Consultation Agreement for Immigration Info and Advice

Summary

The video script outlines the process of engaging with McEwen International's specialists for immigration advice tailored to students. It emphasizes the regulated nature of immigration advice in Canada, the importance of entering a consultation agreement, and the role of licensed consultants. The script clarifies that McEwen does not charge for advice but is limited to student-related programs. It also discusses privacy, potential conflicts of interest due to employment with the University, and the importance of confidentiality when working with external consultants or lawyers.

Takeaways

• 📝 Consultation Agreement: All individuals seeking immigration information in Canada must enter into a consultation agreement due to the regulated nature of providing immigration advice.
• 🏫 McEwen International: The institution does not charge for providing immigration advice, focusing on student-related programs.
• 👩‍⚖️ Regulated Consultants: McEwen employs RCICs (Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultants) and RISIAS (Regulated International Student Immigration Advisors), regulated by the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants (CICC).
• 📚 Limited Scope of Service: McEwen's services are limited to advice on student programs and do not include completing immigration applications or representing individuals before authorities.
• 📑 Document Handling: McEwen does not retain original documents but may request to see them to tailor advice to specific circumstances.
• 🔄 Changes in Circumstances: Students are asked to inform McEwen of any changes in their situation to ensure the advice remains relevant.
• 📣 Policy Updates: Immigration policies are subject to frequent changes, and McEwen communicates updates to students.
• 🤝 Confidentiality vs. Privacy: McEwen maintains privacy under the Freedom of Information and Protection Act, distinguishing between confidentiality with consultants/lawyers and privacy within the university.
• ⚠️ Conflict of Interest: Acknowledgement of potential conflict of interest due to the dual role of McEwen's consultants as university employees.
• 🖋️ Agreement Process: The agreement includes sections for personal information, a waiver of confidentiality and conflict of interest, and must be signed in the presence of a specialist.
• 🔑 Contact Information: The agreement provides a list of authorized individuals at McEwen International with their contact details for immigration advice.

Q & A

What is the purpose of entering into a consultation agreement with McEwen International?

The purpose is to establish a relationship where McEwen International can provide immigration information specifically related to students, ensuring compliance with regulated activities and legal advice in Canada.

Who are the regulated professionals at McEwen International that can provide immigration advice?

Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultants (RCICs) and Regulated International Student Immigration Advisors (RISIAs) are the licensed professionals at McEwen International authorized to provide immigration advice.

Does McEwen International charge a fee for providing immigration advice?

No, McEwen International does not charge a fee for providing immigration advice. Their services are limited to offering advice on student-related programs.

What is the role of students in ensuring they receive the best possible immigration advice?

Students are responsible for providing accurate and complete information to McEwen International so that the advice given is tailored to their specific circumstances.

What should students do if there are changes to their situation?

Students should inform McEwen International promptly of any changes to their situation to ensure the advice provided remains relevant and accurate.

Can RCICs and RISIAs at McEwen International be retained to complete immigration applications or represent students before immigration authorities?

No, RCICs and RISIAs at McEwen International cannot be retained for the purpose of completing immigration applications or representing students before immigration authorities.

What happens if a student's situation requires additional assistance beyond McEwen International's scope?

In such cases, McEwen International may refer the student to an external immigration consultant or lawyer who can provide specialized advice and potentially assist with the application.

What is the policy regarding the retention of original documents by McEwen International?

McEwen International does not collect or retain any of the students' original documents but may request to see documents such as study permits to tailor advice to specific circumstances.

How does McEwen International handle privacy and the protection of students' information?

McEwen International safeguards students' information under the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act, ensuring that information is not shared without explicit permission.

What is the difference between confidentiality and privacy as it pertains to McEwen International's services?

Privacy implies that McEwen International does not share information unless necessary for service provision. Confidentiality, when working with a consultant or lawyer, ensures they cannot disclose any shared information due to professional obligations.

What should students do if they become aware of any changes in immigration policies and regulations?

Students should visit the McEwen International office and consult with an international student specialist to determine if the changes affect their situation.

What is the process for signing the agreement with McEwen International?

Students need to complete all sections of the agreement, including the date, their names, and signatures on the relevant sections. The agreement is then signed in the presence of a specialist and kept on file.