visas and work permits. They would need to send these queries to: [email protected].
The Management of the International Experience Canada (IEC) Program at Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) Headquarters
It is worth noting that the International Experience Canada (IEC) program will continue to operate as a two-stage application process for the 2014 season. The authorities believe that this will ensure continuity of program delivery. Therefore, applicants would need to continue submitting:
- The applications for the International Experience Canada (IEC) participation eligibility assessment (Stage 1) and,
- The work permit applications thereafter (Stage 2)
The International Experience Canada (IEC) staff (formerly the Department of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Canada (DFATD) GLEE staff) would continue to be responsible for the day-to-day operations of the International Experience Canada (IEC) program. Thus, they would look after updations to the country-specific International Experience Canada (IEC) quote on each mission’s International Experience Canada (IEC) website too.
At present, there are no changes with respect to the operational roles and functions of the International Experience Canada (IEC) team. However, the International Experience Canada (IEC) team will be responsible for administering the program on behalf of Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) (under the Immigration Branch), rather than the Department of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Canada (DFATD).
The authorities plan to share information on the management of financial and human resources in a separate OB. They are awaiting the development of the finalised procedures. In the interim, situations might arise where officers have various queries on financial or human resources. These officers would need to direct their queries to: [email protected].
Source: Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC)
- Published in 2013
Potential Claims Under Article 1(F) (a) of the Refugee Convention and Potential Cases of Persons Described Under Paragraph 35(1) (a) of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act
Operational Bulletin 551 – October 01, 2013
Potential Claims Under Article 1(F) (a) of the Refugee Convention and Potential Cases of Persons Described Under Paragraph 35(1) (a) of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act
Summary
The Supreme Court of Canada (SCC) had rendered its decision to allow the appeal of Mr. Rachidi Ekanza Ezokola on July 19, 2013. In its decision, the Supreme Court of Canada (SCC) had:
- Proposed a new “contribution-based test” for determining complicity and,
- Remitted the matter back to the Refugee Protection Division of the Immigration and Refugee Board (IRB) for a new hearing
In addition, the Supreme Court of Canada (SCC) also rejected the notion that the authorities could base exclusion under article 1F (a) of the Refugee Convention on the concept of “mere association”. Rather, the Supreme Court of Canada (SCC) announced that it required evidence that an individual had made “a significant contribution to the crime or criminal purpose of a group”.
This decision of the Supreme Court of Canada (SCC) will affect the approach that officers take. This is especially so in situations where the officers process claims and argue cases before the Immigration and Refugee Board (IRB).
Officers of Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) and the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) continue to review and assess the ruling at their headquarters. Based on their observations, they will publish the appropriate field guidance for officers subsequently. This would enable officers to receive the required assistance when they:
- Assess refugee claims involving article 1F (a) of the Refugee Convention and,
- Assess applicants for admissibility determinations on grounds of human or international rights violations specified in Paragraph 35 (1) (a) of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA)
The Actions Required of Officers in Canada and Overseas
At present, the officers in Canada and overseas would need to:
- Identify claims and cases that the Supreme Court of Canada (SCC) decision could potentially impact
- Avoid processing Permanent Residence applications that meet the above-mentioned description until such time as the authorities communicate the relevant policies and procedures to the officers
- Adhere to the current Temporary Residence application process, unless:
- The application receives a negative decision and,
- The authorities cannot allow the consideration of other facilitation mechanisms, such as a Public Policy Temporary Resident Visa
- While processing cases belonging to the latter description, the officers would need to avoid processing Permanent Residence applications that meet the above-mentioned description until such time as the authorities communicate the relevant policies and procedures to the officers
Source: Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC)
- Published in 2013
Extension of Haiti Special Measures for Work Permits
Operational Bulletin 547 – August 30, 2013
Extension of Haiti Special Measures for Work Permits
Issue
This Operational Bulletin (OB) instructs officers on the manner in which they would process applications received from Haiti nationals for work permits from within Canada.
It provides an extension to the Haiti Special Measures (HSM). The Haiti Special Measures (HSM) apply to work permits that were set to expire on September 01, 2013.
This OB also replaces OB 468, dated September 01, 2012.
Background
The process of recovery from the devastating Haiti earthquake of January 12, 2010 has been slow. Various additional challenges that keep emerging have hindered the pace of recovery further. Consequently, Haiti nationals, currently in Canada, might need to continue staying on in Canada. In this situation, they would need to obtain work permits to support themselves.
To enable Haiti nationals to support themselves, the authorities have provided an extension to the Haiti Special Measures (HSM) on Labour Market Opinion-exempt work permits. This extension is valid until March 01, 2014. Previous extensions to the Haiti Special Measures (HSM) were valid for the period from:
- January 19, 2011 to September 01, 2011 (OB 264)
- September 01, 2011 to September 01, 2012 (OB 345) and,
- September 01, 2012 to September 01, 2013 (OB 468)
The Procedure for Processing Applications for Work Permits
The authorities have provided an extension of the Haiti Special Measures (HSM) on Labour Market Opinion-exempt work permits. This would enable Haiti nationals to support themselves. The Haiti Special Measures (HSM) would apply to:
- Individuals who were issued a work permit under the previous Haiti Special Measures (HSM) and,
- Haiti nationals who were legally in Canada prior to January 13, 2011 who:
- Are on a temporary status and,
- Are unable to support themselves
In most cases, Haiti nationals would need to submit a Labour Market Opinion (LMO) in addition to a work permit application. This would enable officers to determine whether:
- The job offer is authentic and,
- The employment could have a neutral or positive effect on the labour market in Canada
This is in accordance with the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations (IRPR). However, the Minister has approved a public policy under the Haiti Special Measures (HSM). This policy grants an exemption to Haiti nationals from requiring a Labour Market Opinion (LMO).
