Frequently asked questions (F.A.Q’s) for Canadian Immigration

Pacific Link Immigration Services Inc.

What is the Canadian immigration process?

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The Canadian immigration process can be complex and daunting, but with the right information and guidance, it can be a manageable and rewarding experience. Firstly, individuals who wish to immigrate to Canada must determine which immigration program they are eligible for, such as Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Programs, or Family Sponsorship.

Each program has its own criteria and requirements, so it is important to research thoroughly before applying. Once eligibility has been established, applicants should create an online profile with the relevant program and submit an application. This typically involves providing personal information, educational and professional background, and in some cases, language proficiency test results. After submitting an application, candidates will be assessed and notified if they are invited to apply for permanent residence. This may involve an interview, additional documentation requests, or medical and security clearances.

If approved, successful applicants will receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence and can proceed with the final steps of the process, which may include landing in Canada and becoming a permanent resident. It is important to note that the Canadian immigration process is subject to change and can vary depending on individual circumstances.

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What are the different types of Canadian visas?

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There are several different types of Canadian visas, each with its own specific purpose and requirements.

1. Visitor Visa: Also known as a temporary resident visa or tourist visa, this visa is required for individuals who are visiting Canada for a short period of time, usually for tourism, visiting family or friends, or attending a conference.

2. Study Visa: This visa is required for individuals who plan to study in Canada. The study permit will allow the individual to stay in Canada for the duration of their studies.

3. Work Visa: This visa is required for individuals who plan to work in Canada, either temporarily or permanently. The specific requirements for a work visa will depend on the type of work the individual will be doing and the length of their stay.

4. Express Entry: This is a points-based system that allows skilled workers to apply for permanent residency in Canada. The program takes into account factors such as age, education, work experience, and language proficiency.

5. Family Sponsorship: This program allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their family members to come to Canada as permanent residents.

6. Business Immigration: This program is designed to attract foreign investors and entrepreneurs to Canada. There are several different categories within the program, each with its own specific requirements.

Overall, the type of visa an individual will need will depend on the purpose of their visit to Canada. It is important to carefully review the requirements for each type of visa before submitting an application.

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How long does it take to get a Canadian visa?

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The processing time for a Canadian visa depends on the type of visa you are applying for and the volume of applications received by the Canadian government at the time of your application. In general, most visa applications are processed within a few weeks to a few months. However, some visa categories or individual applications may take longer to process. It's important to carefully review the requirements for your specific visa category and ensure that all necessary documents are provided to avoid delays.

You can check the current processing times for Canadian visas on the official government website, but please note that these times are estimates and subject to change. Ultimately, the best way to ensure a timely visa application is to prepare a complete and accurate application with all required documents and information. Click here to get in touch with our immigration consultant to answer any of your immigration related query.

What are the requirements for Canadian immigration?

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To immigrate to Canada, there are certain requirements that must be met. These include:

1. Language proficiency: You must be proficient in English or French, which are the two official languages of Canada. You will need to take language proficiency tests such as the IELTS or CELPIP for English or TEF for French.

2. Educational qualifications: You must have a minimum educational qualification equivalent to a Canadian high school degree. It is recommended that you have higher education qualifications.

3. Work experience: You must have a minimum of one year of relevant work experience. The experience must be in a skilled, professional or technical field.

4. Age: You must be between 18 and 45 years of age.

5. Health: You and your family members must be in good health and pass a medical exam.

6. Character: You and your family members must have a clean criminal record.

7. Settlement funds: You must be able to show that you have enough money to support yourself and your family when you arrive in Canada. The amount required depends on the size of your family.

Meeting these requirements can improve your chances of being selected for immigration to Canada. There are also various immigration categories and programs you can apply under based on your qualifications and circumstances. Click here to get in touch with our immigration consultant to learn more about the requirements.

How do I apply for Canadian immigration?

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To apply for Canadian immigration, you must first determine which immigration program suits your situation.

Some of the most popular programs for immigration to Canada include Federal Skilled Worker Program, Canadian Experience Class, Provincial Nominee Program, and Family Sponsorship Program.

