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This three-part guidebook was prepared by Canadian

Immigrant, a national multimedia platform dedicated to
helping immigrants succeed in Canada.

Editor: Margaret Jetelina

Contributor: Nicole Enright-Morin
Cover: Kamil Mytnik
Copyright @ 2021 by Canadian Immigrant magazine

Visit us at canadianimmigrant.ca | Follow us @canimmigrant

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PREPARE
FOR
LANDING
A PRE-ARRIVAL GUIDE
FOR CANADIAN IMMIGRANTS

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CONTENTS

PART I: DECIDING ON CANADA

1. You want to immigrate to Canada … now what? 14. Family sponsorship
Understanding Canada Who can be your sponsor?
2. History of Canada Who can’t be your sponsor?
3. Canada today: the basics Spouse, common-law partner or conjugal partner
Map of Canada Dependent children
Languages and multiculturalism Other relatives
4. Canadian climate and weather 15. Refugees and asylum seekers
>TIP SHEET: 10 FUN THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT Refugee and Humanitarian Resettlement
LIVING IN CANADA Program
5. What else you should know about immigrating Refugee and Humanitarian Resettlement
to Canada before you apply Program: private sponsors
The foreign credentials barriers In-Canada Asylum Program
Licensed professions 16. How long will it take immigrate?
Unlicensed professions >TIP SHEET: 9 REASONS YOU WON’T BE ALLOWED
6. Upgrading your language skills TO MOVE TO CANADA
7. Learning Canadian soft skills
Be adaptable and persistent PART III: THE LOGISTICS OF IMMIGRATION
>TIP SHEET: 7 WAYS TO PREPARE FOR CAREER 17. Preparing for arrival: pre-arrival programs
CHALLENGES AS AN IMMIGRANT General pre-arrival programs
Occupation-focused pre-arrival programs
PART II: HOW TO IMMIGRATE 18. Where are you going to live?
8. Apply for immigration Choosing a province and city
Are you eligible and under which category? Temporary accommodation
Immigrating to Quebec 19. Health care coverage
Contact a visa office While waiting for coverage
9. Should you hire an immigration Apply after arrival
lawyer/consultant? Type of coverage
Difference between a lawyer and consultant Links to provincial and territorial ministries
Ensure you hire authorized representation of health
>TIP SHEET: 7 TIPS WHEN HIRING REPRESENTATION 20. Banking basics
10. Time to apply: general rules Glossary of basic banking terms
>TIP SHEET: 11 WAYS TO AVOID COMMON ERRORS 21. What to bring to Canada
WHEN APPLYING TO IMMIGRATE Packing up and shipping tips
11. Temporary working visas >TIP SHEET: DOCUMENTS TO BRING: THE
12. Studying in Canada NEWCOMER’S CHECKLIST
13. Coming to Canada as a permanent resident 22. Glossary of important abbreviations
Express Entry for skilled workers
Provincial nominee programs
Start-up visa program

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PART I: DECIDING ON CANADA

1. You want to immigrate to Canada … now what?

Welcome! You are reading this because you want to immigrate to Canada — or you’re at least
thinking about it.

Immigrating to a new country is not an easy decision. There are so many questions to ask yourself,
such as:
• Why are you leaving your homeland?
• Why are you choosing Canada?
• Will there be a job for you here?
• What area of Canada are you interested in?
• What are your expectations?

Immigrating to Canada is a wonderful journey with a future of many possibilities for yourself and
your future generations, but it’s not always an easy path. Even though Canada welcomes tens of
thousands of immigrants and refugees each year, and is a multicultural country, there are many
ups and downs you will face in the process. From the application process to your initial landing,
to your long-term settlement, understand that you will face challenges. You will need patience
and determination to succeed.

You will also need help. This guide has broken down all of the basic information to help you get
started before you immigrate. (Don’t forget to click on the live hyperlinks to view additional
articles and sources of information.)

Understanding Canada
The true north strong and free, Canada is a country based on democracy, freedom, equality and
opportunity. It offers basic universal health care. It’s a champion of women’s equality. It supports
LGBTQ+ rights. It promotes multiculturalism — the idea that immigrants can hold on to their
cultural heritage while also becoming part of the greater Canadian society. Although it’s a vast
and spacious country, it only has a population of about 37 million. Demographically, Canadians
are getting older, and birth rates are not keeping up, which is why Canada welcomes immigrants.

Internationally, Canada is known as a peacekeeper, a champion of human rights and a beacon

for refugees and immigrants. Canadians are known as polite and helpful.

On the surface, Canada’s biggest downfall might be its reputation for being very, very cold —
which isn’t entirely an exaggeration, depending on the province you’re in and what time of year

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it is. Northern Canada is the Arctic, after all, complete with icebergs and polar bears! But most
Canadians live in southern Canada, where there is snow in winter, but summers are very warm
(indeed, there is even a desert landscape in southcentral British Columbia).

Still with us? If the possibility of snow doesn’t bother you, let’s move on.

Before choosing Canada, there are things you need to know about its history, culture and climate.
After all, there’s no point immigrating to a country that will not be a good fit for you and your
family. So, let’s get all the information you need to know before you go through the financial,
time and emotional commitment of applying to immigrate.

2. History of Canada

If you want to adopt a new country as your own, then you should know a little bit about its history
and its people.

Long before Canada was officially formed and immigration to the new world began, Indigenous
peoples were the original inhabitants of Canada. They are made up of very diverse cultural and
language groups and lived in all corners this vast land we know today as Canada.

When the first European colonizers came to Canada, primarily from Britain and France, they
began trading with Indigenous peoples. They also battled with them, brought European diseases
here that killed many, signed treaties with some, but eventually took the land away from them,
starting a dark history for the Indigenous population. That history saw these First Nations pushed
onto small reserve lands and residential schools, where children were separated from their
parents, stripped of their culture and language, and even physically and sexually abused. The
legacy of this Apartheid-like mistreatment still affects Indigenous populations today with high
rates of depression and suicide, particularly among youth.

Today, the relationship between the Canadian government and First Nations continues to
evolve, and many First Nations groups have rights to self-government. Many First Nations
groups are still fighting for land and compensation. Reconciliation work is ongoing.

Relations between the two founding nations of French and English have also been troublesome,
historically and in modern times. Considered the two founding nations of the country, they
battled over land, trade and religious differences. Today, there is still tension between the two,
with Francophones dominating the province of Quebec, and Anglophones elsewhere. Over the

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years, there have been campaigns by Quebec nationalists to separate from Canada, but these
attempts have faltered. But this history helps explain why Quebec has much more power over its
own affairs than other provinces, including managing its own immigration system.

Immigration boom
Canada is said to be a nation built by immigrants, but there were some dark periods when
immigrants have been mistreated by the settlers who came before them.

Nevertheless, more than 17 million immigrants have come to Canada since Confederation in
1867 — 150 years ago. And today’s population of 37 million (as of 2021) is made up of a very
diverse bunch of people, with origins in most every country of the world.

That trend is only going to continue. Census numbers released in April 2017 show the pace of
aging in Canada’s population is accelerating, and that demographic shift underscores the need
for Canada to maintain or increase its immigration levels. Most recently, intake is about 300,000
annually.

Looking back at the last 150 years of Canadian confederation, the annual number of immigrants
has swung up and down. In the late 1800s, for example, the number ranged from as low as 6,300
to 133,000. After Canada was officially formed in 1867, many immigrants primarily from Britain
came to settle in the growing Canada (which had a population of just 3.5 million at the time).

Many Chinese migrants were brought over to help build the Canadian Pacific Railway that
connected the two coasts of Canada by 1885; they were, however, subject to discrimination and
worked in dangerous conditions.

Then came record numbers of immigrants in the early 1900s to help settle Western Canada —
the highest intake reaching more than 400,000 in 1913. As Canada became a more progressive
and modern society, more and more immigrants from Russia, Ukraine, Poland, Germany, Sweden
and Norway came for new opportunities and a new life.

During the First World War, the number of immigrants dropped dramatically, to fewer than
34,000 in 1915. It dropped further during the Great Depression and the Second World War.

The wars saw attitudes turn against immigrants, and Canadians of Ukrainian and Japanese
descent were horrifically sent to internment camps, the racist impact of which still resonates
today. After the war ended and a sense of peace resumed, immigration to Canada increased
again, with Britain and Europe as the main source of immigration. After the fall of the Berlin Wall

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and breakup of the Soviet Union, Canada welcomed more immigrants from Eastern Europe as
well.

Over the course of the 20th century, Canada also welcomed thousands of refugees, developing
a reputation for its humanitarianism. In the mid-1950s, 37,500 Hungarian refugees arrived,
followed by those fleeing communism in Europe and South Asians who were exiled from Uganda
in 1972. Canada also resettled 60,000 refugees from Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos in 1979 to
1980. In the years leading up to Hong Kong’s return to China in 1997, 225,000 immigrants from
Hong Kong came to Canada.

From the early 1990s, the number of immigrants has remained at around 235,000 per year until
increases, with a broadening of source countries to China, India, Philippines and Iran, plus a focus
on economic immigration, temporary foreign workers and international students.

Today, Canada is more than ever a nation built by immigrants, with one in five Canadians
foreign-born.

In 2015, 271,660 new permanent residents landed in Canada from more than 190 source
countries, with 49 per cent coming from the Philippines, India, China, Iran and Pakistan. More
recent immigration trends see more newcomers and refugees from countries like Syria as well.

3. Canada today: the basics

Canada is a wonderful country — and also a big one. In fact, it is the second largest country in
the world, with six different time zones. Canada is famous for many things including cold weather,
stunning natural beauty, polite people and a unique cultural mosaic. The country is made up of
10 provinces and three territories, each of them quite unique in landscape, economies and
lifestyle. The majority of Canada’s population is concentrated in the areas close to the Canada-
U.S. border. British Columbia, Alberta, Ontario and Quebec are the country’s largest provinces in
area and population.

Because Canada is such a vast landscape, the weather and climate differ a great deal across the
country and this is something that you will need to consider when choosing a place to live.

Economies are also different across the country. Each province or territory has different
opportunities when it comes to finding work. For example, in Ontario, industries like finance and

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manufacturing are big players, Alberta is known for farming and oil and gas, while B.C. is known
for resource-based and technology opportunities.

Map of Canada
Canada’s 10 provinces and three territories can be divided into five regions:
• Atlantic Canada includes the provinces of Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia,
New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island. The term the Maritimes refers to the latter
three provinces only.
• The Central region includes the provinces of Quebec and Ontario, the most populous
region in the country.
• The Prairies include Manitoba, Saskatchewan and some parts of Alberta.
• The West includes most of Alberta and British Columbia.
• The North is made up of the three territories — Yukon, the Northwest Territories and
Nunavut.

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Languages and multiculturalism

Canada has two official languages: English and French. English is the most common language in
all of the provinces, except Quebec. In this province and in some parts of New Brunswick, French
is the more popular language.

Choosing a region that best suits your grasp of one of the two main languages will be key to your
success when integrating into your new Canadian life.

One of the many things that you may have heard about Canada is it is a multicultural society. In
many respects, multiculturalism is at the heart of Canadians’ belief that all of its people are equal
and that everyone has the right to be proud of their identity, ancestry and sense of belonging.

In fact, in 1971, Canada was the first country in the world to adopt multiculturalism as an
official policy. Because of this, Canada on the whole is a very accepting and tolerant country
that encourages racial and ethnic harmony.

This policy also respects that the original inhabitants of this land are the Indigenous peoples of
Canada, who themselves are made up of diverse cultural and language groups.

However, it is worth noting that as well as promoting acceptance, Canadians want newcomers to
embrace Canadian values, rights and responsibilities. But there has been much debate about
what are Canadian “values.”

Ultimately, what most people mean in this context is that while immigrants should not lose their
cultural heritage, they should adapt to the important liberal tenets Canada champions:
democracy, equality and freedom for all its inhabitants. This means that women and men both
have the same opportunities including education and in the workplace. Everyone in Canada has
the freedom to choose their career path, spouse, religion, lifestyle, gender orientation and other
important life choices, regardless of their cultural background or religion.

While studies have shown that the majority of Canadians are supportive of immigration, it’s
naïve to think that there is absolutely no racism against immigrants and racialized people.

Studies show that Canadians welcome immigrants and their varied cultures, as long as they do
not conflict with the rights and freedoms that Canada champions, especially LGBTQ+ and
women’s rights.

