--- slug: "public-benefits-and-records" title: "Public Benefits & Records" template_kind: "custom-update" template_version: "v2" --- # Public Benefits & Records We help clients with records requests, assessments for eligibility for immigration-related public-benefit programs, and status updates that come from government portals (including IRCC and related systems). ## Our scope of work - We provide immigration representation and advice across inland and overseas matters, including family sponsorships, work and study permits, express entry, appeals and removal orders, and related immigration applications. - To begin intake, you can use our free assessment form: https://moyal.com/free-assessment/ - We prepare and execute client authorizations, affidavits, special powers of attorney, and other documents needed to allow third-party communications with government agencies. Many records requests and portal activities require a signed client authorization or power of attorney before we can act on a client’s behalf. We prepare those documents when required. ## Records requests (what we do and what clients can expect) - We can assist clients who want copies of their immigration or visa application records, notes, or decision letters held by IRCC or other Canadian government bodies. ### Typical steps for a records request - **Intake and identity verification:** We confirm the client’s identity and gather the file numbers and any reference numbers you have. - **Execute authorization:** We obtain the signed retainer and a client authorization or power of attorney that permits us to communicate with IRCC or to submit requests on the client’s behalf. - **Submit the request:** We submit the records request to the appropriate government channel (for example, the IRCC webform, Access to Information and Privacy mechanisms, or another official pathway) and supply any required identification documents. - **Monitor and follow up:** We monitor the request status and follow up as needed until we receive the records or a final government response. ### Timelines Government response times vary by program and workload. Some records requests can take several weeks to many months depending on the channel used and the agency’s current processing times. For a free preliminary review, direct clients to: https://moyal.com/free-assessment/ ## Citizenship record searches (IRCC) — what they are and when they help If you need proof about whether a person became a Canadian citizen (and if so, when and how), IRCC offers an application to **search citizenship records** (commonly used to locate historical citizenship records and obtain written confirmation of the results). ### When a citizenship record search may be appropriate A citizenship record search may be useful when you: - need confirmation of Canadian citizenship status based on past events and records (for example, older citizenship grants or historical files) - are missing key details needed for another citizenship-related process (for example, you don’t have a certificate number or you don’t know whether a citizenship record exists) ### Who can apply IRCC allows applications for a citizenship record search in different situations, including: - applying for your own records - applying for someone else’s records (additional consent/authority requirements can apply) ### What the application typically requires Requirements vary by the situation and the information available, but record-search applications typically involve: - completing the appropriate IRCC application form(s) and following the guide instructions - providing identity documents and any supporting information that helps IRCC locate the correct record - paying the applicable government fee ### Outcomes you may receive Depending on what IRCC finds (or does not find), the result may include: - written confirmation of the search results - copies or certified information relating to a citizenship record (when available) ### Online vs. paper filing IRCC may allow this type of application to be submitted online or by mail, depending on the current process described in the guide. ## Canadian citizenship applications (adult vs. minor) — how we help you prepare IRCC has different Canadian citizenship application pathways depending on whether the applicant is an **adult (18 or older)** or a **minor (under 18)**. We can help you clarify which application path applies and what supporting documents you should gather, especially when there are questions about a person’s current status, historical records, or a parent/guardian situation. ### Adult applications (18 or older) Adult citizenship applications generally involve confirming that you meet IRCC’s eligibility rules and preparing a complete application package. ### Minor applications (under 18) Minor citizenship applications follow a different IRCC process than adult applications. In many cases, a parent or legal guardian is involved in the application. ### When records/status clarification is important before applying You may want to confirm status or obtain records before starting a citizenship application if: - you are not sure whether you already have Canadian citizenship (for example, through a past grant) - you do not have key details needed for a citizenship-related process - you need documentation about a parent’s status or a child’s status for planning the correct pathway To start, use our free assessment form and tell us whether the applicant is an adult or a minor: https://moyal.com/free-assessment/ ## Eligibility for public-benefit programs (how we assist) - We evaluate client eligibility for immigration-related public benefits and programs (for example, benefits tied to immigration status or specific programs that affect immigration outcomes). - Our evaluation can include a document review, an assessment of status or history in Canada, and a written recommendation about next steps or likely outcomes. - When an eligibility decision depends on government records, we can combine a records request with the eligibility assessment so recommendations are based on the official record where possible. ## Status updates and government portals (how we monitor and communicate) - We track case status updates and notify clients when there are material changes. - We advise clients on how to provide portal access or how to give us formal consent to act on their behalf. - Where clients retain access to their IRCC portals (GCKey or Sign-In Partner), we may request timely screenshots or forwarded notices to ensure we are working with the latest information. ## PR card status & PR card application support Permanent Resident (PR) cards are issued and managed by IRCC. We can assist with PR-card-related matters such as: - understanding which PR-card process applies to your situation (first PR card, renewal, replacement, or update) - preparing and reviewing supporting documentation - responding to IRCC requests and following up through official channels - tracking updates and helping you interpret IRCC correspondence and portal status changes ### Common PR card situations we help with - **First PR card:** After you become a permanent resident, IRCC issues the first PR card. - **Renewal:** If your PR card is expiring (or has expired), you may need to renew it. - **Replacement:** If your PR card was lost, stolen, destroyed, or is damaged, you may need a replacement. - **Updating information:** In certain situations, you may need to update information related to your PR card file. - **Urgent processing:** If you have upcoming travel and need a PR card urgently, there may be options depending on IRCC’s current criteria. ### What we typically need from you for a PR card matter - a copy of your current PR card (front and back), if you have it - a copy of your Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) or Record of Landing (if available) - copies of any IRCC correspondence about your PR card - travel details if you are requesting urgent processing (if applicable) - government-issued photo identification ## What we need from clients (documents & authorizations) - Government-issued photo ID (passport or national ID) for identity verification. - Copies of any IRCC or visa numbers, file numbers, client portal screenshots, or correspondence you already possess. - A signed retainer and a third-party authorization (or power of attorney) that explicitly allows us to request records and receive information. - Any forms or receipts you already received from IRCC or other agencies. ## Fees & timelines (summary) - We charge professional fees for preparing and submitting records requests, for monitoring portals, and for eligibility assessments. - Exact retainer amounts and flat fees for records or monitoring services are set by our office. - Government agencies set their own response timelines. We cannot guarantee government turnaround times, but we will track the request and provide status updates. ## How to start - **New clients:** Complete our free assessment at https://moyal.com/free-assessment/ and attach copies of ID and any IRCC correspondence. - **Existing clients:** Email our intake team at canada@moyal.com with your full name, date of birth, and any IRCC file or UCI numbers, and request a records/portal-service intake. ## Contact Head Office: 7 Hendon Ave, Toronto, Ontario M2M 4G8 Phone: 416-733-3193 Email: canada@moyal.com General resources and FAQs: https://moyal.com/faqs/