Immigration Blog about US & Canadian Immigration matters.

FAQ – Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program

In this article, I will address a few popular questions and answers for the Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program (AINP) in Canada and some important information to consider if you are applying under this program for permanent residency in Canada. The Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program is an economic immigration program that assists the province of Alberta to meet its labour market needs. If you feel as though you would be eligible to apply for under this program, I suggest you read our article on “Basics of the Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program” before reading this question and answer article. The intention of this article is meant to clarify any misunderstanding or confusion with regards to the Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program in Canada.

Q: If I am applying as a semi-skilled worker under the AINP, is a language test required of me?

A: A language test is required of all semi-skilled workers that are applying under the Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program (AINP). You must submit an official language test result in order to apply for this program. It must also meet the language standards.

The Process of Renewing or Changing your Study Permit in Canada

In Canada, in order for foreign nationals to legally study, they must obtain a study permit. Once a study permit has been obtained by a foreign national and they wish to either renew their study permit to continue their studies or to change their study permit to go to a different designated learning institution, they must properly apply to do so. This is essential especially if the study permit will expire. Additionally, a foreign national must ensure that they do not overstay their authorized visit. Therefore, in this article, I will explain what a study permit entails and how to proceed with renewing or changing your study permit to study and remain in Canada.

What Does a Study Permit Entail

A study permit must be obtained prior to arriving in Canada to study. A study permit essentially allows the foreign national student to study in Canada temporarily. It is important to note that a study permit is a requirement set out by the government of Canada in order to assess potential students that wish to come to Canada to study.

FAQ – Super Visa

In this article, I will address a few popular questions and answers for the Super Visa and some important information to consider when applying for this program. The Super Visa was created and intended for foreign nationals, who have children or grandchildren that are either Canadian citizens or permanent residents, to obtain a multi-entry visa for a period of 10 years. Additionally, they also have strict eligibility requirements that they must meet prior to applying for this program. If you are a parent or grandparent of a Canadian citizen or permanent resident and would like to apply for the Super Visa, I suggest you read our article on “Do you Qualify for a Super Visa?” before reading this question and answer article. The intention of this article is meant to clarify any misunderstanding or confusion with regards to the Super Visa.

Q: Is the Super Visa a multiple entry visa?

A: Fortunately, yes. The Super Visa is a multiple entry visa that allows the individual to enter Canada for a period of up to ten years.

FAQ – Landing in Canada as a Permanent Resident

In this article, I will address a few popular questions and answers for Landing in Canada as a Permanent Resident and some important information to consider if you are applying for a Permanent Residency application. When you have finally arrived in Canada and have landed as a Permanent Resident, it may be extremely overwhelming as you are coming from a completely different country to move permanently to Canada. If you feel as though you would be eligible to apply for Permanent Residency, I suggest you read our article on “Different Ways to Obtain Permanent Residency in Canada” before reading this question and answer article. The intention of this article is meant to clarify any misunderstanding or confusion with regards to landing in Canada as a Permanent Resident.

Q: Do I automatically become a Permanent Resident of Canada the moment I receive my Canadian Permanent Residency approval?

A: This is a very important question to recognize and understand. The simple answer is no – you do not automatically become a Permanent Resident of Canada the moment you receive your Canadian Permanent Residency approval. It is important to realize that you will only become a Permanent Resident in Canada the moment you cross a Canadian port of entry with a valid passport. You must also have your valid Canadian Permanent Residency approval. Subsequently, you will receive your official landing in Canada documents for any future reference you may need.

FAQ – Criminal Rehabilitation

In this article, I will address a few popular questions and answers for Criminal Rehabilitation applications in Canada and some important information to consider if you are applying for a Criminal Rehabilitation application. A Criminal Rehabilitation application is intended for foreign nationals with criminal inadmissibility who would like to visit Canada and not have inadmissibility issues in the future. This type of application was created and intended to provide foreign nationals, who have past criminal offence(s), made in or outside of Canada, with an opportunity to enter Canada even with their criminal inadmissibility. If you feel as though you would be eligible to apply for a Criminal Rehabilitation, I suggest you read our article on “How to Apply for Criminal Rehabilitation” before reading this question and answer article. The intention of this article is meant to clarify any misunderstanding or confusion with regards to Criminal Rehabilitation applications in Canada.

Q: What exactly is a Criminal Rehabilitation application?

A: A criminal rehabilitation application is a permanent waiver that removes the criminal inadmissibility from a foreign national that wishes to enter Canada. In other words, in the future, instead of being denied entry into Canada due to their inadmissibility, they will no longer have any inadmissibility issues when entering Canada.

