Canada offers various types of visas for individuals who wish to immigrate, with each visa having its qualifying standards and associated costs. Before making the decision to immigrate to Canada, it is crucial to identify the type of visa that you wish to obtain. The most common types of visas used by immigrants are the Work and Study Visas, but there are also some unusual visas that can be used to enter Canada.
While some countries’ residents can enter Canada without a visa, individuals from many other nations must first obtain a visa before they can enter. If you are from Africa, you will undoubtedly need a visa to enter Canada. If you are unsure which visa is appropriate for your situation, it is recommended to consult with an immigration lawyer or a registered immigration consultant for guidance.
1. WORK VISA
If you’re planning to work in Canada, you’ll need to have one of several types of visas, each with its own specific requirements and fees. Below is a breakdown of these visas:
- Work visa: This is a document that allows you to enter Canada for work purposes. Some work visas are tied to specific employers, while others allow you to work for any employer in Canada.
- Work permit: This is a document that allows you to work in Canada for a specific period of time. You’ll need to have a job offer from a Canadian employer in order to apply for a work permit.
To obtain a work visa or work permit, your employer will first need to provide you with a job offer. Once you have a job offer, you can apply for the appropriate documentation to begin working in Canada.
Eligibility for Work Visa: To be eligible for a working permit in Canada, there are a few requirements that you must meet.
- You must have a job offer from a Canadian employer.
- The job offer must be in an occupation listed as skill level A, B, or O in the National Occupational Classification (NOC).
Requirements for Work Visa: In addition to meeting the eligibility criteria outlined above, you’ll need to provide the following documents:
- A valid passport.
- Proof of your offer for employment from a Canadian employer in the form of a written job offer letter which includes details about how long you will be employed and how much you will be paid.
Canada Work Visa fee: CAD 155 (Taxes included)
Canada Work Visa Processing Time: The average processing time for a Canada work visa is 20 days, but it can take as long as three months if you’re from a country that requires biometrics or other special considerations.
2. Permanent Resident Visa
A permanent resident visa in Canada allows the holder to stay in Canada indefinitely and provides them with many of the same rights and privileges as a Canadian citizen, with a few exceptions such as voting in elections and holding certain government positions. Permanent residents have access to healthcare, education, and social services, and they can work for any Canadian employer or start their own business. They also have the option to apply for Canadian citizenship after meeting certain eligibility requirements. Read more about how to get permanent visa here.
3. Business Visa
A business visa is not required for attending meetings or taking short courses and programs in Canada. These activities can typically be done on a visitor visa or an electronic travel authorization (eTA) for eligible countries. The business visa is mainly intended for people who need to engage in activities that are considered to be part of international business, such as negotiating contracts or making investments, and who do not qualify for other types of visas, such as work permits or permanent residency.
Eligibility for a Business Visa: You must fulfill the following conditions in order to be eligible for a business visa:
- A Canadian company or organization must have invited you to conduct business in Canada; and
- You must show that you have enough money to cover your expenses while in Canada.
Requirements for a Business Visa: Along with meeting the eligibility requirements outlined above, you’ll need to provide the following documents:
- A valid passport.
- Proof of your invitation from a Canadian company or organization.
- Proof that you have enough money to cover your expenses while in Canada. Learn more about Canada’s business immigrant visa.
4. Tourist Visa
This visa is only available to travelers who intend to spend some time on vacation in Canada.
Eligibility for visitors visa in Canada: You can apply for this visa if you intend to visit Canada temporarily and meet the eligibility requirements.
Requirements for Canada Tourist Visa: The application process is pretty straightforward. In addition to providing personal documents such as your passport or travel document, you’ll need a letter of invitation from someone who lives in Canada.
5. STUDY VISA
Most Africans who enter Canada use the popular study visa type, which states that you intend to enroll in their institution and must complete the necessary paperwork before returning to class.
Eligibility for Study Visa in Canada: To be eligible for a study visa in Canada, you must meet the following requirements:
- A Canadian school or university must have accepted you.
- You must prove that you have enough money to cover your expenses while in Canada.
Requirements for Study Visa: Along with meeting the eligibility requirements outlined above, you’ll need to provide the following documents:
- A valid passport.
- Proof of your acceptance from a Canadian school or university in the form of an official letter that details how long you will be enrolled and what classes are being offered during that period (if applicable).
- Proof of sufficient funds to cover your expenses while you’re in Canada. Learn more about proof of financial support for a Canadian student visa.
Study Visa fee: CAD 150 (Taxes included).
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