Under the Haiti Special Measures (HSM) guidelines, Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) officers would accept applications from Haiti nationals until March 01, 2014. These applications could be for:
- New work permits or,
- Extension of previously issued work permits
Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) officers would not issue work permits for more than six months under these measures. Additionally, they would not consider any application received after March 01, 2014 eligible for the Haiti Special Measures (HSM).
Haiti nationals who are in Canada would need to have a valid status. Only then would they be eligible for receiving a work permit under the Haiti Special Measures (HSM). Similarly, some Haiti nationals might have an expired status. Therefore, these individuals would need to make an application for restoring their status within 90 days after losing their temporary status.
Haiti nationals who have been out of status for longer than 90 days would need to:
- Apply for a temporary resident permit first and,
- Apply for a work permit thereafter
All applicants would need to pay the standard processing fee. This is for applications for a work permit under the Haiti Special Measures (HSM). The fee amounts to $150.
Officers would need to note that this OB becomes effective from September 01, 2013. Therefore, if officers come across applications received prior to September 01, 2013, they would need to follow the directives given in OB 468.
The Interim Federal Health Program
Haiti nationals would be eligible for health care coverage under the Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP). This is within the scope of the Haiti Special Measures (HSM). However, they would need to meet certain conditions. To be eligible for the health care coverage, they must:
- Have received a new work permit or,
- Have received an extension of a previous work permit and,
- Not be eligible for:
- Provincial health insurance or,
- Territorial health insurance
The Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP) would not cover services or products that a person could claim under a private insurance plan. Instead, it covers beneficiaries if they require medical attention for:
- A disease
- A symptom
- An injury or,
- A complaint
It also covers:
- Hospital services
- Services provided by a doctor or a registered nurse
- Services provided by a laboratory, a diagnostic facility or an ambulance and,
- Medications and vaccines only when needed to:
- Prevent or treat a disease that poses a risk to public health or,
- Treat a condition of public safety concern
In addition, the Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP) would not include the Immigration Medical Examination.
The validity of the Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP) coverage could last until whichever of the following three conditions occurs first. Thus, Haiti nationals could enjoy the Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP) coverage (until whichever of the following conditions takes place the earliest):
- Until the expiration date specified on their work permits
- Until a maximum span of six months or,
- Until they no longer require coverage because they have:
- Become eligible for:
- Provincial health insurance
- Territorial health insurance or,
- Private health insurance
- Until they have left Canada
The Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP) coverage would also extend to the dependents of these applicants currently residing in Canada. This would include:
- Spouses
- Common-law partners and,
- Dependent children
Officers would need to issue a notice to temporary residents. This notice would inform these residents that they are eligible for applying for the Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP) coverage. However, these temporary residents must:
- Be applying for a new work permit or,
- Be applying for an extension of a previous work permit
Individuals issued work permits prior to September 01, 2013 would continue to be eligible for the Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP) health care coverage. This would continue to be valid until whichever of the following conditions occurs the earliest:
- The duration of the applicant’s work permit or,
- One year
Officers would need to note that only applications received by March 01, 2014 would be eligible for the Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP) coverage.
Note:
- Medications and vaccinations would only be covered for:
- Preventing or treating a disease that could pose a risk to public health or,
- Treating a condition that is a public safety concern
Steps for In-Canada Processing
Under the Haiti Special Measures (HSM), Haiti nationals applying for work permits would need to:
- Write “Haiti” on the outside of the mailing envelopes of their work permit applications
- Provide detailed explanations about why the applicants need a work permit for supporting themselves in Canada and,
- Include this explanation along with the work permit application
Case Processing Centre – Vegreville
Temporary residents would need to maintain their temporary resident status. Therefore, they would need to do one of the following, in case their current status is about to expire:
- Apply for a new work permit or,
- Apply for an extension of a previous work permit
In addition, they would need to pay the associated fees along with their applications. They would not receive any waiver on the fees associated with these applications.
Individuals who have already submitted an application for extending or changing their temporary status would benefit from an implied status. However, this is applicable if they do so prior to the expiry of their current status. This would be valid until officers notify them of a decision on their application. This is in accordance with the provisions listed in R183 (5).
Special Program Coding
Officers would need to use the following code for issuing work permits under the Haiti Special Measures (HSM).
- H24: Work permit issued to Haitian national under the Haiti Special Measures (HSM); no LMO required
Expiry of Initiative
This initiative would remain valid until March 01, 2014.
Source: Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC)
- Published in 2013
Interim Global Case Management System (GCMS) Biometric Exemption Codes and the Places Where Missions Could Deposit the Biometric Fees
Operational Bulletin 549 – September 10, 2013
Interim Global Case Management System (GCMS) Biometric Exemption Codes and the Places Where Missions Could Deposit the Biometric Fees
Summary
This Operational Bulletin (OB) provides various instructions and directives to Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) field offices. It notifies them of the fact that the authorities have not established some of the:
- Biometric exemption codes in the Global Case Management System (GCMS) and,
- Biometric fee exemption codes in the Global Case Management System (GCMS)
Given this backdrop, this OB advises Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) field offices to use the codes given subsequently in this document in the interim. Once the authorities established the revised codes in the Global Case Management System (GCMS), they will provide further instructions.
In addition, this OB also provides guidance to missions. It notifies them of the places where they could deposit the biometric fees.
Background
The authorities have made biometrics a mandatory requirement for nationals from:
- Colombia
- Haiti and,
- Jamaica
Issues to this regard came into circulation in OB 520-A, which the authorities published on September 03, 2013. Biometrics will become a mandatory requirement for other nationalities on October 23, 2013 and December 11, 2013.
