Filipiniana News – August 2011 RHYME & REASON In Canadian immigration law, misrepresentation is defined as “directly or indirectly misrepresenting or withholding material facts relating to a relevant matter that induces or could induce an error in the administration of the act.” The words “directly or indirectly” imply that the act of misrepresentation may have been committed by the applicant/permanent resident or by other people. Direct misrepresentation is quite self-explanatory (although it may also be subject to legal interpretation). However, it is the “indirect” type of misrepresentation which remains largely misunderstood, catches many people unaware and can lead to the unduly harsh application of Canada’s immigration laws. Indirect misrepresentation could mean that the unscrupulous act of representatives such as placement agents may prejudice an applicant regardless of the latter’s lack of knowledge of the misrepresentation committed....