₦airaland Forum

I have done option 2 already. But also want to do option 1. Anyone that comes first

AbelAbdul:
Go for option one. And always trust AI. That is what I have been using.

I dig a bit more . Thank God for AI

It is highly likely that the visa officer completely missed the consent letter because it was uploaded under the "Client Information" section instead of the specific slots meant for minor travel authorization. Your assessment is correct: both refusal letters explicitly state that the applications were denied because of "insufficient documentation to demonstrate consent for one parent to be traveling to Canada with minor". Because your own study permit has been approved (indicated by your passport request), you have two concrete paths forward to fix this for your children:
Option 1: Reapply for the Children (Fastest & Most Reliable)Since you already have your passport request, re-submitting new visitor visa or study permit applications for your two children is usually the most effective route. What to do differently: When filling out the new applications, do not bury the father's consent letter in general client information. Upload the Letter of Consent and Financial Sponsorship directly into the required slot for minor travel authorization (often labeled as "Proof of Relationship" or "Minor Travel Authorization". What to include: Use the exact same letter signed by Mr. xxxx, the marriage certificate, their birth certificates, and your new Canadian visa/passport request letter to show that your study permit is approved.

Option 2: Submit a Webform (Reconsideration Request)You can contact IRCC via the online Webform to point out that the document was already provided.What to say: State clearly that you are requesting a reconsideration because the officer noted a lack of parental consent, but the fully signed "Letter of Consent for Minors Traveling Abroad" by their father, Mr. xxxxxx, was already attached to the file under client information on the initial submission. Attachment: Re-attach the consent letter, your passport request letter, and the children's birth certificates to the Webform.

Note: While a Webform is free, it can take several weeks for IRCC to review and process reconsideration requests, and they are not obligated to reopen a refused file. Preparing a fresh application (Option 1) ensures it goes directly into an officer's queue with the documents in the correct places.

ehiremen2002:
Just to update the house. One of the family application i submitted June 6th. We got a passport request for the Mother while the 2 kids were denied Reasons for the refusal of your application

To help you understand why your application was refused, below are the Officer Decision Notes
(ODN) specific to your application as they are displayed in IRCC’s system.

These notes were entered by the officer who assessed and made the final decision on your
application.
I have reviewed the application. Applicant is a minor applying to accompanying parent on a
SP. There is insufficient documentation to demonstrate consent for one parent to be traveling to
Canada with minor. I am not satisfied minor applicant has demonstrated that appropriate parental
consent has been obtained to travel to Canada. As such, I am not satisfied the applicant will
leave Canada by the end of the period authorized for their stay. Application refused under
R216(1)(b).
Requesting ODNs in your official language of choice:
In some cases, Officer Decision Notes may not be available in your official language of choice
(English or French). To receive the notes in your preferred official language of choice, please
send your request to translate.ODN-traduire.NDO@cic.gc.ca and include the following
information in your email

So I we will quickly try reapply for the two kids today.

Just to update the house. One of the family application i submitted June 6th. We got a passport request for the Mother while the 2 kids were denied Reasons for the refusal of your application

To help you understand why your application was refused, below are the Officer Decision Notes
(ODN) specific to your application as they are displayed in IRCC’s system.

These notes were entered by the officer who assessed and made the final decision on your
application.
I have reviewed the application. Applicant is a minor applying to accompanying parent on a
SP. There is insufficient documentation to demonstrate consent for one parent to be traveling to
Canada with minor. I am not satisfied minor applicant has demonstrated that appropriate parental
consent has been obtained to travel to Canada. As such, I am not satisfied the applicant will
leave Canada by the end of the period authorized for their stay. Application refused under
R216(1)(b).
Requesting ODNs in your official language of choice:
In some cases, Officer Decision Notes may not be available in your official language of choice
(English or French). To receive the notes in your preferred official language of choice, please
send your request to translate.ODN-traduire.NDO@cic.gc.ca and include the following
information in your email

So I we will quickly try reapply for the two kids today.

