Immigration - Canada
EXPRESS ENTRY – THE FASTEST GATEWAY TO CANADIAN IMMIGRATION
Express Entry is a streamlined pathway that allows skilled and talented workers from around the world to live and work in Canada permanently. This program aims to invite skilled individuals who can contribute to Canada’s economic growth and development.
The system operates on a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), where candidates create their online express profile and receive points based on their qualifications. Applicants with the highest CRS scores in the pool are then invited to apply for Permanent Residency.
Express Entry offers three main application pathways to invite skilled individuals to pursue their careers in Canada:
Canadian Experience Class (CEC): Designed for professionals with prior work experience in Canada.
Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP): Targeted at professionals with prior work experience outside Canada (foreign employees).
Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP): Geared towards professionals with qualifications in specific skilled trades under different NOC groups (National Occupational Classification).
Here's an overview of the process:
Online Express Entry Profile: Applicants complete their Express Entry profile online and are allocated points based on their qualifications and experience. The profile is then entered into the Express Entry pool.
Invitation to Apply (ITA): Applicants who have the highest CRS scores in the pool are regularly invited to apply for Permanent Residency through regular draws conducted by the Canadian government.
Active Pool Membership: Once in the pool, applicants remain active for 12 months. If they do not receive an ITA within this period, they can renew their profile. The profile can also be updated at any time during this period.
ITA Submission: If an applicant receives an ITA, they have 90 days (with no extensions) to submit their application and supporting documents to the Canadian government.
Draws and Selection: The Canadian government conducts draws approximately twice a month to select top-ranking applicants from the pool. Those with approved job offers (with an employer who has a Labor Market Impact Assessment, LMIA) or provincial nominations receive their ITAs relatively quickly, as they are prioritized in the rankings.
Express Entry offers a swift and efficient route to Canadian immigration for skilled workers around the globe, promoting Canada’s economic prosperity and diversity. If you are looking to make Canada your new home, Express Entry could be your fastest pathway to a brighter future.
FEDERAL SKILLED WORKER PROGRAM (FSWP)
The Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) is one of the most popular immigration streams within the Express Entry program, providing a relatively easier pathway for skilled working professionals to become permanent residents of Canada. Applicants are assessed based on their abilities and potential to contribute to the regional and national economy, and those who meet the criteria are selected for immigration.
The FSWP targets high-demand occupations in Canada, and although the eligibility criteria are more relaxed compared to immigration requirements in other developed countries, the sheer volume of applications received each year makes successful selection a challenging task. To increase your chances of being selected, it is essential to score high.
Eligibility/Requirements for Federal Skilled Worker Program:
Work Experience: Applicants must have a minimum of 1 year of full-time work experience in their relevant job field.
Occupation Category: Candidates need to identify their occupation in one of three Training, Education, Experience and Requirements (TEER) categories: a. TEER Category 0 (Managerial Occupations) b. TEER Category 1 (Professional Occupations) c. TEER Category 2 (Technical Occupations and Skilled Trades)
Processing Time: Currently, approximately 90% of FSWP applications are being processed within 6 months.
Federal Skilled Worker Application Processing Fee (Government):
Principal Applicant: $850
Spouse: $850
Child under 22: $230
Right of Permanent Resident Fee:
Principal Applicant: $515
Spouse: $515
Children: No Fee
Please note that the eligibility criteria and fees are subject to change without prior notification, so it is advised to stay updated with the latest developments in the immigration industry.
The Federal Skilled Worker Program provides a faster and more accessible route for skilled professionals to immigrate to Canada. If you possess the necessary qualifications and work experience, and wish to make Canada your new home, consider applying through the FSWP and take advantage of the Express Entry program’s benefits.
PROVINCIAL NOMINEE PROGRAM (PNP)
The Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) is a pathway for individuals who possess the skills, education, and work experience required to make an immediate economic impact on the province or territory that nominates them.
Successful candidates are well-equipped to establish themselves as permanent residents in Canada and contribute to the local economy.
To be eligible for the Provincial Nominee Program, applicants must receive a nomination from a specific Canadian province or territory.
The criteria for provincial nomination are established by each province and territory individually, and they have the authority to change these criteria without prior notice. As a result, the requirements and eligibility conditions may vary depending on the region.
The PNP is an excellent option for individuals who have specialized skills or expertise that align with the needs and priorities of specific provinces or territories.
It allows these regions to attract immigrants who can address labor shortages, promote economic growth, and contribute to the community’s development.
