Picture this: you’ve got your Canadian visa, all the necessary paperwork in order, and your dreams set on studying or working in Canada. But here’s the catch – the Canada Border Service Agency (CBSA) holds the key to your entry. One wrong move and you could find yourself on the next flight back home.
If the thought of dealing with the CBSA makes your head spin, worry not. I’ve got you covered. As a fellow Canadian immigrant, I’ve uncovered the crucial 6 questions they may ask you at the airport when you come to Canada and how to answer them correctly and most importantly, how to ace them.
But that’s not all. You’ll also discover what the CBSA expects from you and the things you should avoid during your interrogation.
Get ready for an undercover operation as we delve into the world of the CBSA.”
What is the Meaning of CBSA?
When you arrive at a Canadian International Airport, you will encounter the CBSA, which stands for Canada Border Services Agency. They play a crucial role as the gatekeepers between you and Canada.
The CBSA officers are trained to assess and question immigrants entering Canada. They possess the ability to observe body language and detect any signs that raise suspicions about the information you provide.
Therefore, it is important to be prepared.
Regardless of your background, the CBSA has the authority to grant or deny your entry into Canada. Even if you have all the necessary documents and a valid job offer, your decision is not solely based on those factors.
Numerous well-qualified students, employees, and immigrants have been denied entry to Canada due to incorrect answers or behaving in a manner that raised suspicions at the CBSA checkpoint.
Before we delve into the six questions you may be asked when arriving in Canada for work and how to respond to them accurately, let’s discuss a few things you should keep in mind while in the interrogation room.
Before we delve into the 6 questions they may ask you at the airport when you come to Canada for work and how to answer them correctly, here are things you should carry in mind while in the Interrogation room.
6 things that May Positively or Negatively Affect you at CBSA
All it takes is one mistake and you’re out. Let’s face it, the appearance of the CBSA is killing and the butterflies won’t stop rejoicing.
But here are your safe anchors:
1: Direct band Concise Answers:
Answer what you are asked, and cut out the extras, they do not care. You will be implicating yourself in doing so.
2: Matching Answers:
Make sure the answers you’re providing match the information in your application letters or any letter at all.
If you have ever submitted any information about yourself to the US embassy, make sure what you’re giving to the CBSA matches it, these guys share information. Always be intentional about the information you give.
3: Do not Argue
Here it is not the place for human activists and talks twisting, being nice and passive.
Don’t give them a reason to check your device, that involves you not trying to show them any information from your device as you may risk showing what shouldn’t be seen. Put your phone on plane mode.
But if they ask to see your device, please don’t argue. On this note, make sure there’s nothing malicious on your device. Corporate fully.
4: Mind Your Body Language:
The best posture to assume is calm and steady, maintain eye contact while communicating with the CBSA. Tapping your legs, biting your fingers and continuously rubbing your palms sends suspicion. You don’t have to demonstrate while answering a question. Just be calm and gentle.
5: Understand Before Answering:
Here, Communication is key, answering it wrong or nearly is too risky. If you don’t understand English or French, request a translator.
However, before requesting a translator, make sure your language proficiency is below 5.
Else, you have no business with a translator. That’s why you must not hype any of your details to appear qualified.
6: Know Your Documents:
Be ready to repeat the exact details in your application form or documents at any time. Know the details of your purpose of entering Canada, know your employer’s details, or as a student, know your school, scholarship program and more. Always, go through your documents so that you won’t fumble.
6 Questions They May Ask You at the Airport When You Come to Canada and How to Answer Them Correctly
This section is majorly for students and employees Immigrating to Canada. The questions may be more, however, you won’t miss out anytime on these 6 questions they may ask you at the airport when you Come to Canada.
Read up to learn how to answer them correctly:
6 Questions for Students:
- Which School are you going to be studying in Canada?
- Which program are you enrolled in at this school?
- What is the duration of your study in Canada?
- If your program is a 2 year program, what are you going to do to pay for your tuition in the 2nd year?
- Where would you be studying or what would be your address in Canada?
- Who will be paying for your expenses here? Or, did you already pay your tuition fees?
The Answers to the 6 Questions for Students
PS: no smart-talking, hit the nail on the head.
Q 1: Which School are you going to be studying in Canada?
Tips: you’re expected to know the name of the school you will be studying in. Let’s say you applied to the University of Toronto;
Answer: University of Toronto.
Q 2: Which program are you enrolled in at this school?
Tips: Just tell them the name of the scholarship package you’re enrolled in. For example, it’s Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship.
Answer: the Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship.
Q3: What is the duration of your study in Canada?
Tips: Only give them the number of years that you’re staying. For example, 1 year.
Answer: One year.
