Canada is the second largest country in the world in terms of geography and one of the wealthiest. Due to labor shortages, the country encourages immigration. All adult applicants who meet the basic requirements for immigration must take a citizenship test in order to move to Canada. There are six different ways you can apply to become a permanent resident. The province of Quebec, where French is the official language, has its own set of immigration rules.

Skilled Workers And Professionals

If you are a skilled worker or professional and want to settle in any province outside of Quebec, the Canadian government judges your citizenship application on six criteria: age, education, fluency in English and/or French, work experience, employment prospects and ability to assimilate.

Quebec-Selected Skilled SWorkers

Quebec has its own set of requirements. You must first apply for a certificate of selection. This document proves that the Government of Quebec has accepted you for immigration. After you are accepted, a separate application is required. In addition, you have to pass a medical examination and a criminal background check. You must prove financial stability and that you have enough money to support yourself and your family after you arrive in Canada.

Canadian Experience Class

Students and those who have recent work experience in Canada fall under this category. You must have at least two years of full-time (or equivalent) skilled work experience in Canada or be a foreign graduate from a Canadian post-secondary institution with at least one year of full-time (or equivalent) skilled work experience in Canada. You can only apply if you obtained your work experience legally. You have to apply while working in Canada or within one year of leaving your Canadian job.

Investors, Entrepreneurs, Self-Employed

Canada encourages immigration of those who can contribute to the development of the Canadian economy. There are three classes of business immigrants: investors, entrepreneurs and self-employed people. The Canadian government expects these types of applicants to make a hefty investment to start a business or to own and manage a business.

Provincial Nominees

Canadian provinces and territories can nominate people for citizenship. Nominees must have the skills, education and work experience needed to make an immediate economic impact. The provinces that participate in this program are Alberta, Manitoba, Newfoundland and Labrador, Ontario, Saskatchewan, British Columbia, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island and Yukon.

Sponsoring Family

If you have a family member who is a Canadian citizen, the person can sponsor you for citizenship. Spouses, common-law partners, conjugal partners, dependent, parents and grandparents are eligible to become a permanent residents. Immigration policy requires the sponsoring relative to be responsible for supporting their family when they arrive and to make sure that they do not seek government aid.

Source:

Citizenship and Immigration Canada