Q&A: A Genealogist Traces His Own Path to Canadian Citizenship by Descent
October 28, 2026
A professional genealogist on tracing his Quebec roots for Canadian citizenship by descent, the hardest records to find, and advice for Americans.
Colin R. Singer, LL.L, BA
Canadian Immigration Lawyer · Founder & Managing Partner, immigration.ca
✓ Licensed lawyer in good standing — Barreau du Québec, 35+ years
Colin R. Singer is a Canadian immigration lawyer who has been in good standing with the Barreau du Québec for more than 35 years. As Founder and Managing Partner of immigration.ca — Canada’s longest-standing online immigration platform, operating since 1994 — he is recognized as one of Canada’s foremost authorities on economic-class and business immigration.
His practice focuses on skilled-worker and business immigration, including the recruitment of international professionals, intra-company transfers, and Canada’s Start-Up Visa program. He advises individuals, families, and corporate clients across healthcare, manufacturing, food services, construction, and technology, and leads immigration.ca’s appeal and advocacy work on behalf of applicants challenging refused visa and immigration decisions.
Areas of expertise
- Citizenship by descent
- Canadian citizenship
- Family sponsorship
- Express Entry
- Provincial Nominee Programs
- Business & investor immigration
- Start-Up Visa Program
- Work permits & LMIA
- Study permits
- Immigration appeals & judicial review
Credentials & recognition
- Licensed immigration lawyer in good standing — Barreau du Québec (35+ years)
- Testimony before the House of Commons Standing Committee on Citizenship and Immigration
- Contributor to Law360 (LexisNexis) since 2015, and to national media including the Financial Post
- Lifetime Governor of the Fondation du Barreau du Québec (since 2009)
- Founder & Managing Partner, immigration.ca (since 1994)
Education & professional standing
- LL.L (Licentiate in Law) — Civil Law
- Bachelor of Arts (BA)
- Member in good standing, Barreau du Québec (Quebec Bar)
Latest articles by Colin R. Singer
Bill C-3 Could Bring 280,000 Lost Canadians and Their Spouses From the US, Estimate Suggests
October 28, 2026
A preliminary immigration.ca estimate suggests about 280,000 US-based Lost Canadians and their spouses could move to Canada under Bill C-3.
Canada Signs UAE Trade Deal With New Provisions For Skilled Workers
October 28, 2026
Canada and the UAE sign a trade agreement opening potential work permit routes for skilled professionals, business visitors and intra-company transferees in 2027.
Quebec Experience Program Application Window Closes October 31 – Who Can Still Apply?
October 27, 2026
Quebec Experience Program applications close October 31, 2026. Find out who qualifies, the requirements for workers and graduates, and how to apply before the deadline.
Quebec Renames Immigration Ministry As New Government Prepares Immigration Cuts
October 26, 2026
Quebec renames its immigration ministry as the new government plans to cut permanent admissions to 35,000 and reshape skilled worker and temporary immigration rules.
Ontario Reopens Regional Immigration Pathway For Six Communities Until 2027
October 23, 2026
Ontario relaunches its REDI immigration initiative for six northern and rural communities through 2027. Learn who qualifies and how the regional program works.
Canada’s Work Permit Population Rises Despite 57% Drop In New Arrivals
October 22, 2026
Canada’s work permit population has risen 8.2% since 2024 despite a 57% drop in worker arrivals. New IRCC data reveals why temporary resident numbers remain high.
Canada’s Immigration Cuts Deepening Its Ageing Workforce Problem
October 22, 2026
Canada’s immigration cuts may worsen workforce ageing as Statistics Canada reports falling labour force participation and 110,000 jobs lost in two months.
A 2027 Comprehensive Guide to Corporate Immigration Pathways in Canada
October 21, 2026
Learn about Canada’s corporate immigration options, including IMP, TFWP, PNPs, Express Entry, and Quebec programs for hiring and retaining global talent.
Alberta Rejects Separation As Voters Back Greater Control Over Immigration
October 20, 2026
Alberta referendum results show support for greater immigration control. Learn what proposed changes could mean for temporary residents and newcomers in Alberta
Canada Issues New Express Entry Instructions For Job Offers Without LMIAs
October 19, 2026
IRCC reveals new Express Entry instructions for job offers without LMIAs, including placeholder numbers, key dates and CRS changes taking effect on November 3, 2026.
New Brunswick Eases Immigration Restrictions For Retail And Hospitality Workers
October 16, 2026
New Brunswick eases Atlantic Immigration Program restrictions for retail and hospitality workers. Find out which jobs qualify and what restrictions remain.