This accession consists of case files from the Department of External Affairs' overseas posts which have immigration ("JID") units, delivering Immigration program services and carrying out Immigration policy under the Immigration Act. Such policy and procedures are, however, developed by Employment and Immigration Canada. The posts (a) process immigration applications, (b) process applications to visit Canada (in those cases where we require a visitor visa), (c) issue visas to successful applicants, (d) administer the first stage of immigrant assistance services, notably transportation loans, and (e) distribute general information on the Immigration program. There are approximately 140 to 143 posts abroad which fit into this category.
These records are microfilmed copies of case files from the Far Eastern posts of Hong Kong, Manila, Bangkok, Seoul, Singapore, Islamabad, and New Delhi. Under microfilming authority M-4-83, External Affairs and the National Archives both agreed that the files from these posts often had to be retained longer than the applicable authority, and that local office and climatic conditions made retention of paper files difficult. Because of the lack of copies of the microfilm at the time of accessioning, and the nature of the posts covered by the records, it is assumed that a large portion of the material is in a language other than English.
Documentation contained in these files includes: (a) the four page IMM 8 form (formerly O.S 8 form) in which applicants for immigration to Canada give details on identification, including a photograph, and family, work and personal history; (b) notes and internal reports on an individual's personal history, suitability and status as observed by the visa officer; (c) local correspondence with the applicant; and (d) local internal correspondence re security and medical checks. Some files may also contain business plans for entrepreneurial applicants, as well as a copy of the IMM 1000 form, "Immigrant Visa and Record of Landing", and IMM 1343, the "Immigrant Assessment Record - Abroad".