If you are considering immigration to Canada through the Provincial Nominee Program, it is crucial to research and stay updated with the latest information from the provinces or territories you are interested in. Each region may have unique eligibility criteria, occupation lists, and processing procedures.
By exploring the opportunities offered by the Provincial Nominee Program and aligning your skills with the requirements of specific provinces or territories, you can enhance your chances of receiving a provincial nomination and ultimately achieving your goal of becoming a permanent resident in Canada.
BRITISH COLUMBIA ENTREPRENEUR PROGRAM
The British Columbia Entrepreneur Program offers an opportunity for individuals to establish or acquire a business in the province of British Columbia, Canada. To qualify for this program, applicants must meet certain financial, experience, and immigration status requirements.
Eligibility Criteria:
Personal Net Worth: Applicants must have a minimum personal net worth of CAD$600,000.
Business and Management Experience: Demonstration of business and/or management experience is essential. Candidates with a background in running businesses or managing organizations are preferred.
Legal Immigration Status: Applicants must have legal immigration status in Canada or be eligible for it.
Lawful Admittance: It is necessary to have been lawfully admitted to the country where the applicant currently resides.
Business, Job, and Investment Requirements:
Establish an Eligible New Business or Acquire an Existing Business: Candidates must either establish a new eligible business or purchase and improve an existing business in British Columbia.
Eligible Personal Investment: Applicants are required to make a personal investment of at least CAD$200,000 in the business.
Job Creation: As part of the program, entrepreneurs must create at least one new full-time job opportunity for a Canadian citizen or permanent resident within the business.
Registration and Application Fees:
To begin the process of applying for the British Columbia Entrepreneur Program, applicants must pay a non-refundable registration fee of $300.
Upon qualifying for the program, candidates are required to submit a formal application with a fee of $3,500.
In addition to the application fee, if key staff members are included in the application, a fee of $1,000 is applicable for each key staff application.
The British Columbia Entrepreneur Program provides an excellent opportunity for entrepreneurs to invest in the province’s economy, contribute to job creation, and become permanent residents in Canada. If you meet the program’s requirements and have the necessary financial resources and experience, you can explore this pathway to establish or acquire a business in British Columbia.
NEW BRUNSWICK NOMINEE PROGRAM
The New Brunswick Nominee Program (NBPNP) offers a pathway for individuals to immigrate to New Brunswick, Canada, as business owners and operators. To be eligible for this program, applicants must meet specific age, language, education, experience, and financial requirements.
Eligibility Requirements:
Age: Applicants should be between 22 and 55 years old at the time of submitting their application for permanent residence to the NBPNP Office.
Language Ability: Candidates must have sufficient proficiency in English and/or French to actively manage a business in New Brunswick. Language test results, such as the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) or Test d’Evaluation de Français (TEF), may be required.
Education: A minimum of a high school diploma for education completed after junior/middle school and before college, university, or other formal training is required.
Residency and Business Management: You must live and operate a business in New Brunswick and actively assume a day-to-day management role in the business.
Management Experience: Applicants should demonstrate relevant and proven management experience in at least three of the last five years, with significant decision-making responsibility in the private sector. Your management experience should be relevant to the skills needed to operate a business in New Brunswick, and you should understand the business environment in the province.
Knowledge of New Brunswick: During your business trip, you must gain knowledge of the New Brunswick business environment.
Business Plan: You must prepare a business plan that outlines the economic benefits of your venture to New Brunswick. This plan must be approved by an official of the Government of New Brunswick.
Personal Net Worth: You should have a personal net worth of at least $300,000 CAD, which is the value of your total assets minus total liabilities.
Sufficient Funds: Applicants must have sufficient funds to start the business and support dependent family members for up to two years without third-party assistance. The required amount will depend on the planned business venture in New Brunswick.
Submission of Forms and Supporting Documents: All required forms and supporting documents must be submitted, and missing or incomplete documents may result in a lower score in the selection factors.
Deposit Agreement: Applicants must submit a signed copy of the Deposit Agreement and a conditionally refundable deposit of $75,000 CAD before nomination. This agreement outlines the financial investment in a business in New Brunswick.
To be eligible for nomination through the NBPNP, applicants must score a minimum of 50 points in the selection factors.
The New Brunswick Nominee Program provides an excellent opportunity for experienced entrepreneurs to establish and operate businesses in the province, contributing to its economic growth and development. If you meet the eligibility requirements and have the necessary financial capacity and management experience, you can explore this program as a pathway to immigrate to New Brunswick, Canada.