I continue to put when I find out completing the applications I am working with. Anyone sees anything different should make there comment. Thank God for AI DIY becomes easier


When applying for a minor child who is accompanying a mother on a study permit, filling out the "Details of Intended Study in Canada" section on the IMM 1294 form can be confusing. Because the child is a minor accompanying a temporary resident student, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) applies specific, simplified rules.The process depends on the child's age and how the application is being submitted.The Golden Rule for Accompanying MinorsMinor children applying from outside Canada to accompany a parent who will study do not need a Letter of Acceptance (LOA) or a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) from a Canadian school to get a study permit. Because you cannot register a child for a local public elementary or high school until you have a physical residential address in Canada, IRCC allows you to fill out this section using generic details.Step-by-Step: How to Fill the IMM 1294 Form for the MinorWhen completing the Details of Intended Study in Canada section on the minor's form, use the following guidelines:1. Designated Learning Institution (DLI) NumberLeave this blank or type "N/A" (public primary and secondary schools do not use individual DLI numbers for accompanying dependents).2. Name of School / School BoardEnter the name of the public school board in the city where the mother will be studying.Example: If the mom is studying at Algonquin College in Ottawa, write "Ottawa-Carleton District School Board" or simply "Primary/Secondary School in Ottawa."3. Level of StudySelect "Primary" (for elementary/middle school) or "Secondary" (for high school).If the child is too young for Grade 1 (e.g., daycare or pre-K), they should be applying for a Visitor Record instead of a Study Permit. 4. Province and City/TownMatch this exactly to the city and province where the mother's college or university is located.5. My Cost of Studies Will Be Borne BySelect "Parents" or "Myself" (since the parents are funding the entire move).6. Funds Available for My StayPut the total amount of family funds available for the entire family unit, or an amount that shows you have enough to cover the minor's living expenses (at least $5,055 CAD per year for the first dependent under current guidelines, though showing the entire family lump sum is preferred).7. TuitionEnter "$0". In most Canadian provinces, children of full-time international students at public colleges/universities are entitled to free public school education.Critical Document Checklist for the MinorEven though the child doesn't need a school acceptance letter, you must upload alternative documents into the "Letter of Acceptance" slot in the minor's portal checklist to explain the situation to the visa officer:The Mother’s LOA: Upload a copy of the mother’s Letter of Acceptance from her Canadian institution.Proof of Relationship: The child’s long-form birth certificate showing both parents' names. Letter of Explanation (Family Web): A brief letter stating: "This application is for [Child's Name], a minor child accompanying their mother, [Mother's Name], who is applying for a Study Permit at [College Name]. Under IRCC guidelines, this minor does not require a specific school LOA or PAL to obtain a study permit from outside Canada."Parental Consent Form (IMM 5604): If the father is not traveling to Canada with the mom and child, the father must sign a notarized IMM 5604 form giving permission for the child to travel and live in Canada. To ensure all family documentation ties together seamlessly, watching a detailed guide on how to handle related visa paperwork can prevent common administrative errors. You can review this Step-by-Step Family Form Guide, which highlights how to accurately declare family relationships and cross-reference forms for IRCC applications.

ehiremen2002:
Hello House I am still trying to complete my aunt and her friend application. Was suppose to complete last week but move it today. I have this question and U ise AI to help with nswering . Just wanted to share

“Yes” — if your children are applying to accompany you to Canada while you study.

Since:

You are applying for a study permit
Your husband will accompany you
Your children already have valid visitor visas but will now apply for permission/status that allows them to study while in Canada

IRCC considers them accompanying family members.

In the explanation/details section, you can clarify it like this:

“I am applying for a study permit and my husband and two children will accompany me to Canada. My husband and children already hold valid Canadian visitor visas. My children are applying to study while accompanying me during my studies in Canada.”

For your children’s applications:

Minor children in Canada can usually study at the preschool, primary, or secondary level if a parent holds a valid study or work permit.
Depending on the province/school requirements and length of stay, they may either:
study without a separate study permit, or
apply for a study permit from outside Canada for easier school registration and status clarity.

Since they already have TRVs (visitor visas), the key issue is their status/authorization to study, not the visa counterfoil itself.

Hello House I am still trying to complete my aunt and her friend application. Was suppose to complete last week but move it today. I have this question and U ise AI to help with nswering . Just wanted to share

“Yes” — if your children are applying to accompany you to Canada while you study.

Since:

You are applying for a study permit
Your husband will accompany you
Your children already have valid visitor visas but will now apply for permission/status that allows them to study while in Canada

IRCC considers them accompanying family members.