The authorities plan to revise the:
- Biometric exemption codes and,
- Biometric fee exemption codes
Once they have revised these codes, the authorities will include the new codes in the Global Case Management System (GCMS) for release 5.0. At present, the authorities believe that Global Case Management System (GCMS) release 5.0 will be ready for release in November 2013. By that time, the requirement to provide biometric information will come into force for the third group of affected countries.
As an interim measure, the authorities have established interim codes. These interim codes will help Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) officers to code biometric exemptions and biometric fee exemptions. The authorities plan to align the revised codes (available November 2013) with the:
- Regulated exemptions and,
- Biometric Procedures manual (BP-1)
Officers might need to refer to the complete list of affected nationalities and the coming into force date of the corresponding biometric requirements. For this, they would need to consult the list available online.
The Instructions
The Interim Biometric Exemption Codes
The table below describes the interim biometric exemption codes available in the Global Case Management System (GCMS). The officers would need to note that in future releases of the Global Case Management System (GCMS), the authorities would be providing specific exemption codes for:
- Refugee claimants and,
- Public policy exemptions
Value | Code | Use |
Exempt – Age | 05 | Officers would need to use this for applicants under 14 and over 80 years of age |
Exempt – In Transit | 04 | Officers would need to use this for applicants holding a valid United States entry visa and who are applying for a visa to transit through Canada for less than 48 hours, directly to or from the United States |
Exempt – Diplomat | 06 | Officers would need to use this for properly accredited diplomats, consular officers, representatives or officials and their families travelling to Canada on official business |
Exempt – National Interest | 07 | Officers do not need to use this code |
Exempt – Other | 08 | Officers would need to use this for refugee claimants and protected persons applying in Canada for a work permit or a study permit
Officers would need to use this for exemptions for public policy reasons, including:
|
Override | 09 |
|
The Interim Biometric Fee Exemption Codes
The table given below described the interim biometric fee exemption codes present in the Global Case Management System (GCMS). The authorities plan to replace the generic 999 exemption codes with new fee exemption codes in future releases of the Global Case Management System (GCMS).
Officers would need to provide an explanation of the fee exemption in the Notes field, if they use the generic code 999.
Exemption | Code | Notes |
| 999 | Officers would need to explain the reason for the exemption in the Notes field
In the next release of the Global Case Management System (GCMS), the authorities will replace this code with B01 |
| 999 | Officers would need to explain the reason for the exemption in the Notes field
In the next release of the Global Case Management System (GCMS), the authorities will replace this code with B02 |
| 999 | Officers would need to explain the reason for the exemption in the Notes field
In the next release of the Global Case Management System (GCMS), the authorities will replace this code with B03 |
| 999 | Officers would need to explain the reason for the exemption in the Notes field
In the next release of the Global Case Management System (GCMS), the authorities will replace this code with B04 |
| 999 | Officers would need to explain the reason for the exemption in the Notes field
In the next release of the Global Case Management System (GCMS), the authorities will replace this code with B05 |
| 999 | Officers would need to explain the reason for the exemption in the Notes field
In the next release of the Global Case Management System (GCMS), the authorities will replace this code with B06 |
| 999 | Officers would need to explain the reason for the exemption in the Notes field
In the next release of the Global Case Management System (GCMS), the authorities will replace this code with B07 |
| ||
(3) The total amount of fees payable under subsection (1) is: | ||
| BFM
AND / OR
B11 | The officers will code the Head of Family as BFM, while they will code all the other family members as B11, until the authorities revise the existing exemption codes.
Once the authorities revise the exemption codes, the authorities will replace the B11 code with the B08 code for all the remaining family members.
As an interim measure, the officers would need to explain the reason for the exemption in the Notes field. |
| BFX
AND / OR
B10 | The officers will code the head of the group as BFX, while they will code all the other family members as B10, until the authorities revise the existing exemption codes.
Once the authorities revise the exemption codes, the authorities will replace the B10 code with the B09 code for all the remaining family members.
As an interim measure, the officers would need to explain the reason for the exemption in the Notes field. |
Where Should Missions Deposit the Biometric Fees?
The missions would typically be responsible for collecting the biometric fees. They would need to deposit the fees collected in the same bank account as other immigration fees. However, they would need to treat the biometric fees as a separate line of business. Therefore, they would also need to report on the biometric fees they collect separately.
To facilitate this, the missions would need to add three new lines of business in the Point of Service System (POS+). The table given below illustrates the POS+ codes that the missions would need to add. The authorities have already added these General Ledger codes to the Department of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development financial system.
21965 | Biometrics | Données biométriques |
21972 | Biometrics – Family Rate | Biométrie – Taux de famille |
21973 | Biometrics – Group of Performing Artists | Biométrie – Groupe d’artistes |
Contacts
Situations could arise where officers might have enquiries, questions and concerns related to the new biometric program. They would need to send these queries by e-mail to the new Biometric Operational Support Unit (BOSU). The authorities have created the Biometric Operational Support Unit (BOSU) in the Query Response Centre (QRC). Officers would need to send all their questions, concerns and enquiries to the Biometric Operational Support Unit (BOSU), regardless of their nature.
Officers might also receive requests from visa application centres or visa offices. These requests could typically concern issues like:
- Technical support and,
- Questions about operational procedures
Thereafter, the Biometric Operational Support Unit (BOSU) would route these enquiries to the appropriate Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) Headquarters division, as required.