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4. Canadian climate and weather

As we have already mentioned, Canada is the second largest country in the world and has many
different and contrasting landscapes. There are mountains, forests, prairie grasslands and in the
north, the Arctic tundra, where the ground is always frozen. But, in most parts of Canada, it is a
country that has four different seasons: spring, summer, autumn and winter. These seasons vary
from province to province.

Summer usually lasts from June to September and the temperatures can be hot, sometimes over
30 degrees Celsius, especially in southern Ontario, Quebec and B.C. It can also be very humid.

Fall and spring are transition seasons between summer and winter, which means the weather
can vary greatly, but you can expect a lot of rain. In fall, you can also expect to see the beautiful
changing colours of leaves, including the maple tree.

One of the seasons you may have heard a lot about is the Canadian winter — and for good reason.
In many parts of the country during winter, the weather can get exceedingly cold. B.C. generally
has the mildest winters, with little to no snow, especially the more southward you head. In fact,
B.C. even has its own desert in Osoyoos, B.C. Most other provinces see weeks, if not months, of
snowfall, especially the farther you head north.

But just because there is snow, life doesn’t stop! To enjoy the cold weather, you will need to
invest in some good winter attire including winter boots, coats, gloves and hats, along with good
winter tires for your car. Also, get involved in winter sports like skiing or skating! There is lots of
fun to be had in the snow.

You can check the climate of different regions via this Atlas of Canada, which has interactive maps
and regional information, including climate. Or check out this government weather website,
which provides current weather forecast for every region in Canada.

And don’t miss our “Stay Warm” Winter Guide for Canadian Newcomers.

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10 FUN THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT LIVING IN CANADA

1. Canadians are so polite that they apologize even if they are not wrong.
While that might be a bit of an overstatement, Canadians have earned their reputation
for being polite for good reason. Manners are extremely important, so always remember
to say “please” and “thank you.” Also, a smile and eye contact always go a long way.

2. When it comes to hockey, however, it’s every Canadian for themselves.

No doubt about it, when it comes to hockey, Canada’s national winter sport, even
the most polite Canadian can be seen cheering wildly. Canada is an active country.
Canadians love their sports — and not just hockey. Did you know that
basketball was invented by a Canadian? And lacrosse is Canada’s
national summer sport?

3. Canadians love to eat.

In a country with such a wide and varied cultural mosaic, the diverse food choices
available are second to none. But Canadians do have some unique national dishes that
may take time to get used to. Not only do they love bacon and maple syrup, but a firm
favourite is a dish called poutine: French fries smothered in gravy and cheese curds.

4. Canada is a nation of tree huggers.

Well, not in the hippie sense, but in terms of how many trees there are. In fact, almost 30
per cent of Canada’s landmass is forest. There is even a trail crossing the country called
the Great Trail or Trans Canada Trail, which is the world’s largest network of recreational
trails. Trees that you will find in Canada include the red spruce, fir trees, birch trees and,
of course, the famous sugar maple.

5. Justin Bieber is not the most famous Canadian.

Even though you may only have heard of Justin Bieber,
Canadians have plenty of other people they are proud of.
Some prominent Canadians (apart from the Beibs and
current Prime Minister Justin Trudeau) include national hero
Terry Fox, actors Jim Carrey and Michael J. Fox, singer Bryan
Adams, hockey player Wayne Gretzky, author Margaret
Atwood, environmentalist David Suzuki and even inventor
Alexander Graham Bell (born in Scotland).
Terry Fox ran across Canada to
raise funds for cancer research.

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6. Canada looks good for her age.

In 2017, Canada celebrated its 150th birthday. But, in actual fact, the country is so much
older. The Indigenous peoples have been here for much longer than that, and there is also
archaeological evidence of a Viking settlement that was found on the east coast of
Canada.

7. Where did everybody go?

At 3,855,103 square miles, Canada is enormous. And yet many parts of the country are
sparsely populated or uninhabited. You will find most people live in or around the big
cities, particularly near the Canada-U.S. border, where they have good access to resources
and amenities.

8. Depending on where you live, you will need a shovel or a big umbrella in the winter.
Winter in Canada is not for wimps. Especially in some parts of the country, where sub-
zero temperatures are typical of a usual winter. Not only will you need good winter
clothing, but a snow shovel will also come in handy.

If snow isn’t your thing, perhaps you should head to the west coast, where the snowfall
isn’t a big deal. However, B.C. is notorious for plenty of rain, so make sure you have an
umbrella.

9. Canada has some cute and not so cute wildlife.

While you may have heard that Canada is home to unique wildlife
such as bears, killer whales, beaver and moose, you are unlikely to
see any of these on a daily basis. However, Canada is extremely
proud of its indigenous wildlife and has one of the best conservation
track records in the world.

10. Canada is one of the most welcoming and diverse places in the world.
When it comes to a peaceful and welcoming society, you will have to go a long way to
find a better spot than Canada. Actually, according to the United Nations Global Peace
index, Canada ranks fourth in the world. But that’s hardly surprising, since a country that
spends more on its universal health care system, than its armed forces is bound to
welcome people from all walks of life with open arms.

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5. What else you should know about immigrating to Canada before you apply

Deciding to move to a different country, to begin a new chapter of your life is exciting. However,
all of the hoops that you will have to jump through to make this leap a successful one can be
daunting.

Before you apply to come to Canada, one of the best things you can do to ensure a successful
move is to do plenty of research. Our hope is our pre-arrival guide will make that simpler for you.
But we encourage you to do additional research at our website www.canadianimmigrant.ca and
other sources of information such as the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship (IRCC) website
at www.cic.gc.ca.

People who transition well into their new life are the ones who understand a lot about Canada
(it’s a big and diverse place!), the province and city in which they would like to live, what the job
market is like, what the housing situation is, and how the education and health systems work —
just the million and one basic things you need to know before you begin your life in a new land.

The truth is, even though Canada is known worldwide for being a country that welcomes
newcomers, it doesn’t mean that there won’t be obstacles to overcome. In fact, many
newcomers become quite disillusioned by the challenges they face after arriving, especially those
that relate to their career. So, while being positive and hopeful is important to a successful
journey, let’s also take a moment to better understand the challenges you may face along the
way.

The foreign credentials barrier

One of the biggest problems that newcomers face is the realization that their foreign credentials
and qualifications are not automatically valid in Canada.

You may have been told that there is a demand for your profession in Canada and you are even
accepted into Canada on that basis, so it may come as a shock to realize you may not be able to
work in your field right away.

Many professions that give you the points to come to Canada are actually licensed or regulated
professions. In other words, you will have to earn a Canadian licence to be eligible to work in
such fields (e.g., accounting, architecture, engineering, medicine, nursing, pharmacy, teaching,
some trades, and more). And it’s often a lengthy and costly process, with potential retraining and
examinations. Perhaps the biggest challenge is for medical doctors. There is definitely a demand
in Canada for physicians, but the process to relicense as a doctor in Canada is full of hoops. Not

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only will you have to take and pass the Canadian medical examinations, but you may also have
to do a residency, for which there may be a long wait.

Therefore, you must be prepared for the fact that, in the beginning at least, you may not get
employment in your field, or at the same experience level as in your own country. This is
particularly true if your language skills need some work as well. So, you may have to consider the
possibility of upgrading your qualifications, retraining or perhaps even entering a new career field
altogether.

To improve your chances of getting relevant work in your field after immigrating, start preparing
before you start packing for Canada. The first step is researching and understanding your
particularly profession or job industry, namely, is it a licensed or unlicensed profession?

Licensed professions
If licensed, do some research online and contact the licensing board in the province you wish to
settle (each province will have its own).

The licensing board in question will be able to give you the details on how to get your current
credentials evaluated and then what you will need to accomplish to be licensed in that
profession. In fact, you may find lots of information right on their website about the
requirements.

It’s better to know now what you will be facing after immigrating. You may decide it’s not worth
immigrating if you have to substantially retrain or lose your career, or you may decide you are
willing to risk your career for Canada and look for alternate work. Either way, you need to know
exactly what you will be facing so you can make sound decisions.

Unlicensed professions
If you are in a field that does not require a licence, such as a business manager or IT worker, you
won’t have to go through the hassle of relicensure with a professional certification body. But you
may still face some challenges.

If, for example, you have an MBA from China, a Canadian employer might not know whether it’s
equivalent to a Canadian MBA. So, to show potential employers how your MBA compares, it’s a
good idea to get your educational credentials evaluated by a professional credential evaluation
service. Learn more about independent credential evaluation services with the he Canadian
Information Centre for International Credentials here.

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You may also want to consider going back to school in Canada, at least for some professional
development courses, if not a formal certificate or diploma. You might even want to check out
some online Canadian courses while waiting for your visa. Even if your profession is unlicensed,
there is likely a professional member association linked to your industry that you can join and
start networking and learning about your industry in Canada.

6. Upgrading your language skills

While waiting in your home country for your application to go through, you may also want to
consider taking additional English (or French) language courses, even online ones. It is critical for
career success in Canada to be able to not only speak well, but also write clearly in the language
of your destination.

You may believe that your English skills are already sufficient, since you were approved for
immigration with your language skills as one of the criteria. But you may find that your
communication skills aren’t competitive enough once you land in Canada. Your accent may also
be too thick for Canadians to understand. Or your vocabulary may be too formal and lacking
colloquial expressions. Try to get comfortable with Canadian idioms and expressions. Check out
our “CanSpeak” online series.

And what about written English? As a professional, you will need to have excellent written English
skills, free of spelling and grammar errors. And Canadian English word choices are preferred (e.g.,
choose favourite vs. favorite, organization vs. organisation). Also, be careful of writing too
formally, especially in casual written communications like email (i.e., avoid “Dear Sirs” instead of
simply “Hello).

Also note that every industry or field has its own jargon or terms. Will you be able to jump right
in at the boardroom table and understand what all the industry acronyms stand for?

You could wait until you get to Canada to take some free basic ESL classes funded by the
Government of Canada, but these courses are aimed at introductory-level speakers. While
waiting for your immigration papers to come through, take the time to improve your language
skills so they won’t be an obstacle to you after you land.

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7. Learning Canadian soft skills

It’s not just foreign credentials and language skills that can prove to be a barrier to employment;
other factors, often known as soft skills, can become an issue.

Soft skills are the interpersonal, communication, behavioural and organizational skills that cross
all types of industries. Employers are looking whether you can get along with others, deal with
conflict and handle yourself professionally.

Things like communication skills, etiquette and workplace culture, for example, may be very
different in Canada than what you are used to. So, it is important to do your homework on such
cultural expectations so that you can have the skillset necessary to land a good job.

Here are some of our articles on the topic to get you going:
• Improve your cultural fit, a.k.a. soft skills, for a competitive advantage
• Canadian experience means soft skills, say employment experts
• “Soft Skills for Success” series

Be adaptable and persistent

A key soft skill of immigrants who do well in Canada is their ability to accept change. Studies show
that immigrants who go with the flow of their new country are far more likely to succeed.

The ability to adapt is essential. While starting a new life is exciting, it will be far from perfect. It
is hard work making such a big transition, and newcomers often feel frustrated. Sometimes,
making such a big move can feel like you have taken a step back. It can be difficult to accept that
jobs in your chosen field are hard to come by. It’s not always easy to accept that your skills are
not recognized. You may have feelings of anger, homesickness and low self-esteem if you have
to accept a job that you feel is beneath you.

Not only that, but you will also not necessarily have the same network of friends and family that
you had back home for support. And if you don’t actively put yourself out there to make
connections, both for work and fun, you can feel alone and isolated.

Like all things worthwhile in life, starting an immigration journey takes courage and persistence.
But the trick in every aspect of your new life is to not give up. Keep trying. Perhaps look at the
situation from a different viewpoint. Although it may be challenging at first, you will get there in
the end.

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7 WAYS TO PREPARE FOR CAREER CHALLENGES AS AN IMMIGRANT

1. Research the Canadian job market and what industries have a need for employees. Is
your industry in demand? Do you have skills you could transfer to one of the areas that is
experiencing labour gaps?

2. Determine if your profession is licensed or unlicensed in Canada. Note that this can differ
between provinces, depending on the profession. Professions are regulated by provincial
bodies.

3. If licensed, find out what is the regulatory body that governs your profession in your
province of choice. Find out whether they have a bridging program to help newcomers
like yourself achieve their Canadian licence to practise swiftly. See a list of bridging
programs here.

