Applying for the CEC residency - to get a lawyer or not?

[IrishinCanada]

Hi all,

Just wondering what to do here. I'm currently doing my own paperwork for the CEC and am debating whether to get a lawyer or not. I've been working in a professional environment for over 2 years, have fluent english and have a degree.

What are the benefits to getting legal representation? How long does the process take when comparing an independant application submission to a lawyers?

If anyone can provide some details on this, I'd greatly appreciate it. Also, for anyone that was successful with the application on their own submission, how long are the waiting times realistically? I see a 15 month period has been quoted on the CIC website. My NOC Code is 2282 if anyone would like to comment on that, that's what's been used on all of my LMO applications at least.

Many thanks again!

 

[IrishinCanada]

Anyone?

 

[CEC_2174]

Do it yourself. there is no benefit of having a lawyer.
If u can read write and understand english u can do it urself

 

[IrishinCanada]

I'm curious to know if you are speaking from experience?

 

[CEC_2174]

99% of the people on this forum apply themselves including me...
You can get your doubts clarified on the forum people here are very helpful and share the same Goal

Best Wishes

 

[IrishinCanada]

I'm often wondering is that maybe the reason why most of the people (myself included) post on here.

I'm curious about whether the language test and medical has to be done before or after the CEC application is sent?

 

[CEC_2174]

You have not done your home work it seems..
You do English test first find out if you are eligible based on ur BAND score and NOC.

CIC will advise u on later stage for medicals
Go through below link
http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/information/applications/guides/5609ETOC.asp

 

[IrishinCanada]

Correct, I've only just touched on the basics to date. I have english fluency so I'm not so worried about that. I'll have a look at your link (which I've skimmed through previously) and will take it from there. My only concern is waiting 12+ months to be told that I've made a mistake or something.

NOC Code 2282 is a valid code for the CEC correct?

 

[salmtzo]

IrishinCanada,

I don't think you need a lawyer, and if you made a mistake they will let you know within the first few months, I friend of mine (from Germany) made a mistake on his wife's formats and they return the papers 3 months after they applied.

Triple check your papers, that's what I did, I did not have any issue with my immigration process.

Cheers

 

[IrishinCanada]

Hey salmzto!

Thanks for your reply! I don't expect to make a mistake and have more than enough proof to make a pretty good case (I have kept all my paperwork).

May I ask did you gain residency through the CEC program? Am I also correct in saying that even fluent English speakers must sit the IELTS exam to prove proficiency in English? Also, IF a mistake is made, do they simply cancel your application or do they return it for further processing?

 

[salmtzo]

IrishinCanada,

Yes, I Applied on Sept/2010 to the CEC program and I finish my immigration process on Nov/2011, I think nowadays the process is faster.

If you made a mistake or papers are missing they will return the application without even opening a file, your application cannot be cancelled because you don't have a file and your application was not accepted; now, If they find something after your application is accepted they will let you know and they will give you time to correct the "mistake" or send supporting documents for whatever they think they need more "probe".

About the test, I am not sure how is that handle for Native English speakers, If you have education papers from an English Speaking Country, maybe that is probe that you speak the language, but I am not sure about this.

Cheers

 

[SenoritaBella]

All CEC applicants must sit the IELTS exam. I suggest you practice well for the exam despite your native speaker status. The reading section is very long and that's where I've seen the lowest marks from so far.

 

[IrishinCanada]

Hi senorita,

Yes, I was made aware of this earlier today and I completely understand that this must be part of the process in the name of fairness.

Despite popular opinion, I am leaning towards hiring a legal representative for the application, mostly for peace of mind.

 

[SenoritaBella]

I got lawyer for peace of mind as well.lol A few things to save yourself some money: gather all documents before you go to your first meeting, fill out the application forms yourself and have the lawyer go over it with you and advise as necessary. It's cheaper than having them fill out the forms for you.

 

[IrishinCanada]

Glad to see someone who finally admitted to taking on a lawyer. I've been offered a flat fee, so I think cost per hour doesn't apply in my case. How long were you waiting for the residency process to complete, if you don't mind me asking? And did you encounter any difficulties?