Immigrating to Canada is an excellent opportunity to start a new life in one of the most developed countries. The immigration methods include the Express Entry program, provincial programs, and employer-driven programs, all designed to attract individuals with various skills.
General requirements include having a valid language certificate, appropriate education, and relevant work experience. The costs associated with immigrating to Canada include application fees, credential assessments, and travel expenses. By carefully examining the methods, requirements, and costs, you can choose the best path for immigrating to Canada
Immigrating to Canada
Canada is one of the developed countries in the Americas. While it is sometimes considered ‘developing,’ it lacks nothing compared to the most advanced countries in the world in terms of amenities, culture, and living conditions. This country is relatively young and does not have a large indigenous population. Nearly one-third of its total population consists of first-generation foreign immigrants.
Canada, due to its favorable immigration policies, has greatly benefited from foreign labor resources and has experienced significant development. As a result, the country is always welcoming to immigrants who bring capital, knowledge, skills, or even the potential to work.
Canada’s vast territory has allowed it to create a safe and peaceful society for its residents, a society that generally enjoys economic stability and a good quality of life. Therefore, it is natural that many immigration applicants consider Canada as their ideal destination in the first place.
Benefits of Immigrating to Canada
There are many advantages that make Canada significantly superior to many other immigration destinations. Many people even prefer living in this country over Europe and the United States!
But what makes Canada so popular among immigrants? Below are some of the key benefits:
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- Educational Benefits
Canada ranks among the top five countries in the world for the quality of its education system. Both public and private schools in Canada offer excellent educational quality and facilities, and some of the world’s best universities are located there. Additionally, Canada provides a wide variety of student scholarship programs. The government has also made education in public schools free for all individuals under 18 years old.
- Family Residency
If you successfully obtain Canadian residency, you can also apply for visas for other family members, including your spouse and children. One of Canada’s attractive conditions is that it considers children under your care until the age of 22, and if they receive a visa, they are also granted residency.
Additionally, your children over the age of 22 with any physical or mental disabilities can receive residency along with you and benefit from the country’s healthcare services.
- Work Permit
One of the greatest advantages of immigrating to Canada is that as soon as you arrive with a work, study, or any other type of visa, you will be allowed to work. You can work from 20 hours or more per week, depending on the conditions specified in your visa.
Fortunately, due to the high number of immigrants in the country, the likelihood of finding a good job with a suitable salary is also high, and employers are generally open to hiring immigrants.
- Ability to Relocate to Other Provinces
After obtaining permanent residency in Canada, you are allowed to move to any other province of your choice. Many people initially choose a smaller city to ease the immigration process and, once they have adjusted to life in Canada and secured permanent residency, they move on to larger cities such as Toronto or Vancouver for a new lifestyle.
- Long-Term Validity of Permanent Residency
Unlike many other countries, Canada’s permanent residency card is valid for at least 5 years and renewing it is not complex. After this period, you need to leave Canadian soil briefly and return to renew your residency. Obtaining Canadian citizenship resolves the issue of permanent residency, allowing you to live in the country indefinitely.
After 5 years of permanent residency in Canada, you can apply for Canadian citizenship.
- Adequate Health and Medical Infrastructure
Canada is considered an advanced country in the healthcare sector. It boasts some of the best specialized doctors and healthcare facilities equipped with the latest technology. In addition to high-quality medical care, the country places significant importance on citizen insurance and health security. By obtaining residency in Canada, you will also be covered by health insurance and can access many medical services for free.
- Freedom to Start a Business
Individuals who obtain permanent residency in Canada are free to invest in and start any business they desire. Canada grants all citizenship rights (except the right to vote) to holders of its permanent residency card.
- High Security
Canada is highly ranked globally in terms of security. The rate of serious crimes in the country is relatively low, allowing you to live with peace of mind and enjoy social freedom and safety.
- Benefiting from a Dynamic Economy
Canada has a stable and dynamic economy, which has made it a significant destination for international investment. Engaging in economic activities in this country not only allows you to obtain permanent residency but also offers substantial opportunities for profit and increased income.
Many people immigrate to Canada not just to leave their home country, but with genuine aspirations for economic advancement.
