Tips On How To Apply For Canadian Residency

By Tanisha Berg


In the past decade American politics has reached a low point, and many outspoken citizens have threatened to leave the country permanently. The most popular refuge is Canada, where Americans expect a warm welcome because of the shared border. Canada is a very attraction destination for many reasons, but those seriously thinking of relocating must first determine how to apply for Canadian residency.

The United States and Canada have long enjoyed a conflict-free relationship, and the friendly border is comparatively open to visitors, vacationers, and even bargain hunters. Easy access in combination with a familiar culture has lead some Americans to think of Canada as simply a more sensible version of the United States. That analysis is mistaken. Permanent resident status in this nation is not automatic, nor is it a right.

Prospective immigrants must meet basic eligibility requirements. Several factors can automatically disqualify applicants, including a criminal background, being a generally poor security risk, having poor health, a lack of financial assets, or members of the immediate family that are deemed inadmissible. Applications need not be submitted by those who do not meet the minimum requirements.

While Americans living near the southern United States border frequently rail against bi-lingual services and education, Canada makes them a requirement. The province of Quebec is primarily French-speaking, while English is standard in the other provinces. To be considered, applicants must be able to pass the International Language Testing System exam in English, or the French equivalent.

For people in a hurry, relocating first and then looking for work is not possible. Individuals seeking permanent status must have already been hired by a Canadian business, or have received a valid employment offer. In some cases, related higher education or verifiable life skills and experience can substitute. There are recognized pathways to employment for non-citizens, and applicants need to become familiar with their options.

If a candidate is eligible, the application must then be filled out correctly and submitted. The process can be completed on line or by traditional methods. Several personal documents may be needed, and should be available without a long delay. Certain cases require a medical examination, and others spark further law-enforcement database scrutiny. There are processing fees to pay, and some applicants hire legal representation to prevent inaccuracies.

Although the process is bureaucratic and time-consuming, being approved bestows many benefits. New permanent residents are given the same rights as citizens, which includes equal protection and treatment under Canadian law. They can travel both within the country and internationally without restrictions, and are allowed to work in any province, with the exception of high-security governmental jobs.

Unlike the United States, Canadians enjoy universal health care, and new parents are entitled to time off work. Permanent residents may qualify for old age benefits and child tax credits, and public education is free and high quality. Those who do not live in Canada for two out of five years risk losing their status, but actual citizenship becomes possible in less than four years.




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