4. If unlicensed, consider whether to do some additional training or professional

development. Although not mandatory, adding some Canadian educational credentials
to your resumé can be helpful when applying for work.

5. Sign up for one of several pre-arrival training programs offered by Canadian

organizations overseas. Several (see examples here) are funded by the Canadian
government to help would-be immigrants be prepared for their transition to Canada.

6. Start trying to make networking contacts with Canadians in your industry. Social media
tools such as LinkedIn are the best tool for this long-distance activity.

7. Ask yourself honestly; how good is your English or French? Will you be able to cope in
the Canadian job market with the command of English you have now? Remember that
you will be competing with native-English speakers. Are your verbal and written
communication skills competitive here? Consider taking some extra language classes in
your homeland to improve your English (or French) to help you achieve success when you
land in Canada.

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PART II: HOW TO IMMIGRATE

8. Apply for immigration

So, you have decided to apply for immigration to Canada. Now, how do you start the process to
become a landed immigrant, otherwise known as a Canadian permanent resident?

The first step in your immigration journey is to familiarize yourself with the government
department that deals with immigration applications. In Canada, this is Immigration, Refugees
and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). This federal
department decides the immigration policies of
Immigrating to Quebec
Canada and processes immigration applications for
all provinces of Canada, except Quebec. As mentioned in Part I of this guide, Quebec has
more independence in certain areas than other
Are you eligible and under which category? Canadian provinces due to historical, cultural
For all provinces other than Quebec, there are and linguistic reasons; immigration is one of
several federal immigration categories that you those areas. The Province of Quebec runs its
can apply under to become a Canadian permanent own immigration system via its Immigration,
resident. It is important to choose the right one, diversité et Inclusion Québec provincial
because once you have applied, it is very hard to ministry.
make changes. Trying to switch categories may
even hinder or harm your application process. It If you speak French or are a Francophone,
sends immigration officials a red flag that immigrating to Quebec might be of particular
something might be dishonest or wrong in your interest to you.
application.
Quebec has immigration streams for skilled
If you are unsure of what category to choose, or workers, businesspeople and humanitarian
unsure if you will be eligible at all to apply for immigrants/refugees, along with programs for
Canadian residency, there is a useful questionnaire international students and temporary workers.
on the IRCC website that can assess if you are
eligible to apply and under which categories. The The immigration ministry’s website also offers
questionnaire will ask you about your nationality, online information sessions to see if Quebec is
age, language ability, family members, education a good fit for you.
and work experience. Be as accurate as possible to
get a clear sense if you would be eligible. Things are
also currently impacted by COVID-19 — learn more
here — but you can start the groundwork to immigrate.

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Once you are ready to apply, you can find all the necessary application forms you need on the
IRCC website under the section “My immigration or citizenship application.” Here you will also
find all the additional information that you will need, including information on how to fill in each
application form, how to pay the relevant fees, and medical exam and police check requirements.

There is also a video centre, which has lots of tutorials that show you how to complete your
application. The message here is how important it is to submit a complete, accurate application
the first time. You may not get a second chance.

Contact a visa office

If you want some additional help before you start filling out applications, a good option is to
contact the Canadian visa office in the city closest to where you currently live. Visa officers work
in Canadian embassies, high commissions and consulates in locations all around the world. They
help process immigration applications, including refugee resettlement, temporary resident visas,
and temporary work and study permits. There is a full list of all these locations on the IRCC
website. Note, the COVID-19 pandemic may have affected access to these locations.

9. Should you hire an immigration lawyer/consultant?

Keep in mind, however, that you could increase your chances of completing your application
correctly and completely with some expert guidance. This is where immigration lawyers and
authorized immigration consultants come into the equation. In Ontario, you can also use a
paralegal and, in Quebec, a notary.

When you apply for Canadian immigration, you can certainly choose to tackle this process on
your own. There is no requirement to use a lawyer or consultant. But, to ensure every detail is in
proper order, you might want to consider doing so. While it could mean some costly upfront fees,
they may be worth the price. While applying on your own is obviously the cheapest approach,
enlisting the help of a lawyer or consultant can be invaluable if you are uncertain of your ability
to fill in the forms correctly. After all, they understand what Canadian immigration officers look
for, and are aware of the many mistakes applicants make without realizing it.

Difference between a lawyer and a consultant

What’s the difference between an immigration lawyer and a consultant? Both an immigration
lawyer and consultant can help you complete your application (as can paralegals in Ontario and
notaries in Quebec), however only a lawyer is able to help you appeal your case in a federal court
should your application get rejected.

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Ensure you hire authorized representation

If you do choose to pay someone to help you in your application process, it is crucial that you get
the services of an authorized representative.

Unfortunately, for every qualified representative, there are plenty of con artists who are happy
to take your money but will not actually help you to get into Canada. The Canadian government
will not accept legal representation from people who are not authorized. It is an offence for
people who are not authorized to provide immigration advice for a fee. If they are not authorized,
do not pay for their help, as your application will be refused.

How do you ensure someone is authorized? The best way is to check that they belong to one of
the following organizations, which have online directories of their members:
• Immigration consultants must be a member in good standing of Immigration Consultants
of Canada Regulatory Council (ICCRC).
• Lawyers must be a member in good standing of the Canadian provincial/territorial law
society for lawyers:
• Law Society of British Columbia
• Law Society of Alberta
• Law Society of Saskatchewan
• Law Society of Manitoba
• Law Society of Upper Canada (Ontario)
• Barreau du Québec
• Law Society of New Brunswick
• Nova Scotia Barristers’ Society
• Law Society of Prince Edward Island
• Law Society of Newfoundland and Labrador
• Law Society of Yukon
• Law Society of the Northwest Territories
• Law Society of Nunavut.
• Paralegals (Ontario only) must be members of the Law Society of Upper Canada.
• Quebec notaries must be a member of the Chambre des Notaires du Québec.

A qualified authorized representative will be more than happy to answer your questions and be
fully transparent.

Learn more about how to protect yourself from immigration fraud.

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7 TIPS WHEN HIRING REPRESENTATION

1. If you are considering legal representation for your application, be sure to double check
the reputation and authenticity of any representative you hire. They have to be
authorized representatives if they are charging a fee.

2. Get a written contract that clearly states all the services they will be giving you. This
should include a breakdown of any fees.

3. Make sure you get a signed receipt anytime you make any payments.

4. Do not leave any of your original documents with your legal representation. IRCC
doesn’t ask for original documents (except for the criminal record check).

5. Never sign any blank forms or any documents that you don’t understand. Once you sign,
you are legally responsible for all documents carrying your signature.

6. If someone guarantees they can get your application approved or fast tracked, beware.
If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

7. It is also important to remember that even if you hire a representative, ultimately you
are still responsible for your application and ensuring its accuracy.

10. Time to apply: general rules

There are many categories under which newcomers can apply to come to Canada. This means
that the application process will look slightly different for everyone. Remember that each
application form and the criteria required are slightly different, so you must pick the right path
to permanent residency. However, all of the applications for permanent residency require each
applicant (and their dependants) to complete both a medical exam and a criminal and security
check.

It is also very important when you submit your application to submit all the necessary documents,
fees and any paperwork requested. All application forms and their guides can be found here.

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11 WAYS TO AVOID COMMON ERRORS WHEN APPLYING TO IMMIGRATE

Filling out immigration paperwork can be a complicated and difficult process. And if you don’t
get it right the first time, it can result in lots of frustrating delays or even denials.

However, you can help your application process by doing the following:

1. Make sure that your application is completed properly. This is one of the biggest
setbacks in the immigration process that newcomers face. If you file incomplete
paperwork, fail to send all of the necessary or correct documents, forget to include
photographs or forget to sign the forms, your application will be returned without being
processed. Then you have to start the application process all over again.

2. A good way to stay on track with completing your application form is to go through the
document checklist that is relevant to your application form. These are on the IRCC
website.

3. When you are filling out your application form, you may have a choice: hard copy or
online. You may be able to fill out a hard copy of the forms, which you can mail in, or you
can fill in the application forms online. IRCC recommends that people fill out their forms
online, as they are easier to read and process.

4. At the top or bottom of many of these online forms is a “validate” button, which you
click on after you have filled out the form completely. This is a very helpful feature, as it
will let you know if you have completed all the sections of the form properly.

5. Do not skip any of the questions or leave any of the fields blank. If the question does
not apply to you, simply write N/A, which means not applicable.

6. Make sure you give complete and relevant answers to all the information required on
your application form. Do not try to omit information either. If, for example, you omit
information regarding a dependant because you think you will more likely be accepted,
you will likely not be able to sponsor them later, as it will appear as if you were not being
truthful. It is critical that you do not misrepresent any facts on your application. Honesty
is really the best policy. Read more about misrepresentation here.

7. Make sure you answer all the questions clearly. If your application is hard to read or
difficult to understand, your application will be returned.

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8. For each application, you are required to submit biometrics and photographs. Photos
must follow certain specifications; make sure that you have met all the criteria. The best
way to do this is to bring the photo specifications (which can be found on the IRCC
website) to your photographer. Learn more here.

9. Make sure that you pay the correct fee for your application. These fees can change over
time, so be sure to double-check that you are paying the right amount.

10. Something that is also important to remember is that if you have a family, spouse or
dependants, you will also need to provide information for them in the application
process. Even if they are not coming with you to Canada, you must still fill out the
requested information on your application.

11. Always double-check all of your forms and paperwork before you submit them. A few
extra minutes could save you months of extra waiting.

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11. Temporary working visas

Since moving to a new country permanently is a big decision, many people choose to come to
Canada with temporary status first. If you are not absolutely sure that Canada is the right choice
for you, starting off with a temporary visa may be a good way to go.

In fact, Canadian government research shows that people who come to Canada on a temporary
visa first often have much better success at integrating into their new life and Canadian society
as a whole. That’s because their temporary visas have given them a chance to work and find
gainful employment. Entering Canada on a temporary visa also allows people to get acquainted
with the Canadian way of life, so that they feel more settled in their new life.

If you are planning to come to Canada to work temporarily, there is a very good chance that
you will need a work permit. You will also have to meet numerous eligibility requirements.
These will vary, depending on whether you are applying from inside or outside of Canada. No
matter where you apply, you must:
• prove to an officer that you will leave Canada when your work permit expires
• show that you have enough money to take care of yourself and your family members
during your stay in Canada and to return home
• obey the law and have no record of criminal activity (you may be asked to provide
a police clearance certificate)
• be in good health and have a medical exam, if needed
• give the officer any other documents they ask for to prove you can enter the country.

A full list of these requirements can be found here. For a temporary working visa to Quebec, see
more information here.

There are some situations where a work permit is not required. Read more here. If, after working
in Canada on a temporary visa, you would like to try applying for permanent residency, you can
apply via the Express Entry program or a provincial nominee program, described below.

12. Studying in Canada

In order to study in Canada as an international student, you must get a study permit. A study
permit is a document IRCC issues that allows foreign nationals to study at a Canadian designated

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learning institutions, a school approved by a provincial or territorial government to host

international students.

To be eligible for a study permit, you must meet several criteria. These include:
• getting an acceptance letter from a designated learning institution in Canada
• proof that you have enough money to pay your tuition fees, living expenses and return
transportation (for yourself and your dependants)
• be in good health
• have no criminal record
• satisfy an immigration officer that you will leave the country at the end of your stay.

In most cases, you can apply for a study permit online here. You can also get assistance at a visa
application centre. Here is a database of visa application centres around the world.

A study permit is usually valid for the length of your study program, plus an extra 90 days. This
extra time lets you prepare to leave Canada or apply to extend your stay. If you can’t finish your
courses before the date on your permit, you must apply to extend your stay as a student.

If you finish your studies early, your permit will stop being valid 90 days after you complete your
studies (no matter what day is printed on the study permit).

Note that a study permit is not a visa. It alone doesn’t allow you to enter Canada, so you may
need a temporary resident visa or an electronic travel authorization (eTA). If so, it will be issued
as part of your study permit application.

There are, however, some situations where you can study at any school in Canada without a
study permit, for example, if:
• your course or program is for six months or less
• your studies aren’t part of a longer program
• you complete all your studies within the time you are approved to stay in Canada.

If, after studying in Canada, you decide you would like to apply for permanent residency, you can
try to apply via the Express Entry program or a provincial nominee program, described below.

You will also likely need to apply for a Post-Graduate Work Permit to allow you to work in Canada
while you apply for permanent residency. Learn more about the permit work restrictions for
international student graduates here.

