Country Guides January 4, 2023

From Here to There – How to Immigrate to Canada

Blake Shaw

Bostonian and residential moving and packing expert. Blake Shaw enjoys bar-hopping, music, and writing insightful content.

Canada is a popular destination for expats that opt for moving overseas. It offers a high standard of living, a welcoming culture, and a strong economy. So, if you are considering becoming a resident, it is important to understand how to immigrate to Canada, how long the whole process takes, and how to ace it like a pro.

Why Should You Move to Canada?

There are many reasons why people might want to immigrate to Canada. Here are some of the most common reasons why people choose to pack up their bags and relocate to CA:

  • Better quality of life – CA consistently ranks high in global quality of life indexes, with features such as universal healthcare, low crime rates, and a clean environment.
  • Economic opportunities – the country has a strong and diverse economy, with opportunities in many industries such as technology, finance, and healthcare. There is also a high demand for skilled workers in various fields, making it an attractive destination for job seekers.
  • Education – CA has a highly regarded education system with world-class universities and colleges. International students can also obtain work permits and gain valuable work experience while studying.
  • Multicultural society – the country is a welcoming and inclusive society with a diverse population, making it an attractive destination for people from different cultural backgrounds.
  • Natural beauty – CA is known for its stunning landscapes, including mountains, lakes, and forests, which attract nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

These are just a few of the reasons CA is one of the best countries to live in. It offers many opportunities for individuals and families to achieve their goals and enjoy a high quality of life.

Canadian flag
There are so many reasons why people choose to move to Canada

How to Immigrate to Canada – Start by Determining Your Eligibility

Are you wondering how do I immigrate to Canada? Worry not, the process is pretty straightforward and if you follow the steps you’ll soon have all the necessary documents. For starters, you need to determine your eligibility for one of the country’s immigration programs. Let’s break down some of the most popular ones.

How Can I Immigrate to Canada? Use Express Entry Program

Express Entry is the most popular immigration program, allowing skilled workers to apply for permanent residency. To be eligible for Express Entry, you must have at least one year of skilled work experience, meet the language requirements in either English or French, and pass a points-based assessment based on factors such as age, education, work experience, and language proficiency. You can calculate your Express Entry points using the online tool provided by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

If You Have Some Highly Required Skills Apply For Provincial Nominee Programs

Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) are available for individuals who have the skills and experience to contribute to a specific province or territory’s economy. Each province or territory has its own PNP, and eligibility requirements can vary. Generally, you must have a job offer from a Canadian employer or have experience in an in-demand occupation to be eligible for a PNP.

How to Immigrate to Canada From the USA or Any Other Country - Opt For Family Sponsorship

Canadian citizens and permanent residents can sponsor their eligible family members for immigration. This includes spouses, partners, dependent children, parents, and grandparents. To be eligible for family sponsorship, you must meet certain income requirements and be able to demonstrate that you can support your family member financially. The process of family sponsorship can take longer than other immigration programs, but if you are moving for love it is the best option.

Young People Can Apply For International Experience Canada

International Experience Canada (IEC) is a program that allows young people aged 18-35 to travel and work in Canada for up to two years. There are three categories under IEC – Working Holiday, Young Professionals, and International Co-op. Each category has its own eligibility requirements, but generally, you must have a valid job offer or be enrolled in a post-secondary institution to participate.

Are There Some Other Programs You Can Apply For

If you are not eligible for any of the programs above, there are several other immigration options available you can check out when moving internationally. These include the Caregiver Program, the Start-Up Visa Program, and the Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program. Each program has its own eligibility requirements and application process.

No matter what program you choose when moving abroad before you start gathering documents and planning a move, call the embassy or consulate and check if there are some additional requirements. After the COVID-19 pandemic, the rules of immigration tend to change faster, so it is better to be safe than sorry.

How Hard Is It to Immigrate to Canada – Will Preparing Your Application Be Complicated?

CA is known for being a welcoming country, but many people may wonder how difficult it is to immigrate there. While the process can be complex and time-consuming, it is not impossible.

After you decide on the type of program you’ll apply for, start preparing your immigration application. The process can be complicated, but there are resources available to help you. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) provides detailed information on their website about each immigration program and the application process.

