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Canadian Immigration, Visa, and Citizenship

Canada is one of the top-listed immigration-friendly countries with an ever-growing economy. The country boasts some of the most simplified and efficient immigration programs, facilitating around 500,000 immigrants annually. Canada Immigration through a PR visa is the best option for individuals looking to settle in the country permanently. With a PR visa, one can reside, study, and work in Canada for five years. Some immigration programs for migrating to Canada are Express Entry, the Provincial Nominee Program, Family sponsorship, Quebec Immigration, Temporary visas, International student programs, and more.

Y-Axis, one of the leading immigration consultants in Canada, is committed to providing end-to-end immigration support and assistance. Y-Axis offers tailored and all-inclusive immigration services for those looking to immigrate to the country. Be it skilled workers migrating as a family, entrepreneurs establishing a new business, or individuals looking to sponsor their spouses, we are dedicated to fulfilling your Canadian dream. We have a team of experienced and accomplished counselors to ensure a streamlined immigration process.

Canada Immigration and Citizenship Programs

The country provides over 100 pathways for skilled workers, families, students, entrepreneurs, etc., to immigrate to Canada. The top 7 citizenship immigration Canada programs are as follows:

1. Express Entry for Canada Immigration

The Express Entry program is the fastest immigration route for skilled workers to migrate to Canada. The Express Entry system manages the skilled worker applications through three major economic immigration programs, which are the Federal Skilled Worker Program

(FSWP), Canadian Experience Class (CEC) and the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP). Participating applicants are allotted a score out of 1,200 depending on eligibility factors like age, language proficiency, work experience, education, etc. One can score maximum points via the Canada CRS (Comprehensive Ranking System). The Express Entry draws are regularly held by the IRCC once every two weeks, and Invitations to Apply (ITAs) are issued to candidates with a high CRS score. Candidates can acquire an employment offer through any of the Express Entry-related PNP streams. A Provincial nomination can add 600 points to the candidate's overall score, securing an ITA in the next Express Entry draw.

2. Eligibility Criteria for Express Entry

Candidates must score 67 out of 100 points to be eligible for the Express Entry program. The points can be scored via any of the criteria given below:

Age: Maximum points are given to candidates aged between 18 and 35. Candidates over 35 are given comparatively fewer points.
Education: The educational qualifications must be equivalent to or greater than the secondary educational levels in Canada. Candidates with higher levels of education are given more points.
Work experience: Candidates with at least 12 months of work experience are allotted minimum points. Candidates with more work experience can score higher points.
Language proficiency: 6 IELTS bands equivalent to CLB 7 can get more points. Candidates with higher scores can get more points.
Adaptability: 10 points are allotted for the adaptability factor. Candidates must have family members or relatives residing in Canada who can support them when they move to the country. Additional points are given if the spouse or legal partner migrates along with the primary applicant.
Arranged employment: 10 points are given for a valid employment offer from a Canadian employer.

3. Canada Immigration Requirements for Express Entry

Some of the documents required for the Express Entry program are:

A valid passport
Language proficiency test results
ECA Report for Canadian Immigration
Provincial nomination (if applicable)
Proof of valid employment offer
Proof of work experience
Proof of sufficient funds

4. Steps to apply for Express Entry

You can follow the simple steps given below to apply for the Canada Express Entry program:

Step 1: Check if you are eligible for the program

Step 2: Arrange the required documents

Step 3: Create and fill your profile

Step 4: Wait for an ITA

Step 5: Apply for Canada PR

5. Canadian Experience Class

Canadian Experience Class is for skilled workers with at least 12 months of professional work experience in Canada. It is one of the fastest Canada PR routes, with 3-4 months processing time. The CEC is one of the Express Entry immigration streams, particularly for foreign graduates and temporary foreign workers.

6. Eligibility Criteria for Canadian Experience Class (CEC)

The eligibility criteria for the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) are as follows:

One year of Canadian work experience
Language ability
Educational transcripts
Admissibility to Canada

7. Canadian work Experience:

To qualify via the Canadian work experience, one must meet the criteria listed below:

Have 12 months of Canadian work experience
Have gained work experience by working in the country under TR status

You may not qualify for the CEC if:

You are a Canadian refugee claimant
You are employed without any authorization
Your work experience was obtained without a Canadian temporary residence status

8. Language Proficiency for Canada Immigration:

To qualify via the language ability factor, one must meet the criteria listed below:

The language test results must be valid for two years after the test result date
The language test results must be valid on the date of applying for Canada PR

Under the language ability, you must:

Take language tests that are approved
Meet the minimum score requirement
Enter the test results in the Express Entry profile

I. Education:

There are no specific educational requirements for the CEC.

II. Admissibility to Canada:

Must be admissible to Canada

9. Federal Skilled Worker Program

The Federal Skilled Worker Program is specifically for skilled workers with work experience who wish to become permanent residents of Canada.

I. Eligibility for Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)

The eligibility criteria for FSWP are based on the following factors:

Work education
Language proficiency
Age
Valid employment offer
Adaptability

II. Requirements for Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)

One must meet all the requirements given below to be eligible for the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP):

III. Skilled work Experience:

The skilled work experience you have can be considered if it fulfills the criteria given below:

If the experience is in the same job type as the primary occupation
The experience acquired in the past ten years
The experience is gained in the form of paid work
The work has been continuous for at least 12 months

The above factors can also be fulfilled via any of the working modes given below:

10. Type of work duration:

The type of work and the duration that is eligible for the FSWP are given in the table below:

Type of work	Duration
Full-time at one job	30 hours/week for 12 months
Equal amount in part-time work	15 hours/week for 24 months
Full time at more than 1 job	30 hours/week for 12 months

I. Part-time work experience:

The skilled work experience must be paid employment, including earned commissions and paid wages. Part-time work can be around 15 hours per week, and more than one part-time job can be taken up to cover the work duration.

11. Canada Immigration Student work experience:

The work experience acquired while studying can be considered towards the total work requirement if:

The work is paid in the form of commissions or wages
The work is continuous with no breaks
The work meets all the other requirements of the program

Language proficiency:

You must submit proof of language proficiency where the tests come with a two-year validity period after the result date. The test results must be valid on the day you apply for PR.

To qualify your language ability, you must:

Complete the language proficiency tests
Score the minimum required points in all four language test sections
Submit the test results in the EE profile

Education:

The educational documents that are to be submitted to qualify for the FSWP are as follows:

For education in Canada:

Diploma, degree, or certificate from a Canadian university

For foreign education:

ECA Report
Educational qualifications that are equal to the Canadian level of secondary education

12. Federal Skilled Trades Program

The Federal Skilled Trades Program is specifically for skilled workers who have qualified in a skilled trade and wish to become permanent residents of Canada.

I. Requirements for Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)

One must meet all the requirements given below to be eligible for the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP):

Work experience in Skilled Trades
Employment offer or Certification of qualification
Language proficiency

II. Work experience in Skilled Trades

To qualify for the work experience:

Have at least two years of professional work experience in a skilled trade within five years before you apply for the program.
Meet the job requirements for the trade as per the NOC.
Proof that most of the job responsibilities have been fulfilled
Valid employment offer of a minimum of 24 months
Certification of qualification for a skilled trade from a territory or province

III. Language proficiency:

You must submit proof of language proficiency where the tests come with a two-year validity period after the result date. The test results must be valid on the day you apply for PR.

To qualify your language ability, you must:

Complete the language proficiency tests
Score the minimum required points in all four language test sections

IV. Education:

There is no specific educational requirement for the FSTP

V. For education in Canada:

Points are given to candidates with a Diploma, degree, or certificate from a Canadian university

VI. Foreign education:

Candidates are given points if they submit:

ECA Report
Educational qualifications that are equal to the Canadian level of secondary education

Proof of funds:

Candidates must provide evidence of sufficient funds

Admissibility:

Must be admissible to Canada

13. Express Entry Draws in 2024

52 Express Entry Draws have been conducted in 2024 so far, issuing a total of 98,903 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) for PR.

Draw no.	Date	Immigration program	Invitations issued	Minimum CRS required
330	December 16, 2024	Provincial Nominee Program	1,085	727
329	December 03, 2024	French language proficiency	800	466
328	December 02, 2024	Provincial Nominee Program	676	705
327	November 20, 2024	Healthcare Occupations	3,000	463
326	November 19, 2024	Canadian Experience Class	400	539
325	November 18, 2024	Provincial Nominee Program	174	816
324	November 15, 2024	French language proficiency	800	478
323	November 13, 2024	Canadian Experience Class	400	547
322	November 12, 2024	Provincial Nominee Program	733	812
321	October 23, 2024	Trade Occupations	1,800	433
320	October 22, 2024	Canadian Experience Class	400	539
319	October 21, 2024	Provincial Nominee Program	648	791
318	October 10, 2024	French language proficiency	1,000	444
317	October 09, 2024	Canadian Experience Class	500	539
316	October 07, 2024	Provincial Nominee Program	1,613	743
315	September 19, 2024	Canadian Experience Class	4,000	509
314	September 13, 2024	French language proficiency	1,000	446
313	September 09, 2024	Provincial Nominee Program	911	732
312	August 27, 2024	Canadian Experience Class	3,300	507
311	August 26, 2024	Provincial Nominee Program	1,121	694
310	August 15, 2024	French language proficiency	2,000	394
309	August 14, 2024	Canadian Experience Class	3,200	509
308	August 13, 2024	Provincial Nominee Program	763	690
307	July 31, 2024	Canadian Experience Class	5,000	510
306	July 30, 2024	Provincial Nominee Program	964	686
305	July 18, 2024	French language proficiency	1,800	400
304	July 17, 2024	Canadian Experience Class	6,300	515
303	July 16, 2024	Provincial Nominee Program	1,391	670
302	July 08, 2024	French language proficiency	3,200	420
301	July 05, 2024	Healthcare Occupations	3,750	445
300	July 04, 2024	Trade Occupations	1,800	436
299	July 02, 2024	Provincial Nominee Program	920	739
298	June 19, 2024	Provincial Nominee Program	1,499	663
297	May 31, 2024	Canadian Experience Class	3,000	522
296	May 30, 2024	Provincial Nominee Program	2,985	676
295	April 24, 2024	French language proficiency	1,400	410
294	April 23, 2024	All Program draw	2,095	529
293	April 11, 2024	STEM Professionals	4,500	491
292	April 10, 2024	All Program draw	1,280	549
291	March 26, 2024	French speaking professionals	1,500	388
290	March 25, 2024	All Program draw	1,980	524
289	March 13, 2024	Transport occupations	975	430
288	March 12, 2024	All Program draw	2,850	525
287	February 29, 2024	French language proficiency	2,500	336
286	February 28, 2024	All Program draw	1,470	534
285	February 16, 2024	Agriculture and Agri-food occupations	150	437
284	February 14, 2024	Healthcare occupations	3,500	422
283	February 13, 2024	All Program draw	1,490	535
282	February 1, 2024	French Language Proficiency	7,000	365
281	January 31, 2024	All Program draw	730	541
280	January 23, 2024	All Program draw	1,040	543
279	January 10, 2024	All Program draw	1,510	546

15. Provincial Nominee Programs

The Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) was launched in 1998 and is an immigration pathway for skilled workers. The PNP is one of the fastest and easiest immigration programs for foreign workers wishing to migrate and settle in any Canadian province. The provinces and territories of Canada maintain their immigration program based on provincial needs. There are over 80 PNP programs with at least one immigration stream that aligns with the Express Entry system. The PNP nominations issued via the Express Entry-linked streams are called Enhanced nominations, through which Express Entry candidates can score an additional 600 points. The 11 most prominent Provincial nominee programs are:

16. Latest Canada PNP Draws in 2024

Month	Provinces	No. of draws	Total no. of Invitations
December	PEI	1	33
	Manitoba	1	399
	Alberta	7	1043
	BC	1	21
November	Alberta	8	1474
	Manitoba	2	553
	PEI	1	59
	BC	5	148
October	Manitoba	2	487
	Ontario	2	3035
	Alberta	1	302
	PEI	1	91
	Saskatchewan	1	19
	BC	5	759
September	BC	5	638
	Saskatchewan	1	89
	Manitoba	2	554
	Alberta	1	22
	PEI	1	48
	Quebec	1	1417
	Ontario	8	6,952
August	BC	5	622
	Alberta	1	41
	PEI	1	57
	Quebec	3	4455
	Ontario	2	2,665
	Manitoba	3	645
July	Ontario	8	5,925
	Alberta	3	120
	Saskatchewan	1	13
	Quebec	1	1560
	PEI	1	86
	Manitoba	2	287
	BC	4	333
June	Ontario	5	646
	Manitoba	3	667
	Saskatchewan	1	120
	Quebec	3	4279
	Alberta	1	73
	PEI	1	75
	BC	4	287
May	Alberta	1	40
	BC	4	308
	Manitoba	3	1,565
	Quebec	2	2,791
	PEI	1	6
April	BC	4	350
	Manitoba	2	690
	Saskatchewan	1	15
	Ontario	1	211
	Alberta	1	48
	PEI	2	148
	Quebec	1	1,036
March	BC	4	654
	Manitoba	1	104
	Saskatchewan	1	35
	Ontario	9	11,092
	Alberta	1	34
	PEI	1	85
	Quebec	2	2,493
February	BC	1	218
	Manitoba	1	282
	Ontario	4	6,638
	Alberta	2	124
	PEI	3	224
	Quebec	1	1,007
January	Alberta	4	130
	BC	4	994
	Manitoba	2	748
	PEI	1	136
	Saskatchewan	1	13
	Ontario	8	8,122

17. Canada PNP Eligibility

Foreign workers who meet the following conditions are considered eligible to apply for Canada PNP:

Have the required work experience, education, and skills that can add value to a Canadian territory or province
Wants to settle in any of the Canadian territory or province
Intends to become a Canadian permanent resident

18. Canada PNP Requirements

The requirements for Canada PNP may vary depending on the type of PNP program. However, some of the general requirements to apply for PNP are as follows:

I. General requirements:

Candidates must satisfy the below requirements to apply for PNP:

67 points on the grid
Educational credentials
Medical insurance
Work experience
Police Clearance Certificate (PCC)

II. Documents required:

Candidates must submit the below list of documents to apply for Canada PNP:

Valid Passport
Proof of travel history
Proof of work experience
Medical reports
Criminal clearance certificate
Other additional documents

19. How to apply for Canada PNP?

The five simple steps to apply for Canada PNP are as follows:

Step 1: Check if you qualify for the PNP via the Y-Axis Canada Immigration points calculator

Step 2: Go through the PNP criteria

Step 3: Gather the checklist of documents

Step 4: Apply for the PNP program of your choice

Step 5: Migrate to Canada

The application process for Canada PNP depends on the stream you are applying to. You can apply for PNP via two different methods that are listed below:

Express Entry program

Step 1: Check if you are eligible for the province of your choice and any of the Express Entry managed immigration programs.

Step 2: Apply for a provincial nomination

Step 3: Create an Express Entry profile

Step 4: Receive an NOI (Notification of Interest)

Step 5: Apply for PR upon invitation

Non-Express Entry program

Step 1: Apply for provincial nomination

Step 2: Check your eligibility

Step 3: Arrange the requirements

Step 4: Receive a nomination upon meeting the eligibility

Step 5: Apply for the PR

20. Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program

The Atlantic Immigration Pilot program is one of the PR pathways for international graduates from Canadian universities or skilled foreign workers who wish to work and settle in Nova Scotia, Newfoundland and Labrador, Prince Edward Island, or New Brunswick. The AIPP facilitates employers' recruitment of individuals who qualify for unfilled jobs.

I. How to apply as an employer in Atlantic Canada?

Apply to become a designated organization:

To recruit a candidate, the employer must be from a designated organization, which is designated by the provincial government of the Atlantic province. To become a designated organization, the employer need not pay any fees or costs. Each Canadian province maintains its application process.

I. Hiring a qualified international candidate

Upon becoming designated, employers can recruit foreign candidates for unfilled job roles. The international candidates can either be temporary residents of Canada or be living overseas.

II. How to apply as an International Graduate or Skilled Foreign Worker?

To get hired in Atlantic Canada, you must fulfill the conditions given below:

Must have an employment offer from a designated employer to take part in the AIPP
Must either be a recent graduate from a recognized post-secondary institution in Atlantic Canada or a skilled worker
Can be residing in Canada as a temporary resident or be living overseas

Total Invitations to Apply (ITAs) issued from January 2024 till date

161,562 Invitations Issued from Jan 2024 to date in 2024
Express Entry/ Province Draw	Jan	Feb	Mar	April	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec	Total
Express Entry	3280	16110	7305	9275	5985	1,499	25,125	10,384	5911	5961	5507	2561	98,903
Alberta	130	157	75	48	139	73	63	82	22	302	1474	1043	3608
British Columbia	974	812	634	170	308	287	484	622	638	759	148	47	5883
Manitoba	698	282	104	363	1565	667	287	645	554	487	553	399	6604
Ontario	8122	6638	11092	211	0	646	5925	2665	6952	3035	NA	NA	45286
Prince Edward Island	134	223	83	66	6	75	86	57	48	91	59	33	961
Saskatchewan	13	0	35	15	0	120	13	13	89	19	NA	NA	317
Total	13,351	24,222	19,328	10,148	8,003	3,367	31,983	14,468	14214	10654	7,741	4,083	1,61,562

21. Immigration to Quebec

Quebec maintains its own Quebec Immigration program distinct from the other Canadian provinces. The province offers different immigration programs that allow qualifying candidates to acquire a Canada PR. The Canadian government has given Quebec more authority and access to its own set of immigration programs and policies. The province has French as its official language, making it one of the primary language requirements for some of its immigration programs. Non-French speakers who are looking to migrate are provided with other immigration pathways.

Some of the Quebec immigration programs are as follows:

Certificat de sélection du Québec (CSQ)
Quebec Skilled Worker Program (QSW)
Quebec Experience Program (PEQ)
Quebec Investor Program
Quebec Entrepreneur Program
Quebec Self-Employed
Certificat d’acceptation du Québec (CAQ)

I. Quebec Immigration Requirements for Foreign Nationals

The documents that are required to be submitted by foreign nationals who are looking to apply for the Quebec Immigration program are as follows:

Educational transcripts
Proof of identity
Proof of employment letter
License of practice for professions that Quebec regulates
Copy of the work permit if the foreign national is already employed

II. Quebec Immigration Job role Requirements

The job requirements that must be fulfilled to apply for the Quebec Immigration programs are as follows:

Must be a full-time or permanent position at the NOC Level 0, A, B or C
Must have a neutral or positive influence on the labor market
The job role offered must be in written form by a Quebec-based employer that has been actively operating for at least 12 months.

III. Quebec Immigrant Investor Program

The Quebec Immigrant Investor Program (QIIP) was first introduced in 1986. It is one of the most popular and sought-after business immigration programs offered by Quebec. The program is specifically for experienced investors with net worth and assets that they plan to invest in for the betterment of the province.

IV. Quebec Investor Program Requirements

The requirements for the Quebec Investor Program are as follows:

Must have an investment agreement with an approved financial negotiator
A minimum of two years of experience in management that must be obtained within five years before submitting the application
Must have a net worth of a minimum of CAD$2,000,000 with proof of income
Educational qualifications equal to the secondary level of education in Quebec
Minimum of Level 7 in spoken French as per the Échelle québécoise des niveaux de compétence en Français
Acquire an attestation about Quebec values and democratic values

V. How to apply for the QIPP?

You can follow the steps given below to apply for the Quebec Investor Immigrant Program (QIPP):

Step 1: Check if you qualify for the QIPP

Step 2: Arrange all the required forms and documents

Step 3: Pay the application fee

Step 4: Submit your application

Step 5: Wait for the status of your application

22. Quebec Entrepreneur Program

The Quebec Entrepreneur Program is specifically for immigrant entrepreneurs wishing to set up a new business or take over an existing one in Quebec. The QEP allows candidates to apply for a Certificat de sélection du Québec (CSQ – Québec selection certificate). After receiving a CSQ, the candidate can submit the PR application.

I. Quebec Entrepreneur Program Requirements

The Quebec Entrepreneur program runs two separate streams with different criteria and requirements.

Stream 1:

To be eligible for Stream 1, the applicant must reside in Quebec and set up and run a business backed by a service offer from a university entrepreneurship center, business incubator, or business accelerator. The project can be undertaken alone or with others that have at least three foreign nationals applying for the same program.

University Entrepreneurship Center: Organizations that are regulated by university institutions that offer coaching services at the university level.

Business Incubator: Organizations with an existing establishment in the province of Quebec that supports entrepreneurs who wish to develop inventive businesses.

Business Accelerator: Organizations with an existing establishment in the province of Quebec offering services like financial guidance for entrepreneurs to expand innovative businesses there.

It is required that the service offer-organization must show proof of their ability to support a candidate and the business project financially. A detailed plan of action about how the service offer can help the candidate must include the following:

Suggested support plan: The list of services provided to the candidates, along with complete descriptions.

Plan of operation: A breakdown of the budget for the service offered and a schedule of activities.

Proof of expertise as a university entrepreneurship center, Business incubator, and business accelerator: Skills and accomplishments of the entrepreneur's project.

Note: The application must be submitted to Quebec as a business plan.

Stream 2:

To be eligible for Stream 2, the applicant must reside in Quebec to set up a new business or obtain an existing one and manage business operations. Candidates are required to make two financial deposits as a part of their application:

Security deposit: A minimum of CAD 200,000 as proof of insurance that the business will be established. The amount will be refunded when the business plan is successfully implemented.

Startup deposit: Businesses in Montreal must receive a minimum of CAD $300,000, and businesses outside Montreal must receive $200,000.

The candidates are required to meet the requirements given below:

Proof of net assets worth a minimum of CAD 900,000 that was legally earned
Application must be given in the form of a business plan.
Candidates who are setting up a new business must control and own at least 25% of its equity. Candidates who are taking over an already existing business must control and own at least 51% of its equity.
The business must not be involved in illegal activities like fraud, criminal offenses, etc.
The acquired business must not have been operational in the five years before the application submission.

23. Quebec Self-Employed Program

The Quebec Self-employed Worker program is for specific self-employed individuals who wish to migrate to Quebec and set up their own businesses there. Their net assets are worth CAD 100,000, and they have two years of experience as self-employed workers in the field they wish to practice in Quebec.

I. Quebec Self-employed Program Requirements

The requirements to be fulfilled for the Quebec self-employed program are as follows:

Come to the province in pursuit of creating a job of their own by practicing a trade or profession on their own
Have net assets worth CAD 100,000 that were acquired legally with, if applicable, a common-law partner or accompanying spouse
Have at least two years of self-employed worker experience in a field, trade, or occupation to practice.
Score the minimum required points via the Quebec Self-Employed Worker Points Assessment Grid.

24. Entrepreneur Startup Visa -Canada Immigration

The Canada Startup visa is for immigrant entrepreneurs with expertise and skills to set up a new business in Canada. The business must:

Be creative and innovative
Can create more job opportunities for Canadians
have the potential to perform well on a global level

I. Canada Startup visa requirements

The four major requirements to be fulfilled to apply for the Canada Startup visa program are as follows:

Have a qualifying business
The business must have at least 10% of the voting rights attached to the company shares.
The business and the designated organization must have at least 50% of the voting rights attached to the company shares.

Letter of support from a designated organization

A letter of support from an organization must be included in your application

Proof of sufficient funds

Candidates must submit proof of sufficient funds to support themselves and any family members accompanying the primary applicant. The funds required vary with the size of the family.

The table below has the complete breakdown of the proof of funds required per family member.

Number of family members	Funds you need (in Canadian dollars)
1	$14,690
2	$18,288
3	$22,483
4	$27,297
5	$30,690
6	$34,917
7	$38,875

If more than 7 people, for each additional family member, add $3,958

Fulfill the language requirements

A minimum of CLB 5 must be scored in all four testing sections of the language test.

II. Canada Startup Visa Benefits

Here are some of the reasons why you should apply for the Canada Startup visa:

Permanent residency pathway
NO age limit to apply for a visa
Basic English language requirement
Streamlined application process
NO minimum educational requirements
Get a temporary Canadian work permit
Financial investment backing from authorized organizations
Allows multiple applicants to apply for a single business
NO minimum investments are required

III. How to apply for a Canada Startup Visa?

You can follow the steps given below to apply for a Canada Startup visa:

Step 1: Fill out the IMM 0008 E application form

Step 2: Arrange the required checklist of documents

Step 3: Pay the required fee

Step 4: Submit the application

Step 5: Wait for the status of your visa

25. Family Class Immigration to Canada

The country provides sponsorship opportunities for Canadian citizens or permanent residents who wish to bring their family to Canada. The Family class immigration programs allow certain family members to become Canadian permanent residents. The family sponsorship program is one of the most sought-after immigration pathways for individuals who plan on bringing their immediate family to Canada.

I. Spousal/Common-Law Sponsorship

You can sponsor your common-law partner, conjugal partner, or spouse to apply for Canada PR via the spousal/common-law sponsorship program. Candidates currently residing in Canada can also apply for an open work permit. The spousal open work permit allows sponsored individuals to work in the country while the sponsorship application is processed.

II. Who is eligible to sponsor their spouse?

You can sponsor your partner or spouse if:

You are 18 years of age.
You are a citizen of Canada or a PR holder.
If you are a citizen of Canada living outside the country, you must show intent to reside in Canada when the sponsored applicants obtain PR
You may not be eligible to sponsor if you are a PR holder residing outside the country.
Submit proof that you receive social assistance only for disability and not for other purposes.
Submit proof that you are capable of providing for yourself and for the people you would like to sponsor

III. Who is not eligible to sponsor their spouse?

You may not be eligible to sponsor your spouse or partner if:

You are under 18 years of age.
You do not have the intent to live in the country once your sponsored applicants receive PR
You are not a citizen of Canada or a PR holder.
You are a temporary resident, that is, you are studying, visiting, or working in the country on a permit.
You do not have sufficient funds to support yourself or the sponsored persons.
Your PR application has not been processed yet.
You cannot sponsor if:
You were sponsored by a partner or spouse and acquired permanent residence less than five years ago.
You are responsible for financially supporting the previous partner or spouse you sponsored.

IV. Who can you sponsor?

You can sponsor a common-law partner, spouse, or conjugal partner.

Common-law partner:

You can sponsor the joint law partner if:

You are not legally married.
Is at least 18 years
Has been continuously living with you for a minimum of 12 months [The only time spent away from each other must be temporary or short]

A spouse:

Must be 18 years of age
Must be legally wedded to you

Conjugal partner:

You can sponsor if the conjugal partner is:

You are not legally married or in a common-law relationship.
Is at least 18 years old
Has been in a relationship with you for at least 12 months
Does not reside in Canada
Cannot live with you in their country or be wedded to you due to legal or other immigration reasons like their marital status or religious persecution

V. Steps to Apply for Spousal/Common-Law Sponsorship

You can follow the steps given below to apply for the Spousal/Common-Law Sponsorship:

Step 1: Apply to sponsor the spouse

Step 2: Apply for Canada PR

Step 3: Pay the application fees

Step 4: Submit the application

Step 5: Wait till your application gets processed

26. Canada Parents and Grandparents Program

The Parents and Grandparents program allows you to sponsor parents and grandparents to become Canada PR holders. The PGP program is a part of the Family Reunification program. Individuals offering sponsorship must sign an undertaking, admitting to provide for their parents and grandparents for 20 years throughout their stay in Canada. The individuals sponsoring from Quebec must be willing to sign an undertaking for ten years. The Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP) works on a lottery basis and takes applications once a year. The program is currently accepting applications until August 2, 2024.

I. Canada PGP Eligibility Criteria

The eligibility criteria to sponsor your Parents and Grandparents program (PGP):

A filled "Interest to Sponsor" form
Be a citizen of Canada, a Canada PR holder
Over 18 years of age
Must be residing in Canada
Meet the income levels required for the program.
Sign an undertaking:
To support the sponsored family member for 20 years
To support the sponsored family member for ten years for those in Quebec

II. Who can sponsor their parents and grandparents?

You can sponsor your parents and grandparents if:

You are invited to apply.
You are 18 years of age.
You reside in Canada, with the primary residential address being your Canadian residence.
You are a citizen of Canada or a PR holder.
Must have proof of sufficient funds to support your sponsored family members
Proof of income
A spouse or common-law partner can co-sign the application to add the income.
Must fulfill other requirements given by the IRCC

III. Steps to apply for Canada PGP

You can follow the steps given below to apply for Canada PGP:

Step 1: Receive an Invitation to Apply

Step 2: Apply for Canada PR via the official portal

Step 3: Pay the application fees

Step 4: Submit the application

Step 5: Submit additional documents and wait for the status of your application

27. Sponsorship of Dependent Children

One of the programs offered by family sponsorship is the sponsorship of dependent children. Canadian citizens or PR holders with children living abroad can sponsor them to come live in Canada and apply for a Canada PR visa. Dependent children, including biological and adopted children, can reside with their parents in the country.

I. Who is eligible to sponsor a child?

To sponsor your child to come to the country via sponsorship of dependent children, you must:

Be 18 years of age
Be a citizen of Canada or a PR holder
Be able to fulfill the needs of the dependent child
Be able to prove your relationship with the child
Must have a clear criminal record
Must not be in prison or charged with a criminal offense
Should not be in any previous sponsorship undertakings
Should not receive income support from the government except for reasons stating disability

II. Eligibility for a dependent child to qualify for Sponsorship

For dependent children to qualify for the sponsorship of dependent children, they must:

Be a biological or adopted child of a PR holder or Canadian citizen
Not be married or be involved in a common-law relationship
Must be under 22 years of age

Children over 22 years of age may also be eligible if:

They are dealing with a mental or physical condition that requires assistance and support from parents
They have been financially dependent on their parents from before the age of 22

III. Steps to apply for the sponsorship of dependent children

The steps to apply for the sponsorship of dependent children are as follows:

Step 1: Apply to sponsor the dependent child

Step 2: Apply for Canada PR

Step 3: Pay the application fees

Step 4: Submit the application

Step 5: Wait till your application gets processed

IV. Refugee and Humanitarian Resettlement Programs

The Refugee and Humanitarian Resettlement programs are specifically for people who have fled their country due to fear of persecution. The refugee system of Canada is divided into two major parts:

Refugee and Humanitarian Resettlement Program: This program is specifically for people who require protection from outside the country. Some private sponsors and the United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR) recognize refugees for resettlement.
The Asylum program: It is for refugees who require protection from within the country. It offers protection for refugees in Canada who have absconded from their country due to reasons like torture, persecution, unusual punishments, etc.

28.Temporary Work Permits

Given below is the list of five Canadian temporary work permits:

I. International Experience Canada (IEC)

The International Experience Canada (IEC) program allows individuals aged 18-35 to work and travel in the country. The government-initiated program helps candidates work in Canada, gain foreign work experience, and enhance their English and French language skills.

II. Who can apply for the Canada IEC?

To take part in the International Experience Canada (IEC), your territory or country of citizenship must have a Youth Mobility Agreement with Canada. In rare cases, youth from non-partnered countries can also participate in the IEC program via specific recognized organizations. The eligibility to apply for the program differs based on the country, as different countries have different sets of IEC eligibility requirements. While some countries allow the participants to take part only once, others allow for twice in various other categories. The time you participate will be considered only after you enter the country and get the work permit. Members of your family cannot accompany you through the IEC program. The family members can, however, apply to visit, work, or study in Canada by themselves.

III. Benefits of the IEC program

Some of the benefits of the IEC program are as follows:

Easy pathways to get a Canada work permit
Can reside and work in the country for up to 2 years
Can acquire an open work permit
Offers PR pathway
Exposure to the global job market
Can gain Canadian work experience

IV. Steps to apply for Canada IEC

The steps to apply for Canada IEC are as follows:

Step 1: Create a profile

Step 2: Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)

Step 3: Get invited to apply

Step 4: Pay the required fee and apply for a Canada work permit

Step 5: Migrate to Canada

29. Intra-Company Transfer

The Intra-Company Transfer category permits foreign countries to temporarily transfer eligible employees to Canada. This could improve management effectiveness, expand Canadian exports, or increase Canadian competitiveness in overseas markets. The Refugee Protection Regulations assist the intra-company transferees, and the international trade agreements for citizens of signatory countries supplement the general provisions.

I. Requirements for Intra-Company Transfer

The general requirements for the Intra-Company Transferees to be able to apply for a work permit are they:

Are you currently employed by an MNC or have applied to work in a branch, affiliate, subsidiary, parent company, or enterprise
Are transferring to an enterprise that has a qualifying relationship with a company that they are currently working for; the employment that will be undertaken must be at a continuing and legal establishment of the company.
Are being transferred to a senior managerial or executive position, specialized knowledge capacity
Have been working continuously for the company that plans to transfer; the working period must be at least 1-3 years before the date of application.
Are coming to the country for a temporary period of time
Have complied with all the immigration-related temporary-entry requirements

II. Documents required for Intra-Company Transfer

The list of documents required for the Intra-Company Transfer is as follows:

Proof of confirmation that the employee is currently working for an MNC outside Canada
Proof of confirmation that the employee has been working for the company continuously (full-time or part-time) for at least 1-3 years
Detailed description of the applicant's position as a manager or executive or one that involves specialized knowledge
For specialized knowledge, Proof that the candidate has the knowledge and that the position in Canada requires similar expertise
Detailed description of the available position in Canada
Proof of intended time period of stay in Canada
Proof of relation between the foreign enterprise and the one in Canada

30. Free Trade Agreements

The country has around 15 free trade agreements with 51 foreign countries, which cover over 1.5 billion customers worldwide. These agreements are specifically for business people and qualifying foreign workers from countries with a free trade agreement with Canada that includes the exchange of specific categories of workers. Traders, investors, and business visitors can get a simplified and streamlined entry to Canada through the Free Trade agreements.

I. Benefits of the Free Trade Agreements (FTAs)

Some of the benefits of Canada's Free Trade Agreements are as follows:

Increases the competitiveness in the market
Provides access to new buyers and consumers
Helps stabilize the foreign markets with more transparency
Eliminates any trade barriers

31. Temporary Foreign Worker Program (Labour Market Impact Assessment)

A Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is an official document that the Employment and Social Development of Canada issues after assessing the impact that a foreign worker would have on the Canadian labor market. A positive LMIA proves that no Canadian citizen or PR holder can fill a specific job opening or position.

The LMIA is of two types:

Temporarily work in Canada under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP)
Immigration to Canada permanently via the Express Entry program

The Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) allows Canada-based employers to recruit the foreign talent needed for the position. Foreign workers who enter the country through the TFWP are given protection and access to certain rights in the country.

I. Types of LMIA Streams in Canada

The LMIA majorly has eight different streams that are listed below:

Primary agriculture positions
Global Talent Stream
Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program
High-wage stream
Low-wage stream
Caregiver stream
Recognized Employer Pilot stream
Foreign Academics
Permanent resident stream

II. Benefits of LMIA

Some of the advantages of the LMIA are as follows:

TFWP gives foreign workers who failed to get a work permit a chance to work for any specific Canadian employer
The GTS stream allows employers to bring certain foreign workers to the country within ten days.
The work experience gained by the workers can contribute towards getting a Canada PR.
Express Entry candidates can get 50-200 CRS points through a positive LMIA. The added points that are gained can help a candidate secure an ITA for PR.

32. Work Permit for Spouses and Partners of Foreign Workers and Students

The work permit for spouses and partners of Foreign Workers and Students is for certain groups of foreign workers and international students in Canada.

You can be eligible for an open work permit if:

You are a spouse of a skilled worker under NOC skill types 0, A, and B who has been approved to work in Canada for six months or more.
You are a spouse of an international student who is enrolled in post-secondary school, college, or university in Canada or collège d'enseignement général et professionnel (CEGEP)

I. Benefits of an open work permit

Some of the benefits of an open work permit are:

Free to work for any Canadian employer
Can switch employers during the tenure of your work permit
Canadian work experience
Experience gained can help with Canadian immigration

33. Study in Canada

You can apply for a Canada study permit if you wish to study in Canada or enroll in any of the study programs in Canadian schools, colleges, or universities. A Canadian study permit is required for more than six months of study courses.

The universities in Canada offer three major intakes:

Fall intake: September

Winter intake: January

Summer intake: April/May

I. Eligibility criteria to apply for Canada student visa

You are eligible to apply for a Canada student visa if:

You are enrolled in a DLI
You have sufficient funds to support your stay in the country
You submit a PCC
Have a medical exam done and are in good health
Proof of intent to leave the country after the completion of your studies

II. Canada student visa requirements

The requirements to study in Canada are:

Proof of acceptance from a DLI
Attestation letter from a Canadian province
Identity proof
Proof of sufficient funds
Letter of explanation (SOP)
Medical documents
Proof of English language test results
Canada study permit application

III. Steps to apply for a Canada student visa

Given below are five simple steps to apply for a Canada student visa:

Step 1: Check if you are eligible to study in Canada

Step 2: Sort out the documents required for the student visa

Step 3: Apply online for the visa

Step 4: Wait for your student visa status

Step 5: Fly to Canada for your studies

IV. Canada Student Visa fees

The cost to apply for a Canada student visa ranges from 150 CAD to 200 CAD with a 2-16 weeks processing time.

Application (per person)	CAD
Study permit (including applications for extensions)	150
Biometrics fee (per person)	85

V. Post-Immigration Process

After immigrating to Canada, one must have complete knowledge and understanding of navigating the country. It is advisable to consult an established and well-known immigration company like Y-Axis to help you with all your immigration-related queries.

Finding Jobs in Canada

You can avail of Y-Axis Job Search services to help you find the right job that aligns with your goals and matches your qualifications. Finding a job in Canada can be difficult; however, with the help of experienced professionals, looking for your dream job can become manageable. Our Resume marketing services will assist you in creating an updated and professional resume. The first step would be to look for a suitable job post, for which you can find a sponsor and apply for a Canada work visa.

Healthcare Coverage Considerations

Availing of Canadian medical insurance is one of the most important things to do after immigration to Canada. Canada PR holders are generally granted public coverage to help cover their medical expenses.

How can Y-Axis assist you?

Y-Axis, the leading overseas immigration consultancy in Canada, offers customized and tailored immigration services for every client based on their requirements. Some of our services include:

Get a free eligibility check through the Canada Immigration Points Calculator
Get expert guidance for Canadian Immigration
Avail Y-Axis coaching services for Expert CELPIP coaching, IELTS proficiency Coaching
Book your slot for a free career consultation
Get end-to-end support while applying for a Canada PR visa
Avail Y-Axis Job search services to help you find your dream job in Canada