Source: Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC)
- Published in 2013
Operational Bulletin 548 – September 06, 2013
Specific Directives for Processing Temporary Resident Visa Applications under the Foreign Missions and International Organisations Act for Spouses, Common / Civil Law Partners and Dependent Children Under 22 Years of Age Accompanying Representatives of an International Civil Aviation Organisation Member Country Travelling to Canada on the Occasion of the 38th Session of the Assembly of this Organisation September 24 – October 04, 2013
Summary
This Operational Bulletin (OB) provides information and processing instructions. These instructions concern the Foreign Missions and International Organisations Act (FMIOA) for:
- Spouses
- Common or civil law partners and,
- Dependent children under 22 years of age
These individuals could be accompanying representatives from member states of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) for the 38th Session of the Assembly. The 38th Session of the Assembly is taking place from September 24, 2013 to October 04, 2013. It is worth noting that the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) has an Order in Council under the Foreign Missions and International Organisations Act (FMIOA).
Background
The International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) is a specialised agency of the United Nations. It has its headquarters in Montreal. It will be hosting its 38th Session of the Assembly on September 24, 2013. All member states will be participating in this Session. The organisers have also planned some activities for the spouses.
Officers would need to note that this OB only applies to:
- Spouses
- Common or civil law partners and,
- Dependent children under 22 years of age
These individuals could be accompanying representatives from member states of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) for the 38th Session of the Assembly. These individuals typically benefit from “immunity from immigration restrictions” as specified in:
- The Order in Council issued under the Foreign Missions and International Organisations Act (FMIOA) and,
- The Headquarters Agreement between the Government of Canada and the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) – or, the Agreement
Officers would need to provide these dependents with a fee exempt temporary resident visa. This is in accordance with R296 (2) (a). For this, the officers would need to use the fee exemption code of A-01.
In addition, officers might require additional information and details of the processing procedures applicable to the official delegates to the Assembly. For these details, officers would need to refer to OB 522, published on May 16, 2013.
The Processing Instructions
The authorities would need to process visa applications for the dependents described above expeditiously. This is particularly so if these dependents meet the specifications covered under the Foreign Mission and International Organisations Act (FMIOA). In addition, the authorities would need to issue these visa applications without charges or restrictions. In other words, the authorities mandate that the visa requirement in itself must not become a hindrance with regards to the person’s travel and entry into Canada.
Furthermore, the authorities would need to process these visa applications in an expeditious manner subject to the procedures outlined below. These instructions are valid, regardless of the type of passport the applicants hold.
Category of Participants | International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) Applicable Immunities that are relevant to Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) | The Impact on Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA) |
Spouse, common or civil law partner and dependent children (up to 22 years of age) of a Representative of a member state
“Representative of a member state” denotes a Representative other than a Permanent representative and this could include an entire delegation, delegates, deputy delegates, advisers, technical experts (security staff) and secretaries of the delegation.
Officers would need to treat each member of the delegation as a Representative. In addition, a spouse, a common or civil law partner or children could accompany the Representative. | Subsection 3 (3) of the Order and Paragraph 13 (d) of the Headquarters Agreement between the Government of Canada and the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO):
“exemption in respect of himself and his spouse and members of his family forming part of his household from immigration restrictions, aliens registration or national service obligations”
Section 5 (4) of the Foreign Mission and International Organisations Act (FMIOA)
“In the event of an inconsistency or conflict between an order made under subsection (1) and any of sections 33 to 43 of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act, the order prevails to the extent of the inconsistency or conflict.” | Officers would need to issue a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) to individuals meeting the criteria, who require a visa to come to Canada. In this scenario, the officers must not issue a Temporary Resident Permit (TRP) to these individuals. This is even if the individuals are inadmissible under any sections of 33 – 43 of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA).
In some situations, officers might issue a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) to an inadmissible person. In this scenario, they would need to follow OP 1 Section 15: Procedures for High-profile, contentious and sensitive cases. They would also need to indicate that the person had cover under an Order within the purview of the Foreign Mission and International Organisations Act (FMIOA) along with the name of the event.
Special Events (SE) Code: 13ICAO
Fee Exemption codes: A-01 R296 (2) (a)
Type of Visa: Diplomatic (D-1), Official (O-1) or Courtesy (C-1) depending on the type of passport presented
Duration of Visa: Single entry
Security Screening Procedures: Officers would need to follow the security screening procedures. In particular, they would need to follow the procedures specified in the Foreign Missions International Organisations Act (FMIOA). In addition, they would need to do this in conjunction with the existing high-profile notifications, as required. |
The Foreign Missions and International Organisation Act (FMIOA) Coding Applicable at Missions and Ports of Entry for “Representatives” and “Officials”
- Officers would need to insert a note in the Global Case Management System (GCMS) if they processed the case under the Foreign Missions International Organisations Act (FMIOA)
- Situations might arise where officers enable an inadmissible person covered by the Foreign Missions International Organisations Act (FMIOA) to come to Canada by issuing a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV)
- In this scenario, the officers would need to enter the following note in the Global Case Management System (GCMS)
“This applicant is inadmissible under Section X of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA), but the applicant’s visit falls under the purview of the Foreign Missions International Organisations Act (FMIOA).”
The authorities have assigned the Special Events (SE) Code 13ICAO to all International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) meetings scheduled in 2013. Therefore, the authorities urge all visa officers to enter the Special Events (SE) code in the Global Case Management System (GCMS). By keying in this information, visa officers would be able to:
- Support planning
- Track progress on the processing of applications and,
- Support various reporting requirements
Situations could arise where officers might have questions on the information given in this document. Alternatively, officers might feel ambiguous about which candidates have the appropriate cover under the Foreign Missions International Organisations Act (FMIOA). In this scenario, officers would need to:
- Contact their geographic desks and,
- CC Paul Bisaillon, CIC ICAO Liaison Officer
In addition, situations might arise where officers have questions related to processing fees for the participants. They would need to direct these enquiries to the unit responsible. Moreover, they would also need to cc Special Events. These instructions have come from the Finance Branch.
