Overcoming Challenges: A Tale of Immigration and Advocacy
Applying for a Canadian visitor visa can be a daunting task, especially when faced with unique circumstances and legal complexities. In the case of Client J, her journey to Canada was marked by a series of challenges and hurdles. However, through perseverance, transparency, and the power of advocacy, her application was successfully processed in a fraction of the average time. This article recounts the inspiring story of Client J and her supportive relationship with Client D, shedding light on the intricacies of cultural differences, legal considerations, and the role of advocacy in the immigration process.
Background
Client J's story begins with an invitation to Canada by one of our clients, Client D, who was already residing in the country.
Client D, a student in Canada, tragically faced a cancer diagnosis, rendering her unable to travel back to her home country of Nigeria, and stranded alone in Canada. Moreover, her biological mother's health status prevented her from making the journey to Canada -to support her daughter.
Stepping in to provide support during this challenging time, Client J, as the second wife of Client D's late father, volunteered to come to Canada. Little did she know that their unconventional family structure would pose a unique set of challenges in the immigration process.
Navigating the Legal Complexities
Polygamy, while accepted in certain cultures, is not a common practice in Canada and is technically illegal. This raised concerns for both clients, as they were unsure how to explain their famial relationship to the immigration authorities. We advised the clients to be truthful about their familial connection and worked diligently to address any potential complications. To strengthen the case, Client J obtained a sworn affidavit to authenticate the genuineness of her marriage to Client D's late father.
Establishing Ties
Client J's limited ties to Nigeria, consisting primarily of an unregistered business and property - was a cause for concern. We advised the clients to register Client J’s business and acquire the necessary legal papers to establish her ownership of the property. Despite concerns that these recent registrations might appear suspicious, it was evident that without these ties, the application would be considerably weaker.
The Power of Advocacy
Realizing the urgency of Client D's situation, we helped Client D reach out to her Member of Parliament (MP). The MP, acting as an advocate, took up the case with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), highlighting the unique circumstances and emphasizing the need for an expedited processing time. Thanks to this advocacy effort, Client J's application was processed in a remarkably short period of just 1 month, a remarkable feat considering the average processing time from Nigeria is over a year.
Conclusion
Client J's immigration journey exemplifies the challenges faced by individuals navigating cultural differences and legal complexities when seeking entry to Canada. The successful outcome of her application highlights the importance of transparency, perseverance, and the power of advocacy in overcoming obstacles.
