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Embarking on a journey to study in Canada is an exciting prospect for international students. To ensure a smooth transition, a Regulated International Student Immigration Advisor (RISIA) becomes a valuable ally, offering essential guidance on study permits and temporary visas. Although often confused with Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultants (RCICs), RISIAs play a distinct yet crucial role in supporting students during their academic journey.
Studying in a foreign country can be overwhelming for international students. From adapting to a new culture to navigating paperwork and processes, the challenges are numerous. RISIAs specialize in helping with study permits and temporary visas, offering support to students seeking to study in Canada or gain insights into living abroad as international or exchange students. While their duties are confined to advising, their expertise proves indispensable in helping students thrive within designated learning institutions.
Understanding the significance of study permits and visitor visas is paramount. A study permit allows foreign nationals to study at designated learning institutions (DLIs) after completing the application process. Given the potentially lengthy processing times, planning with a minimum leeway of 6 months is advisable. On the other hand, a visitor visa, also known as a temporary resident visa, is essential for citizens from visa-required countries intending to temporarily reside in Canada. The absence of this document could lead to severe consequences, emphasizing its vital role in the immigration process.
Despite limitations on their duties, RISIAs play a crucial role in supporting international students. While they cannot personally intervene, their expertise in advising on study permits and visitor visas makes them an invaluable resource for students navigating the complexities of studying abroad.
The role of RISIA offers significant flexibility in terms of workplace choices. Opportunities extend to primary and secondary schools, universities or colleges designated as learning institutions. This specialization in advising on study permits and visitor visas adds a unique dimension to the role, allowing professionals to become experts in a specific field.
Becoming a RISIA requires meeting specific criteria:
Maintaining a RISIA license involves annual tasks, including providing proof of Professional Liability Insurance, completing 6 hours of Continuing Professional Development (CPD), and complying with the Code of Professional Conduct set by the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants (CICC).
While both professions involve immigration advice, RCICs have a broader scope of responsibilities, including guiding clients on immigration and citizenship options, suggesting suitable programs, and representing clients in applications or hearings. RCICs can establish independent consulting practices, whereas RISIA licences do not permit such independence.
In conclusion, a career as a Regulated International Student Immigration Advisor can be immensely rewarding. By guiding international students through the immigration process, RISIAs contribute significantly to their academic journeys. If you are passionate about assisting students from diverse backgrounds and have an interest in immigration law, a career as a RISIA might be the ideal path for you. Do not hesitate to explore this fulfilling career opportunity—it could mark the beginning of your journey in the field of immigration.
The information contained in this post is considered true and accurate as of the publication date. However, the accuracy of this information may be impacted by changes in circumstances that occur after the time of publication. Ashton College assumes no liability for any error or omissions in the information contained in this post or any other post in our blog.