- Holding a Valid Passport
Holders of a Canadian passport can easily travel to the United States and European countries without needing a visa. Additionally, after obtaining Canadian citizenship, you can consider immigrating to another country if you wish!
- Enjoying Pleasant Weather
Canada has low pollution levels and is filled with lush, pristine forests. Although the climate in some provinces can be quite cold, living in cities like Vancouver allows you to enjoy a dreamlike climate and make the most of your days.
- Prevalence of the English Language
Canada is a country where most people speak English. While some cities have French as their primary language, you will find that almost everyone in Canada understands English. This makes it easy to live and communicate in the country without the need to learn a new language.
What Are the Ways to Immigrate to Canada?
As mentioned, Canada is an immigrant-friendly country and is open to welcoming foreign applicants. As a result, the Canadian government has established numerous immigration programs to allow eligible candidates to enter the country and obtain permanent residency.
Below are some of the best ways to immigrate to Canada:
Immigrating to Canada Through Education
Using educational programs is one of the best and fastest ways to immigrate to Canada. Applicants can migrate to Canada either at the school level or at the university level, although the number of people applying through the student route is significantly higher.
You can apply for admission to Canadian universities for undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral programs, and use this admission to apply for a visa to enter and reside in the country.
Naturally, to obtain a Canadian student visa, you will need not only an admission letter from the university but also other documents such as a language proficiency certificate, academic transcripts, and so on. One of the biggest advantages of the Canadian student visa is that due to the university’s endorsement, immigration officers do not impose stringent requirements on the applicant’s file and issue the residency card more easily. The issuance of this visa also does not take a long time.
Other benefits of immigrating to Canada through education include:
- Access to various scholarships that can significantly reduce or even eliminate living expenses for students
- The possibility of obtaining a dependent visa for the student’s spouse and children (especially at the doctoral level)
- The opportunity to work while studying and earn an income
- Increased chances of securing high-level job opportunities after graduation
- Building friendships during studies and adapting to life in a new culture
Working Immigration to Canada
Canada’s work visa is also one of the fast and efficient immigration programs offered by the country. Individuals with skills in various fields can use this visa to explore their chances of employment and living in Canada.
There are several immigration programs available for obtaining a Canadian work visa, including:
Express Entry Program
Express Entry is a ranking system for immigration applicants to Canada, implemented by the federal government to facilitate and expedite the process. In this system, applicants declare their conditions, skills, and abilities to the Canadian immigration office and submit their immigration application. The immigration office then assigns a specific score to each applicant based on criteria set by the three programs below. Applicants who receive high scores and meet the required conditions can obtain a Canadian work visa and stay in the country for up to 3 years.
The work immigration programs under Express Entry include:
- Federal Skilled Worker: In the first stage of the Federal Skilled Worker program, designed by the central Canadian government, it is possible to earn up to 100 points, of which applicants must score at least 67 points. After this, you will enter the pool of applicants and receive a score out of 1200 based on criteria such as age, language proficiency, education, skills, work experience, and more. Applicants with the highest scores are invited by the Canadian government to immigrate to the country for work.
- Federal Skilled Trades: Individuals with 2 years of continuous professional work experience in the past 5 years, especially in skilled trades, can immigrate to Canada under the Federal Skilled Trades program. This method is primarily based on work experience and is relatively fast.
- Canadian Experience Class: Skilled workers with Canadian work experience can apply for permanent residency in the country through the Canadian Experience Class program. This work immigration program is particularly suitable for students who have had work experience while studying and ensures continued residency for at least 1 to 3 additional years.
The central Canadian government has consolidated all three of these work immigration programs into a comprehensive Express Entry system.
Immigrating Through a Job Offer
If you receive a job offer from a Canadian employer, it’s like winning a golden ticket. Individuals with a job offer have a much smoother path to immigrate to Canada. Moreover, there’s no need to search for a job during your stay, as you can start working immediately upon arrival in the country at the job that has already been secured for you.
The Canadian immigration office easily grants visas to individuals with a valid job offer.
Immigrating to Canada Through Investment
“One of the best and easiest methods for immigrating to Canada is through investment. As a developing country, Canada is full of investment opportunities in various industries, including manufacturing, mining, and trade. Additionally, the economic and political conditions in Canada make it a highly lucrative place for investment.
