subject: Seven Of The Most Frequently Asked Question About Canada Immigration [print this page] If you're thinking about moving to Canada, take a look through the following list that provides answers to seven of the most frequently asked questions about Canada immigration.
1. I've heard of a Canada Work Permit - is this different to a visa?
In one way, no, a Work Permit is not different to a Canada immigration visa as they both allow you to live and work in the country.
In another way, however, they are, as whilst the first will allow you to reside and carry out some form of employment, there are generally restrictions - including timescales - in place, unlike with the latter, where you will be treated more or less like a Canadian citizen.
2. How can I gain a full, permanent residency Canada immigration visa?
Generally speaking, there are four main ways to get a visa that will entitle you to permanent residency in Canada and they are to apply as a skilled work; as a businessperson or entrepreneur; as a Provincial nominee or as a close relative to someone who is already residing permanently in the country.
3. How much does a visa cost?
There are various factors that determine how much you will pay in visas fees. For example, if you're a skilled worker or are applying to live with family, you'll pay 550 CAD (Canadian dollars) first, followed by 550 CAD for every applicant coming with you over the age of 22 or 150 CAD for every applicant coming with you under the age of 22 and then a Right of Permanent Residence fee of 490 CAD.
If you're a businessperson or entrepreneur, you will have to pay 1,050 CAD for the main applicant. All other fees remain the same.
4. And how long does the process take?
Unfortunately, there is no set timescale for how long it takes for a visa application to be processed, as it varies considerably based on a range of different factors, from the number of people applying, the province or territory you're moving to and your employment prospects right through to whether you need more than a basic medical examination and a one-on-one interview.
On a very broad basis, however, it would be expected that the process should take around 12 months.
5. Do I really need a medical examination?
Simply put, yes - all applicants require a medical examination as part of their Canada immigration visa application. How in-depth it is, however, varies and can range from a basic examination through to x-rays and urine tests.
6. Am I allowed to move to Canada if I have a criminal record?
Every application for a permanent move to Canada must be accompanied with a Police Clearance Certificate. However, you will not instantly be unable to immigrate if you have a criminal record. Instead, certain factors will be looked at, most notably the seriousness of the offences and your capabilities in other areas (i.e., vocational skills).
7. I've moved to Canada and I love it here - can I become an official citizen?
If you've lived in Canada for three or more years as a permanent resident, you can apply to become an official Canadian citizen, meaning you have all of the same benefits - and responsibilities - as someone who has been a resident since birth.