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Are you a minor?

In Canada, each province or territory decides the age when a person is considered an adult,
either 18 or 19. The age of majority is 18 in Alberta, Manitoba, Ontario, Prince Edward Island,
Quebec and Saskatchewan, and 19 in British Columbia, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and
Labrador, Northwest Territories, Nova Scotia, Nunavut, Yukon.

A person under this age of majority is considered a “minor child.”

If you are a minor, the immigration officer must be convinced that you have the care and
support you need to come to Canada in the form of a parent or legal guardian who comes with
you, or a custodian in Canada. A custodian is a responsible adult (Canadian citizen or a
permanent resident) who takes care of and supports the child.

To appoint a custodian, you need to fill out IRCC’s Custodianship declaration form with your
application.

13. Coming to Canada as a permanent resident

There are several programs under which you can move to Canada as a permanent resident,
although COVID-19 restrictions have impacted the process. Still, the main programs available for
principal applicants are:
• Express Entry for skilled workers
• provincial nominee programs (PNPs)
• start-up visa program

Express Entry
Canada chooses skilled immigrants as permanent residents based on their ability to settle in the
country and contribute to the economy. The system to manage people with skilled work
experience is called Express Entry.

Express Entry is used to manage applications for permanent residence for the:
• federal skilled worker program
• federal skilled trades program
• Canadian experience class

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International students and temporary workers can also apply to immigrate permanently to
Canada via the Express Entry system. When Express Entry was first launched, it was challenging
for students to gain a high enough score, but IRCC has updated the criteria to give more points if
you’ve studied in Canada.

Canadian provinces and territories can also recruit potential immigration candidates from the
Express Entry system through their provincial nominee programs (PNPs) to meet the specific
immigration needs of their area. Learn more about PNPs below.

Generally speaking, the Express Entry system has four parts to it:

1. You must complete an online Express Entry profile that provides IRCC with information
about your skills, work experience, language abilities, education as well as other pertinent
details related to the immigration process. Creating your profile is free and secure.

2. If you meet the criteria of the above federal immigration programs, you will then be
accepted into a pool of candidates.

3. The highest-ranking candidates in the pool will then be invited to apply for permanent
residence. Note that getting into the pool doesn’t mean you will necessarily be invited to
apply for permanent residence. To be chosen from the pool, you need to have one of the
highest-ranking scores.

4. After you’re invited to apply, you must still meet eligibility and admissibility requirements
under Canada's immigration law. You must also apply within 90 days.

If you’re in the Express Entry pool, but not invited to apply for permanent residence right away,
you can start looking for a job in Canada, which can increase your score.

Although optional, you can create a Job Match account with the Government of Canada’s Job
Bank. This is an online tool created to help match you with employers looking for workers with
your skills.

Getting a job offer (of at least one year) from a Canadian employer can increase your chances of
being accepted to apply for permanent residence. For a job offer to be valid in Express Entry,
however, your employer may need a labour market information assessment (LMIA), which can
be a tedious process. (There are some exceptions to the LMIA requirement, however.) Employers

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actively looking for workers via Express Entry will likely be prepared to do an LMIA, but other
employers may not be willing.

If you’re in the Express Entry pool but have not yet received an Invitation to Apply for permanent
residency, you can also work on increasing your score by improving your language and education
scores, or applying to a PNP too, as long as you plan to settle in that specific province.

Provincial nominee programs

Although immigration decisions for all provinces and territories (excluding Quebec) are
technically made by IRCC, provinces have some say over immigration matters. After all, they
know best what is happening in their labour market and what types of skilled workers or new
businesses they need.

And that is really the driving force of the provincial nominee program (PNP) — bringing in
immigrants who can fill provincial labour gaps or start businesses. (Note: Quebec has its own
independent system via its Immigration, diversité et Inclusion Québec provincial ministry.)

How do PNPs work? Provinces and territories can “nominate” immigrants to IRCC. They are
basically telling IRCC that they are recommending that this potential immigrant be given
permanent residency if they come to their province.

So, if you know which province you want to settle in, or if you’re already there on a work permit,
the PNP might be a good choice for you, as the immigration process is also then faster. But each
province is different and has its own streams and criteria for their PNP, as well as their own
annual intake limits, and they can change these at any time to meet their labour market needs
or as a result of COVID—19 restrictions. So, don’t be surprised if PNP streams change, get put on
hold or are closed.

If you get nominated by a province or territory, you then apply for permanent residency through
IRCC as a “provincial nominee.” This greatly increases your chances of getting approved, but,
ultimately, IRCC makes final decisions on all permanent resident applications and can reject the
application. Beyond the provincial nomination, you still have to satisfy IRCC's medical, security,
criminal and visa requirements in order to work and live in Canada.

Since the introduction of the federal Express Entry stream, however, PNPs have gotten a bit more
confusing. The traditional PNP programs are still available, but now most provinces also have an
Express Entry stream to their PNP. Confused? Yes, it can be a little unclear.

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Generally speaking, the provincial Express Entry streams are basically a means for provinces to
nominate someone who is in the federal Express Entry pool of candidates, or for you to enter the
pool with the advantage of being nominated by a province.

In both scenarios, the provincial nomination will give you the added points needed to lead to an
Invitation to Apply for permanent residency from IRCC, with the understanding that you intend
to settle in the province that nominated you.

If you are applying through the traditional PNP system, you must meet the minimum
requirements of one of their traditional streams and then apply to IRCC via a paper-based
application.

If you’re nominated under a province’s Express Entry PNP stream, you must meet the minimum
requirements of their Express Entry PNP stream, as well as create an online Express Entry profile
with IRCC that shows you meet those requirements.

Each province has its own versions of the PNP, both traditional and Express Entry variations. Here
is an overview of each, but please access more information via the links provided below as there
are so many variables to each program, with varying eligibility factors, including requirements
like age, language levels, and skills and experience.

The programs are also frequently updated with new pathways including pilot programs focused
on a specific industry depending on the province’s labour market needs. The COVID-19 pandemic
has also affected these programs.

(The PNP overview below is as of Spring 2021. Always check with the PNP website for the latest
information, as changes and updates are made regularly, especially in light of the COVID-19
pandemic.)

> BRITISH COLUMBIA

The B.C. Provincial Nominee Program (B.C. PNP) is a pathway for high-
demand immigrant workers and experienced entrepreneurs to gain
permanent residency in British Columbia. The B.C. PNP offers various
ways to become a permanent resident in B.C.

Each pathway contains different categories you can apply under, depending on your National
Occupational Classification skill level, job or international student status.

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The pathways include:

1. Skills Immigration
Skills Immigration is for skilled, entry-level and semi-skilled workers in high-demand occupations
in B.C., like health care. It uses a points-based invitation system. You must register and apply
online for the B.C. PNP. That’s then followed by a paper application process for permanent
residency to IRCC.

To qualify as a skilled worker, you must:

• have accepted a full-time, indeterminate job offer (the job must be in a National
Occupational Classification (NOC) skilled occupation (skill level 0, A or B)
• be qualified to perform the duties of the job and have at least two years of directly related
work experience
• meet minimum language requirements for NOC skill level B occupations, among other
requirements

Your employer must be willing to support your application and fulfill certain responsibilities
during the application process.

To start the process, create a profile with B.C. PNP’s online application and registration system.
After submitting your registration, you will receive a score based on your skills and job.
Periodically, the program invites people with the highest scores to apply.

Recent international graduates of a Canadian university or college may not need any work
experience, depending on the job being offered.

To qualify for this category as an entry level or semi-skilled worker, you must:
• first accept a valid job offer from a B.C. employer in a specific occupation in
tourism/hospitality, long-haul trucking or the food processing industry. For the Northeast
Development Region of B.C., you may apply in any National Occupational
Classification occupation (skill level C or D)
• have been working full-time for your employer for a minimum of nine consecutive months
before applying
• meet minimum language and education requirements, among other requirements

Your employer must be willing to support your application and fulfill certain responsibilities
during the application process.

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This is also the pathway for international graduates and post-graduates to apply for permanent
residency.

And there is a stream for health care professionals. The Skills Immigration – Healthcare
Professional category of the BC PNP helps physicians, specialists, nurses and allied health
professionals work in B.C. and gain permanent residence. Learn more here.

Further, there is a pilot program for tech professionals until June 2021. Learn more about the BC
PNP Tech Pilot here.

2. Express Entry B.C.

Express Entry B.C. is a faster way for eligible skilled workers to immigrate to B.C. To be eligible,
you must also qualify for a federal economic immigration program like the federal skilled worker
program or federal skilled trades program or Canadian experience class. It uses a points-based
invitation system and is an entirely web-based registration and application process for both the
B.C. PNP and IRCC’s permanent residency process.

You do not require B.C. work experience, but you must have relevant work experience as well as
meet other requirements. To qualify for this category, you must:
• have received an Express Entry Profile Number and a Job Seeker Validation Code from
the IRCC Express Entry system, which shows you meet the minimum criteria for one of
IRCC’s Express Entry programs
• have accepted a full-time, indeterminate job offer (a permanent job, or one with no set
end date) from a B.C. employer; the job must be in a National Occupational
Classification skilled occupation (skill level 0, A or B)
• qualify to work in your job in B.C.
• have at least two years of directly related work experience
• meet minimum language requirements, among other requirements

Your employer must also be willing to support your application and fulfill certain responsibilities
during the application process.

3. Entrepreneur Immigration
The Entrepreneur Immigration stream is for high-net-worth businesspeople who can invest in
and actively manage a valid business in B.C. It is for experienced entrepreneurs who can support
innovation and economic growth in the province.

It is a points-based system, and you must also have the required personal and investment funds.

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To qualify, you must:

• have a personal net worth of at least CDN $600,000
• demonstrate business and/or management experience
• establish an eligible new business, or purchase and improve an existing business
• make an eligible personal investment of at least CAD$200,000 in the business
• create at least one new full-time job for a Canadian citizen or permanent resident in the
business

See the Entrepreneur Immigration Program Guide for the complete personal requirements.
There is also an option for companies looking to expand into B.C., and who need to get
permanent residency for key employees. Learn more about eligibility and requirements here.

For complete, up-to-date program information and requirements for all B.C. PNP programs, see
the B.C. PNP Skills Immigration and Express Entry B.C. Program Guide. For help registering and
applying online, see the B.C. PNP Skills Immigration and Express Entry B.C. Technical Guide.

> ALBERTA
The Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program (AINP) aims to support
Alberta’s economic growth by attracting and retaining work-ready
people to the province.

If you are nominated by the Government of Alberta, you can then apply, together with your
spouse/common-law partner and dependent children, for permanent residence through IRCC as
a provincial nominee.

The AINP offers options for both skilled and semi-skilled workers. You may be able to apply on
your own, or with your employer if you’re currently a temporary worker. In the latter case, you
must maintain a valid work permit during the AINP application process.

AINP streams accepting applications include:

1. Alberta Opportunity Stream (AOS)

The AOS pathway to immigration in Alberta is aimed at temporary foreign workers who are
already working full-time in Alberta and have a full-time job offer from an Alberta employer in
an eligible occupation. Candidates must also meet other minimum eligibility criteria for
residency and work permit type, occupation, language, education, Alberta job offer and work
experience.

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At the time your application is postmarked and at the time the AINP assesses your application,
you must work in an eligible occupation in Alberta (most occupations under National
Occupational Classification (NOC) skill levels 0, A, B, C and D are eligible).

Some occupations are ineligible, including school teachers, firefighters, writers, actors and more.
See the list of ineligible occupations here.

2. Alberta Express Entry Stream

The Alberta Express Entry Stream nominates a limited number of qualified applicants from the
federal Express Entry system. If you have demonstrated strong ties to Alberta and can help
support the government’s economy, you may receive a Notification of Interest from Alberta.

Qualified candidates will be selected directly from the Express Entry pool by the AINP.
International graduates will also be considered under this stream.

If you receive a Notification of Interest letter from Alberta in your federal Express Entry
account, email a copy of the letter to the AINP within two weeks to [email protected]. The
AINP will then confirm your information and send you instructions on the next steps in the
application process.

3. Self-Employed Farmer Stream

This stream is for individuals with farming experience and the resources to purchase and establish
a farm in Alberta.

You must prove that you have farm management skills shown by financial documentation of your
existing farm business; documentation of your education, training and work experience; a
proposed business plan for the farming enterprise you are considering in Alberta and/or proof
that a Canadian financial institution is willing to finance your proposed farming business.