The investment conditions in Canada are so ideal that many Iranian investors have invested there not with the primary goal of immigration, but with the intention of doing business and earning higher profits.
You can obtain a Canadian residence visa through investment immigration programs. The typical investment amount required ranges from CAD 50,000 (in smaller cities) to CAD 100,000 (in larger cities).
Now, the question is: In which sectors can one invest to obtain a Canadian residence visa?
- Company Registration: One of the most common methods of investment immigration to Canada is registering a formal company in the country. This company can be in any field relevant to your expertise. You must first present your business plan or economic proposal to the Canadian immigration office and provide necessary guarantees (such as pre-purchasing or leasing property). With this, you will be granted an entry visa and work permit in Canada. You will then have approximately 1 to 2 years to obtain permanent residency by paying taxes regularly and creating job opportunities for Canadian citizens.
- Startup: Startups are one of the newest methods for obtaining permanent residency in Canada through investment. In this approach, you present an innovative and new startup idea, which is then funded by Canadian investors. You will receive an entry permit to the country and have 2 to 3 years to make your new business profitable and implement your business plan. Notably, up to 5 people can apply simultaneously under this method, allowing them and their families to receive residency visas for the country.
- Buying an Active Business: Another investment method in Canada is purchasing an existing active business instead of starting one from scratch. To obtain a Canadian work residency visa, you must own at least 51% of the company’s shares. In this case, you can operate as the new employer, and if you manage to maintain the business over the next few years, you will achieve permanent residency. This immigration program is both fast and allows bringing family members. In this approach, your initial investment amount is more important than language skills, educational qualifications, etc.
- Self-Employment: The Canadian government has a special work immigration program for athletes and artists, known as the self-employment program. Individuals with professional experience in these fields who have worked continuously for at least 5 years in the past 5 years are eligible for this work visa. Applicants must be between 30 and 35 years old and will not receive any government support (such as public health insurance or tax discounts). However, there is an option to obtain a visa for a spouse and children under 22 years old.
- Business-Transfer: Individuals with an active company in Iran and a workforce can establish a new branch of their business in Canada to obtain permanent residency. This method, a subset of investment immigration, is suitable for those who prioritize their business over immigration. It also allows for the transfer of key personnel between the Iranian and Canadian branches. Those who choose this method can achieve a 7-year temporary residency in Canada and use this period to apply for permanent residency through one of the Express Entry programs.
Note: Please be aware that purchasing property does not qualify you for a Canadian investment visa. The Canadian government does not value passive investments, such as buying an apartment or land, and will not issue a visa for such investments. Therefore, if you are considering investing in Canada and immigrating to the country, it is advisable to focus on business investments instead.
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Immigrating to Canada Through a Tourist Visa
In the past, it was not possible to convert a Canadian tourist visa into permanent residency, as you were required to return to your home country by the visa’s expiration or apply for a work or study visa with the immigration office during your stay. However, the situation has changed with new regulations.
Now, you can convert your tourist visa into a 3-year skilled worker work visa and use this opportunity to apply for permanent residency. Therefore, individuals with relatives in Canada or those who meet the necessary conditions for obtaining a tourist visa now have a good chance for work-based immigration to the country.
Residency in Canada Through Provincial Nominee Programs
Canada operates on a provincial or territorial basis, allowing each province to annually declare its workforce needs and then address these needs accordingly.
Each province in Canada has different demands for skilled labor based on its specific needs. This is different from a job offer or employment proposal, as in the provincial nominee programs there is no direct job offer involved. Instead, each province informs the federal government about the areas where they are experiencing a shortage of skilled workers.
The federal government then uses the Express Entry system to select qualified candidates to meet the needs of each province.
If you meet the necessary requirements, you can obtain a visa and permanent residency in Canada through the provincial nominee programs. The advantage of this method is that you are likely to find employment in the nominated province and can quickly start your new life.
The Canadian government releases an annual list of provincial labor needs, which provides a good overview of the available immigration opportunities. This program is also managed under the Express Entry system.