In the explanation/details section, you can clarify it like this:

“I am applying for a study permit and my husband and two children will accompany me to Canada. My husband and children already hold valid Canadian visitor visas. My children are applying to study while accompanying me during my studies in Canada.”

For your children’s applications:

Minor children in Canada can usually study at the preschool, primary, or secondary level if a parent holds a valid study or work permit.
Depending on the province/school requirements and length of stay, they may either:
study without a separate study permit, or
apply for a study permit from outside Canada for easier school registration and status clarity.

Since they already have TRVs (visitor visas), the key issue is their status/authorization to study, not the visa counterfoil itself.

My main question here is: was this a registered agent? Honestly, when I see people getting scammed by unregistered agents, it's frustrating because it's often avoidable. Personally, I’m a DIYer—I did my own application first, and since then, I’ve successfully helped several cousins, friends, and currently, my aunt and her friend.

If I ever had to use an agent, they would absolutely have to be legally registered so that I have a regulatory body to report to if things go wrong. Too many people fall for cheap, unqualified 'agents' who barely even understand the process.

AbelAbdul:
Do not do something that will get you a ban. Find way and locate him. Agent is the reason Cubana Chief Priest can never step his foot on the soil of USA.

amnotapervert the agents advocate come and see this.

Want to be sure, we have successful family application where minor applied for studies permit

ehiremen2002:
Thanks for the clarification, @JMG12. We have decided to proceed with Study Permits for the kids. However, we have a few questions regarding the documentation for minors:

Details of Intended Study in Canada: Since minors don't need a Letter of Acceptance (LOA), what should they input in this section? Should I list a generic "Public School Board" in the city where they will be studying, or leave it blank/write "To be determined upon arrival"?

Employment/Education History: For the children's "Current Activity/Employment" section,we will list their current school in Nigeria.

Supporting Documents: we have requested Letters of Recommendation from their current Nigerian schools (Elementary and High School). Are there any other specific documents required from their current schools—such as transcripts, report cards, or "To Whom It May Concern" letters—to strengthen the application?

we would appreciate any insights from those who have successfully processed Study Permits for minors from Nigeria.

My question is around the form IMM1294.

For the parent, you have information about schools but what about the kids?

SOPWriter:
I believe his questions are already addressed.

cc: ehiremen2002

AbelAbdul:
If you can, get the bold documents.

One of the document for the foster kids

Draft Letter for XXXXXXX
[School Letterhead: XXXXX Private School]
[School Address/Contact Details/CAC Number]

Date: 09/05/2026

TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN

RE: STUDENT ENROLLMENT AND REFERENCE FOR XXXXXXXX

This is to formally confirm that xxxxxx (Date of Birth: xx/xx/2016) is a registered student at xxxx Private School. He is currently enrolled in Basic 6.

Bleep has been a student with us since Bleep and has maintained a commendable academic and behavioral record. He is a diligent student who participates actively in school activities.

We are aware of the plans by his Legal Guardian,xxxx, to pursue a Master’s degree in Canada. We understand that xxxx will be accompanying her to continue his education there.

We highly recommend Bleep for admission into any primary Bleep institution in Canada, as he has the academic foundation and character to excel. Please find his most recent academic reports attached for your review.

Yours faithfully,

xxxx

[Name of Principal/Head Teacher]
[Official School Stamp]

JMG12:
They can use a visit- all-purpose or study permit, they don't need a letter of acceptance

Thanks for the clarification, @JMG12. We have decided to proceed with Study Permits for the kids. However, we have a few questions regarding the documentation for minors:

Details of Intended Study in Canada: Since minors don't need a Letter of Acceptance (LOA), what should they input in this section? Should I list a generic "Public School Board" in the city where they will be studying, or leave it blank/write "To be determined upon arrival"?

Employment/Education History: For the children's "Current Activity/Employment" section,we will list their current school in Nigeria.

Supporting Documents: we have requested Letters of Recommendation from their current Nigerian schools (Elementary and High School). Are there any other specific documents required from their current schools—such as transcripts, report cards, or "To Whom It May Concern" letters—to strengthen the application?

we would appreciate any insights from those who have successfully processed Study Permits for minors from Nigeria.