You must also be able to invest a minimum of CDN $500,000 of equity in a primary production
farming business in Alberta.

4. International Graduate Entrepreneur Immigration Stream

This stream is for international graduates of approved Alberta post-secondary institutions who
want to start a business or buy an existing business. You must have completed at least two years
of full-time education in Alberta and have a Post-Graduation Work Permit.

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5. Foreign Graduate Start-Up Visa Stream

Foreign graduates from outside of Canada who want to launch start-up enterprises and
innovative businesses can apply for permanent residence. You must work with a designated
agency to review business plans, and you must include a letter of recommendation from the
agency with your Expression of Interest.

> SASKATCHEWAN
The Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP) invites residency
applications from non-Canadians who want to make Saskatchewan their
home. Like other PNPs, applying to the SINP is just part of the process;
you also have to complete the federal application forms.

There are different SINP categories you can apply to:

1. International Skilled Worker Category

This category is for skilled workers abroad who want to work and live in Saskatchewan. Unless
you have a job offer, applicants must be in an occupation in demand in the province. For certain
professions, you may have to show certain proof or documents.

If you have a job offer for permanent, full-time employment in Saskatchewan already, you’ll need
a valid SINP Job Approval Letter to show proof of this. There’s no specific list of jobs, but your
offer is required to be in an occupation in the National Occupational
Classification (NOC) Matrix level "A", "B" or "0", or in a designated trade in Saskatchewan.

Alternately, if you’re in the federal Express Entry pool, you could also be considered for
nomination by SINP. The two combined will increase your chances of being invited to apply for
permanent residency. Learn more here.

2. Worker with Saskatchewan Work Experience Category

This category is for foreign workers who are currently living and working in Saskatchewan on a
valid work permit and would like to apply for permanent residency through the SINP. There are
subcategories specifically for temporary workers in health care, hospitality and long-haul
trucking, as well as international students.

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3. Entrepreneur and Farm Categories

These categories are for foreign national entrepreneurs who plan to start a business or farm in
Saskatchewan. You and your family can start, obtain or partner in a business in Saskatchewan
and be actively involved in managing it, while residing in Saskatchewan. To start this process, you
will have to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) to the SNIP.

Candidates who meet the minimum entry criteria will be accepted into the EOI candidate pool,
after which they are scored and ranked. Selected candidates are invited to apply to the SINP.

There is also a category specifically for International Graduate Entrepreneurs for international
students who want to become an entrepreneur in Saskatchewan. Learn more here.

To apply for any of Saskatchewan’s immigration categories, you should review the Application
Guide in each category for instructions on how to apply and details on required supporting
documents. Incomplete applications won’t be accepted, and you’ll need to re-apply and submit
a new application.

> MANITOBA
In 2018, Manitoba was the first Canadian province to establish its own
immigration program, the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program
(MPNP), to meet demand for skilled workers, tradespeople and
professionals in the province.

Manitoba seeks workers, businesspeople and their families with the intention and ability to
successfully settle and economically establish in Manitoba as permanent residents.

The MPNP is now organized around the following application streams:

1. International Education Stream (IES)

This stream is for international students graduating in Manitoba who meet labour market needs.
Applicants will no longer be required to work for six months before applying to the MPNP.

There are three pathways:

• Career Employment Pathway
• Graduate Internship Pathway
• International Student Entrepreneur

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2. Business Investor Stream (BIS)

This stream allows Manitoba to recruit and nominate qualified business investors and
entrepreneurs from around the world who will either start or purchase businesses in Manitoba
within the first 24 months of arrival, or establish and operate a farm business.

There are two pathways:

• Entrepreneur Pathway
• Farm Investor Pathway

3. Skilled Workers Stream

This stream is divided into two pathways:
• Skilled Workers in Manitoba Stream
Under this stream, the MPNP selects internationally trained and experienced workers
who have the skills needed in the local labour market. You have a better chance if you
have strong labour market attachments to Manitoba employers.

• Skilled Worker Overseas Stream

This stream is for international skilled worker applicants with in-demand skills and
training, who have a high potential to find related employment soon after arrival within
Manitoba’s In-demand Occupations list. Priority will be given to candidates with close
family connections in Manitoba and spouses who have the language proficiency, training
and experience to quickly find jobs in-demand occupations.

> ONTARIO
The Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) is an economic
immigration program designed to help Ontario meet its labour market
needs. Through the program, Ontario can nominate, for permanent
residence, individuals who have the skills and experience to contribute
to Ontario’s economy.

If you’re nominated by the OINP, you can then apply for permanent residence through IRCC,
who makes the final decision on each application and issues permanent resident visas to
successful applicants.

Currently (as of Spring 2021), the only available immigration streams to Ontario are via Express
Entry, including streams for human capital priorities, skilled trades, French-speaking skilled
workers and entrepreneurs.

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At other times, they may also have streams open for applicants with an Employer Job Offer, or
who are graduates of master’s and PhD programs in Ontario. Check the Ontario immigration
website here regularly to see if these are reopened.

1. Human Capital Priorities stream

This Express Entry stream gives foreign workers with skilled work experience, language abilities
and education the opportunity to apply to permanently live and work in Ontario. You must have
a valid profile in IRCC’s Express Entry system and receive a Notification of Interest from Ontario
before you can apply online to be nominated by the province of Ontario for permanent
residence.

2. Skills Trades Stream

Ontario’s Express Entry Skilled Trades Stream gives foreign nationals with Ontario work
experience in eligible skilled trades the opportunity to apply to permanently live and work in
Ontario. You must have at least one year of paid full-time work experience (or the equivalent in
paid part-time work) in Ontario in a skilled trade that is listed in Minor Group 633 or Major
Groups 72, 73 or 82 of the National Occupational Classification (NOC).

3. French-Speaking Skilled Worker stream

Ontario’s Express Entry French-Speaking Skilled Worker Stream gives French-speaking skilled
workers with strong English language abilities the opportunity to apply to permanently live and
work in Ontario.

4. Entrepreneur Stream
This stream is for entrepreneurs from outside of Canada interested in starting a new business
or buying an existing business in Ontario. It gives an entrepreneur (and up to one foreign
national business partner) the opportunity to be nominated for permanent residence once they
have established their business in Ontario.

Under the Entrepreneur Stream, you must have a viable business activity that will bring
significant economic benefit to Ontario. You must meet all eligibility criteria in order to apply to
the Entrepreneur Stream, including at least 24 months of full-time business experience in the last
60 months, experience as a business owner or as a senior manager (business management).
Further, you must also have a net worth CDN $800,000 if your business will be located within the
Greater Toronto Area (GTA); and CDN $400,000 outside of the GTA.

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> NEW BRUNSWICK

As an economic program, the New Brunswick Provincial Nominee
Program (NBPNP) selects and nominates qualified business people
and skilled workers from around the world who will live in New
Brunswick and contribute to the local economy. The streams include:

1. Business Immigration Stream

The Business Immigration Stream is for experienced entrepreneurs who are ready to establish,
operate and actively manage a business while living and settling in New Brunswick permanently.
It was developed for experienced business owners and senior managers who wish to become
permanent residents by owning a business and living in New Brunswick.

There is also an option for international student graduates to take advantage of this stream. The
Post-Graduate Entrepreneurial Stream was developed for recent foreign graduates from a
recognized university in New Brunswick or the NB Community College, who have studied for at
least two years full-time. The graduate must have subsequently started or acquired a business in
New Brunswick and operated it for at least one year, while on a valid Post-Graduate Work Permit.
They must also settle in the province permanently.

2. Skilled Worker Stream

This stream is designed for is designed for foreign nationals who possess the skills, education
and work experience needed to contribute to New Brunswick’s economy. You must meet the
program’s eligibility requirements, have an offer of employment from a New Brunswick
employer and intend to live and work in the province on a permanent basis.

Your job must also be represented in one of the following National Occupation Classification
(NOC) skill levels:
• Skill levels O, A, B for high-skilled workers
• Skill level C for semi-skilled workers
• Skill level D, low-skilled worker type 1, 3, 7, 8, 9

3. Express Entry Stream

Designed for foreign nationals with the skills, education and work experience to contribute to the
provincial economy, applicants under the New Brunswick Express Entry Stream, must be
currently living in New Brunswick and be either working for a New Brunswick employer or
enrolled in a New Brunswick publicly funded post-secondary institution.

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> NEWFOUNDLAND AND LABRADOR

The Newfoundland and Labrador Provincial Nominee Program
(NLPNP) can provide you with faster entry into Canada.

Applying to the NLPNP is a simple process. First, you must

determine which of the categories to apply to Skilled Worker,
Express Entry Skilled Worker or International Graduate. Following this, you download and
complete all required provincial and federal forms and gather the required supporting
documentation (e.g., birth certificates, diplomas, passports, etc.).

You can apply in one of these three categories:

1. Express Entry
This stream is for individuals who have been accepted into IRCC’s Express Entry pool and who
have a job offer in Newfoundland and Labrador. You will be required to provide your Express
Entry Profile Number (E plus nine digits). You must also have a high-skilled job or job offer from
an employer based on the National Occupational Code (NOC) classification system.

2. Skilled Worker
This category is for international workers and prospective immigrants who have skills that are
beneficial to Newfoundland and Labrador’s labour market. Eligible applicants are required to
have a guaranteed offer of employment from a local employer or be currently working in the
province on a valid work permit.

3. International Graduate
This is for international students who have graduated from a recognized post-secondary
educational institution in Canada. They also have a Post-Graduate Work Permit (with a duration
of at least six months), and a job or job offer from a Newfoundland and Labrador employer.

> NOVA SCOTIA

If you want to move to Nova Scotia, applying to the Nova Scotia
Nominee Program (NSNP) can speed up the process. Through the
NSNP, prospective immigrants who have the skills and experience
targeted by Nova Scotia may be nominated to immigrate.

Here are the different streams under which you can apply.

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1. Entrepreneur
The Entrepreneur Stream is for experienced business owners or senior business managers who
want to live in Nova Scotia and start a new business or buy an existing business. You must also
actively participate in the day-to-day management of the business. After operating the business
for a year, you may be nominated for permanent resident status.

You must also have a net worth of CDN $600,000, CDN $150,000 of which you will be able to
invest in the business, and at least three years’ experience actively managing and owning a
business or more than five years’ experience in a senior business management role. You must
complete an online Expression of Interest (EOI), after which you may be invited to apply from the
Nova Scotia Office of Immigration.

2. International Graduate Entrepreneur

The International Graduate Entrepreneur Stream is similar to the Entrepreneur stream but is
aimed at recent graduates of a Nova Scotia university or the Nova Scotia Community College.
They must have already started or bought a Nova Scotia business and operated it for at least a
year and must intend to settle in Nova Scotia.

You must also have a valid Post-Graduation Work Permit.

3. Skilled Worker
To apply to the Skilled Worker stream, you must:
• have a full-time permanent job offer from a Nova Scotia employer
• have one year of work experience related to the job (semi-skilled and low-skilled workers
must already have six months’ experience with the employer)
• be 21 to 55 years old
• have a high school diploma and the appropriate training, skills and/or accreditation for the
job
• proven language ability equal to Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) Level 5 if you are a
skilled worker; if your first language is English or French, that is enough proof
• Semi-skilled and low-skilled workers must have test results to prove they meet CLB 4 even
if their first language is English or French
• show enough financial resources to successfully settle in Nova Scotia

4. Physician
Under the Physician Stream, Nova Scotia’s public health authorities — the Nova Scotia Health
Authority (NSHA) and the Izaak Walton Killam Health Centre (IWK) — can recruit general
practitioners, family physicians and specialist physicians to work in Nova Scotia.

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The Physician Stream is only open to general practitioners and family physicians (NOC 3112) and
specialist physicians (NOC 3111) with signed approved opportunities with the Nova Scotia Health
Authority or the IWK Health Centre.