NORTHWESTERN TERRITORIES NOMINEE PROGRAM
The Northwestern Territories Nominee Program (NTNP) offers eligible foreign nationals a pathway to become permanent Canadian residents through the Canada-Northwest Territories Agreement on Territorial Nominees.
To be eligible for the NTNP, prospective applicants must meet the following criteria:
Investment Requirements:
Invest a minimum of $300,000 CDN equity* into starting or buying a business within the corporate boundaries of Yellowknife, Northwest Territories; OR
Invest a minimum of $150,000 CDN equity* into starting or buying a business outside of the corporate boundaries of Yellowknife, Northwest Territories.
Personal Net Worth:
Possess a personal net worth of at least $500,000 CDN if starting or buying a business within the corporate boundaries of Yellowknife, Northwest Territories; OR
Possess a personal net worth of at least $250,000 CDN if starting or buying a business outside the corporate boundaries of Yellowknife, Northwest Territories.
Business Ownership:
Demonstrate ownership of at least one-third (33.3%) of the business they are starting or buying.
If the personal equity investment is at least $1,000,000, ownership of less than one-third (33.3%) of the business may be acceptable as per the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations.
Good Faith Deposit:
Provide a good faith deposit of $75,000 CDN to the Department of Industry, Tourism, and Investment. This deposit will be held in trust and released upon satisfactory execution of the terms of the Business Performance Agreement.
Knowledge and Communication Skills:
Demonstrate reasonable knowledge and understanding of the Northwest Territories and its economy.
Demonstrate reasonable communication skills appropriate for conducting business in the Northwest Territories and integrating into the local community.
Experience and Education:
Possess the necessary experience and education to successfully implement the business plan.
Financial Resources:
Demonstrate sufficient financial resources to start and operate a business, as well as support themselves and any dependents during the applicant’s Business Performance Agreement.
No Active Application:
Not have an active application with any other provincial or territorial nominee program.
The Northwestern Territories Nominee Program provides an opportunity for qualified individuals to invest in and establish businesses in the Northwest Territories while contributing to the economic growth of the region. If you meet the eligibility requirements and have the required investment and business management abilities, you can explore this program as a pathway to become a permanent resident of Canada.
ONTARIO IMMIGRANT NOMINEE PROGRAM - ENTREPRENEUR STREAM
The Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) Entrepreneur Stream offers opportunities for entrepreneurs and key staff of corporations to be nominated by the province for permanent residence in Ontario. To be eligible for this program, you need to have a viable business idea that will bring significant economic benefits to the province. If your proposal is approved, your key staff may apply for a temporary work permit to help establish your business.
Eligibility Criteria for the Corporate Stream:
Business Investment:
Your corporation must invest a minimum of $5 million CDN in a new or existing business.
Job Creation:
Your corporation must create five full-time, permanent positions for Canadian citizens or permanent residents per key staff.
Key Staff Requirements:
- Key staff seeking nomination must be currently employed with the corporation and be essential to the establishment, continued operation, and success of the business in Ontario.
- Key staff must meet a minimum language requirement of Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB 4) level or equivalent after your business has been established in Ontario.
Steps to Participate in the Entrepreneur Stream:
Expression of Interest (EOI):
Register an online Expression of Interest (EOI) which will be ranked by score in the selection pool.
Invitation to Apply:
If invited to apply, you can submit a complete application and application fee to the OINP.
Performance Agreement:
If your application is approved, you will sign a Performance Agreement outlining the commitments you made in your EOI to invest and create jobs in Ontario.
You will be issued a temporary work permit support letter to apply for a temporary work permit from Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to establish your business in Ontario.
Nomination and Permanent Residence:
If you meet the commitments of your Performance Agreement, you may be eligible to be nominated by the OINP for permanent resident status.
Successful nominees must apply to IRCC for permanent resident status within six months of being nominated by OINP.
Additional Eligibility Requirements:
Experience:
At least 36 months of full-time business experience in the last 60 months as a business owner or senior manager.
Net Worth:
Minimum net worth required depends on the location and sector of the proposed business.
Personal Investment Funds:
Minimum personal investment and equity ownership depend on the location and sector of the proposed business.
Job Creation:
You must create at least two permanent full-time jobs for Canadian citizens or permanent residents.
Exploratory Visit:
If planning to purchase an existing business, you must have made at least one business-related visit to Ontario in the last 12 months prior to submitting your application.
