Canadian Immigration FAQ
General Information
The main categories include:
• Economic Class (e.g., Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Programs)
• Family Class (sponsoring family members)
• Refugees and Asylum
• Temporary Residence (e.g., study permits, work permits)
Economic Class Immigration
Express Entry is an online system used to manage applications for permanent residence under three federal economic immigration programs:
• Federal Skilled Worker Program
• Federal Skilled Trades Program
• Canadian Experience Class
PNPs allow Canadian provinces and territories to nominate individuals who wish to immigrate to Canada and settle in a particular province. Each PNP has its own criteria and streams.
Candidates are awarded points based on factors like age, education, work experience, language proficiency, and other criteria. The highest-ranking candidates are invited to apply for permanent residence.
Family Class Immigration
Canadian citizens and permanent residents can sponsor:
• Spouses, common-law partners, and conjugal partners
• Dependent children
• Parents and grandparents
• Certain other relatives in special circumstances
Sponsors must demonstrate the financial ability to support the sponsored person(s) and meet specific income requirements, which vary based on family size and the number of people being sponsored.
Refugees and Asylum
Individuals who fear persecution in their home country due to race, religion, political opinion, nationality, or membership in a particular social group may be eligible for refugee status.
Asylum seekers can apply for refugee protection from within Canada at a port of entry, an immigration office, or after entering the country.
Temporary Residence
A study permit allows foreign nationals to study at designated learning institutions in Canada. It is typically valid for the duration of the study program plus an additional 90 days.
A work permit allows foreign nationals to work in Canada for a specified employer and duration. There are several types of work permits, including employer-specific and open work permits.
Application Process
Applicants can check the status of their applications online through the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website by logging into their account.
Processing times vary by program and can range from a few weeks to several months or even years. Current processing times can be checked on the IRCC website.
Legal and Procedural Information
No, you do not need a lawyer or consultant to apply, but you may choose to hire one for assistance. Make sure they are authorized by the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants (CICC) or are a member of a Canadian law society.
If your application is refused, you may have options such as reapplying, appealing the decision, or requesting a judicial review. It is advisable to understand the reasons for refusal and seek legal advice if necessary.