Immigrating to Canada Through Sponsorship
What people commonly refer to as immigration through an invitation is actually the Canadian sponsorship immigration program. Just like with a job offer or acceptance letter from Canada, a Canadian citizen or permanent resident can sponsor your immigration.
In this case, the Canadian sponsor demonstrates their financial capability through the provided documents and guarantees to support your living expenses for a certain period. During this time, you will need to find a job or switch your visa to a study permit.
Essentially, individuals with relatives in Canada can use this immigration program. The sponsor must be at least 18 years old, a citizen or permanent resident of Canada, and have sufficient income to support you. This method is primarily designed for immediate family members (parents, grandparents) but can also be applicable under certain conditions for siblings and grandchildren.
Immigration to Canada for Specific Individuals
Artists and athletes are considered special individuals who can benefit from Canada’s self-employment visa program. The specific conditions for immigration for these groups have been mentioned above.
Immigration to Canada Through Marriage
Immigrating to Canada through marriage is also a part of the country’s sponsorship visa program. If you marry a Canadian citizen or a permanent resident of Canada, you can obtain a Canadian immigration visa under their sponsorship.
However, your marriage must be officially and legally registered, regardless of whether it took place inside or outside Canada. The conditions for this visa include both parties being at least 18 years old, having sufficient financial resources to sponsor the applicant, and having Canadian citizenship or permanent residency.
The immigration process through marriage typically takes about 6 months, and converting it to permanent residency will take an additional 3 years. If the couple separates during this period, the applicant’s visa will be canceled, and they will be deported.
Immigration to Canada Through Childbirth
Canadian citizenship is based on the principle of jus soli (right of the soil), not jus sanguinis (right of blood). In other words, any child born on Canadian soil automatically becomes a Canadian citizen and will receive a Canadian passport from birth. As a result, many people obtain a Canadian tourist visa to give birth in Canada, ensuring their child’s permanent residency from the outset.
This approach also simplifies the immigration process for the parents later on.
Immigration to Canada Through Asylum
Asylum is the last resort for immigration to Canada, as it is a one-way path with no return. Individuals who face life-threatening situations or severe persecution in their home country can apply for asylum in Canada.
LGBTQ+ individuals, political dissidents, and religious minorities are among those who may qualify for Canadian asylum. However, to apply for asylum, you must be outside of Iran and submit your application to the Canadian embassy. The review process can take several weeks to months, and if your application is denied, you will be required to return to your home country.
Despite the various immigration options available, seeking asylum is generally not recommended.
The Best Method for Immigration to Canada
There is no one-size-fits-all answer for the best method to immigrate to Canada! In other words, the best immigration route for you will depend on your individual circumstances. For some, studying in Canada might be the ideal option, while for others, working might be preferable. You should first assess your personal, family, financial, and other relevant conditions, and clearly define your goals.
For individuals who are single and young, and can manage their own education and living expenses, pursuing a study permit might be the best choice. Canada is generally more receptive to students, and this path offers valuable opportunities to gain knowledge and experience living in the country.
On the other hand, skilled workers with families should focus on their work skills and leverage the benefits of the Express Entry program. This route not only allows for permanent employment and a three-year permanent residency but also enables them to bring their spouse and children under 22 years of age with them.
For those with sufficient funds, investing in Canada might be the most suitable option. Starting or purchasing a business and initiating startup programs can be less complicated compared to other methods and provides a promising opportunity for prospective immigrants.
Similarly, for other immigration methods, you should evaluate and choose the one that best fits your circumstances.
Requirements for Immigration to Canada
Please note that the requirements for immigrating to Canada vary depending on the chosen method. For example, to apply for asylum in Canada, you must provide evidence that your life and safety are at risk in your home country. For student immigration, you will need to submit your previous academic transcripts.
The conditions for immigrating to Canada differ among various methods, and you should select one based on whether you meet the specific requirements for that method.
However, there are some general requirements that are common across all immigration methods. In other words, regardless of the route you choose to immigrate to Canada, you must meet at least the following criteria:
- Language Proficiency: Providing proof of language skills (scores may vary depending on the immigration method).
- Age Requirements: Meeting the age criteria specified for each immigration method.