Meeting the minimum requirements for all factors is necessary to be eligible for the Entrepreneur Stream. If applying with a business partner seeking nomination, your partner must also meet all minimum requirements for each factor. Being invited to apply to the Entrepreneur Stream is not guaranteed and is based on your EOI score. If invited, instructions on how to access the online application tool will be emailed to you.
QUEBEC INVESTOR PROGRAM
The Quebec Investor Program offers an opportunity for individuals with significant net assets and management experience to settle in Quebec, Canada. To be eligible for this program, applicants must meet the following requirements:
Net Assets:
Have, alone or with their accompanying spouse, net assets of at least $1,600,000 CAD obtained legally. This excludes amounts received by donation less than six months before the date of application.
Management Experience:
Have experience in management in a legal farming, commercial, or industrial business, or in a legal professional business where the staff, excluding the investor, occupies at least the equivalent of two full-time jobs.
Management experience is defined as exercising duties related to planning, management, and control of financial resources and human or material resources under the applicant’s authority for at least two years in the five years preceding the application. This experience should not include apprenticeship, training, or specialization process experiences supported by a diploma.
Intention to Settle in Quebec:
Intend to settle in the province of Quebec and sign an agreement to invest $800,000 CAD with a financial intermediary (broker or trust company) authorized to participate in the Quebec Investor Program.
Other Factors Considered:
- The assessment of the application will also consider other factors, such as the applicant’s age, the nature and duration of their professional training, and language skills.
The Quebec Investor Program is a pathway for individuals with substantial financial resources and management expertise to contribute to Quebec’s economy and community. Successful applicants and their accompanying family members can obtain permanent residency in Quebec, Canada.
START UP VISA
The Start-up Visa Program is designed to attract innovative entrepreneurs with the support of designated organizations to establish their start-up businesses in Canada. To be eligible for the Start-up Visa Program, you must meet the following requirements:
Designated Organization Support:
Before applying for the Start-up Visa Program, you must have the support of a designated organization. These are business groups that have been approved to invest in or support potential start-ups.
If a designated organization decides to support your business idea, they will provide you with a Letter of Support. You must include this Letter of Support with your application. Failing to include the letter or meet any of the requirements will result in the refusal of your application.
Business Ownership Requirements:
Up to five individuals can apply for the Start-up Visa Program as owners of a single business.
Each applicant must hold at least 10 percent of the voting rights in the business.
The designated organization and the applicants, together, must jointly hold more than 50 percent of the voting rights in the business.
The Start-up Visa Program provides an opportunity for innovative entrepreneurs and their families to immigrate to Canada and establish their businesses. By meeting the criteria and receiving support from a designated organization, successful applicants can obtain permanent residency in Canada and work towards building a successful start-up venture in the country.
SPONSORING YOUR FAMILY
If you are a citizen or permanent resident of Canada, you have the opportunity to sponsor your family members through the Family Class, making them eligible for permanent residency in Canada. Here are some key points about family sponsorship:
Eligibility for Family Class Sponsorship:
Immigrants who are eligible to use the family sponsoring process fall under the Family Class category.
As a permanent resident, you can live, study, and work in Canada.
Financial Responsibility:
When your sponsored relative arrives in Canada as a permanent resident, you, as the sponsor, are responsible for supporting them financially.
You must make every reasonable effort to provide for your own essential needs and those of your sponsored family members.
Your sponsored spouse or relative should not need to seek financial assistance from the government.
Sponsorship Process:
The process to sponsor your family begins when you, as a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, apply to become a sponsor.
There are two different processes for sponsoring your family members:
Sponsoring your spouse, conjugal or common-law partner, and/or dependent children.
Sponsoring other eligible relatives.
As a sponsor, you play a crucial role in reuniting families and helping your loved ones establish a new life in Canada. By fulfilling the sponsorship requirements, you can bring your family members to Canada and provide them with the opportunity to build a better future together.
Selection Factors for Canadian Immigration with Haq Law Associates:
When it comes to immigrating to Canada, the selection factors play a crucial role in determining your eligibility for a Canadian Immigration visa. At Haq Law Associates, we understand the complexities involved in the immigration process, especially for Pakistani applicants seeking a Canada visa. As one of the leading immigration consultants in Lahore and throughout Pakistan, we prioritize these essential Canadian immigration selection factors to ensure a successful application process for our clients.
Here are the six key Canadian immigration selection factors that should not be overlooked:
- Age – Your age plays a significant role in the points-based system used for Canadian immigration. The younger you are, the more points you can earn towards your application.
- Education – Your educational qualifications and degrees hold considerable weight in the selection process. Having higher education can boost your chances of successful immigration.