After selecting a program, you need to create an online account through the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website and complete the application process. The application process for Canadian immigration generally involves submitting documents such as proof of language proficiency, educational credentials, work experience, and a police certificate.

You may also need to undergo medical exams and provide biometric information. It is important to ensure that all information and documents submitted are accurate and complete to avoid any delays or rejection.

Additionally, fees must be paid for each application submitted. After submitting the application, you will receive a confirmation of receipt and any further steps or requirements may be requested from you. Each program has its own processing time, which can take several months or longer. Once your application is approved, you will be issued a permanent residency visa or permit which will allow you to live and work in Canada. Click here to get in touch with our immigration consultant to learn more about the application process for Canadian Immigration.

What is the Express Entry system?

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The Express Entry system is a program implemented by the Canadian government to manage and process applications for permanent residency from skilled workers.

The system is designed to identify and invite individuals who meet the criteria for Canada's economic needs and contribute to the country's growth and development. Candidates interested in applying for permanent residency under the Express Entry system must first create an online profile and provide information about their skills, work experience, language proficiency, and education. Based on this information, candidates are then assigned a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score, which determines their eligibility for an invitation to apply for permanent residency. The system draws candidates from a pool of applicants every two weeks, and those with the highest CRS scores are invited to apply for permanent residency. Once invited, applicants have 60 days to submit their application for permanent residency. Overall, the Express Entry system provides a streamlined and efficient pathway for skilled workers to obtain permanent residency in Canada, benefiting both applicants and the Canadian economy.

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What is the Provincial Nominee Program?

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The Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) is a program through which Canadian provinces and territories nominate individuals who are interested in immigrating to Canada and settling in a particular province or territory.

Each province and territory has its own PNP, with unique eligibility criteria and application processes. Through the PNP, provincial and territorial governments can nominate candidates who meet their specific labour market and economic needs.

These candidates may have skills, education, or work experience that are in demand in a particular province or territory, and may have stronger ties to that region, such as previous education, work experience, or family members living there.

PNP immigration programs can lead to Canadian permanent residence, which allows individuals to live and work in Canada indefinitely. Successful PNP candidates can contribute to the local economy, and may even become eligible for Canadian citizenship after meeting specific requirements. Overall, the PNP is an attractive option for individuals who want to immigrate to Canada and have a desire to settle in a particular province or territory.

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What is the Canadian Experience Class?

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The Canadian Experience Class (CEC) is an immigration program designed for individuals who have previous work experience in Canada and who wish to obtain permanent residency status.

This program is an attractive option for international students and temporary foreign workers who have already established themselves in Canada and wish to stay and continue building their careers.

To be eligible for the CEC, individuals must have at least one year of skilled work experience in Canada within the past three years. They must also meet language proficiency requirements in either English or French. The benefit of the CEC is that applicants can apply while they are working in Canada on a temporary work permit rather than having to apply from their home country. This can expedite the immigration process for individuals who have already established themselves in Canada and have the necessary work experience.

Overall, the Canadian Experience Class is a great option for individuals who have built their careers in Canada and wish to obtain permanent residency status in order to continue building their lives in this great country.

Click here to get in touch with our immigration consultant to learn more about the CEC Program.

What is the Federal Skilled Worker Program?

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The Federal Skilled Worker Program is a Canadian immigration program designed for skilled workers who want to become permanent residents of Canada.

Applicants are assessed based on several criteria, including their work experience, education, language proficiency, and age.

To be eligible for the program, applicants must have at least one year of continuous full-time work experience in a skilled occupation listed in Canada's National Occupational Classification system at skill level 0, A or B. They must also demonstrate proficiency in either French or English and score a minimum of 67 points out of 100 on the program's selection criteria. Successful applicants are granted permanent resident status in Canada, which allows them to live, work, study and receive benefits in Canada. The Federal Skilled Worker Program is one of several programs available to skilled foreign workers who want to move to Canada.

It is a popular choice for those who do not have a job offer from a Canadian employer, but who meet the eligibility criteria and want to start a new life in Canada.

Click here to get in touch with our immigration consultant to learn more about Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSW) Program.

