Preparing for the Interview

A visa office interview is an important step in the refugee sponsorship process. Being well-prepared can help ensure a smooth process.
Watch the video to let the SAH representative guide you, or follow the list below to see how you can prepare.

Before the Interview

• Review Your Application:
• • Review everything you wrote in your application, including your personal history, refugee claim, and family details.
  • Make sure the information you provide in the interview matches what you submitted.
• Prepare Your Story
• • Be ready to explain why you are seeking refugee protection, including the threats or persecution you faced.
  • Provide all specific details: Clearly explain the events that made you flee your country.
• Practice Your Interview
• • Try explaining your story to someone else or practicing aloud

You will be informed when and where your interview will take place. Take notes of the date and set a reminder. Interviews are generally conducted by a Canadian Visa Officer. 

On the Interview Day

• Bring All Important Documents
  The documents you submitted with your application, including any original copies of:
• • Proof of Persecution
    Any additional evidence of threats or harm you faced
  • Additional Documents
    If you have any new documents, bring them with an explanation of why they were not included before.
    E.g., Is the original composition of the family (refugee applicants) still the same? If there have been any recent changes like birth, death or adoption, inform the visa office, attach the required documents and keep your sponsor in the loop.
  • Translations
    If documents are not in English or French, bring certified translations along with the originals.

Refugees have the right to a free interpreter, as the interpreter’s services are already covered and do not require payment from the refugee.

To find out how to conduct yourself during the interview, click here.