Does IRCC check your social media profiles?

Wondering if your social media profiles can influence your Canadian immigration application? The answer is yes. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) do take a look at your online presence to make sure it matches up with the information you've provided in your application. If they find anything that doesn't add up, it could spell trouble for your application.

A Real Story

Let's talk about a real case. A man applied to move to Canada as a skilled worker but didn't mention his role with a certain company on his application. However, the company's website listed him as the Executive Chairman, and his LinkedIn profile showed he was on the Board. Despite being given a chance to explain the mismatch, the immigration officer found his response unsatisfactory and decided the man couldn't come to Canada because he hadn't been truthful.

The Consequences of Not Being Honest

Being caught in a lie, or even a mistake, on your immigration application, isn't a small deal. It can lead to your application being rejected, and the consequences can be severe:

• You might be banned from entering Canada for at least five years.

• You could get a permanent record of fraud.

• You might lose your permanent resident or Canadian citizenship status.

• You could face criminal charges.

• You might be deported from Canada.
  
  

How to Avoid Misrepresentation

Even if you make an honest mistake, it might not be enough to avoid a misrepresentation finding. That's why it's crucial to double-check every piece of information you submit and keep everything consistent across your application and online profiles.

Here are some tips to stay on the safe side:

• Be completely transparent and include all relevant details in your application, even if you think they might not work in your favour. It's better to be upfront and provide explanations or supporting documents.

• If anything changes in your life while your application is being processed (like your job, education, or marital status), let IRCC know immediately. Not updating them could be seen as misrepresentation.