Canada has been and will remain a popular destination for immigrants the world over and their immigration system is designed to be welcoming to immigrants.
Many programs exist for getting people into Canada and once there to help them adjust to their new and exciting lives.
Ever since the 18th century, immigrants have been flooding into Canada to take advantage of its vast resources which have contributed greatly to its economic might and stability.
However, back then most immigrants were from Europe. Nowadays the cross section of new Canadians is primarily composed of folks from Asia.
Wherever you may be from, Canada, the Land of Immigrants, awaits you with open arms.
Deciding on a Pathway to Immigration
There are many different routes or pathways to immigration in Canada. Choosing the one best for you is an important part in starting the process.
Below are some example pathways that an aspiring Canadian might be interested in applying for:
- Canadian Experience Class. This program is the best for students or workers already in Canada, but who are looking for more permanent arrangements.
- Provincial Nominee Program. Some provinces have special need for people in certain professions and immigrants with those kinds of skills can apply directly through the province.
- Family immigration. Related to a Canadian citizen or permanent resident? You can immigrate to Canada if your relative is willing to sponsor you.
- The Federal Skilled Workers and Federal Skilled Trades programs are also great ways to immigrate to Canada for work
- Want to immigrate to Quebec? Quebec has a slightly different immigration program from the rest of Canada and requires special consideration.
Understanding Visa types
There are many different ways to come to Canada, but some are more permanent than others. Immigration programs are those that will eventually lead to permanent residency (an immigration status that lets an immigrant live and work in Canada for as long as they please).
Other pathways into Canada are only on a temporary basis, like student visas. People who come into Canada on these temporary visas are expected to leave Canada before applying for re-entry in another visa category.
Determining Eligibility
Eligibility is a little different for each of the different immigration classes.
For work based immigration, eligibility is typically tied up in one’s qualifications to do a particular job in Canada. This also may include one’s education.
Family visas will require sponsorship from a qualified relative in Canada and that has to be somehow proved to Citizenship and Immigration Canada.
Look into Citizenship and Immigration Canada’s official website to get an idea what you need to apply for immigration programs in Canada.
Getting Ready to Move
Canada can be an expensive place, so it is important that one has the necessary funds to live in Canada before one starts getting work.
Beginning to save money before applying for immigration to Canada will help to make the transition process all the more easy.