An immigration consultation may begin with very different goals: understanding a current situation, exploring a possibility, or addressing a communication you received. Before speaking with a lawyer, it may help to organize the information without assuming that a general checklist automatically applies to your case.
Explain your goal and context
Write down what you would like to find out, where you are currently located, and what steps you have taken, if any. Mention any date or deadline that concerns you and why you think it may be important.
Make an inventory of the information available
Prepare a list of related documents and communications, along with their dates. Do not send passports, case numbers, or personal documents to profiles or accounts that you have not confirmed directly with the lawyer.
Ask what needs to be verified
Requirements and procedures depend on the application, the individual situation, and the rules in force. Ask which official source should be consulted, which document needs to be reviewed, and whether any deadline should be confirmed with the relevant authority before taking action.
Avoid relying only on other people’s experiences
Another person’s experience may help you formulate questions, but it does not prove that your application has the same requirements or outcome. Before making decisions, ask for a professional review of your circumstances.
This publication offers general information, not individual immigration advice. A lawyer should review the case and confirm the applicable information before recommending specific steps.