Q4: If your program is a 2-year program, what are you going to do to pay for your tuition in the 2nd year?
Tips: this question is a trap, do not say I will be working to sponsor myself in Canada in the 2nd year.
Despite your study permit, it includes working part-time. Remember that your application states that you have enough funds to sponsor your stay and return from Canada.
Answer:
1: I have sufficient funds in my account to sponsor my tuition fee in the 2nd year of studying in Canada as proven in my statement of account.
2: I have family in my home country sending my fund regularly that I will use to sponsor tuition in the 2nd year of studying in Canada.
PS: be ready to show proof of whatever you’ve claimed.
Q5: Where would you be studying or what would be your address in Canada?
Tips: give them the address of where you’ll be lodging. If you have booked an apartment with Airbnb, if it’s a shared apartment, or if it’s a hotel, please share the address and any signed documents and address.
Answer: I Will be staying at [address of your lodge], here is proof that you have been granted accommodation[ show them your proof of accommodation]. If it’s a shared document, get ready to make phone calls and provide rock-hard proof.
Q6: Who will be paying for your expenses here or did you already pay for your tuition fees?
Tips: Go ahead and show them your proof of payment and source, not funds. They would love to see them. Whether you did a minimum pay or full payment, show them documents that back them up.
Documents You Should Have in One File at the CBSA
Forget your smartphone at your home, but documents. You will be required to show proof of anything during the investigation at the CSBA.
Here are the documents that’ll save you, you best have them in one file so that you’ll appear concise and acceptable:
- IRCC study permit approved Letter
- Letter not acceptance from the school in Canada
- Prove of deposit to the school for tuition fee
- IELTS, TOEFL or French or English exam scores.
- Current proof of funds
- Study plan or statement, not the purpose
- Proof of accommodation
- Proof of home ties( what you have in your home country that’s what going back to)
The Answers to the 6 Questions for an Employee
Here are six common questions that you might encounter, along with suggested answers:
- What is the purpose of your visit to Canada?
- What is the duration of your staying in Canada?
- What can you say about your employer?
- What would you be doing in the company that you’ll be employed in?
- Where would you be staying in Canada or what will be your compensation for working with your employer?
- After your contract with your employer, who/what are you returning home to?
Purpose of your visit?
Answer: “I’m here to work in [specific occupation or field] for [company/organization name]. I have obtained a work visa/permit for this purpose.”
Duration of your stay?
Answer: “I will be working in Canada for [specific duration, e.g., one year] as stated in my work visa/permit.”
Employer or company details?
Answer: “I will be employed by [employer/company name], and I have all the necessary employment documents, including a contract or offer letter.”
Job responsibilities and role?
Answer: “As part of my role, I will be responsible for [briefly describe your job responsibilities and duties]. This aligns with the job description provided by my employer.”
Compensation and financial details?
Answer: “My employer will be providing me with a salary of [specific amount] per month, and they will cover my accommodation and transportation expenses as outlined in my employment agreement.”
Your ties to your home country?
Answer: “I have strong ties to my home country, including my family, property, and ongoing commitments. I intend to return to my home country after completing my work assignment in Canada.”
Carry all relevant documents, such as your work visa/permit, employment contract, and any supporting documentation, to substantiate your answers if required
FAQs
What is the role of the Canada Border Service Agency (CBSA) at the airport?
The CBSA screens and processes individuals entering Canada at the airport, determining entry eligibility.
Can having a Canadian visa and the necessary documents guarantee entry into Canada?
No, entry into Canada is ultimately decided by CBSA officers based on various factors.
What are some important factors to consider when facing the CBSA at the airport?
When facing the CBSA at the airport, it is important to:
- Provide direct and concise answers without unnecessary elaboration.
- Ensure your answers align with the information provided in your application or any previous submissions.
- Avoid arguing or being confrontational with the officers.
- Maintain a calm and steady body language, avoiding suspicious behaviours.
- Seek clarification if you do not understand a question, but only if your language proficiency is below a certain level.
- Familiarize yourself with the details in your application form and supporting documents to avoid any inconsistencies or confusion.
Conclusion
When you’re being questioned by the CBSA, it’s important to have the right documents to support your claims. Actions speak louder than words, so make sure you have valid documents to back up what you say.
During your conversation with the CSBA, it’s important to avoid anything that might raise suspicion, like biting your nails or tapping on something repeatedly. Stay calm and maintain a natural posture.
I’ve provided you with information about the 6 questions they may ask you at the airport when you come to Canada and How to Answer them Correctly.
However, be prepared for additional questions and do your search to be well-informed while you’re organizing everything, don’t forget to bring a good book along. It can be a helpful companion on your journey. Good luck!