Immigration Lawyers in Burnaby

Build the record before the decision

The strongest time to solve an immigration problem is often before an officer decides. We identify the legal test, the documents that prove each point and the weakness an officer may see. Clear evidence can prevent avoidable delay and refusal.

If a refusal has already occurred, the strategy changes. We review the reasons, record and deadline. An appeal may allow new evidence. A Federal Court judicial review usually examines legality, reasonableness or fairness and does not simply redo the application. The correct route depends on the decision.

Temporary and permanent immigration applications

We advise on visitor, study and work matters, permanent residence, family sponsorship, citizenship and selected employer applications. We help clients present a coherent record and respond to procedural-fairness concerns when appropriate.

Spousal sponsorship and family reunification

Sponsorship cases may turn on whether the relationship is genuine and not entered primarily for immigration purposes. We help couples organize relationship evidence, address inconsistencies and prepare for interviews or appeals. Cultural expectations, prior relationships and time spent apart must be explained honestly, not hidden.

Immigration Appeal Division

We represent clients in sponsorship appeals, residency-obligation matters and other cases within the Immigration Appeal Division’s jurisdiction. An appeal may involve testimony, documents, credibility and humanitarian considerations. Preparation begins with understanding why the original decision failed.

Federal Court judicial review

A Federal Court application may challenge an immigration or citizenship decision for unreasonableness, legal error or procedural unfairness. Filing deadlines can be very short. Contact counsel as soon as the decision is communicated. Judicial review does not guarantee approval; a successful case often returns the matter for a new decision by a different decision-maker.

Mandamus for unreasonable delay

When an application has been delayed far beyond what the process reasonably requires, the Federal Court may have power to compel a decision. Mandamus is not a guarantee of approval and not a tool for ordinary queue-jumping. We assess the length and cause of delay, your efforts to obtain a decision, the government’s explanation and the practical effect on you.

Residency obligation and status issues

Permanent residents may face travel-document refusals, removal proceedings or appeals involving the residency obligation. These matters can involve records of travel, employment, family circumstances and humanitarian considerations. Obtain advice before assuming that an expired card means status has ended, or that a status issue can wait.

Explain the fact the decision-maker may misunderstand

A document does not always explain the culture behind it. Family finances, wedding customs, household registration, name order and communication patterns may be understood differently in Canada and China. George Lee advises in English and Mandarin and helps clients present foreign-language evidence in a form the decision-maker can understand.

Immigration Lawyers in Burnaby and Vancouver