May 30, 2002

China: Don’t leave anything to chance
We have recently observed a noticeable tightening of Quebec government requirements with regard to applications from China. It is true that, for reasons which are unclear, a growing number of applications submitted by consultants on behalf of Chinese clients have turned out to be incomplete or unacceptable. As a result, the Government of Quebec has become increasingly demanding, especially with regard to clients’ business experience, and even the sources of their funds. This means that applications submitted by consultants must be meticulously prepared and absolutely beyond question. The bottom line? If you are an immigration consultant, remember that your success will be judged not by how many applications you submit, but by how many of your clients are granted visas. And if you are a client? Make sure that you are doing business with a reliable consultant who is fully aware of the current situation.

Impact of September 11, 2001: Our predictions were correct
In our November 1, 2001 special report on how the events of September 11 might affect the Immigrant Investor program, we predicted that it would take significantly longer for applications to be processed as a result of more stringent security requirements. As it turns out, we were right: we are now commonly seeing application processing times drag on well beyond the previous norm. This being the case, we cannot overemphasize the importance of presenting a solid application – and bearing in mind that patience is a virtue.

TSO3: More proof that your investment is put to good use
If you have ever wondered – even a bit – about how your money is used under the Immigrant Investor program, the TSO3 story provides one more reason to put your mind completely at ease. At a news conference held in March, the Government of Quebec highlighted the role played by the Immigrant Investor program in financing TSO3, a cutting-edge small business based in Quebec City that specializes in the research, development and manufacture of surgical and diagnostic sterilizers. LBG Canada was very closely involved with this highly representative investment project.