Find an RCIC-IRB Representative — Immigration and Refugee Board Counsel
The Immigration and Refugee Board has four divisions: RPD, RAD, IAD, and Security. Only RCIC-IRB (L3 licence) holders and immigration lawyers can represent you at hearings. Search the CICC register to find qualified representatives in your area.
The Four Divisions of the Immigration and Refugee Board
The IRB has four divisions that handle different types of hearings:
- RPD (Refugee Protection Division): Hears refugee claims from people outside Canada.
- RAD (Refugee Appeal Division): Hears appeals of RPD decisions.
- IAD (Immigration Appeal Division): Hears appeals of visa refusals and deportation orders.
- Security Division: Hears cases involving security concerns or criminality.
Who Can Represent You at the IRB?
Only two types of professionals can represent clients at IRB hearings:
- RCIC-IRB (L3 licence holders): Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultants with IRB representation authorization.
- Immigration lawyers: Lawyers licensed by provincial law societies.
L2 RCICs cannot represent you at IRB hearings. They can prepare your application and provide coaching, but only L3 and lawyers can appear in hearings.
How to Find an RCIC-IRB Representative
- Go to college-ic.ca/Public-Register-EN
- Search by name or licence number
- Filter results to show only "RCIC-IRB" licence holders
- Verify status is "Eligible to Provide Service"
- Check the Discipline Register for complaints
- Contact 2–3 representatives for fee quotes
Cost of RCIC-IRB Representation
Fees vary by case complexity:
- RPD representation: $2,500–$5,000
- RAD or IAD appeals: $3,000–$7,000
- Security Division: $5,000–$10,000+
Get a written fee quote that specifies what is included.
RCIC-IRB vs Lawyer
For IRB representation, both are equally qualified. Choose based on:
- Availability and timeline
- Experience with your specific case type
- Fee and payment terms
- Communication style and rapport
Frequently Asked Questions
Can an L2 RCIC represent me at the IRB?
No. Only RCIC-IRB (L3) licence holders and lawyers can appear at IRB hearings. An L2 RCIC can prepare your application but not represent you at a hearing.
Where do I find an RCIC-IRB representative?
Search the CICC public register and filter for RCIC-IRB (L3) licence holders. Verify their status is 'Eligible to Provide Service' and check the Discipline Register.
How much do RCIC-IRB representatives charge?
Fees vary by complexity. Typical ranges: $2,000–$5,000 for RPD representation; $3,000–$7,000 for RAD or IAD appeals. Get a written quote.
Do I need a lawyer or can I use an RCIC-IRB?
Both are equally qualified to represent you at the IRB. Choose based on availability, experience with your case type, and fee.