Moving to Canada is like a magical dream for those looking for new and diverse opportunities. No doubt, Canada has a lot to offer to its residents. However, the true challenge is actually getting through the steps required to immigrate to Canada. Young individuals are often found asking ‘how to immigrate to Canada’ right after they enter their practical life.
Nowadays, there are multiple ways to move to Canada and start anew. Let’s talk about the most common pathways to enter one of the most sought-after countries.
1. Federal Skilled Worker
Do you possess skills that are high in demand in Canada? If yes then you can enter the country through the Federal skilled worker program. The eligibility criteria for the federal skilled program includes:
- One year of a continuous full-time job or part-time experience of two years in the past ten years. There are a total of 38 occupations that come under this program.
- Legally living in Canada as a temporary foreign worker. Living in Canada as an international student for one year also qualifies you for the program.
- Availability of a secure job with a Canadian employer
In addition to this, your bank account must show sufficient funds to support yourself and your family for at least six months. Age, education, and language skills further add to the immigration points.
2. Family Class Sponsorship
There is a wide number of cases where one family member sponsors the visa of their family members back home. This too is among the most common ways to immigrate to Canada. The individual sponsoring the visa should be a Canadian citizen and the one applying through family class sponsorship should be your spouse or children under 22.
You can no longer sponsor parents or grandparents as per the new rules set by the Canadian government.
3. Provincial Nomination Program
Also known as the ‘PNP’ route, the Provincial Nomination Program is for those targeting particular provinces. You will be required to live in only those provinces that approve of this program. Applicants must have a job offer by a Canadian employer in order to become eligible for the program.
4. LMIA Work Visa
You will be first required to get a Canadian job visa and then apply for a work visa. Evident by the name, LMIA work visa is based on your job in Canada. Your employer in Canada will assist you in applying for this category. The work visa is also a very common gateway to getting permanent residence in Canada.
5. Canadian Investor Visa
Individuals who have experience running their own business and have a high net worth are eligible for this category. This allows the applicants to contribute to the country’s economy and help it grow. Apart from having a high net worth, the applicant should also be whole-heartedly willing to make large investments.