It is important to carefully review the eligibility requirements for each program and gather all the required documentation before submitting your application. You may also want to consider hiring an immigration consultant or lawyer to assist you with your application. They will surely make the whole process of figuring out how to move to another country easier.

A worried woman leaning on a box
Figure out how to immigrate to Canada from the US or any other country and you won't be stressed

How Long Does It Take To Immigrate to Canada – Will You Have to Wait for a Decision

Waiting for the decision that will make or break your move can be tiresome. That’s why to check the processing times for your application, you can visit the IRCC website. The processing times are updated regularly and can provide an estimate of how long it will take for your application to be processed. However, it is important to note that these times are only estimates and can be affected by factors beyond the control of IRCC.

You can also track the status of your application online using the IRCC website. This will allow you to see where your application is in the process and if any additional information is required.

Just remember that the timeline for immigrating can vary depending on several factors, including the immigration program you apply for, the completeness of your application, background checks, and immigration policy.

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What Happens if an Application Is Rejected or Put On Hold?

If your application is put on hold, it means that the government requires additional information or documentation before making a decision. The reasons for a hold can vary, but common reasons include incomplete documentation or background checks that require further investigation.

If your application is put on hold, you will receive a letter from the government explaining what information or documentation is required. It is important to provide the requested information as soon as possible to avoid any further delays.

Businessman reading documents
If your application is on hold you'll get the letter explaining what information you need to provide

When You Finish With the Paperwork Prepare for the Move

Congratulations! If you have completed the paperwork and have been approved to immigrate to Canada, you are one step closer to starting a new life in this beautiful country. Preparing for the move can be an exciting and tiresome experience, but with careful planning and preparation, it can be a smooth transition.

Start by deciding where you’ll live. Research cities and towns. Learn about the local culture, weather, and cost of living. This will help you prepare for what to expect and make the transition easier. CA is a huge country, so you can opt for settling in Toronto, or another big city such as Vancouver or Calgary. Or on the other hand, you can find a smaller town that fits your needs way better.

If you don’t have a position lined up for you, you might wonder how to immigrate to Canada without a job offer, worry not, you can start looking for work while packing up. Check online job boards and connect with local employment agencies for assistance. You should check the video below and learn a few tips and tricks on how to find a job in Canada.

Hire an International Moving Company And Make Your Relocation Stress-Free

Moving to a new country can be an exciting experience, but it can also be a long and tiresome task. Between packing, paperwork, and the logistics of transportation, there are many things to consider. One way to make your relocation stress-free is to hire an international moving company.

If you are wondering exactly how to choose an international moving company, focus on the fact that the team you hire should be professional, transparent, and can offer a variety of services.

When moving abroad you’ll need a team such as Shepherd International Movers by your side. For starters, our crew can offer you a variety of international moving services. We also offer packing assistance. Our team will ensure that your belongings are packed securely and will not be damaged during transportation.

On top of that, we can offer you auto shipping services. Meaning that you won’t have to part from your favorite four-wheeler. It can come with you to Canada. Just ensure it is prepared for moving to a colder climate.

Finally, if you need to store your belongings before or after your move, our international moving company can provide storage options. They will ensure that your belongings are stored securely and will be available for delivery when you are ready. Plus, first 30 days you get free of charge.

Just give us a call, ask for a free and transparent moving quote, and book your move. The rest is up to us. We will ensure that your items are safely transported to your home in Canada.

Shepherd international movers
Hire Shepherd international movers and your relocation will go without a fuss

Becoming Canadian Will Be Worth the Trouble of Going Through the Immigration Process

In conclusion, immigrating to CA can be a life-changing experience for individuals and families seeking a better quality of life. Even though the immigration process can be complex and overwhelming it is worth the trouble.

By following the steps outlined in this guide, including determining your eligibility, preparing your application, and understanding what to expect once you have been approved, you can increase your chances of a successful immigration journey.

When you are done with all the bureaucracy of the relocation process, you can focus on finding a place to call home, acing all the job interviews, and hiring international movers. Don’t hesitate to give Shepherd International Movers a call, our team will gladly help you move to Canada.

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