- Financial Capacity: Demonstrating sufficient financial resources (unless you are covered by a full scholarship).
- Invitation: Receiving an invitation (from the government or a personal sponsor such as individuals, businesses, or universities).
- Adequate Funds: Having enough funds to cover living expenses for the first year.
Steps for Immigrating to Canada
The steps for immigrating to Canada can vary depending on the chosen method. However, generally, the process involves the following steps:
- Consultation: After consulting with an immigration lawyer or advisor, choose the best immigration method based on your circumstances.
- Document Preparation: Prepare and translate all required documents.
- Create an Account: Create an account on the Canadian immigration system’s website.
- Application Submission: Answer the questions provided and upload your documents.
- Payment: Pay the necessary fees for document evaluation by Canadian immigration experts.
- Biometrics and Identity Verification: Attend the designated location for fingerprinting and completing identity verification, if required.
- Wait for Processing: Await the review of your application and the results from the embassy.
Cost of Immigration to Canada
One of the crucial aspects to consider when deciding to immigrate to Canada is the cost. Keep in mind that, in addition to living expenses, the immigration process itself can incur costs. Naturally, the method of immigration you choose and the benefits you receive (such as sponsor support or scholarships) will affect these expenses. It is essential to ensure that you are financially prepared for both the process and the costs associated with living in Canada.
Below are the detailed costs for each immigration method to Canada:
Student Immigration:
- High School: CAD 25,000 to CAD 30,000
- Undergraduate: CAD 15,000 to CAD 20,000
- Master’s: CAD 18,000 to CAD 25,000
- Doctorate: CAD 10,000 to CAD 20,000
Work Immigration:
- Skilled Worker: CAD 10,000 to CAD 12,000
- Express Entry: CAD 1,400
- Group Work Visa: CAD 470
Investment Immigration:
- For all programs: CAD 2,075 for the applicant’s application, CAD 1,325 for the spouse, and CAD 225 for each child under 22 years old
Note: In student immigration programs, you should also consider the cost of tuition for the university or school. This is why, in general, the costs for this immigration method tend to be higher than other options.
Living Costs in Canada
Since rent is a significant portion of the income for Canadian residents, it’s essential to break down living costs into two main categories: housing rent and daily living expenses.
Naturally, the city and neighborhood you live in, as well as the size and number of bedrooms in your rented apartment or house, will impact the monthly rent. Therefore, housing costs are generally lower for young individuals living alone in small apartments compared to families.
The average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in a city center in Canada is approximately CAD 1,400. The same type of apartment in the suburbs would typically cost around CAD 1,150 per month.
For a three-bedroom apartment in the city center, the average rent is about CAD 2,200 per month, whereas the same apartment in the suburbs would rent for around CAD 1,900 per month.
If you’re considering purchasing property in Canada, be aware that the average price per square meter for an apartment is around CAD 5,000.
Note: These prices are averages and can vary significantly depending on the city you choose to live in.
The average living cost for an individual in Canada is about CAD 3,000 per month. However, this amount heavily depends on your lifestyle, such as how often you dine out or spend on entertainment. Additionally, price levels can vary between different Canadian cities, leading to different average living costs from one city to another.
Required Documents for Residency in Canada
The specific documents you’ll need to submit to the immigration office in Canada will depend on the immigration pathway you’ve chosen. However, in general, you should have the following documents translated and ready for submission:
- Identification Documents
- IELTS Test Certificate
- Resume and Work Experience
- Educational Records and Certificates
- Criminal Background Check
- Photographs
- Medical Health Certificate
- Proof of Financial Support
- Identification Documents for Dependents (Spouse and Children)
- Acceptance Letter (for students) or Invitation Letter from a Canadian Company
- Marriage or Divorce Certificate
- Visa Application Form
Processing Time for Canadian Immigration
The time it takes for your application to be reviewed and approved can vary depending on the immigration pathway you’ve applied for. Assuming there are no issues in the review and approval process, it typically takes about 8 months for a work visa to be issued. The processing time for a study visa ranges from 2 to 8 months.
In contrast, obtaining an investment visa in Canada can take between 12 to 24 months. If you’re applying for a tourist visa, you should expect to wait at least 4 months.