5. Occupations in Demand
The Occupations in Demand stream targets specific intermediate-skilled occupations that are in
high labour market demand in Nova Scotia. You must:
• have a full-time permanent job offer from a Nova Scotia employer in either NOC 3413
(nurse aides, orderlies and patient service associates) or NOC 7511 (transport truck
drivers)
• have one year of work experience related to the job
• be 21 to 55 years old
• have a high school diploma
• have the appropriate training, skills and/or accreditation for the job
• language ability equal to Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) Level 4
• show enough financial resources to successfully settle in Nova Scotia

6. Nova Scotia Experience: Express Entry

The Nova Scotia Experience: Express Entry stream is for applicants who have at least one year of
experience working in Nova Scotia in a high skilled occupation. You must:
• have at least one year of work experience in Nova Scotia
• be 21 to 55 years old
• have a Canadian high school credential or equivalent
• prove language ability in English or French on the Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB —
CLB 7 for skilled work in the National Occupational Classification (NOC) O and A, and CLB 5
for NOC B positions
• have a profile registered in IRCC’s Express Entry system

7. Nova Scotia Labour Market Priorities

Under the Nova Scotia Labour Market Priorities stream, the Nova Scotia Office of Immigration
sends a Letter of Interest to candidates in the federal Express Entry system who meet provincial
labour market needs. You must also meet the minimum work experience requirements of the
Express Entry stream and show that you have sufficient funds to establish yourself and your
family in Nova Scotia.

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> PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND

Under the P.E.I. Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), individuals
are selected for nomination based on their intention to live and
work in P.E.I. and their economic ability to establish there. Priority
is given to entrepreneurs and to individuals qualified to work in
areas with identified skill shortages in the P.E.I. labour market.

The Office of Immigration has created an Expression of Interest System. You must create an
account and profile through the online Expression of Interest System.

1. Immigrate to P.E.I. as a Worker

Critical Workers
You can apply for a nomination for permanent residency through the Critical Worker stream of
the Prince Edward Island Provincial Nominee Program (P.E.I. PNP) if you are currently working in
P.E.I. The P.E.I. Critical Worker stream is employer-driven, allowing Island employers to fill low-
skilled positions that they are unable to fill through the local job market.

International Graduates
You can apply for a nomination for permanent residency through the International Graduate
stream of the P.E.I. PNP, if you graduated from an accredited P.E.I. post-secondary institution
and are currently working in P.E.I. The International Graduate stream is employer-driven,
allowing Island employers to fill high-skilled positions that they are unable to fill through the local
job market.

P.E.I. Express Entry

You can apply for a P.E.I. Express Entry nomination for permanent residency through the P.E.I.
PNP. Your nomination through P.E.I. PNP will increase your chance of being issued an Invitation
to Apply from IRCC. To be eligible, you must meet the requirements of at least one of the federal
economic immigration programs (e.g., federal skilled worker program, federal skilled trades
program or Canadian experience class) and create a federal Express Entry profile and be placed
in the pool of candidates.

Skilled Workers on P.E.I.

You can apply for a nomination for permanent residency through the Skilled Worker stream of
the P.E.I. PNP, if you are currently employed by an Island employer. The Skilled Worker stream is
employer-driven, allowing Island employers to fill high-skilled positions that they are unable to
fill through the local job market. You must have a full-time long-term (i.e., permanent or
minimum of two years) job from a P.E.I. employer in NOC skill level O, A or B.

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Skilled Workers Outside Canada

You can apply for a nomination for permanent residency through the Skilled Worker stream of
the P.E.I. PNP if you have a job offer from an Island employer. The P.E.I. Skilled Worker stream
is employer-driven, allowing Island employers to fill high-skilled positions that they are unable to
fill through the local job market. You must have a full-time long-term (i.e., permanent or
minimum of two years) job offer from a P.E.I. employer in NOC skill level O, A or B.

2. Immigrate to P.E.I. as an Entrepreneur (Business Impact category)

Work Permit Stream
If you are interested in immigrating to P.E.I. and would like to invest in and run a business, you
may be eligible for a nomination for permanent residency through the Work Permit stream of
the P.E.I. PNP. This stream is for foreign nationals with extensive management or business-
ownership experience who would like to move to P.E.I. on a temporary basis to start their
business, and eventually become a permanent resident. You must have a minimum verifiable
personal net worth of $600,000.

Buy or Sell a P.E.I. Business

This is an online platform to connect people who would like to buy or sell a P.E.I. business. As a
potential buyer or investor, this website will provide you with a list of businesses whose owners
are seeking someone to purchase or invest in their company. You will have to fill out a registration
form to get full details. Once registered, you will be listed (anonymously if desired) and your
information will be available to any registered business. You will be able to search the database
and contact the businesses directly.

ATLANTIC IMMIGRATION PILOT

The Atlantic Immigration Pilot launched in 2017, is an employer-driven immigration program

aimed at addressing skills gaps and labour market needs in the four Atlantic Provinces. You
can apply in one of three programs:

• Atlantic High-Skilled Program

• Atlantic Intermediate-Skilled Program
• Atlantic International Graduate Program

Each of these programs has its own requirements, related to the job that you’ll have in the
Atlantic province, your skills, experience and education, your language skills and more.

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> NORTHWEST TERRITORIES

The Northwest Territories (NWT) Nominee Program is designed to
help employers in the Northwest Territories secure the workforce
they need. If an employer cannot find a candidate locally or
nationally for a position, the next option is to find foreign nationals
with the skills and experience for the job.

If you are already working in the Northwest Territories, ask your employer about the NWT
Nominee Program and the different opportunities to help you become a permanent resident.

1. Employer-driven streams
There are three employer-driven streams including:

Entry-Level/Semi-Skilled Workers
The Entry Level/Semi-Skilled Occupations stream helps employers fill shortages for entry-level
jobs when they cannot find a Canadian candidate locally or nationally for a position. To be
eligible, foreign nationals must have worked full-time in the same position with the employer
for six months and be in good standing with the requirements of their temporary foreign work
permit.

Skilled Workers
The Skilled Worker stream is designed to attract qualified individuals who will assist with
shortages of workers in the Northwest Territories for which formal education and/or specialized
training is required. You must have one year of full-time experience in the occupation being
nominated for.

NWT Express Entry System

The NWT Express Entry stream is for skilled workers who have a profile in IRCC’s Express Entry
system. It assists employers by helping them secure skilled employees by fast-tracking
applications for permanent residency. To be eligible for the Express Entry stream, you must meet
be accepted into the Express Entry pool and meet the criteria of the Skilled Worker stream of the
nominee program.

2. Business stream
People who want to immigrate to the Northwest Territories to start their own business or invest
in and operate an established company may apply to the business streams of the NWT Nominee
Program. The stream is currently on pause until further notice.

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> YUKON
The Yukon Nominee Program (YNP) allows Yukon to nominate
applicants to IRCC for permanent residency up north in the Yukon.
When eligible employers cannot find Canadian citizens or permanent
residents to fill permanent full-time jobs in the area, this program
allows them to fast track workers from outside of Canada. There is also a business stream for
foreign national entrepreneurs who want to open a business in Yukon.

Here are the available YNP streams:

1. The Skilled Worker Program is for qualified workers who fit into National Occupational
Classification (NOC) 0, A or B categories. This stream is locally driven and based on the needs
of Yukon employers.

2. Express Entry is for skilled workers who fit into National Occupational Classification (NOC) A,
0 and B. You must also be eligible for one of the three federal immigration streams: federal
skilled worker program; federal skilled trades program; or Canadian experience class.

3. The Critical Impact Worker Program is for lower skilled qualified workers who fit
into National Occupational Classification (NOC) C or D categories. This stream is locally driven
and based on the needs of Yukon employers.

4. The Business Nominee Program is for individuals with proven business skills who want to own
and operate businesses in Yukon. Businesses must belong to eligible sectors and can be
startups or purchased businesses. In all cases, the nominee must operate the business; no
passive investments are allowed. Nominees receive support for a two-year work permit,
during which time they are to establish themselves, their family and their business in Yukon.
At the end of the period, nominees who meet the requirements will be supported by Yukon
in their application to Canada for permanent residency.

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Start-up visa program

While many of the PNPs described above have entrepreneurship aspects to their programs,
federally, there is only national program currently focused on business immigrants — the start-
up visa program. This program is for immigrant entrepreneurs who have the skills, capital and
potential to start a business in Canada that is innovative, will create jobs for Canadians and can
compete on a global scale.

If you have an innovative business idea and can get support for your idea from one of several
designated organizations in Canada, you may be able to immigrate here and launch your startup
in Canada.

Designated organizations are business groups that have been approved to invest in or support
possible startups. If an organization chooses to support your business idea, it will give you a Letter
of Support. See the list of designated organizations in the following links:
• designated venture capital funds
• designated angel investor groups
• designated business incubators

If you get the support from a venture capital fund, you must secure a minimum investment of
$200,000. You must secure a minimum investment of $75,000 if the investment comes from an
angel investor group. You do not need to secure any investment from a business incubator, but
you must be accepted into a Canadian business incubator program.

Up to five people can apply for the start-up visa program as owners of a single business. However,
to meet the ownership requirements, each applicant must hold at least 10 per cent of the voting
rights in the business. Further, the designated organization and the applicants must jointly

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hold more than 50 per cent of the voting rights in the business. You must also meet the minimum
level of the Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) 5 in either English or French in speaking,
reading, listening and writing.

Also, please note that the Government of Canada does not give financial support to new start-up
visa immigrants. So, you must show that you have enough money to support yourself and any
dependants after you arrive in Canada. You cannot borrow this money from another person. You
will need to give proof that you have the money when you apply.

You can find out more about eligibility for this program here.

14. Family sponsorship

People who already have family in Canada can apply to be sponsored by them under the Family
Class. This includes sponsoring a spouse, partner, dependent children, parents, grandparents,
adopted children and other relatives. The criteria for each category are slightly different, so be
sure to check the IRCC website to make sure you are eligible to be sponsored.

Also, both parties should be aware of their obligations when sponsoring/being sponsored. There
is usually a financial commitment on the part of the sponsor, and you have an obligation to
become financially independent and not seek governmental social assistance.

Who can be your sponsor?

Sponsors must be at least 18 years old and be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident (living in
Canada). If they are a Canadian citizen living outside Canada, they must show that they plan to
live in Canada when the sponsored relative becomes a permanent resident.

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They must also be able to prove that they are not receiving social assistance for reasons other
than a disability. In Quebec, they must also meet Quebec’s conditions to be a sponsor.

Who can’t be your sponsor?

Someone can’t be a sponsor if they:
• have failed to pay an immigration loan, a performance bond or family support payments
• have failed to provide for the basic needs of a previously sponsored relative who received
social assistance
• are under a removal order
• are in a penitentiary, jail, reformatory or prison
• receive social assistance for a reason other than a disability
• are still going through the process of bankruptcy (undischarged bankruptcy)
• were sponsored by a spouse or partner and became a permanent resident less than five
years ago
• sponsored a previous spouse or partner and three years have not passed since this person
became a permanent resident
• have already applied to sponsor your current spouse, partner or child and a decision on
your application hasn’t been made yet
• were convicted of a violent or sexual offence, or an offence that caused bodily harm to a
relative — or attempted or threatened to commit any of these offences

Spouse, common-law partner or conjugal partner

You can be sponsored as a spouse, common-law partner or conjugal partner if you are at least 18
years old and your relationship is genuine and wasn’t entered into just to get permanent resident
status in Canada. IRCC will investigate allegations of marriage fraud and you could lose your
status if found that you entered into the relationship or marriage dishonestly just to come to
Canada.

If you’re applying in the spouse or common-law partner categories, you must live with your
sponsor in Canada. You may also be eligible for an open work permit. Find out how to apply for
an open work permit.

If, after you come to Canada as a sponsored spouse or partner, you find yourself in an abusive
situation, you don’t have to stay in the situation. Abuse is not tolerated in Canada. The person
who’s abusing you might tell you that you’ll be deported or lose your children if you leave the
relationship. Call 1-888-242-2100 to contact the IRCC Client Support Centre for information.

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Dependent children
A dependent child is a child who depends on their parent (the sponsor) for financial or other
support. A son or daughter is a dependant of their parent when the child is under 19 years old
and does not have a spouse or partner, or 19 years old and over and has depended substantially
on the parent’s financial support since before the age of 19 because of a physical or mental
condition.

Sponsors must have enough income to provide for basic needs the dependent child as well as
any grandchildren (dependent children of a dependent child) of the principal applicant.

If a sponsor is sponsoring more than one dependent child, they must submit a complete set of
application forms and documents for each.

Other relatives
Sponsors may be able to sponsor certain relatives to immigrate to Canada under the Family Class
if the sponsor is at least 18 years old and a Canadian citizen or permanent resident of Canada.

Sponsors must support the relative financially when they arrive, be able to meet basic needs for
both such as food, shelter, clothing, and ensure their relative doesn’t need social assistance. They
have to agree in writing to give financial support to the sponsored relative and any other eligible
relatives coming with them for up to 20 years (depending on their age and how you’re related).