What is the Canada Family Sponsorship Program?

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The Canada Family Sponsorship Program is a part of the Canadian immigration system that allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their eligible family members for immigration to Canada.

The program is designed to reunite families and facilitate their migration to Canada.

Under this program, eligible sponsors can sponsor their spouse or common-law partner, dependent children, parents, and grandparents, as well as certain other eligible relatives, to become permanent residents of Canada.

Through this program, family members who are sponsored can live, work, and study in Canada permanently.

The sponsorship process consists of two main steps: the sponsor must first be approved by the Canadian government as a sponsor, and then the sponsored family member must apply for permanent residence.

To be eligible as a sponsor, one must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, meet certain income requirements, and be at least 18 years old. The sponsored family member must also meet certain eligibility criteria, including passing Criminal and Medical Exams.

Overall, the Canada Family Sponsorship Program provides an important opportunity for Canadian citizens and permanent residents to reunite with their loved ones and bring them into their new home country.

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What are the language requirements for Canadian immigration?

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To immigrate to Canada, applicants are required to demonstrate proficiency in one of Canada's two official languages: English or French.

Language proficiency is assessed through approved language tests such as the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) or the Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB).

Applicants who are not fluent in either language can enroll in language courses and programs to improve their skills. Having strong language skills can increase an applicant's chances of being selected for immigration and can also help with finding employment in Canada.

In addition, applicants who are applying for the Express Entry program must score a minimum level of language proficiency in English or French to be eligible for the program.

The requirement varies depending on the program. Click here to get in touch with our Immigration Consultant to learn more the language requirements.

What is the medical exam requirement for Canadian immigration?

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Medical examination is a mandatory requirement for immigration to Canada. The immigration medical exam is conducted to determine if you have any medical conditions that could pose a risk to Canada's public health or safety or might cause excessive demand on Canada's health or social services.

The medical examination is performed by a panel physician approved by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). The exam includes a medical history review, physical examination, laboratory tests and chest x-ray (if age 11 years or older). The physician will also test for communicable diseases, such as tuberculosis and syphilis. Additionally, if you are pregnant at the time of the medical examination, you may be asked to undergo additional tests to ensure the health of the unborn child.

It is important to note that the medical examination should be done only by an IRCC-approved panel physician. Failing to follow this requirement could result in your application being rejected.

In conclusion, completing the medical examination is a critical step towards your journey to Canada. It is best to get the medical examination done as soon as possible to avoid any delays in the processing of your application.

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What is the police clearance certificate requirement for Canadian immigration?

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Police clearance certificate is a mandatory requirement for individuals who wish to immigrate to Canada.

The certificate serves as a proof of good character and is required to verify that the individual has no criminal record. The certificate must be provided by an authorized government agency in the country or countries where the individual has lived for a period of six months or more since he or she turned 18.

In addition to the above requirement, individuals may be asked to provide police certificates from other countries where they have lived for extended periods of time.

It is important to note that the police clearance certificate must be submitted along with the application for Canadian immigration and failure to provide the certificate may lead to the rejection of the application. The certificate must be current and issued within the last twelve months. It is advisable to start the process of obtaining the certificate well in advance of submitting the application to avoid any delays or complications.

The requirement for a police clearance certificate demonstrates the Canadian government's commitment to ensuring the safety and security of its citizens and residents.

What is the settlement funds requirement for Canadian immigration?

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The settlement funds requirement for Canadian immigration varies depending on the specific program through which an applicant is applying.

However, the general rule is that applicants must demonstrate that they have enough money to support themselves and their dependents upon arrival in Canada. This means that they must show proof of sufficient funds to cover living expenses, such as accommodation, food, and transportation, for a certain period of time.

For example, the Federal Skilled Worker Program requires applicants to show proof of funds equal to at least CAD $12,960 for an individual applicant. Meanwhile, the Provincial Nominee Program may have different requirements depending on the province or territory where an applicant is applying.

It is important to note that the settlement funds requirement is just one aspect of the overall eligibility criteria for Canadian immigration. Applicants must also meet other criteria, such as language proficiency, work experience, and education, depending on the program through which they are applying.

