Reply from the Ministry of Immigration

Dear Ms. Gonzalez Almaguer:

I am replying to your e-mail of June 10, 2011, addressed to the Honourable Jason Kenney, Minister of Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism, concerning the refusal of a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) for your sister, Ms. Yamina Gonzalez Almaguer.

As you may be aware, the Privacy Act prohibits the release of information on our clients without their written consent.  This legislation was designed to protect a person’s right to privacy when dealing with Canadian government institutions.  Our records do not indicate that you have been authorized, in writing, by Ms. Gonzalez Almaguer to receive information specific to her immigration file.

If you wish to make future enquiries about her application, she should fill out and sign an Authority to Release Personal Information to a Designated Individual form (IMM 5475), available at the following address: www.cic.gc.ca/english/pdf/kits/ forms/IMM5475E.pdf.  This will authorize Citizenship and Immigration Canada to provide you with information about her application.  The form can be submitted with a new written request to:

Minister of Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism

Citizenship and Immigration Canada

Ottawa ON  K1A 1L1

The Immigration and Refugee Protection Act gives visa officers the authority to issue TRVs and sets out certain basic requirements.  Applicants must demonstrate that they are genuine visitors, coming to Canada for a temporary period and will return home at the end of an authorized visit.   While we are able to approve most applications, we are required by law to refuse those where the individuals have not demonstrated that they are genuine visitors, coming to Canada for a temporary visit, and will return home at the end of an authorized stay.  Unless the visa officer is completely satisfied that the applicant is a genuine visitor, a TRV cannot be issued.

Hosts and relatives in Canada are welcome to support the application of a family member.  However, although such support may be considered, the decision of the officer is ultimately based on the applicant’s circumstances, and not on any guarantees that anyone may be prepared to offer on his or her behalf.  For this reason, the officers must form an opinion about the visitors’ intentions independent of the hosts’ assurances.

Thank you for taking the time to bring your concerns to the Minister's attention.  I trust that this information is helpful.

Sincerely,

G. Holmes

Ministerial Enquiries Division