SOPWriter:

1. I understand money isn't a problem here, but note that your ties are equally important. Applying with your whole family might make the visa officer doubt whether you will return to Nigeria. However, you could go ahead if you have strong anchors like property, business, or extended family back home. Regardless, I would still recommend you apply alone for now and establish that you are a genuine student enrolled in a DLI before bringing your family over.

2. Neither you nor your family needs a PAL. Your wife is applying for an Open Work Permit (not a study permit), so she doesn't need a PAL. Your minor children can hold visitor records, and a PAL is absolutely unnecessary for that as well.

Wishing you good luck.

@SOPWriter, Was wondering if it better to apply for visitor visa for minor kids or student permit

Oghenerukoko:
Good morning. I don't know if I should say I am new here because I've been following this platform since last year and have been able to get my admission from the posts I read here. Kudos to Soltech1000, Okonkwobestman1, Sopwriter, Gloriousange. I read all of you posts one by one. I want to start my visa and I have questions.

1 We are family of 4 and all our children are minors. If the money is not the problem, would you advise me to leave my family behind or apply with them?
2 Will my wife and children need their own PAL?

Thank you

@Oghenerukoko, I’ve been following this forum for a while and find myself in a very similar situation. I am currently assisting my aunt and her family friend with their applications, which we are looking to submit within the next 48 hours. Here is a breakdown of their profiles:

Profile 1: My Aunt
Family Structure: Family of 5, but applying for the Study Permit for herself and 2 children only (husband is staying back for now).

Academic Status: Admitted for a Master’s in Leadership at the University of Regina; $15,000 tuition deposit already paid.

Financials: Approximately ₦60 million across two personal bank accounts.

Travel History: Solo travel to Dubai (2019); East African trip with children last year.

Ties/Background: Senior Sales Manager in Hospitality. Registered personal business (inactive). Husband has an active business with full CAC/Tax documentation, plus property and vehicle titles.

Profile 2: Family Friend
Family Structure: Mother and 4 children (2 biological, 2 foster with legal guardianship affidavits).

Academic Status: Also admitted for a Master’s at Regina made 10k cad tuition deposit

Visa History: Mother has a valid Visitor Visa (TRV) until 2034. All 4 children have TRVs valid until August (recently renewed passports). Husband also holds an existing TRV with multiple previous visits to Canada.

Financials: Husband’s Domiciliary account holds over $170,000 USD, plus ₦50 million in local accounts. Includes full business documentation (CAC/Tax).

Travel History: Trip to East Africa last year; wife and kids have not yet utilized their Canadian visas.

Specific Question Regarding Minor Applicants
When filling out the study permit forms for the children accompanying a parent on a Master's degree:

What should be listed as the "School Name" for the children? Since they are minors, they generally attend primary or secondary schools based on their residence in Canada, but they may not have a specific Letter of Acceptance (LOA) yet.

Does anyone have experience on whether to list a generic "Public School Board" or a specific school in the Regina area?

You might have to call and ask the graduate admission unit. They are pretty good in responding or you email to ask.

we used the school agent and pretty easy as they have direct access to the school.

If you had 2.1 you should be fine, but November till Now. SOmething should be wrong. Please check with the school.

ColdHunter:
Applied in November.

Application deadline was 31st March

Did you apply before March 31?

If yes, they normally say between 30-45 days after deadline

ColdHunter:
Aging Studies (Gerontology)

which program? My aunty and her friend got already for Master in leadership. I also know like 2 friend relative that also got recently
.

ColdHunter:
Guys is it normal that till now University Of Regina hasn't given admission decision for the Fall session?

I find it quite curious.

I've sent a couple of mails and the feedback is that they are still reviewing.

I am about to complete my aunty application and her family friend. But wanted to come here is any one has recently gotten successful family application. To recap

My Aunt got admitted for a Master in leader University of <Regina - Made 10k cad tuition deposit and been accompany by 2 kids which we added as student to her application. We uploaded her admission letter when ask for the kids LOA.. We didnt add his husband , he doesnt have canada visa yet, we plan to apply later if they are in canada. Husband has his CAC docs. etc

Her friend same program deposit of 10K but accompany 4kids ( 2 biological and 2 foster) all had previous visitor visa that was never used.
Her husband has over 40million naira account and over 170k usd dom account. CAC documents and txt clearance for himself. Husband already has visitor visa

Thanks

Alapereketu:
All family members, including children and foster children, must complete an immigration medical exam. While some applicants may wait for instructions, it is generally recommended for family class applicants to complete these exams upfront to avoid delays.