If you are seeking assistance for your Canadian Immigration matter, consult our Regulated Canadian Immigration consultant for the most up-to-date information on settlement fund requirements and other eligibility criteria. Click here to book an appointment with our consultant.

What is the biometrics requirement for Canadian immigration?

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Biometrics are becoming increasingly important in Canadian immigration.

All foreign nationals who apply for temporary or permanent residence in Canada are required to provide their biometric data, which includes their fingerprints and a digital photograph. This data is used to verify the identity of the applicant and to perform security and background checks.

The biometrics requirement is part of Canada's broader efforts to enhance the security of its immigration system and to simplify the application process for individuals. By using biometrics, immigration officials can more easily identify individuals who may pose a security or criminal risk. Biometrics also help to prevent identity fraud and protect the integrity of the immigration system.

If you are applying for Canadian immigration, you will need to visit a visa application centre (VAC) to have your biometric data collected. You will need to pay a biometrics fee as part of your application. The VAC will then send your biometric data to the Canadian government for processing. Overall, biometrics have become an essential component of the Canadian immigration process, and it is important for all applicants to be aware of this requirement and to comply with it.

Is it possible to apply for Canadian immigration without having a job offer in hand?

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One can definitely apply for Canadian immigration without a job offer.

The Canadian government offers various immigration programs, such as Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Programs, and the Atlantic Immigration Pilot, that do not require a job offer for eligibility. However, having a job offer can increase your chances of being invited to apply for permanent residency.

For instance, in the Express Entry system, applicants with a job offer from a Canadian employer can receive additional points, which can prove beneficial. It's important to note that having a job offer may not be necessary for all immigration programs, but it can certainly be a valuable asset. It's always recommended to research and explore all the available options.

If you are seeking assistance for your Canadian immigration process, book an appointment with our Regulated Canadian Immigration consultant to ensure a smooth and successful immigration process. Click here to book an appointment.

Is it possible to apply for Canadian immigration without a Canadian educational background?

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Yes, it is possible to apply for Canadian immigration without having a Canadian education.

The Canadian immigration system is based on a points-based system, where applicants are awarded points based on a variety of factors, including their work experience, language proficiency, age, and education.

While having a Canadian education can certainly be an advantage in the immigration process, it is not a requirement.

To apply for immigration to Canada, you will need to choose an immigration program that suits your qualifications and meet the eligibility criteria. You may be required to have your educational credentials assessed by a designated organization to determine their equivalency to Canadian qualifications. Overall, having a Canadian education can help you score more points in the immigration process, but it is not mandatory for eligibility.

With a strong work experience, language proficiency, and other relevant factors, you can still have a good chance of being approved for Canadian immigration.

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Can I include my family members in my Canadian immigration application?

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Yes, you may include your family members in your Canadian immigration application. Canada's family reunification program allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their spouse, common-law partner, dependent children, parents, and grandparents to immigrate to Canada.

However, it is important to note that there are certain requirements and eligibility criteria that sponsors and applicants must meet in order to be successful. For example, sponsors must be able to demonstrate that they can financially support their sponsored family members and that they do not have a criminal record. Additionally, applicants must undergo medical exams and background checks. If you are seeking the guidance to about about application or to check if you meet all the necessary requirements, book an appointment with our RCIC.

What happens after I submit my Canadian immigration application?

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After you submit your Canadian immigration application, it will be reviewed by a case officer to ensure that all the required documents and information have been provided. If any information or documentation is missing, the case officer may request additional information or documents to complete the application process.

Once your application is deemed complete, it will enter the processing queue. The processing time for Canadian immigration applications can vary depending on the program and the volume of applications being processed. You can check the estimated processing time on the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website.

During the application process, you may be contacted by the case officer or IRCC for additional information or for an interview. If your application is approved, you will be issued a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) and will be instructed on how to proceed with obtaining your permanent resident visa.

It is important to note that submitting an application does not guarantee approval. The decision to approve an application is at the discretion of the case officer and is based on the information provided and the applicant's eligibility for the particular program.

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