Source: Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC)
- Published in 2013
The Processing of Confirmation of Permanent Residence Documents (CoPRs)
Operational Bulletin 545 – October 07, 2013
The Processing of Confirmation of Permanent Residence Documents (CoPRs)
Summary
This Operational Bulletin instructs officers of Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) and the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA). It provides guidelines on the manner in which these officers would need to process a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (CoPR) document properly.
Background
Officers typically issue a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (CoPR) document to applicants i.e. IMM 5688E or IMM 5292B. Applicants need to present this document at:
- A Port of Entry (POE) or,
- An inland Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) office
On presenting this document for processing, the applicants typically take the next step towards becoming permanent residents. This is in accordance with the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA).
The Confirmation of Permanent Residence (CoPR) document certifies that at the time of issuance, the foreign national named in the document was:
- Admissible and,
- Met the selection criteria and complied with the requirements of the Act and Regulations
Some applicants might have applied for and obtained a Permanent Resident (PR) visa and a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (CoPR) document from a Canadian visa office outside Canada. They would need to present their document to a Border Services Officer (BSO) upon arrival in Canada.
Similarly, some applicants might already be having legal status in Canada. These individuals would need to go to:
- A Port of Entry (POE) or,
- An inland Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) office (after calling the Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) Call Centre for a landing appointment)
These sites would provide the necessary assistance in finalising the processing of the applicant’s Permanent Resident (PR) application. This is in accordance with R71.1 (2).
However, regardless of whichever of the two locations these applicants go to, they would need to have:
- A Permanent Resident (PR) visa counterfoil or,
- An exemption from this specific requirement
The Guidelines for Port of Entry (POE) or Inland Processing
This process commences when a foreign national with a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (CoPR) seeks to obtain Permanent Resident (PR) status. The applicant would need to present the Confirmation of Permanent Residence (CoPR) document at:
- A Port of Entry (POE) or,
- An inland Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) office
The Border Services Officer (BSO) at Immigration Secondary or the inland Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) officer would need to compare the details mentioned on the Confirmation of Permanent Residence (CoPR) document with the applicant’s travel document or passport. The details the officers would need to check include:
- The Bio data
- The Travel Document number
- The applicant’s height and,
- The applicant’s eye colour
The last two details are necessary for the production of the Permanent Resident (PR) card.
The Procedure for Making Corrections
Situations might arise where officers find that the IMM 5688E or IMM 5292B contain clerical errors. In this scenario, the officers would need to must correct the IMM 5688E or the IMM 5292B appropriately. The officers would need to ensure that they bring these documents into agreement with:
- The bio data given in the passport or,
- Any other travel document
Thereafter, they would need to make the correction on all copies of the Confirmation of Permanent Residence (CoPR) document by:
- Placing an asterisk beside the error and,
- Annotating the correction in the remarks section
The officers would also need to ensure that any corrections they make must also reflect in the Field Operations Support System (FOSS) and/or the Global Case Management System (GCMS).
The officers hold the final responsibility for:
- Ensuring data integrity and legibility of the Confirmation of Permanent Residence (CoPR) document and,
- Reprinting the replacement document from the Field Operations Support System (FOSS) and/or the Global Case Management System (GCMS) in case of significant changes
The Procedure for Making Corrections to the Document Number in the Field Operations Support System (FOSS)
In certain cases, the document number (also known as the T number) on the printed Confirmation of Permanent Residence (CoPR) document could differ from the T number listed on the Field Operations Support System (FOSS).
In this scenario, the officers at the Ports of Entry (POEs) would need to confirm the T number by checking the Global Case Management System (GCMS). If they find the valid T number on the Field Operations Support System (FOSS), they would need to make the necessary corrections by:
- Placing an asterisk beside the incorrect document number and,
- Annotating the correct T number in the remarks section
Taking this action would prevent errors from occurring when officers:
- Process the Permanent Resident (PR) card and,
- Use the Confirmation of Permanent Residence (CoPR) document as a proof of status document
In some situations, the officers might find that two document numbers exist in the Field Operations Support System (FOSS). In this scenario, the officers would need to ensure that they never land the client on both the numbers. Instead, they would need to ensure that the client only uses the valid document number for landing purposes.
Similarly, situations could arise where:
- The Field Operations Support System (FOSS) displays an invalid T number or,
- The Confirmation of Permanent Residence (CoPR) document does not show up in the Field Operations Support System (FOSS)
In this scenario, the officers would need to:
- Defer the examination (this is in accordance to the guidelines specified in A23) and,
- Refer the client to an inland Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) office for completing the landing
In addition, the inland Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) office would also need to contact the issuing office. This would enable them to:
- Correct the error and,
- Close the application in the Global Case Management System (GCMS) (if necessary)
Note:
- The authorities plan to decommission the Field Operations Support System (FOSS) and replace it with the Global Case Management System (GCMS) by the end of 2014
- This would nullify future occurrences of these kinds of cases
The Guidelines Prescribed for Photographs
The officers would need to verify that the Confirmation of Permanent Residence (CoPR) document has an affixed photograph. In addition, they would need to check that this photograph bears a clear resemblance to the photograph on the passport or travel document. Typically, they would be able to find this photograph:
- On the Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) copy of the IMM 5688E or,
- On Copy 1 of the IMM 5292B
The officers would also need to check that the photograph also meets the prescribed specifications. Otherwise, the applicant would need to submit another photograph.
