Are you thinking of moving to Canada? You’re not the only one. Every year, thousands of people from different countries immigrate to Canada due to the incredible economy, security, high standard of living, among other benefits. But completing the move isn’t as easy as it sounds. So, how hard is it to move to Canada?
Moving to Canada can be tasking. There are many processes involved before you can successfully qualify for immigration. Beyond that, there are several types of immigration programs with their peculiarities which means you need to be sure about which one you qualify for and know few other things.
Despite the difficulties of moving to Canada, many people still apply annually. In most cases, migrating to Canada is worth it. But one also needs to be aware of the challenges. This article discusses all you need to know about moving to Canada.
Quick navigation
Is It Easy to Move to Canada?
Canada is a very welcoming country for immigrants. But the process of moving is complicated, and it might take months or even years to qualify. With several programs available, Canada is always looking for the best of the best every year, and the requirements for migrating can be restrictive and costly.
Types of Canadian Immigration
Moving to Canada is all about having a whole new experience, and it can be very rewarding. But if you’re planning to move here, you need to know some things about the whole process. One of such is the type of immigration you’re opting for. This will have a significant effect on the process involved in moving.
1. Permanent Residency
As a permanent resident, you can live in Canada for life, but at the time of getting that permanent residency status, you’re not a citizen of Canada. Permanent residency is for citizens of other countries who want to live perpetually in Canada. Annually, the country provides pathways for thousands of temporary residents to become permanent residents. Citizens of other countries can also apply for permanent residency in Canada even while they are not in the country yet.
There are several permanent residency programs available. They include Express Entry Program, Federal Skilled Worker, Business Immigration, Provincial Nominee Programs, Humanitarian and Compassionate Applications, Canadian Experience Class, and a citizen or permanent resident sponsoring a family member. All these options have their peculiarities and who they apply to. The more applicable a program is to you, the more likely you can use such a program to move permanently to Canada.
2. Temporary Residency
If you’re not planning to stay for a long time, you get to apply for temporary resident status. This applies if you’re coming to work, visit, or study and will generally last for a brief period. There are three types of temporary residents programs. These are Temporary Resident Visa or Visitor Visa, Study Permit, and Work Permit.
Most Visitor Visas can last for up to 6 months, and in cases where it’s shorter, the authorities will usually signify the day your stay should end. A study permit is usually for those granted admission to study in a Canadian institution. It can prove that they can afford to stay in the country for the duration of their study. A work permit often requires you to have a job offer in the country, but sometimes, it doesn’t. It’s also possible to turn your temporary visa into a permanent residency.
Best Options to Move to Canada
While immigrating to Canada is generally complicated, some programs offer better chances of success if you meet the requirements. They include
1. Express Entry Program
This program will allow immigrants to reside permanently and work in Canada. It’s only for skilled workers, and it’s one of the fastest and easiest ways to get into Canada. Three federal economic immigration programs fall under this. They are The Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP), Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), and Canadian Experience Class (CEC). Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) assesses and selects the most skilled or qualified candidates under this program. Each province and territory also use the system to recruit candidates who meet their Provincial Nominee Programs requirements.
2. Family Sponsorship
This is one of the best ways to migrate to Canada. It allows families who are permanent residents or citizens in Canada to sponsor a relative. You can’t just sponsor anyone, of course. It’s only open to children below 22 and spouses, but there are exceptions. The Super Visa option is available for those planning to sponsor their parents or grandparents, but getting on might be very difficult.
3. LMIA Work Visa
The Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) Visa is one of the most common ways to move into Canada. It’s quite easy too, and to apply, you must first secure a Canadian job offer. The Canadian employer would then have to apply for an LMIA, and once the LMIA has been approved, you can apply for a work visa. While it might seem complicated, it can be a pathway to permanent residency in Canada.
4. Provincial Nominees Programs (PNP)
These programs are the provincial immigration programs, and all provinces and territories have one. It has become a popular route for moving into Canada permanently as it’s usually faster. However, such programs usually require that you live in the province for a particular period after moving. In most cases, you need a job offer from a Canadian employer to qualify.
5. Canadian Investor Immigration
This program is for high-net-worth individuals who own or manage businesses in other countries. Giving such people visas means they can invest in Canada and contribute to the overall economic growth. Under this program, the investor must make a large investment in a stipulated fund for at least five years and can move with their spouse and children in some cases.
Tips for Moving to Canada
If you’re planning to move to Canada, there are ways you can simplify the complicated application process for yourself and ensure you get approved on time. They include
1. Know the residency category you qualify for and apply within it
2. Get expert advice or even representation from an immigration lawyer
3. Make sure you have all your relevant documents ahead of time
4. Read every instruction and follow to the letter
5. Ensure that all relevant documents are yet to expire
6. Ensure there are no gaps in time
7. Accuracy and truth are very important in your application.
ln Conclusion
Moving to Canada isn’t as simple as many make it to be. It can be very complicated and take several months before approval. Generally, temporary applications, especially for study, are more easily and quickly granted than other applications.