The sponsored relative must sign an agreement saying they will make the effort to support
themselves. This includes sponsored dependent children 18 or older.

Depending on the circumstances, there are options for who can be sponsored:

1. Orphaned close relatives

Sponsors can sponsor close relatives if they are orphaned under 18 without a spouse, conjugal
partner or common-law partner. They must be related by blood or adoption, such as siblings,
nephews/nieces or grandchildren.

2. Other relatives
Sponsors may sponsor one relative, related by blood or adoption, of any age if they don't have a
living relative (e.g., spouse, child, parent, sibling, uncle/aunt, niece/nephew) they could sponsor
instead, and they don’t have any of these above-named relatives who is already a Canadian
citizen or permanent resident.

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If the sponsored relative has a spouse, partner or dependent children who will come with them
to Canada, they must be included on the same sponsorship application.

3. Parents/grandparents
If you’re a parent or grandparent, your child or grandchild in Canada can sponsor you to become
a permanent resident under the Family Class. Sponsors must at least 18 years old and a
Canadian citizen or permanent resident of Canada.

The sponsor must support you financially when you arrive and make sure you won’t need social
assistance from the government. They should provide for your essential needs.

You and your sponsor must sign a sponsorship agreement that commits them to provide financial
support for you (and any other eligible relatives accompanying you) for a period of three to 20
years, depending on your age and relationship. Learn more about family sponsorship here.

15. Refugees and asylum seekers

The Canadian refugee system is there to help people who have fled or want to flee their home
country because they have sufficient grounds to fear persecution if they return or stay on the
basis of race, religion, political opinion, nationality, gender or sexual orientation.

A refugee application is different from an immigrant application, in the sense that a refugee is
leaving their country because they have no choice. Refugees are forced to flee, whereas an
immigrant is a person who chooses to settle in another country.

The Canadian refugee system has two main parts:

1. Refugee and Humanitarian Resettlement Program, for people who need protection from
outside Canada
2. In-Canada Asylum Program for people making refugee protection claims from within
Canada

Refugee and Humanitarian Resettlement Program

Refugees who come to Canada have left their home countries and, in many cases, have had to
live in refugee camps before reaching Canada. A person cannot apply directly to Canada for
resettlement. The United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR) identifies refugees for resettlement.
After they are identified, it takes time to process the cases for them to come to Canada. They are
often known as Convention refugees.

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While Canada has a long history of welcoming refugees, under Canada’s laws, all resettlement
cases are carefully screened for issues related to security, criminality or health.

The Government of Canada also helps government-assisted refugees with essential services and
income support once they are in Canada, under its Resettlement Assistance Program. The
refugee gets this income support for up to one year or until they can support themselves,
whichever comes first. Basic social assistance rates in each province and territory help guide the
amount of money refugees get for shelter, food and other things.

The Resettlement Assistance Program also helps them find a temporary, then permanent place
to live, and provides information on Canada and referrals to other federal and provincial
programs, and to other settlement services.

Refugee and Humanitarian Resettlement Program: private sponsors

Private sponsors across the country also help resettle refugees to Canada. Some do this on an
ongoing basis and have signed sponsorship agreements with the Government of Canada to help
support refugees. These groups are known as Sponsorship Agreement Holders.

There are also Community Sponsors, who are people or groups in the community who have come
together to sponsor refugees, usually on a one-time basis.

Private sponsors must provide financial and emotional support to any refugees they sponsor for
the length of the sponsorship period.

In-Canada Asylum Program

The asylum program works to provide refugee protection to people in Canada who have a well-
founded fear of persecution, or are at risk of torture, or cruel or unusual punishment in their
home countries.

Not everyone is eligible to seek asylum. For example, people are not eligible to make a claim if
they have been convicted of serious criminal offences or had previous refugee claims denied by
Canada. You may also not be eligible if you have been recognized as a Convention refugee by
another country or withdrew a previous refugee claim.

You may also not be eligible if you arrived via the Canada-United States border. Canada has an
agreement with the United States, called the Safe Third Country Agreement, where people who
want to make a refugee claim must do so in the first safe country they arrive in. That means if

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you land in the United States first, you should make your refugee claim there. This agreement is
still currently in effect as of March 2021 despite a recent federal court case that declared its
invalidity. The case is being appealed.

So, if you enter Canada at a land border from the United States, you cannot make a refugee claim
in Canada. There are some exceptions, for example, if you have family in Canada or you’re an
unaccompanied minor (under 18 years old). As well, if you have a work or study permit in Canada,
or have a travel document or other valid admission documents issued by Canada, you may be
eligible to make a claim.

Being accepted as a “refugee claimant” does not guarantee you will be able to stay in Canada
permanently, however. As a claimant, you will have a hearing with the Immigration and Refugee
Board of Canada (IRB). If the IRB accepts your claim, you will get “protected person” status. This
means you can stay in Canada and you can apply to become a permanent resident.

If the IRB rejects your claim, you have to leave Canada. If the law allows, you may ask for the
decision to be reviewed by the Refugee Appeal Division (RAD). But some failed claimants are not
eligible to apply. Find out more about the RAD.

16. How long will it take immigrate?

Immigration can be a lengthy process that can take anywhere from several months to years.
While the federal government strives to keep processing times low, there is a huge demand to
immigrate to Canada and there are limits to the number of people allowed into Canada annually,
especially in areas such as family sponsorship. For all categories combined, more than 300,000
people come to Canada permanently annually. The COVID-19 pandemic has, of course, impacted
this intake, with fewer immigrants welcomed in the year 2020 than planned. Numbers for the
next few years have been increased as a result, but immigration processing continues to be
delayed by the pandemic as of Spring 2021.

If you have an application in process, you can check the status of your application online here.

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9 REASONS YOU WON’T BE ALLOWED TO MOVE TO CANADA

Some people are not allowed to come to Canada and are known as “inadmissible”
under Canada’s immigration law. Reasons include:
1. You are a security risk.
2. You have committed human or international rights violations.
3. You have been convicted of a crime, or you have committed an act outside Canada
that would be a crime.
4. You have ties to organized crime.
5. You have a serious health problem.
6. You have a serious financial problem.
7. You lied in your application or in an interview.
8. You do not meet the conditions in Canada’s immigration law.
9. One of your family members is not allowed into Canada.

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PART III: THE LOGISTICS OF IMMIGRATION

17. Preparing for arrival: pre-arrival programs

Congratulations! Your application to immigrate to Canada has been approved. Part III of our
Prepare for Landing guide is all about the details and logistics you have to deal with between
receiving your visa confirmation and booking your plane ticket.

Fortunately for immigrants today, there are many pre-arrival services and workshops aimed at
helping you get ready for the big move.

These free online or in-person programs are for people who have already been approved to
immigrate to Canada. Some programs are general in nature, and some are occupation-specific to
help immigrants get ready to enter their career after arriving in Canada.

You should be eligible for such free pre-arrival services if you have received a Confirmation of
Permanent Residence letter (COPR).

Here is a list of 10 terrific programs or services to help you get ready for immigration.

General pre-arrival programs

1. Planning for Canada offers free in-person and online orientation sessions to economic and
family-class immigrants worldwide. It gives access to information, resources and contacts to help
you and your family succeed in Canadian workplace and community. This program is provided by
Canadian Orientation Abroad (COA) and the Canadian Immigrant Integration Program (CIIP).

2. Active Engagement and Integration Project (AEIP) offers services such as one-on-one
consultation, workshops on everything from employment and foreign credential recognition to
housing and health care. It also offers employment support and community engagement
programs to future immigrants coming to Canada. AEIP is an overseas initiative of Vancouver-
based SUCCESS settlement agency.

3. Next Stop Canada offers pre-arrival settlement services from the YMCA of Greater Toronto. It
provides personalized settlement information and resources to immigrants arriving to Canada,
on topics including housing, health, language, education, employment and more. There is also a
mentorship program that connects you with someone already in Canada.

4. The Canadian Orientation Abroad (COA) program is a pre-arrival orientation initiative

delivering information and orientation to refugees selected for the Canadian permanent

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residence, prior to their arrival in Canada. COA has 20 permanent training sites internationally
and operates in 40 countries. It is the longest running pre-arrival service funded by the Canadian
government, and more than 15,000 new Canadians attend their orientation sessions every year.

5. International Talent Acquisition Centre (In-TAC) offers pre-arrival services to help the process
of economic and social integration for Chinese immigrants. One-on-one counselling is also
offered.

Occupation-focused pre-arrival programs

6. Attention internationally trained nurses! The CARE Centre for Internationally Educated Nurses
offers the Pre-arrival Supports and Services (PASS) program. It offers online supports and services
to internationally trained nurses to start their career in Canada on the right foot.

7. Build ON provides free online one-on-one employment counselling and resources in English
and French to individuals who are approved to immigrate to Ontario. Offered by the YMCA-YWCA
of the National Capital Region, the program offers impartial information, video workshops,
mentorship opportunities and tailored job readiness coaching to support future Ontario-based
immigrants to prepare for employment in Ontario's skilled trades.

8. FastBC.org is a free online program for skilled immigrants coming to B.C., specifically in the
fields of skilled trades, biotechnology and IT. The no-cost online learning program lets them
prepare for their careers, before even arriving in Canada.

9. Canadian Employment Connections (CEC) is a free pre-arrival program offered by ACCES

Employment in Toronto that offers virtual services to prepare internationally trained
professionals for the Canadian job market. There are four main components to the program: job
search tools; Canadian business communication training; sector information and trends; and
employer connections. It focuses on the following sectors: engineering, financial services, human
resources, information technology, sales and marketing, and supply chain.

10. Canada InfoNet by JVS Toronto, offers specialized services to help you connect with careers
that match your specific education background and experience. You’ll learn how to conduct a job
search in Canada, participate in online mentoring, learn how to be successful in the Canadian
workplace, gain understanding of your industry or sector in Canada, connect with employers and
apply for jobs, all guided by an employment counsellor or coach.

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18. Where are you going to live?

One of the biggest decisions you need to make now is where in Canada you are going to live:
which province and which city. As mentioned in Part I, Canada is a vast country, and everything
from climate to economies to lifestyle can differ drastically from coast to coast.

Province-wise, you may already have an idea of where you want to live in Canada. Hopefully, you
already have family or friends in Canada, a job offer or leads on work opportunities that will make
your decision easier. If you don’t, take some time to consider what province and city or town will
be best for you.

Choosing a province and city

British Columbia is beautiful and has a more temperate climate, but affordability is an issue in
Metro Vancouver and top job opportunities may face big competition. Bigger industries in B.C.
include IT, export and resource-based industries like forestry.

Ontario is often the top pick for immigrants, as Toronto and the capital city of Ottawa are big
centres for larger company and governmental headquarters. Toronto is tops for manufacturing
and finance. Nearby Waterloo is becoming known as quite the tech hub, while Brampton, is a big
draw for the South Asian community.

Quebec is a beautiful province with a rich history, self-sustaining economy and distinct culture,
but is largely Francophone. If you speak French, it might be a good fit. Montreal has been one of
the three cities, along with Toronto and Vancouver, which has been a main immigrant
destination.

The Prairies — Alberta and Saskatchewan — are bigger on natural resources and farming. Main
cities like Calgary, Edmonton, Regina and Saskatoon are self-sustaining centres. Manitoba is
considered central Canada, and its main city is Winnipeg. The further north you go in this region
of Canada, the colder it gets in winter, with temperatures well below zero. But affordability is
better, and the lifestyle may be more laidback than in Toronto and Vancouver.

Atlantic Provinces are small in size, but big in heart, and are actively welcoming immigrants,
particularly in a variety of manufacturing and processing industries. Seek out the opportunities
and coastal lifestyle in Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador and Prince
Edward Island.

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If you want to start on a really unique new path, consider the Yukon or Northwest Territories.
While it may have colder winters, the small-town atmosphere and need for workers can mean
some wonderful opportunities for newcomers.

Of course, if you were approved for immigration under a provincial nominee program, you must
head to the province that nominated you.

While most immigrants tend to focus on the big centres in each province, like Vancouver,
Toronto, Montreal, Calgary and Winnipeg, don’t forget to consider smaller cities or regions in
your province of choice, which offer many benefits, including a need for immigrants to fill labour
gaps. For example, the Kootenay region of B.C. features tightknit communities, beautiful nature
and good job prospects in fields like trades, and Northern Ontario has actively sought newcomers
to fill labour gaps and join their communities.

