The Federal Skilled Worker program (through Express Entry) is designed for people who are selected to immigrate to Canada (except the province of Quebec) because of their skills and previous work experience. You must have experience in work at Skill Type 0, A or B on the Canadian National Occupational Classification for at least the last 10 years. This experience has to be paid, full-time (30 hours/week or the equivalent hours part-time). To be eligible for this program, you have to meet “minimum language levels in English or French” and “have a post-secondary certificate, diploma or degree”.

If you want to come to Canada for business purposes, such as an overseas meeting, Canadian work site visit, to look for investments for your business, or advance your business relationships you must apply as a business visitor. You must be able to show that you are based abroad and receive your salary from abroad. You must also send a letter of invitation from your potential business partner in Canada and 24-hour contact details for that person.

Immigrants to Canada and/or Canadian citizens may have their spouse or dependent children (aged 18 years and under) apply to join them in Canada. The applicant(s) need to show that they intend to live with their family member (called their sponsor). Spouses also need to prove that the relationship is genuine. For immigrating children to join their sponsor, it needs to be shown that the sponsored children has not formed an independent family unit or is leading an independent life. The sponsor will also need to prove that they can support the applicant(s) without relying on public funds.

You may need to apply for a student visa and study permit if you want to undertake a course of study for more than 6 months in duration. You must have sufficient funds to support and accommodate yourself in Canada and show that you can afford to leave Canada when your visa is expired.

If you want to come to Canada for a visit, you will need to check if your country of origin is ‘visa-exempt’ (meaning that a visa is not required for travel between your country and Canada). A non-visa exempt country national may need to apply for a visitor visa. To be eligible for a visitor visa, your stay must be temporary and not involving employment. If you come to Canada as a visitor you are generally permitted to remain for up to 6 months. You must also have sufficient funds to support and accommodate yourself and show that you can afford to leave Canada when your visa is expired. We recommend a consultation with one of our specialists prior to submitting your application to ensure success..