Canadian Immigration Lawyer
It is indeed true that Canada is an immigrant-friendly country with a high acceptance rate for immigration cases. However, despite this, the process of immigration is not simple enough to manage on your own. While you may not necessarily need an immigration lawyer at the start, you will almost certainly require one at some point during the process.
Therefore, it is advisable to find a skilled immigration lawyer from the very beginning, even before taking any action. This professional will handle the preparation and submission of documents, conduct all necessary negotiations prior to immigration, and manage every step of the process on your behalf as your representative. With a trustworthy lawyer by your side, the process of immigrating to Canada becomes more structured, straightforward, and efficient.
If you have a good lawyer, your main responsibility will be to gather the necessary documents and use the time during the review process to improve your language skills and prepare for your new life.
Is Immigration to Canada Better than to the United States?
The conditions in the United States and Canada are fundamentally different. The U.S., with its large corporations across various industries, offers more growth opportunities, but these opportunities may not be as accessible to new immigrants.
In reality, the cost of living in Canada is lower than in the U.S., and there are more job opportunities available for immigrants. Additionally, the amount required for obtaining an investment visa in Canada is significantly less than in the U.S. Beyond the financial advantages, the overall process of immigrating to Canada is generally easier than to the United States.
In Canada, the spouse of an immigrant is allowed to work, whereas this is not the case in the U.S. Moreover, students in Canada can work up to 20 hours either on or off-campus, while in the U.S., international students are restricted to working only on-campus.
Canadian Immigration Lawyer
It is indeed true that Canada is an immigrant-friendly country with a high acceptance rate for immigration cases. However, despite this, the process of immigration is not simple enough to manage on your own. While you may not necessarily need an immigration lawyer at the start, you will almost certainly require one at some point during the process.
Therefore, it is advisable to find a skilled immigration lawyer from the very beginning, even before taking any action. This professional will handle the preparation and submission of documents, conduct all necessary negotiations prior to immigration, and manage every step of the process on your behalf as your representative. With a trustworthy lawyer by your side, the process of immigrating to Canada becomes more structured, straightforward, and efficient.
If you have a good lawyer, your main responsibility will be to gather the necessary documents and use the time during the review process to improve your language skills and prepare for your new life.
Is Immigration to Canada Better than to the United States?
The conditions in the United States and Canada are fundamentally different. The U.S., with its large corporations across various industries, offers more growth opportunities, but these opportunities may not be as accessible to new immigrants.
In reality, the cost of living in Canada is lower than in the U.S., and there are more job opportunities available for immigrants. Additionally, the amount required for obtaining an investment visa in Canada is significantly less than in the U.S. Beyond the financial advantages, the overall process of immigrating to Canada is generally easier than to the United States.
In Canada, the spouse of an immigrant is allowed to work, whereas this is not the case in the U.S. Moreover, students in Canada can work up to 20 hours either on or off-campus, while in the U.S., international students are restricted to working only on-campus.
Also read: Study migration to Canada
Is Immigration to Canada Better than to the UK?
Immigrating to the UK generally comes with a lot of challenges and can be quite expensive. However, the presence of world-class universities, a dynamic economy, earning in pounds, and the opportunity to live in incredible cities like London make the UK an attractive choice for many people over Canada.
On the other hand, living costs in Canada are lower, it has several top-notch universities, breathtaking natural landscapes, and the immigration costs are more reasonable.
Key Characteristics of the Best Canadian Immigration Agencies
The best Canadian immigration agencies should have several key characteristics, including:
- Integrity
- Experienced and specialized immigration lawyers
- A strong track record with a large number of successful immigration cases
- Availability and responsiveness to all your questions
- Precise follow-up
Conclusion
Canada is undoubtedly one of the best immigration destinations in the world. This country, which has greatly benefited from its immigration-friendly policies, continues to warmly welcome international immigrants and offers numerous opportunities and pathways for entry. Whether you are a student, a skilled worker, or an investor, immigrating to Canada is possible for anyone under various circumstances.
In this article, we aimed to provide a comprehensive overview of the available pathways for immigrating to Canada. We hope this information has been helpful to you.
