There are a lot of line items which need to be ticked as part of a to-do- checklist when you think of moving to a foreign country. People from different parts of the globe consider Canada a country to move to. It has become quite popular among young university seekers and qualified professionals. While being the second largest country, area-wise, Canada is also a wealthy and economically stable country. Even though it has a relatively high standard of living, the country exhibits and practices a welcoming attitude toward all nationalities.
A lot is written about Canada’s zero tolerance to violence policy, which is why it has become the sweet-spot country for most families looking at migrating. Though Canada is known for being polite, it is also very particular, as a country, when it comes to following the general rules, policies and statutory compliance requirements. There are a lot of people across the world trying to move there. However, while it may sound very nice and straightforward, the immigration process must be researched and studied adequately. Best to seek expert guidance and help from Canada immigration lawyers to take you through the visa and immigration process.
Few line items from the checklist before planning to move :
- Research and study the various immigration programs as applicable to you.
- Read through the entire application process thoroughly for documentation requirements.
- Prepare, fill and submit the application for a Canadian visa for work or study from your home country.
- Check and ensure that your passport validity exceeds a minimum of one year before submitting your application.
- Collate originals and copies of all documents about your education, profession, experience and funds availability. These could include your birth certificate, social security card, driving license, qualifications and professional working experience.
- Take appropriate and timely steps to complete your medical check-ups, including dental, eye tests and other tests as stipulated by the Canadian authorities.
- Source good and reliable travel medical insurance to ensure coverage at least for the first few months while moving to Canada.
- Collect and create a kitty for the funds you will need when moving to Canada to support you until you get a job or find a footing. Ideally, you should cover your funds for the initial period of six months.
- Arrange for temporary accommodation for your stay immediately upon landing in Canada.
- Ensure that you have enough warm clothes for the colder months.
- Read all the regulatory compliance requirements carefully and prepare the requisite documentation appropriately.
- Consult with an expert for statutory and immigration compliance requirements.
- Assuming that you are well-spoken in English, it would help, if possible and time permitting, to learn French.
After considering all options, when you decide to shift to Canada, you must first select the appropriate immigration process best suited for you. Sometimes it may not be the right option to directly apply through the Permanent Residency program. While this can be the best option since it permits you to live and work in Canada and eventually apply for Canadian citizenship, you should ensure that your application is well deserving of qualifying and get selected through the Invitation to Apply for a permanent residency program. Irrespective of your end goal, it is always better to first research the pros and cons of each immigration program properly. You don’t want to get rejected through an incorrect application.
Another option many people interested in moving there opt for is the temporary residence route. This is either from a study perspective or through a skilled program work permit. Once you have moved to Canada through this route, you can assess the living conditions and other relevant criteria best suited for you and then decide if you want to further apply for the permanent residency program.
The quick checklist before moving to Canada must include the following :
- Passport, all documents and visas kept handy
- Read through the customs allowed-to-carry list
- Read and check the border rules for specific conditions of entry
- Check the conversion rates and arrange for the appropriate currency to carry
- Connect with friends and associates to find a suitable place to stay on arrival in Canada, at least for the first few days
Whichever route you decide, you must evaluate every aspect of the visa type you will apply for before finalising the application submission. Students can get the fastest way through a study permit visa and then opt for a working permit to continue living in Canada. It will help to watch education costs since some specialisation courses in a Canadian university can be expensive. As a student, you are allowed to work a limited number of hours per week. This income can help you to sustain certain living expenses during your initial stay