Immigrating to another country can be complex. The applicant likely has to navigate policy, procedure and legal requirements. This is true even of relatively straightforward applications, such as visitor visas or applications to reunite with family members. The system is complex and is made up of a number of moving parts and stakeholders. The immigration system includes: The jurisprudence (the law --the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act or Citizenship Act); Regulations and policy (the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations, the Manuals, Operational Bulletins, the IRCC website, etc.); Lawyers and registered/regulated consultants; IRCC Officers; CBSA Officers; and The Federal Court of Canada I wanted to discuss the Federal Court in this post. Many clients are not aware of the role of the Federal Court. Some lawyers and consultants may not realize the limits of that role. The fact of the matter is that there are tens of thousands if not more decisions made by front line decision makers (IRCC and CBSA Officers and the tribunals that make up the Immigration and Refugee Board) every year. Some decisions can be challenged. However, the jurisprudence establishes significant deference and respect for the decisions of the various tribunals of the IRB and the decisions... Read more →