For retakes of photographs, the applicant would need to attach the new photograph to a separate Supplementary Identification Form (IMM 5455B). This is because removing the photograph affixed to the Confirmation of Permanent Residence (CoPR) document could end up damaging the form.
In addition, the applicants would need to attach the photo using a standardised photo patch. This is useful if they are using the fillable and downloadable version of the IMM 5455B. To order photo patches, applicants would need to use the IMM 1389 (Requisition for Non-controlled Immigration Forms). Then, they would need to select the item CIC 0108B – Photo Patch. Thereafter, they would need to enter the number of packages they require.
The Guidelines Prescribed for Updating an Address
In some situations, the officers might find that the Confirmation of Permanent Residence (CoPR) document already indicates an address. In this scenario, the officers would need to confirm with the client that the addresses listed on the Confirmation of Permanent Residence (CoPR) document are correct.
If the addresses listed on the Confirmation of Permanent Residence (CoPR) document are incorrect, the officers would need to cross out the incorrect address. Then, they would need to update the new address in the Field Operations Support System (FOSS) and/or the Global Case Management System (GCMS). They would typically do this based on the system used by the department.
Similarly, the officers might find that the department is using the Global Case Management System (GCMS). In this situation, the officers would need to:
- Verify that the address in the Field Operations Support System (FOSS) is also correct and,
- Make the necessary changes (if required)
This is because the Permanent Resident Card Centre (PRCC) uses the information found in the Field Operations Support System (FOSS) to generate a Permanent Resident (PR) card. Hence, the officers would need to update the address on all the systems used.
Some clients might not have a permanent address. Therefore, officers would need to inform these clients to send their permanent address whenever it becomes available. Typically, officers would need to inform the clients that the clients must send their permanent address details within 180 days. Only then would the clients be able to receive their Permanent Resident (PR) card.
In case the department is using the Field Operations Support System (FOSS), the officers would need to:
- List “Address to follow” in the street space and,
- Leave the postcode field vacant or blank
Clients could update their address in Canada by:
- Contacting the call centre
- Using the online Address Notification tool on the Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) website
- Completing the form titled Address Notification – Permanent Resident Card (IMM 5456B) and transmitting it to the fax number shown
At a Port of Entry (POE), officers might come across some clients who provide a third party address in Canada. This address could be the address of a friend, relative, paid representative etc. This is perfectly appropriate because the clients, as new immigrants, might not have a permanent address in Canada. Thus, by providing the address of a third party in Canada, these clients would simply be facilitating the processing and the issuance of their Permanent Resident (PR) card following their arrival in Canada.
However, some cases could provide clear indications that the client’s stay in Canada is for a short span only. Therefore, officers would need to check whether the client provided a third party address to forward the Permanent Resident (PR) card outside Canada.
In these situations, officers would need to flag these cases with a Non-Computer Based Entry (NCB) 22. This flag indicates that the client resides outside Canada. Officers would need to brief clients planning to leave Canada before receiving their Permanent Resident (PR) card. They would need to inform these clients about the requirements under A31 (3). These requirements typically relate to travel documents issued at a visa office abroad.
The Guidelines Prescribed for Completing Fields on the IMM 5688E and the IMM 5292B
Officers would need to complete the following fields on the IMM 5688E and the IMM 5292B. In particular, they would need to use a black pen for this activity.
- Last Entry at:
- Officers would need to complete this field if the Confirmation of Permanent Residence (CoPR) document originated from a visa office overseas
- Officers would need to fill in the location where permanent resident (PR) status was granted
- Last Entry Date / Original Entry Date:
- Officers would need to complete this field if the Confirmation of Permanent Residence (CoPR) document originated from a visa office overseas
- Officers would need to fill in the date when permanent resident (PR) status was granted
- Became Permanent Resident (PR) at: Officers would need to fill in the location where permanent resident (PR) status was granted
- This could be either a Port of Entry (POE) or an inland Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) office
- Became Permanent Resident (PR) on: Officers would need to fill in the date when permanent resident (PR) status was granted
- Conditions: The client would need to write their initials alongside any specified imposed conditions
- Have you ever been charged/convicted of a crime or offence; refused admission to Canada or required to leave Canada?: The client would need to mention their initials alongside a ‘Yes/No’ answer (This would be NA for minors)
- Dependent(s) Information: The client would need to mention their initials alongside a ‘Yes/No’ answer.
- If the client’s answer is a ‘Yes’, the officers would need to add the dependent’s information only if:
- The client has included the names of the dependents in the application and,
- The officers have examined the dependents
- Signatures: The client and the officer granting permanent resident (PR) status will sign and date all copies of the Confirmation of Permanent Residence (CoPR) document
- This is only applicable for clients who are 14 years of age or older
- Parents would need to sign for children under 14 years of age
Note:
- Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) officers would need to remember to stamp the client’s passport or travel document during the landing appointment
- They would need to do this only if the client is not a refugee
- The stamp would typically include details like:
- The date on which the authorities granted permanent resident (PR) status and,
- The location of the Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) office
- The officers would also need write their initials beside the stamp on the passport page or the travel document
- In some situations, the officers might require additional port stamps
- In this scenario, the local Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) office would need to contact Paul Geoffroy at Corporate Security
The Guidelines Prescribed for Counselling New Permanent Residents
Officers would need to counsel all new permanent residents about:
- The residency obligation
- The Permanent Resident (PR) status conditions imposed and:
- How to comply with them and,
- Apply for their removal
- The procedures for applying for and obtaining:
- A Permanent Resident (PR) card
- Provincial health coverage and,
- A social insurance number
- Settlement Assistance (if applicable)
The Guidelines Prescribed for Distributing the Confirmation of Permanent Residence (CoPR) document
Officers would need to distribute the Confirmation of Permanent Residence (CoPR) document appropriately. This is especially so after the authorities have granted permanent resident (PR) status to clients.