- Work Experience – Your relevant work experience is crucial as it demonstrates your ability to contribute to the Canadian economy and workforce.
- Language Proficiency – Proficiency in English or French is essential for communication and integration into Canadian society. Language test results are a crucial part of the application.
- Adaptability – Factors such as having close family members in Canada, prior work experience, or education in Canada can add to your adaptability score.
- Arranged Employment – Having a job offer from a Canadian employer can significantly enhance your chances of successful immigration.
By becoming a permanent resident of Canada through our guidance, you gain access to numerous benefits, including the right to live and work in Canada, the opportunity to bring your family along, free education for your children, free medical care, social benefits, and a pathway to Canadian citizenship. Moreover, you have the freedom to start a business and enjoy a fulfilling life in Canada.
Immigrate to Canada with Haq Law Associates:
Haq Law Associates is a well-established and experienced Immigration Law Firm in Pakistan, assisting individuals with their migration journey for over two decades. We specialize in securing immigration visas to various countries, including Canada.
If you are seeking the best Canadian Visa Consultants to assist you in obtaining your immigration Visa to Canada, look no further than Haq Law Associates. Our team of professionals stays up-to-date with the changing migration requirements and can efficiently guide you through a smooth process to arrive in Canada.
Whether you are looking for the best Canadian Immigration Consultant in Lahore to help you obtain Permanent Residency (PR) through Express Entry Immigration pathways or other programs, we have the expertise and dedication to make your Canadian immigration dream a reality. Let us be your trusted partner on your journey to Canada.
QUESTION ANSWERS:
Q1: What are the key selection factors for Canadian Immigration?
A1: The key selection factors for Canadian Immigration include age, education, work experience, language proficiency, adaptability, and arranged employment. These factors are used to assess an applicant’s eligibility and assign points in the points-based system.
Q2: How can Haq Law Associates assist with Canadian Immigration?
A2: Haq Law Associates is an experienced Immigration Law Firm in Pakistan, specializing in securing immigration visas to various countries, including Canada. We provide expert guidance and assistance throughout the immigration process, ensuring a smooth and successful application.
Q3: What benefits do permanent residents of Canada enjoy?
A3: As permanent residents of Canada, individuals gain the right to live and work in Canada, have the freedom to bring their family along, access free education for their children, receive free medical care, and enjoy various social benefits. They also have a pathway to Canadian citizenship and the freedom to start a business.
Q4: Why is language proficiency important for Canadian immigration?
A4: Language proficiency in English or French is crucial for effective communication and integration into Canadian society. Language test results are an essential part of the Canadian immigration application process and can significantly impact an applicant’s eligibility and points score.
Q5: How does Haq Law Associates stay updated with changing migration requirements?
A5: At Haq Law Associates, we stay abreast of the latest developments and changes in migration requirements through continuous research, monitoring government updates, and maintaining close connections with relevant immigration authorities. Our team of professionals ensures that our clients receive accurate and up-to-date guidance for their immigration journey.
Q6: What role does work experience play in Canadian Immigration?
A6: Work experience is a vital factor in Canadian Immigration as it demonstrates an applicant’s ability to contribute to the Canadian economy and workforce. Relevant work experience is evaluated to determine an applicant’s eligibility and points allocation in the immigration process.
Q7: Can Haq Law Associates assist with Express Entry Immigration pathways?
A7: Yes, Haq Law Associates can assist with Express Entry Immigration pathways for obtaining Permanent Residency (PR) in Canada. Our experienced consultants are well-versed in the requirements and procedures of Express Entry, ensuring a seamless application process for our clients.
Q8: What benefits does Canadian immigration offer to entrepreneurs and business owners?
A8: Canadian immigration offers entrepreneurs and business owners the opportunity to establish and grow their businesses in a thriving economy. They gain access to a dynamic market, skilled workforce, and various business support programs, making Canada an ideal destination for business ventures.
Q9: How can individuals apply for family sponsorship in Canada?
A9: To apply for family sponsorship in Canada, a citizen or permanent resident of Canada must submit an application to sponsor their relative. The sponsor is responsible for financially supporting the sponsored relative, ensuring they do not rely on government financial assistance upon arrival in Canada.
Q10: Why should individuals choose Haq Law Associates for Canadian Immigration?
A10: Haq Law Associates has over two decades of experience in immigration law, offering specialized services for securing immigration visas to various countries, including Canada. Our team of professionals provides personalized guidance, stays updated with changing requirements, and ensures a smooth and successful immigration process for our clients.
