Like many Canadians, I was not born here in Canada. I immigrated with my parents and siblings as permanent residents and then eventually citizens. As an immigrant to this great country, I have a special appreciation for the immigrant story. I take very seriously any barriers that could prevent future aspiring families like mine, from coming to Canada for a better life.
In my family's case, my two older brothers came to Canada first as students to study in university. Their experience and knowledge of Canadian culture eased the rest of our family's transition to Canada.
Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) also acknowledge the benefits of Canadian experience and have created specific categories of immigration that cater to these individuals like the Canadian Experience Class, PhD stream and many of the Provincial Nominee categories to name a few.
I'm sure you're all asking the question "How do I get this experience?"
Canadian experience is typically achieved by working and/or studying in Canada for a specific amount of time on a valid temporary resident permit.
It all sounds pretty straightforward but for many highly skilled immigrants, leaving your country of residence and potentially uprooting your family, or in many cases, leaving them behind is a major leap of faith for temporary status in Canada, with no guarantee of permanent residence.
But there's another way to go to Canada:
As an Immigration Attorney, I try to minimize the risks for my clients as much as possible. That's why I have always been a strong proponent of categories of immigration that are not dependent on Canadian experience like the Federal Skilled Worker (FSW) program and the Quebec Skilled Worker (QSW) program.
In both the FSW, and QSW programs the end result is Canadian Permanent Residency (equivalent to a US green card). The applicant can apply for their immediate family to be included on their application and continue their employment and family commitments in their home country until a decision is rendered on their case.
Seems like a great idea right?
Well, on June 28 th , 2012, Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism Minister Jason Kenney announced a moratorium on the FSW program until at least January, 2013, while the QSW program, which my firm specializes in, is still accepting applications and is a great option for many different types of applicants.
The Quebec program does not require settlement funds, a job offer or any specific amount of Canadian work or educational experience. In fact, the QSW program actually prioritizes nurses and many other types of occupations and awards additional points to these applications.
Tips for immigrating to Canada as quickly as possible:
Put important documents like these in order and have them readily available:
Valid language test results
Identity documents (passports, official birth certificates, marriage certificates, etc.)
Education credentials (transcripts and diplomas)
Proof of employment (reference letters, certificates, promotion letters, proof of salary, employment contracts, etc.)
Other important things to note:
Make sure your documents are translated into English or French.
When you submit your application ensure it is as complete as possible and contains everything that is requested by the immigration authority.
Ensure that photocopies of your documents are clear and readable.
- Minimize any chance that the visa office will take longer to assess you. Don't assume they will ask you if something is unclear. They could outright refuse your application, or, in the event that they do have to contact you, this will mean significant delays for your application.
- Submit declarations or letters of explanation whenever possible to make your case as clear and concise as possible.
Being prepared will make all the difference for your Canadian immigration dreams.
Canada is waiting for you! Check out the Quebec program and start gathering your documents today and put yourself a cut above the competition!