Recorded on May 19, 2026
Length 60 minutes
Summary
If you’re new to British Columbia — or hoping to bring a loved one here — the immigration process can feel complex and overwhelming. Lawyer Des Friedland answers common questions about immigration law in BC and offers practical guidance on your next steps.
Highlights
In this webinar, you will learn:
Introduction
The main immigration pathways in Canada, and the difference between citizenship and permanent residence. [3:35]
Getting started with immigration
What immigration pathways exist for workers in specific occupations. [11:45]
How to know which immigration pathway is right for you. [13:45]
What documents must be translated or notarized for immigration applications. [14:45]
Family & relationships
Whether you can sponsor your spouse or children who are outside of Canada while your permanent residence application is in process. [17:20]
How marriage or common-law status affects immigration applications. [19:10]
What your rights and obligations are while under family sponsorship. [22:35]
Work, status & temporary residence
Whether you can work or be self-employed with your current work permit. [28:05]
What happens if your visa or work permit expires, and whether you can restore your status. [29:55]
Whether you can apply for a visitor visa while a permanent residence application is pending. [33:35]
The application process
What options you have if your immigration application is refused. [34:55]
How to apply for Canadian citizenship, including what proof is required. [41:00]
Getting help
Where you can find affordable or free immigration legal help in BC. [44:25]
Live questions
How to proceed legally and appropriately if your partner is from the US and you want to start living together in Canada. [46:35]
How the immigration backlog is impacting new applications. [50:20]
What you can expect as a rough timeline for a permanent residence application. [51:30]
How an LMIA-exempt work permit can help if your application to restore your status was denied. [53:10]
The range of cost you can expect if you retain a lawyer to help with the immigration process. [55:55]
Featuring
Des Friedland
Des Friedland is a Vancouver-based lawyer called in both Canada and South Africa. He has over 20 years of legal experience and has helped hundreds of clients from all over the world emigrate to Canada. Having immigrated himself to Canada with his family, Des is acutely aware of the trials and tribulations that immigrants can face. He maintains close ties with recently arrived immigrant communities and has a large network of resources and references that he uses to help his clients immigrate and settle into Canada as smoothly as possible.
Attendee feedback
"Thank you to you both for a well informed presentation on immigration."
"Thank you so very much. It was very useful and concrete."
"Excellent presentation with appropriate responses."
"Thank you for this very very helpful information to all!!!"
"Thank you so much for this helpful & very informative session."
Additional resources
From People’s Law School
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
Sources of free legal help:
For free help with refugee claims or removal risks: