Moving to a new country can be an exciting and stressful time. There are so many things to think about and remember. As experts in the Canadian immigration process, we’ve gathered together some tips so when you immigrate to Canada, you’ll be ready.
Tips on how to immigrate to Canada
Canada’s economy depends largely on immigration. It is one of the cornerstones for the country’s growth. That’s why the government has various options for those who want to immigrate to Canada. One of the first steps is to determine your immigration path. Canada has several different programs that you can apply for, such as
Express entry program
This method of immigration allows applicants to create an online profile. This profile lists your education, work background, and language skills so potential employers can find you. If you’re selected, you’ll be offered an opportunity to become a permanent resident.
Family sponsorship
Canada allows spouses and parents to sponsor their relatives for immigration. However, the sponsor needs to be a permanent resident or a citizen.
LMIA work visa
The traditional way of immigrating to Canada is to get a job offer from an employer. The employer would then apply for an LMIA. This allows you to apply for a visa to accept the job.
Provincial nominee program
Similar to the LMIA path, there are specific provinces that can nominate you to immigrate to Canada. If you apply this way, it means you’ll need to live in the province that nominated you. It’s also essential to have a job offer to apply.
Humanitarian and compassionate application
These applications are filed from within Canada by those who do not have legal permission to be in Canada but have made their homes in the country.
Refugee claims
Refugees seeking asylum in Canada can do so at a port of entry. You’ll need to provide evidence that you cannot go back to your country.
How the Canadian immigration process works
Depending on the type of immigration application you’re making, you will need to fill in the proper forms either online or in-person at a Canadian representative office near you. It can take anywhere from six to 18 months for your application to be processed.
Essential things to know when moving to Canada
When it comes time to immigrate to Canada, there are some things you’ll need to know to make the transition easier, such as:
Housing
Most Canadians either own a home or rent. As a new immigrant finding housing may be your first concern. Consider arranging temporary housing through hotels or Airbnb when you first arrive. It will be easier to find rental accommodation or buy a home once you land in Canada.
Banking
Another major decision you’ll need to make is opening a Canadian bank account. You can use this account to transfer money and make payments. Most Canadians use their bank cards to pay for transactions at grocery stores, gas stations, etc. While there are several banks to choose from, some offer unique programs for immigrants, including
- National Bank of Canada
- Bank of Montreal
- Royal Bank of Canada
- Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce
Government documents
Once you arrive in Canada, you’ll need to start collecting your government documents like your driver’s license and social insurance number or your SIN. Your SIN is essential as it proves you’re legally entitled to work in Canada. You’ll also need it to receive any government benefits like the child tax credit paid to families with children under 18. Your SIN is a vital part of your ID in Canada, and you should be careful about who you share it with. A driver’s license means you’re legally allowed to operate a vehicle. You may need to take a road exam before your license is issued. However, some provinces in Canada could allow you to get a license without taking additional exams or tests.
Health insurance
In Canada, there is a basic level of healthcare the government provides. However, you may not be able to access this until a few months after you’ve moved to Canada. You must have some form of health insurance during this time. Even if you don’t think you’ll need it, it’s good to have medical and dental coverage just in case. It’s also important to know that government healthcare does not provide free care for everything. There are some procedures and medical treatment that you’ll be responsible for paying.
Taxes
There are three levels of government in Canada that require you to pay taxes. Those are the municipal or city, provincial, and federal. Some provinces have taxes on top of the prices you see for goods and services. These are called GST or Goods and Services Tax and PST or Provincial Sales Tax. That means those taxes will be added to the price of the item you’re buying when you get to the cash register. Each year, you’re expected to complete an income tax form. Unless you are versed in Canadian tax law, it might be best to have a professional help you complete your form.
Register with a consulate
Although it may not be required, registering with your home country’s consulate in Canada has some advantages. If you run into problems in your new home, they can help you with things like:
- Official documents such as your passport
- Voting in your home country
- Accessing your retirement pension from your home country
- Emergency situations
- Advice on life in Canada
Why choose Namdev Immigration Services?
Deciding to immigrate to Canada is a big decision. At Namdev Immigration Services, we understand the Canadian immigration process and can walk you through it. That’s because our founder, Arpinder Singh, immigrated after he came to Canada on a student visa.
Our goal is to provide you with the best in customer service We will explain the immigration process to you with honesty and transparency. We can also help you plan your move to Canada and get settled.
If you want to immigrate to Canada, contact Namdev Immigration, and let us help you make your dreams come true.
