1. Understand Why an Interview Might Be Requested
An interview may be scheduled when:
- The officer needs to verify family relationships or supporting documents.
- The financial eligibility of the sponsor is unclear or marginal.
- There is a past immigration issue, such as a misrepresentation or removal order.
- The officer suspects that the sponsor may not fulfill the undertakings.
- The parent or grandparent has complex medical or background circumstances.
Understanding the reason behind the interview helps you focus your preparation.
2. Review Your Application in Detail
Go over every form, document, and supporting letter submitted, especially:
- Sponsor’s Notice of Assessment (NOAs) for the required tax years.
- Proof of income (e.g., employment letters, pay stubs).
- Family composition (number of people supported).
- Relationship documents (e.g., birth certificates, passports).
- Undertaking and sponsorship agreement details.
Tip: Be prepared to explain any inconsistencies or unusual details, such as fluctuations in income, previous refusals, or long absences between parent and sponsor.
3. Be Ready to Explain Financial Obligations Clearly
As a sponsor, you must show that:
- You meet the Minimum Necessary Income (MNI) for 3 taxation years before applying.
- You understand the 20-year financial undertaking, meaning you’ll financially support your parents or grandparents so they don’t rely on social assistance.
Practice explaining:
- How you calculated family size.
- How your current income supports everyone included.
- How you plan to continue meeting financial obligations.
4. Prepare for Common Interview Questions
The officer may ask questions to assess:
For Sponsors:
- Why do you want to bring your parents/grandparents to Canada?
- How long have you lived in Canada?
- Who lives in your household?
- What is your current income and job?
- Have you ever received social assistance?
For Parents/Grandparents:
- What is your relationship to the sponsor?
- Where do you live now?
- Who do you live with?
- Have you ever applied to come to Canada before?
- Do you plan to work or be financially dependent?
5. Practice with a Mock Interview
Do a practice interview with someone you trust or an immigration consultant. Make sure both the sponsor and the parent/grandparent understand the process and questions.
- Keep answers clear, honest, and concise.
- Avoid memorizing scripted answers—focus on consistency and sincerity.
- Use an interpreter if needed—officers may provide one if requested in advance.
6. Gather Updated Documents and Evidence
Bring these to the interview (or submit in advance if requested):
- Recent pay stubs or job letters (to prove continued employment).
- Updated NOA or T4 slips (if a new tax year has passed).
- Letters from a landlord (to confirm living arrangements).
- Photos or documents proving ongoing contact with the parent/grandparent.
- Any document the IRCC requested in the interview notice.
7. Mind the Logistics
- Be on time. Whether the interview is virtual or in-person, punctuality matters.
- If it’s virtual, test your device, internet, and microphone in advance.
- Dress neatly and speak respectfully to the officer.
- If your parents or grandparents are attending from overseas, ensure they understand the time zone and have a quiet, distraction-free environment.
8. Be Honest and Transparent
If there’s a concern in your case—such as low income in one year or a complex family situation—acknowledge it and explain it clearly. Officers respect honest explanations more than evasive or rehearsed answers.
9. Consider Legal or Consultant Support
If your case is complex—such as a previous refusal, medical inadmissibility, or financial shortfall—it might be helpful to consult a regulated immigration consultant (RCIC) or immigration lawyer to help prepare you for the interview.