FAQ – Canadian Immigration Application Process

In this article, I will address a few popular questions and answers for the Canadian Immigration application process and some important information to consider when applying for any immigration matter. The Canadian Immigration application process was created and intended to assist foreign nationals who would either like to visit, study, work, or permanently reside in Canada. The intention of this article is meant to clarify any misunderstanding or confusion with regards to the Canadian Immigration application process.

Q: Who may I include on my Canadian Permanent Residency Visa?

A: For permanent residency applications to Canada, you may include your spouse or your dependent children on your Canadian permanent residency visa. A dependent child is defined as a child that is less than 19 years old, who is unmarried and not in a common-law relationship, or it can also be a child that is currently enrolled in an educational institution and is still financially dependent on you. This needs to be taken into consideration prior to applying and including your dependent child. Additionally, the Canadian government also recognizes same-sex partnerships and marriages.

Questions and Answers for Adopted Children of Canadians

In this article, I will address questions and answers for Adopted Children of Canadians, as there are several different immigration matters and circumstances that may apply. This is intended for you to better understand what can ensue when you have an adopted child. If you feel as though you would be eligible to apply for permanent residency or Canadian citizenship for your adopted child, then I suggest you read our articles on Adoption and Adopted Children of Canadians before reading this question and answer article. This article is intended to clarify any misunderstanding or confusion with regards to any immigration matters regarding adopted children of Canadians.

Q: I have successfully adopted my child from another country. How can I bring them to Canada?

A: This is great news! The moment you receive a “Letter of No Objection” from the province or territory you reside in, then you may begin your process in bringing your child to Canada. What process you decide on depends on your particular circumstance. You may either choose to bring them to Canada under permanent residency or you may choose to apply for Canadian citizenship. There are eligibility requirements with both processes, therefore, it is very important to determine which one you are eligible for prior to applying. It is also advisable to visit the Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) website to determine which process to use to bring your child to Canada.

Hybrid Offences & How to Gain Entry into Canada

In order to successfully gain entry into Canada, you must not have any inadmissibility. Inadmissibility comes in many different forms; however, the most common reason is criminal inadmissibility. For individuals with hybrid offences, they may be able to gain entry into Canada or they may be denied entry into Canada. To avoid being denied entry into Canada, there are viable options for these individuals to overcome their criminal inadmissibility. Therefore, in this article, I will address what a hybrid offence is, what options are available to individuals with hybrid offences, and much more.

What are Hybrid Offences

First and foremost, it is important to recognize and thoroughly understand what hybrid offences are to better know what options are available to you to become admissible. Thus, when an individual is charged with offence, the Crown counsel will be the one to decide what offence you are ultimately charged with. The punishment that an individual will receive will depend on the type of offence they are charged with. For instance, depending on the offence, they can either receive a minimum or maximum penalty. Specifically, hybrid offences are unique compared to summary and indictable offences as hybrid offences are in between the two. Below, I will explain each offence in detail for you to better understand. 

Spousal Sponsorship Broken by Separation or Divorce

Canada strictly believes in family reunification and prioritizes spousal sponsorship for this exact reason. Unfortunately, not all spousal sponsorships end in family reunification and some can lead to separation or divorce. Although this may not happen often, it is important to discuss this as there are individuals who may be experiencing this and may not know what to do in these circumstances. Therefore, in this article, I will explain the repercussions of cases of separation or divorce in spousal sponsorships and important information to know if you are experiencing this in your life.

What happens if you Separate or Divorce your Sponsored Spouse

First and foremost, it is important to note that separation and/or divorce happens. Some relationships whether marriage or common-law partnerships, don’t work out and result in the termination of the relationship. However, if you were sponsored to Canada by a spouse, this can be a confusing and conflicting time for any sponsored person. Specifically, what happens when a sponsored spouse separates or divorces their sponsored spouse, results in the continuous undertaking for the sponsor for a minimum of three years after the sponsored spouse becomes a permanent resident. This undertaking continues even if the couple has separated or divorced. The sponsor must be responsible for the sponsored spouse’s basic needs throughout the duration of the undertaking.

FAQ – Permanent Resident Cards

In this article, I will address a few popular questions and answers for Permanent Resident Cards in Canada and some important information to consider when applying. The Permanent Resident Card was created to identify the permanent resident of Canada and is used as a form of travel document. If you are a permanent resident of Canada and would like to apply for a Permanent Resident card, I suggest you read our article on “The Basics of Permanent Residency in Canada” before reading this question and answer article. The intention of this article is meant to clarify any misunderstanding or confusion with regards to Permanent Resident Cards in Canada.

Q: How long does it usually take to process a PR card?

A: The processing times for PR cards fluctuate often. The best way to determine how long your PR card will take to process is by visiting the Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) website which has a specific webpage for processing times of all immigration applications. For instance, during this time, specifically September of 2017, the processing times for permanent resident cards is approximately 61 days, which is about 2 months. The processing time is around the same for renewals or replacements of permanent resident cards.

