Is there a difference between Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) interviews and Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) interviews?

The mission and tasks of each of the two departments varies. Interviews conducted by CBSA officers and those conducted by IRCC can differ in their need to question or examine the travellers and foreign nationals. 

 

IMMIGRATION, REFUGEES AND CITIZENSHIP CANADA (IRCC) INTERVIEWS 

IRCC is responsible for developing immigration and refugee policies, while the CBSA is responsible for the immigration enforcement program, according to the applicable Canadian legislation.  IRCC determines claims for refugee protection made abroad at Canadian embassies and consulates. It is responsible for issuing visitor’s visas, selecting immigrants and granting citizenship.

 

CANADA BORDER SERVICES AGENCY (CBSA) INTERVIEWS

The CBSA has been an integral part of the Public Safety Portfolio, since 2003. The Agency ensures Canada’s security and prosperity by facilitating and overseeing international travel and trade across Canada’s border.

In providing integrated border services that support national security and public safety, individuals travelling to Canada, may be interviewed at Canadian ports of entry. If interviewed by a port of entry official, it is important to maintain respectful and professional communication during your interview. Border guards may question you in either of Canada’s official language, English or French (you may choose the language).

In order to ensure that travellers are authorized to legally enter Canada, a CBSA officer will ask to see your passport, visas and other travel documents such as biometrics may be requested. If you are travelling with other individuals or family members, they too will need to show the above noted documentation.  It is also paramount that you show integrity in communicating accurate and honest answers when providing information to Canadian immigration officials.

Generally, CBSA officers will detain a foreign national or permanent resident if they deem it necessary to complete a port of entry examination, or if the officer has reason to believe there the individual may be inadmissible on grounds of security, violation of human or international rights, serious criminality or otherwise.