Hello my precious people, anyone done family application latedly. I have ask previous here, but now my aunty friend now have change of minde to include the 2 children and 2 foster kids to her applications. Are the kids suppose to do complete upfrong medicals. I am also trying to know what chances for the two families.

Flagpoling = leaving Canada briefly (usually to the U.S.) and immediately coming back to process an immigration request at the border.

Someone flying from Nigeria to Canada = NOT flagpoling
Someone already in Canada going to US border and back = flagpoling

Predator188:
6
Unless you want to test the microphone 🎤 they stopped flagpole for study permit at POE.
https://www.canada.ca/en/border-services-agency/news/2024/12/ending-flagpoling-for-work-and-study-permits-at-the-border.html

Yes, testing the microphone is not a big deal—I actually enjoy doing that. And for this particular release, I’m quite familiar with it.

Just to clarify something: this is not flagpoling.
Flagpoling is when someone already in Canada leaves briefly (to the U.S. or places like St. Pierre and Miquelon) and re-enters to access immigration services at the border.

In this case, they are flying in directly from Nigeria, so it’s a completely different situation.

Worst case, let them test the mic and see how it goes. The mum already has a valid student visa, and the kids have valid visitor visas. At the end of the day, it also depends on the CBSA officer they meet at the port of entry. These officers are not monsters the way some people think—they assess based on documents and situation.

That’s why I always say, Naija no dey carry last 😄
You sef hear am from King Charles abi?

Predator188:
6
Unless you want to test the microphone 🎤 they stopped flagpole for study permit at POE.
https://www.canada.ca/en/border-services-agency/news/2024/12/ending-flagpoling-for-work-and-study-permits-at-the-border.html

Did any body notice any changes with CRS. A friend just contacted me now,he said his CRS was 392 for a long time when he checked now it has reduced to 374. And his birth has reached yet. Its ome later in the year.

I have few people that did that. That is waht we plan to do and will update the house on the outcome here.


Will share the flight ticket the day they plan to come in and update here the outcome. The mum with valid visitor visa and valid students and 4 minor kids with vistor visa.

amnotapervert:

vistor visa and maybe declare at the point of entry that they will be studying.

Bad idea very bad idea and extremely risky.....

If you do that at the POE, Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) will likely deny you entry immediately, send you back to Murtala Muhammed International Airport, and flag any future visa applications even worst of all, they will receive a 5-year ban for misrepresentation at the spot...

do you understand the context of you have a vistor visa but on entering you tell CBSA that you will not just be visiting but studying for more than 6 months I guess....DO NOT DO THAT

My aunt and her friend also planning in to put in family application. We intend adding the two kids as students and Mum student and spouse visitor. But luckly her friend already have vissitor, so its only the her that is applying for student permit while the children will travel with her using their vistor visa and maybe declare at the point of entry that they will be studying.

megastu:
My clients too, since December 2025.

Any one done family application recently ? Checking if the accompanying kids has to go for upfrong medical with their mum.

I always advise people not to rely on working 24 hours per week to cover their school fees. It’s not realistic, and a lot depends on luck—especially when you first arrive in Canada. Some people spend up to 3 months searching for a job without success.

When I first arrived a few years ago, I landed in Regina. It wasn’t too difficult back then, but things have changed now. I’ve since moved, but I still have friends and family there. The situation in Ottawa is quite similar.

For example, I have a family friend who recently moved to Regina—it took them about 3–4 months to secure a job. Keep in mind that as a student, you’re limited to 24 hours of work per week during the school term.

Based on people I know, students typically earn around $250–$300 biweekly, depending on the type of job. That’s roughly $500–$800 per month if you’re consistently working. Even at that, it’s usually not enough to cover rent, let alone tuition fees.

My honest advice is this: student jobs can help you survive—covering basic expenses like rent and food if you’re hardworking—but you should plan to have enough funds for at least the first few months while you settle in. Everyone’s situation is different, but relying on part-time work to pay tuition is very risky.

coolflame7:
Good day boss, I got admission to study a one year pgwp eligible program (Disability support professional) at sask poly, I have deposit of $5k and and pof secured but I don’t have tuition balance of $15k cad. Is it realistically possible to work while in Canada and pay up the remaining tuition. Also do you have any reservations about a one year program.