Steps on How to Renew Your PR Card While Outside of Canada

Once foreign nationals receive permanent residency in Canada, they become ecstatic at the thought of making Canada their permanent home. However, there are certain circumstances that can prevent these individuals from maintaining their permanent residency in Canada, such as obligations in their home country or family emergencies. Essentially, if an individual has not completed their residency requirements then they may lose their permanent residency in Canada. Therefore, in this article, I will explain how to renew your PR card while outside of Canada and important information you must consider prior to renewing your PR card.

Eligibility to Renew your PR Card

When renewing your PR card, it is important to remember that the process is almost the same as applying for a PR card. There are specific eligibility requirements that must be met prior to receiving your PR card and, in this circumstance, renewing your PR card.

FAQ – Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA)

In this article, I will address a few popular questions and answers for Labour Market Impact Assessments (LMIAs) in Canada and some important information to consider if you are applying for an Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). A Labour Market Impact Assessment is intended for any Canadian employer who may need a foreign worker to work for their company and needs the approval from the government of Canada prior to hiring them. If you feel as though you would be eligible to apply for a Labour Market Impact Assessment, I suggest you read our article on “Labour Market Impact Assessment LMIA” before reading this question and answer article. The intention of this article is meant to clarify any misunderstanding or confusion with regards to Labour Market Impact Assessments in Canada.

Q: What is a Labour Market Impact Assessment? Is it necessary?

A: The Labour Market Impact Assessment is a document provided by Immigration Canada that a Canadian employer may need to obtain prior to hiring a temporary foreign worker. It is not necessary for some circumstances but it can be for others. It is important for employers to investigate and review LMIA exemption codes to see whether or not they need a Labour Market Impact Assessment. With a positive LMIA, this will indicate that there is a need for a foreign worker to fill the intended position and that no Canadian citizen or permanent resident of Canada can fill the job. A positive LMIA is also referred to as a confirmation letter. After the employer receives a positive LMIA, the temporary foreign worker may then apply for a work permit in Canada. In order to apply for a work permit, the temporary foreign worker will need a valid job offer letter, a contract, a copy of the positive LMIA and the LMIA confirmation number.

Steps in Obtaining a Study Permit in Canada

Educational opportunities in Canada are unlike any other country in the world. Canada is a very advanced and progressive country that offers exceptional educational and career opportunities. For this and many other reasons, many foreign nationals from all over the world aspire to pursue further educational studies in Canada. It is important to note, however, that in order to study in Canada, one must obtain proper authorization prior to coming to Canada to study; they will need a study permit. In this article, I will explain the purpose of a study permit, who needs a study permit to study in Canada, the eligibility requirements for a study permit in Canada and further steps.

What is the Purpose of a Study Permit

The purpose of a study permit in Canada is to provide authorization to foreign nationals, who permanently reside outside of Canada, to study in Canada temporarily. A study permit is a requirement by the Canadian government for foreign nationals who are studying in Canada at a designated learning institution. However, it is important to note that not all foreign nationals who come to Canada to study require a study permit.

Exceptions to Canadian Work Permits

There are many individuals from all over the world who wish to contribute to an economy that is prosperous and progressive. In a lot of cases, foreign nationals desire to come to Canada to work and contribute to the Canadian economy. Of course, applying for a work permit and meeting the requirements is essential prior to coming to Canada to work. However, there are some exceptions for certain individuals who would like to come to Canada, who do not require a work permit to legally work. Therefore, in this article, I will address what a work permit is, who needs one and who doesn’t, and important information pertaining to work permits in Canada.

What is a Work Permit

A work permit is a permit that is authorized and provided to a foreign national that wishes to work in Canada and contribute to the Canadian economy. There are many steps that must be taken prior to applying for a work permit. For instance, the potential employer of the foreign national must first apply for a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) from Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC). Additionally, once and if they receive a positive decision on their LMIA, then this will indicate that the hiring of a foreign worker for the specific company will not have a negative impact on the Canadian labour market. It will also show that the Canadian employer was not able to hire a Canadian citizen or permanent resident to fill the intended job. However, in some circumstances, an LMIA is not required before applying for the work permit.

Caring for People with High Medical Needs Program in Economic Class Category

Many individuals from all over the world come to Canada for a better life and for more opportunities within their career. This is especially the case for nurses and home support workers as the Canadian government is in high demand for these occupations. Since the 1990s, most provinces and territories in Canada were not hiring nurses; however, this drastically changed in the turn of the century and now Canada has a growing shortage of nurses. Therefore, in this article, I will address what the caring for people with high medical needs program entails, the requirements for this program, and more.