- For Confirmation of Permanent Residence (CoPR) documents printed on the IMM 5688E, officers would need to give:
- The client copy to clients
- The Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) copy to the Permanent Resident Card Centre (PRCC) at the Case Processing Centre in Sydney (PRCC-Sydney), Nova Scotia
- For Confirmation of Permanent Residence (CoPR) documents printed on the IMM 5292B, officers would need to send:
- Copy 1 with affixed photograph to the Permanent Resident Card Centre (PRCC) at the Case Processing Centre in Sydney (PRCC-Sydney), Nova Scotia for scanning and production of the Permanent Resident (PR) Card
- Copy 2 to the National Headquarters (NHQ), Document Management for microfilming (CIC Records-Microfilm Unit, Jean Edmonds Tower North, 2nd floor, 300 Slater Street, Ottawa, Ontario, K1A 1L1)
- Copy 3 to the client for informational purposes
The officers would need to send copies sent to the Permanent Resident Card Centre (PRCC) at the Case Processing Centre in Sydney (PRCC-Sydney), Nova Scotia as quickly as possible. Doing so would enable the Permanent Resident Card Centre (PRCC) at the Case Processing Centre in Sydney (PRCC-Sydney), Nova Scotia to initiate the processing of the Permanent Resident (PR) card.
Depending on the mode of delivery, officers would need to send the Confirmation of Permanent Residence (CoPR) documents to one of the following addresses:
Regular Mail
Case Processing Centre – PR Card
PO Box 10020
Sydney, NS
B1P 7C1
Courier
Case Processing Centre – PR Card
49 Dorchester Street
Sydney, NS
B1P 5Z2
The Guidelines Prescribed for Processing Confirmation of Permanent Residence (CoPR) documents in the Global Case Management System (GCMS)
In some cases, inland Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) officers might process the Confirmation of Permanent Residence (CoPR) documents. These officers would need to change the status of the Confirmation of Permanent Residence (CoPR) documents to ‘Confirmed’. Dong this would ensure that officers can download the information to the Field Operations Support System (FOSS).
It is worth noting that the Field Operations Support System (FOSS) allows officers to carry out this step in advance. However, officers would need to avoid implementing this step in advance i.e. before the client appears for the landing appointment. This is because carrying out this step in advance would:
- Transfer the information to the Field Operations Support System (FOSS) prematurely before the client receives Permanent Resident (PR) status
- Prevent the system from downloading the information to the National Case Management System (NCMS), as this system does not record the disposition for landing dates in the future (or in advance)
Reminders for Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) Officers
The Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) officers would be issuing the Confirmation of Permanent Residence (CoPR) documents to applicants. Therefore, they would need to provide clients with the correct version.
Situations could arise where officers cancel a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (CoPR) document for making changes once they have already generated the Confirmation of Permanent Residence (CoPR) document.
In this scenario, the officers would need to print the new Confirmation of Permanent Residence (CoPR) document for the client. In particular, the officers would need to ensure that the valid T number in the Global Case Management System (GCMS) matches the T number on the printed Confirmation of Permanent Residence (CoPR) document.
In addition, situations could also arise where the officers would require a Certificate of Selection for Quebec. In this scenario, the officers would need to ensure that this certificate is valid. Only after confirming this must the officers issue the Confirmation of Permanent Residence (CoPR) document.
However, officers would need to note that clients do not need to renew the Certificate of Selection for Quebec. This is especially so if, at the time of landing, the officers find that the certificate has expired.
Source: Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC)
- Published in 2013
Verification of Permanent Resident Photos at Visa Offices
Operational Bulletin 540 – August 12, 2013
Verification of Permanent Resident Photos at Visa Offices
Summary
This Operational Bulletin (OB) provides instructions to officers at various visa offices. It directs them on:
- Their responsibilities concerning the verification of photos submitted along with Applications for Permanent Residence (APR) and,
- The manner in which they would be able to assess whether the photos submitted meet the required specifications
Background
The authorities grant people with permanent resident status. These individuals then initiate the processing of a Permanent Resident Card (PRC) automatically. They do so once they get the confirmation of that status. Thereafter, the Permanent Resident Card (PRC) captures the photograph that applicants submitted along with their Applications for Permanent Residence (APR).
For these reasons, it is important that the photograph complies with the prescribed specifications for a proper photo. In some situations, the authorities might find the photograph to be non-compliant. In these situations, the clients would need to retake their photos. This usually delays the processing of the Permanent Resident Card (PRC). Current estimates highlight the fact that nearly 15 percent of applicants need to retake their photos.
Therefore, the authorities have focused on reducing the number of photo retakes. This is especially so once the client has arrived in Canada. To achieve this, the authorities have instructed visa offices to pay closer attention to the photographs. In particular, they have asked visa offices to check whether the photographs submitted meet the prescribed specifications.
Visa offices are typically the first point of contact with clients. Therefore, they have the ability to identify and catch non-compliant photos. This is especially significant before the authorities grant the client permanent resident status. The authorities expect that the early detection of non-compliant photos will:
- Help in speeding up the Permanent Resident Card (PRC) process and,
- Reduce the additional work carried out by:
- The various ports of entry
- Local Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) offices and,
- The Permanent Resident Card Centre of the Case Processing Centre in Sydney, Nova Scotia
The Guidelines
Applicants typically submit the Applications for Permanent Residence (APRs) at a visa office. On receiving these Applications for Permanent Residence (APRs), the registry clerk would need to confirm that the clients have submitted proper photographs.