When you click Apply to come to Canada. You have option of using a personal reference code. If you dont have use the other option Determine your eligibility and apply online.

This process take you through questionaire

Chigbo55:
I can't get my personal reference code to start my study permit application, what can I do about it? Is there any other way around it?

I was already aware of the PGWP extension policy, and I personally benefited from it.

That said, we’re not too worried. We have a meeting scheduled with a Nigerian immigration lawyer on Wednesday to discuss the situation and possible options. At the end of the day, when God has your back, nothing is impossible.

Interestingly, in the middle of all this, she coincidentally met a lawyer in Ontario through a friend. The lawyer had come to the same hostel to fix her hair, and during their conversation she explained her situation. After hearing her story, the lawyer agreed to take her into her law firm initially as a trainee to see how she might be able to support her, possibly until she obtains her license.

From what we understand, after completing her field placement, she may also be able to request some time to prepare for and complete the LSO licensing exam. To practice as a paralegal in Ontario, you must obtain the Law Society of Ontario (LSO) license.

If she schedules her licensing exam after graduation, she may be able to get some time before writing the exam, which could buy her additional time.

The hope is that if everything works out, the lawyer may eventually employ her as a licensed paralegal in the firm once she obtains her license.

For now, we are exploring all possible options and hoping for the best.

amnotapervert:
You know that getting extensions after a PGWP has expired is different from the case we are talking about here. In this situation, she does not even qualify for a PGWP in the first place.

The last time Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) did something like that was back in 2023.

Canada previously allowed an extra 18-month open work permit for PGWP holders whose permits expired in 2023.

https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/news/2023/03/canada-announces-extension-of-post-graduation-work-permits-for-up-to-18-months-to-retain-high-skilled-talent.html?utm

They are not going to extend anything

That temporary policy has now ended, and there is currently no new extension program for PGWP expirations between 2024 and 2026.

Another possible option is a Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP), but that only applies if someone has already submitted a PR application, which is not her case. https://ircc.canada.ca/english/helpcentre/answer.asp?qnum=676&top=29&utm

So let’s stick to the situation you mentioned: she does not qualify for a PGWP.

Realistically, how practical is it for someone to stay in Canada on a one-year visitor record when it doesn’t allow the person to work? We all know how expensive and cold this country can be.

LMIA has also become a pay-to-get system in many cases, with some fake agents exploiting the situation and charging people as much as $30,000, even though it is illegal to charge workers for an LMIA. check Facebook market place you will see American wonda

At the end of the day, she can try anything that works, but her options are very limited basically going back to school or returning home (MMA1).

Haha! You’re completely wrong about that. I’ve seen people receive visa extensions even after their PGWP expired, and also after completing programs that were not eligible for PGWP. In many of these cases, they were issued a one-year visitor record. The problem, however, is that with a visitor record they are allowed to stay in Canada but cannot work.

If we dont get any better option before then. We can explore that. Till a company is able to get LMIA for her.

Meanwhile you said LMIA has casted. How , was there any update from IRCC about that, please share. Give reason why you said it wouldnt work smoothly when you are not IRCC

amnotapervert:
LMIA has casted and in her case will not work that smooth
So in summary, it’s still what I said: if she cannot secure admission and a new study permit before her current school ends, she should book the next flight to Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) AKA MMA 1

Further research and sharing here . when AI exist less effort needed now for researching

Yes, your new company can potentially employ your cousin using a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), but there are some important conditions and risks you should understand.

1. Why your cousin cannot use a PGWP

The Post‑Graduation Work Permit is only available if the program studied is PGWP-eligible. Many post-graduate certificate programs for paralegals are not eligible, so the student cannot automatically get an open work permit after graduating.

That means your cousin would need another type of work permit, such as one supported by an LMIA.

2. Yes — your company can apply for an LMIA

Your company can apply through the Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program.

If approved, the LMIA allows the worker to apply for a closed work permit tied to your company.

However, the government will check that:

The job is real and needed

You advertised the job to Canadians first

The wage meets the median wage for the occupation

Your company is legitimate and able to pay the salary

Typical LMIA steps:

Advertise the job for at least 4 weeks

Show proof no Canadian/permanent resident was available

Submit LMIA application

Pay $1,000 LMIA processing fee

If approved, the worker applies for a work permit

3. Important issue when hiring a relative

Because the worker is your cousin, the government may examine the application closely to ensure it is not arranged employment or favoritism.