What is the Caring for People with High Medical Needs Program

This program is intended for any foreign national with Canadian work experience in specific occupations in the Canadian National Occupational Classification (NOC) that would like to gain permanent residency in Canada. The specific occupations are:

Steps in Obtaining a Post-Graduate Work Permit in Canada

Many foreign national students who complete their Canadian educational credentials often experience a moment of relief and excitement once they graduate. However, once they finish their studies, they are also often left with the thought “how can I work in Canada?” This is an extremely common question and many students love the idea of extending their stay in Canada to pursue work. In order to work after graduating in Canada, you can apply for a Post-Graduate Work Permit. Therefore, in this article, I will address what a post-graduate work permit is, the eligibility requirements, how to apply for a post-graduate work permit, and more.

What is a Post-Graduate Work Permit

A post-graduate work permit is a work permit that is provided to foreign national students who have graduated from a designated learning institution and would like to stay in Canada to pursue work. However, it is important to note that not all programs offered at a designated learning institution are eligible for a post-graduate work permit. Therefore, it is very important to investigate whether your program is eligible or you may consult with an immigration professional, such as Akrami & Associates, and we will be able to assist you in determining this.

Foreign Country’s Pardons Recognized in Canada

There are several foreign nationals all over the world that would like to visit Canada and experience what the country has to offer. However, should that foreign national have a criminal record or a criminal offence in their country of origin then the chances of them entering Canada is slim. In Canada, a foreign national will become inadmissible if they have a criminal history in or outside of Canada. In this article, I will be primarily speaking on behalf of criminal offences made outside of Canada and how this affects foreign nationals wishing to enter Canada. I will also discuss whether or not Canada will accept a foreign country’s pardon and if that individual would still be inadmissible to Canada if they do have a pardon.

Criminally Inadmissible to Canada

In Canada, if you have a criminal offence or a criminal history from a different country, you will be deemed criminally inadmissible to Canada and will not be permitted entry into Canada. Luckily, Canada also gives these inadmissible individuals the opportunity to overcome their inadmissibility to Canada by applying for a Criminal Rehabilitation application. In order to apply for a Criminal Rehabilitation, you must show sufficient evidence to Immigration that shows your convictions and the completion of any sentences of said convictions. You may also include any evidence that shows you have indeed changed your lifestyle for the better since the convictions.

The Benefits of the Youth Mobility Program

The Youth Mobility Program in Canada is very unique and gives an opportunity for foreign youth to travel from their country of origin to Canada on a foreign exchange program. The advantages of this particular program are many and foreign youth are able to travel and work abroad, particularly in Canada, with support from a number of organizations. Therefore, in this article, I will explain in detail, what the youth mobility program is, the countries that are a part of the youth mobility program, how to apply for a start-up visa, and more.

What is the Youth Mobility Program

The Youth Mobility Program is facilitated by the International Experience Canada (IEC) program. The IEC program has a variety of organizations that provide substantial support for travel and work abroad services between Canada and other countries, for a fee, specifically for either Canadians going abroad and/or foreign nationals coming to Canada. In this particular circumstance, the foreign nationals coming to Canada would be youths. The services that are offered may include support in securing accommodations, arranging transportation, or assisting with finding employment, for instance. The organizations that participate in this program can either be Canadian organizations that have partners overseas or they may be international organizations that have an office within Canada.

Steps on Obtaining a Start-Up Visa

Is it your dream to bring your entrepreneurial mind and ideas to Canada and to the Canadian economy? This may be a possibility with the Start-Up Visa. This visa attracts foreign nationals with business ideas to come to Canada to start their business. Of course, much like any other immigration application, you must first be eligible and meet the requirements in order to apply under this specific visa. Therefore, in this article, I will explain in detail, what a start-up visa is, the eligibility requirements for a start-up visa, how to apply for a start-up visa, and more.

Steps to How to Qualify for a Business Visitor Visa

In order to qualify as a Business Visitor in Canada, there are several requirements that you must meet. Additionally, if you are coming to Canada from a country that requires a visa to enter Canada, you must still apply for a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) prior to entering Canada. The TRV will allow visitors to Canada entry, even visitors that are entering Canada for business purposes. In this article, I will explain who qualifies as a business visitor, the eligibility requirements for a business visitor visa, how to apply for a business visitor visa, and steps after applying for a business visitor visa.

Who Qualifies as a Business Visitor

A business visitor is defined as an individual that is a foreign national that visits Canada with the intention of participating in activities which are related to an international business. Furthermore, these individuals do not directly go into the labour market of Canada. A business visitor often participates in business meetings, conferences or conducts site visitations to make observation. Additionally, they may also attend product or sales training that is conducted by the company in Canada or by a distributor; deal with an after sales agreement; and/or buy goods in Canada for a foreign company.