For this, the registry clerks would need to examine the photographs. They would need to check that the client took the photograph within the last six months. In addition, the registry clerk would need to ensure that the photograph meets the prescribed photo specifications.
The clerks might need to refer to a complete list of specifications issued for photographs submitted by the clients. For this, they would need to refer to Appendix A i.e. Permanent Resident Card Photo Specifications.
Among other details, the registry clerk would need to check that the applicants have mentioned the following details on the back of one photo:
- The full name of the applicant
- The date of birth of the applicant and,
- The date the photographer took the client’s photo
In addition, the registry clerk would need to ensure that the second photograph submitted by the client is blank.
The authorities have prescribed various other instructions to officers in visa offices. When examining photographs, visa offices would need to pay close attention to certain common errors. These errors typically appear on non-compliant photos. Such errors would usually comprise:
- Photographs that have the subject out of focus
- Photographs with an incorrect photograph background i.e. a background that is not white in colour
- Photographs taken in poor light or dim conditions
- Photographs that depict shadows on the client’s face, especially in the area around the ears and,
- Photographs that have an incorrect head size i.e. photographs where the client’s head appears as being too large
It is worth noting that the authorities do not consider the actual size of the photograph as being very important or significant. This is because the Permanent Resident Card Centre (PRCC) of the Case Processing Centre in Sydney, Nova Scotia can crop the photograph.
The Permanent Resident Card Centre (PRCC) typically scans the photo, before altering it (if required). Because of this activity carried out by the Permanent Resident Card Centre (PRCC) of the Case Processing Centre in Sydney, Nova Scotia, photo die-cutters have become obsolete. As a result, officers cannot place orders for photo die-cutters any longer.
In some situations however, officers might come across unusually large photographs. In this scenario, the officers would need to use scissors for altering the size of the photograph. Therefore, they could consider using the scissors for cutting the photograph down to size. This is especially so if the photograph submitted meets all the other prescribed specifications.
In some cases, the registry clerk might find that the photograph submitted does not meet the required specifications. In this scenario, the clerk would return the photo to the applicant. In addition, the clerk would also give the client copies of Appendix A and / or Appendix B (see note below). Moreover, the clerk would need to give the clients the relevant instructions for submitting the new photos.
It is worth noting that officers can continue to process the application as usual. This is applicable even though the officers might not have received the new and compliant photographs. However, officers would need to note that they cannot finalise the application in this scenario. They would only be able to finalise the application once they receive the new photographs from the client.
The authorities have also given other instructions to visa offices. They have asked visa offices to keep the compliant photos on file. This is especially applicable when the visa offices print the Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR). Visa offices would need to use a photo patch (or a double-sided tape) for mounting the photo on to the Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR). However, visa offices would need to ensure that the photo mounted on to the Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) is the one that does not have the client’s details listed on the back of the photo.
Visa offices might need to order photo patches for carrying out these instructions. Therefore, they could place an order for these photo patches by using the form Requisition for Non-Controlled Immigration Forms (IMM 1389). Here, the visa offices would need to select the item “CIC 0108B – Photo Patch / Pièce encollée pour photo”. They would be able to locate this item in the dropdown menu. Thereafter, they would need to key in the number of packages they require.
Note:
- Clients would need to refer to Appendix A given on the website of Citizenship and Immigration website
- Appendix A contains the details on the Permanent Resident Card (PRC) Photo Specifications
- This document contains a complete list of specifications that clients would need to follow to ensure that their photographs meet the prescribed specifications
- Clients would also need to refer to Appendix B given on the website of Citizenship and Immigration website
- Appendix B contains the details on the Photo Specifications, along with notes to the applicant and the photographer
Source: Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC)
- Published in 2013
Extensions to Letters of Acceptance for Study Permit Applications
Operational Bulletin 546 – August 28, 2013
Extensions to Letters of Acceptance for Study Permit Applications
Issue
Officers would not issue study permits unless the applicant provides written documentation from the educational institution concerned. The documentation must state that the educational institution has accepted the applicant’s application for studying there. Subsection 219 (1) of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations (IRPR) clearly outline this requirement.
At present, certain missions abroad have experienced various current labour actions. In light of these actions, officers might come across study permit applications that could have experienced a considerable amount of delay. These applications might have letters of acceptance with lapsed arrival dates. Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) has been working with the education sector to remedy this situation. It has been determining whether institutions are willing to accept or consider late arrivals for international students.
Therefore, officers would need to note that many institutions have agreed to extend the arrival date for the fall 2013 academic year. These institutions include:
- Universities
- Public colleges
- Private career colleges
- Language schools and,
- Primary or secondary school boards (from Kindergarten to 12th Grade)
Therefore, officers would need to consult the table and attachments given in this document. This would enable them to determine whether a particular educational institution has extended a letter of acceptance or not. If an educational institution has extended a letter of acceptance under this initiative, then officers would need to ensure that they do not refuse applications based on an invalid letter of acceptance.
The Operational Management and Coordination Branch NHQ will be responsible for updating this list regularly.
Officers might have questions concerning the information published in this Operational Bulletin (OB). They would need to direct their questions to: [email protected].
Documents and Tools
- Extension of letters of acceptance – EN (Version 1)
- Dalhousie University – Last Possible Start Date September 2013
- Institut national de recherché scientifique (INRS) – Last Possible Start Date September 2013
- Queen’s University – Last Possible Start Date September 2013
- Ryerson University – Last Possible Start Date September 2013
- Universite Laval – Last Possible Start Date September 2013
- University of Toronto – Last Possible Start Date September 2013
Source: Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC)
- Published in 2013