Better cost of living and more affordable housing are also found in smaller centres, as well as a
slower pace, less commuting, and often a better work/life balance. Smaller cities also still have
plenty of post-secondary options including excellent universities and colleges.

Learn more about some of the diverse cities in Canada here.

Temporary accommodation
So, once you know what province and city is for you, it’s time to arrange some temporary
accommodation for when you arrive. (Of course, first take note of any current travel restrictions
and quarantining rules in place due to COVID-19). If you have family and friends there, staying
with them temporarily while you get used to the basics of Canadian living is great, if it’s an option.
It gives you a little time to adjust and gather information before making any big housing decisions.

Other options for temporary accommodation include long-term stay hotels/motels, sublets,
Airbnbs or month-to-month rentals, all of which can be easily found on the internet and sites like
Craigslist today. Local immigrant settlement agencies will also be able to help with information
on finding temporary accommodation. Note: try to find housing close to public transportation if
you won’t have access to a car immediately.

You don’t want to commit to a rental agreement or lease from abroad or too soon after arrival,
as you will want to make sure not only the property, but the neighbourhood is a good fit for you.
Different areas within one city can be vastly differently, so take the time to get to know the
neighbourhoods and nearby suburbs after you arrive.

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19. Health care coverage

One of the reasons you may have chosen to immigrate to Canada is because of its reputation for
universal basic health coverage.

Public health care in Canada is paid for by federal and provincial taxes, but the system actually
consists of provincial and territorial health insurance plans, rather than one national plan. Each
province issues its residents a provincial health care card that you show to the hospital or a
medical clinic when you receive treatment.

Most plans are very similar across provinces, but there might be slight variations in coverage.

While waiting for coverage

But first things first, before you land, check if your province offers immediate health care
coverage for permanent residents or if there is a waiting period.

Some provinces, including B.C., Saskatchewan and Ontario, require new residents to undergo a
waiting period before receiving health coverage. This period is up to three months. During this
time, you should get temporary private health insurance coverage. This is highly recommended,
especially for families with young children or elderly newcomers who may require medical
attention during the waiting period. If you have a medical emergency before your provincial
health card arrives and you don’t have private health care coverage, you could end up with a
huge bill.

Provinces with no waiting period for a new permanent resident from outside Canada include
Alberta, Manitoba, Nova Scotia and P.E.I. But you must still fill in the application forms as soon
as possible after arrival in these provinces.

Refugee claimants and certain other newcomers who are not yet eligible for provincial health
insurance may be eligible for temporary coverage at no cost through the Interim Federal Health
Program.

Apply after arrival

Right after arrival, you should apply for the provincial public health care plan as soon as possible
to get the process started. You can get an application form from your province’s ministry of
health online or in person. When you apply for a health insurance card, you will need to show
identification such as your confirmation of permanent residence or your permanent resident
card.

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Type of coverage
The type of health care coverage Canadians receive is pretty similar across the country — family
doctor visits for checkups and physicals; emergency visits to the hospital for illness or injury;
surgery or treatment for diseases and injuries; maternity health care; and so on.

Canada’s health care system does not generally cover the cost of pharmaceuticals or medicine;
vision correction; dentistry/orthodontia; optional surgeries like plastic surgery or circumcision;
physiotherapy; mental health counselling or chiropractic care. Many employers in Canada offer
extended health benefits plans that will help pay for such additional health costs.

Links to provincial and territorial ministries of health

Alberta Nunavut
British Columbia Ontario
Manitoba Prince Edward Island
New Brunswick Quebec
Newfoundland and Labrador Saskatchewan
Northwest Territories Yukon
Nova Scotia

20. Banking basics

Newcomers to Canada often face challenges in learning about Canadian financial norms, from
building a credit history to managing credit card debt. It is important that you understand how
banking in Canada works as having a bank account and a good relationship with your bank is
important for all Canadians. For newcomers, you will no doubt be bringing in some funds for your
initial settlement, so one of the first things you will want to do is open an account to secure that
money in a safe place. You may also try to open an account from abroad.

Choosing a bank is really about personal preference. In Canada, there are several main national
banks, like RBC, Scotiabank, TD, CIBC and HSBC. There are also several regional financial
institutions or credit unions. Simply research the various banks to find out which one offers the
services and times of operation that best suit your needs. Many also have special newcomer-
focused services.

Then, to open an account, visit a branch in your neighbourhood or near where you work so that
it is convenient for future banking. You will have to choose from a variety of options, including
savings and chequing accounts.

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Just remember to bring with you any documents the bank may require for opening an account.
Usually, you will need to bring two pieces of identification, and proof of residency and your
immigration status in Canada.

Glossary of basic banking terms

(Source: RBC)

Account balance: The amount of money currently in your bank account.

Automated Teller Machine (ATM): A self-service machine where you can complete basic
banking transactions and withdraw cash using your Client Card and a PIN. It’s also known as an
Automated Banking Machine (ABM) or, simply, bank machine.
Banking card: Otherwise known as a bank card or debit card, this is provided to you when you
open an account. It allows you to access your accounts while in your bank branch, at an ATM or
store.
Cheques: A way of paying for goods or services. A cheque is written for the amount to be paid,
and when the recipient cashes the cheque, the money is transferred from the payer’s account
into the payee’s account.
Credit card: A plastic card that enables you to purchase items or services from a range of stores
and establishments and pay for them at a later date. A minimum amount must be repaid each
month. If you pay the full balance by the due date, no interest is charged. If you don’t, you will
be charged interest on any outstanding amount.
Credit card balance: The total amount owing on your credit card.
Credit check: A review by a lender or other party, such as a prospective landlord, of a person’s
track record for repaying borrowed funds according to schedule.
Credit history: A list of facts, gathered from financial institutions, retailers and other lenders,
about how you have handled credit in the past. Most of this information stays in your file for
seven years. This information forms a profile of your credit-worthiness, called your credit
rating. Your credit rating is used to help banks and other companies to decide whether they will
allow you to borrow money, and how much.
Credit limit: The maximum amount a credit card company allows someone to borrow on one
credit card.
Financial institution: A company, such as a bank or insurance company, that deals with
financial transactions such as deposits, loans and investments.
Financial planning: The process of creating a strategy to reach your future goals taking into
account what you own, what you owe and what you expect to earn in the intervening years.
Financing: Arrangements, usually in the form of some type of loan or credit, to secure funds so
that you can make a purchase.

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Foreign exchange/foreign exchange rate: The level at which the currency of one country can
be converted to the currency of another.
Goods and Services Tax (GST): A federal tax (currently at five per cent) applicable on the sale of
most goods and services in Canada. It is collected by the vendor on behalf of the government.
Gross earnings/pay: The total amount of money a person is paid by an employer, including
regular pay, overtime and vacation pay, before deductions such as income tax, Canada/Quebec
Pension Plan contributions or Employment Insurance premiums.
High-interest savings account: A bank account that pays a rate of interest on the balance that is
higher than ordinary savings accounts.
Hold: A pre-set waiting period once you deposit a cheque to ensure that the cheque has
“cleared” (the issuer’s account has sufficient funds) before you can access the money.
INTERAC: A symbol that means you can use your ATM card at stores for direct debit or to take
out money at bank machines, even if they are not your bank.
Lease: An agreement under which a person pays a monthly amount for the right to use a
specific asset, such as a car, for a specified length of time.
Line of credit: A type of credit that offers a person immediate access to part or all of a pre-
determined amount of cash upon demand.
Loan: An agreement under which a borrower receives cash from a lender (often a bank) for a
predetermined length of time at a given interest rate, generally with a stated repayment
schedule.
Money orders and bank drafts: A way of making secure payment. The money order or bank
draft is purchased from the bank and issued to the vendor.
Mortgage: A loan secured to buy property, typically a home.
Net pay: The amount of income from employment remaining after deductions such as income
tax, Canada/Quebec Pension Plan contributions and Employment Insurance premiums.
N.S.F. (“Non-Sufficient Funds”) cheque: When a cheque is written for an amount that exceeds
the funds available in the account, the item is marked “NSF” to indicate that there are
insufficient funds. A penalty is charged for NSF items.
Online banking: A convenient and secure way of making many transactions, such as transfers
and bill payments, by accessing your account via the Internet from any computer.
Overdraft protection: By paying a small monthly fee, you receive protection should you
become overdrawn on your account.
Personal Identification Number (PIN): A password, usually four digits, created by the user to
access his or her account, in combination with bank card, when making an ATM or direct debit
transaction.
Rent: The amount of money, usually paid monthly, that a tenant pays a landlord in exchange
for living accommodations.

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Wire payments/wiring money: A safe way to transfer money electronically from a bank
account into that of another person or business in Canada or other countries.
Withdrawal: The act of taking money out of a bank account, by taking cash from an automated
bank machine (ABM) or at a branch, by writing a cheque or by using a debit card.

21. What to bring to Canada

As a permanent resident, you are allowed to bring personal and household items that you own
to Canada. No need to leave everything behind, as rebuying everything will certainly be a big
expense. Consider bringing over any of the following items:
• personal clothing, shoes, jackets, purses
• jewellery and watches (valuable items should be assessed by professional valuers before
you arrive)
• furniture and housewares
• bed linens and towels
• books and musical instruments
• phones, computers, technology, if compatible (the electrical current used by small
appliances is 110 volts, 60 cycles in Canada)
• family heirlooms, antiques, stamp and coin collections, art
• and don’t forget your pets (but first see the guidelines here)

Packing up and shipping tips

• If you are shipping over belongings, choose a mover or freight company carefully.
Consider buying some insurance against loss or damage if not covered.
• Keep an itemized list of your belongings with you.
• Shipping a vehicle over may not be worth it as there are strict guidelines on importing
cars made for foreign markets. See the guidelines here.
• For everyday essentials, bring those with you on the plane instead of shipping them in
case you need them right away.
• When your belongings arrive, you will be to collect them at the Canada Border Services
Agency (CBSA) office. If you have lots of items, you may want to rent a truck or U-Haul
to pick it all up.
• If you don’t yet have a longer-term accommodation planned, you may have to store
your items in a local storage facility until you rent or buy a home.

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DOCUMENTS TO BRING: THE NEWCOMER’S CHECKLIST

The more organized you are before you land in Canada, the smoother your initial transition
will be. Part of that is ensuring you have all the proper documents you’ll need. Make sure all
of your documents are originals. You should also have photocopies in case you lose your
originals. Keep the photocopies in a separate place. If your documents are not in English or
French, you will need to bring certified translated copies with you as well.

Essential items for entry into Canada

 A Canadian immigrant visa (if applicable) and Confirmation of Permanent
Residence for each family member travelling with you
 Valid passport for each family member arriving with you
 Two copies of a detailed list of all the personal or household items you are bringing
with you, showing the value, make, model and serial number if possible
 Two copies of a list of items that are arriving later and their monetary value

Other important documents

 Birth certificates
 Marriage certificate (or separation or divorce papers)
 Adoption papers
 Medical, optical and dental records
 Official vaccination records for you and your children
 Academic credentials, diplomas, degrees and transcripts
 Trade or professional licences
 Resumé (curriculum vitae/CV)
 Job references from former employees
 Financial records that show credit history or credit references from your bank
 Record of any current foreign income, properties or investments (worldwide income
will be taxable in Canada)
 Driver’s licence, including an international driver’s permit and a driving experience
letter from your insurer in your home country
 Car registration document and insurance document if you are bringing your vehicle
with you

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22. Glossary of important abbreviations

CBSA: Canada Border Services Agency

IRCC: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
COPR: Confirmation of Permanent Residence
CPC: Case Processing Centre
CRA: Canada Revenue Agency
EI: Employment Insurance
EAL: English as an Additional Language
ESL: English as a Second Language
GST: Goods and Services Tax
HST: Harmonized Sales Tax
IAD: Immigration Appeal Division
IRB: Immigration Refugee Board
ICCRC: Immigration Consultants of Canada Regulatory Council
LINC: Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada
LMIA: Labour Market Impact Assessment
NOC: National Occupation Classification
PNP: Provincial Nominee Program
PR Card: Permanent Resident Card
PRRA: Pre-Removal Risk Assessment
PST: Provincial Sales Tax
SIN: Social Insurance Number

See here for definitions of frequently used terms by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship
Canada.

For more information to help you on your journey to Canada,

see canadianimmigrant.ca.

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