FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

There are several ways to immigrate to Canada, depending on your qualifications and situation. The most common immigration pathways include:

Express Entry: For skilled workers based on points for age, education, work experience, and language skills.

Provincial Nominee Program (PNP): For those nominated by a Canadian province or territory.

Family Sponsorship: For individuals sponsored by a Canadian relative.

Study and Work Permits: Leading to permanent residency in some cases.

Express Entry is an online system used by the Canadian government to manage applications for permanent residency from skilled workers. Candidates are ranked on a points-based system, and those with the highest scores are invited to apply for permanent residency. Factors like age, education, work experience, and language proficiency affect your score. Processing times are typically around six months.

The costs vary depending on the immigration program. For Express Entry, an individual applicant generally needs around $15,000 CAD, which covers fees for language tests, medical exams, police certificates, and settlement funds. Families may require between $24,000 to $30,000 CAD.

Processing times depend on the type of application. For example, Express Entry applications can take around six to eight months, while other programs, like the Provincial Nominee Program, may take longer, especially if there are additional requirements. Always ensure you submit complete documents to avoid delays.

Yes, in some cases. If you have a valid job offer, you may apply for a temporary work permit while awaiting permanent residency. International students and their spouses can often work while studying in Canada, provided they meet the requirements.

Yes, Canadian citizens and permanent residents can sponsor family members, including spouses, children, parents, and grandparents, to immigrate to Canada. The sponsor must demonstrate the ability to support the family members financially during their stay.

To apply, first determine your eligibility for the different immigration programs, such as Express Entry, Family Sponsorship, or PNP. You will need to create an online account, complete your application, and submit required documents such as language test results, medical exams, and proof of funds.

The PNP allows Canadian provinces and territories to nominate individuals for permanent residency based on their skills and potential to contribute to the local economy. Each province has its own nomination criteria and streams, and being nominated can improve your chances of obtaining permanent residency through Express Entry.

To maintain your status, you must live in Canada for at least 730 days within a five-year period. Failure to meet this residency requirement could result in the loss of your permanent residency status. However, exceptions may apply if you are employed by a Canadian company abroad or are accompanying a Canadian citizen spouse.

Permanent residents can apply for citizenship after living in Canada for at least three out of the last five years. Other requirements include passing a language test (in English or French), demonstrating knowledge of Canadian history and values, and filing income taxes if required.