They will expect:

Genuine recruitment efforts

Evidence other candidates were considered

Proof the position actually exists in your company

If they think the LMIA was created just to help a relative get a work permit, it can be refused.

4. Another challenge: new company

Since you mentioned the firm is newly opened, ESDC may also ask for:

Business registration documents

Business bank account

Contracts or clients

Financial ability to pay wages

A brand-new company with no activity yet may struggle to get an LMIA approved.

5. Possible alternatives (sometimes easier)

Depending on your cousin's situation, these might be better options:

International Mobility Program (LMIA-exempt permits)

Provincial immigration streams like the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program

Employer-driven streams if the job qualifies

✅ Summary:

Yes, your company can apply for LMIA to hire your cousin.

But it must be a real job, properly advertised, and paid at market rate.

Because the company is new and the worker is a relative, approval may be more difficult.

ehiremen2002:
It depends on what exactly you are looking at.

I am already in Canada. I came here through the study route a couple of years ago, and I actually got most of the information that helped me from this same Nairaland forum.

Everything I know today about the process started from here. I eventually secured my PR, and since then I have been using this same forum to guide family members and friends who are trying to follow a similar path.

Whenever I come across situations where I am not completely sure about the best advice to give, I bring the matter back here so people can share ideas. And by God’s grace, many people have successfully come to Canada through the same route after getting guidance here.

So I’m not really sure what you mean by analyzing my post history.

You can take your time, grab a drink if you like, and go through my posts from the very first one when I was asking questions about coming to Canada as a student.

At the end of the day, the same forum you are trying to analyze is the one that helped someone come to Canada, study, and eventually secure permanent residency.

So instead of focusing on post history, the goal here should be sharing useful information and helping others succeed through the same path.

It depends on what exactly you are looking at.

I am already in Canada. I came here through the study route a couple of years ago, and I actually got most of the information that helped me from this same Nairaland forum.

Everything I know today about the process started from here. I eventually secured my PR, and since then I have been using this same forum to guide family members and friends who are trying to follow a similar path.

Whenever I come across situations where I am not completely sure about the best advice to give, I bring the matter back here so people can share ideas. And by God’s grace, many people have successfully come to Canada through the same route after getting guidance here.

So I’m not really sure what you mean by analyzing my post history.

You can take your time, grab a drink if you like, and go through my posts from the very first one when I was asking questions about coming to Canada as a student.

At the end of the day, the same forum you are trying to analyze is the one that helped someone come to Canada, study, and eventually secure permanent residency.

So instead of focusing on post history, the goal here should be sharing useful information and helping others succeed through the same path.

Nozino:
lol. A look at your post history tells it all.

Another school option would likely be too expensive right now, so the most realistic path we are considering is LMIA.

Since she is my cousin, we have been trying to connect with a law firm that might be willing to support an LMIA process. We believe this could be possible because paralegals may be in demand in Ontario, especially for candidates who complete their studies locally.

From checking the Law Society of Ontario (LSO) website, there are about 451 registered paralegals in Ontario, and realistically some of them may no longer be actively practicing.

My cousin is currently completing her Paralegal program at Algonquin College, and she will begin her field placement in September. Interestingly, her professor mentioned that Algonquin College has stopped accepting new students into the paralegal program, which could potentially reduce the number of new graduates entering the profession in the future.

Another option we have considered is activating a family business that has been incorporated for a while but hasn’t been actively operating yet. The idea would be to use the business to employ her and potentially pursue LMIA that way. However, since the company has not generated profits yet, we are not sure it would meet the requirements to sponsor an LMIA.

For now, we will see how things develop between now and September.

We are also considering the possibility of her taking a scheduled break between Level 2 and Level 3 semesters just to have some breathing space and reassess the best path forward.

If anyone here has experience with LMIA for paralegals or similar situations in Ontario, your advice would be appreciated.

amnotapervert:
Before graduation, if they cannot find another school and secure admission and a visa, the next best option is to book the next flight to MMA1.

Cousin, this is family matter. And we got with option that is doesn’t legal and legit

Nozino:
I only listed the available options that I’m aware of. It’s up to your client to decide what they want to do.