Category: Uncategorized

Applying for a visa to Canada can be a complicated and daunting process. With so many forms to fill out, documents to gather, and deadlines to meet, it’s easy to make mistakes that will delay or even derail your application. 

 

To help you get through the visa application process smoothly, in this blog, we have compiled a list of the top mistakes to avoid.

 

1. Incomplete or Incorrect Forms

One of the most frequent mistakes made includes filling up the visa forms incorrectly. Information that remains blank or incomplete is almost guaranteed to get rejected. Therefore, every form needs to be very carefully filled out, with all the required signatures and accurate information. 

 

How to Avoid: IRCC has checklists on its website for this very purpose. Ensure that the sections are properly filled out so that IRCC will not have an issue with your application.

 

2. Missing Documentation

Applicants sometimes forget to attach relevant documents, like valid passports, biometrics, and financial proof. Also, people often forget supporting documents such as invitation letters or travel itineraries. Lack of these documents may delay the process or result in an outright rejection.

 

How to Avoid: Collect the required documents well in advance, and translations, if necessary, with certification. Check the completeness of documents against the document list provided through the IRCC portal.

 

3. Choosing the Wrong Visa Type

Canada offers various visa programs—visitor, student, work, and permanent residency. Selecting a visa type that doesn’t align with your intentions can lead to rejection. For instance, applying for a visitor visa when planning to study could result in complications.

 

How to Avoid: Thoroughly research the eligibility and requirements for each visa category. The IRCC website provides detailed guides for each visa type. Consult immigration experts if needed to determine the best visa option for your case.

 

4. Providing Insufficient Financial Proof

Canada requires applicants to demonstrate they have enough funds to cover their stay. Many applications get rejected because the financial documents submitted do not meet the required standards.

 

How to Avoid: Submit recent bank statements with clear transactions that show your ability to support yourself during your stay. Be aware of specific fund requirements, especially for student or work visas.

 

5. Failure to Disclose Previous Visa Rejections

Not declaring previous visa rejections from any country, including Canada, can lead to automatic denial for misrepresentation. All prior refusals must be disclosed honestly, even if they occurred years ago.

 

How to Avoid: Always answer application questions truthfully. Provide additional explanations or context when necessary to clarify any previous denials.

 

6. Misrepresentation or False Information

Submitting false information or forged documents will not only lead to application denial but may also result in a ban from entering Canada. Even minor discrepancies, like incorrect employment dates, can raise suspicion.

 

How to Avoid: Be precise with your information. If you are unsure about certain answers, seek assistance from immigration consultants or legal experts.

 

7. Missing Deadlines and Updates

Visa applications often involve strict deadlines for submitting documents or attending interviews. Missing these can cause delays or result in rejection.

 

How to Avoid: Set reminders for submission dates, medical examinations, and interviews. Regularly check the status of your application through the IRCC portal to stay updated on any new requests.

 

8. Incorrect Fee Payment

Processing fees are non-refundable, and paying the wrong amount or missing payment deadlines can result in delays. Applications will not proceed until all fees are correctly paid.

 

How to Avoid: Review the IRCC website for the latest fee structure. Pay through official channels and keep proof of payment for your records.

 

9. Ignoring the Need for Medical and Police Clearances

Certain visas require medical examinations or police certificates to ensure applicants are admissible. Delays in obtaining these documents can slow down the application process.

 

How to Avoid: Schedule medical exams early and obtain police certificates from all countries where you’ve lived for over six months in the past ten years.

 

10. Neglecting Communication with IRCC

After submitting your application, you might receive follow-up requests for additional information. Failing to respond promptly can result in delays or rejection.

 

How to Avoid: Monitor your email and IRCC account regularly. Respond quickly to any additional requests to demonstrate your commitment to the process.

 

11. Poor Interview Preparation (If Applicable)

For some visa types, interviews are part of the process. Poor preparation can make it difficult to convince the visa officer of your genuine intentions.

 

How to Avoid: Practice common interview questions and ensure your answers align with your application details. Dress professionally and provide clear, concise answers during the interview.

 

12. Using Unauthorized Consultants

There are many fraudulent immigration consultants promising guaranteed visas. Using unauthorized representatives can jeopardize your application.

 

How to Avoid: Ensure any immigration consultant you hire is registered with the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants (CICC). The IRCC website has a list of certified consultants.

 

Conclusion

Navigating the Canadian visa process requires careful planning, attention to detail, and adherence to official guidelines. By avoiding these common pitfalls, you increase your chances of a successful application. Remember to rely only on trusted resources like the IRCC website for up-to-date information and guidance throughout the process.

In the year 2022, the Canadian Immigration Department (IRCC) issued a record high number of new Permanent Residencies to a total of 431,645 applicants. It is also important to note that immigrants account for 23% of all the people currently living in Canada. These statistics undoubtedly show that many people from around the world are choosing to move to Canada for a number of reasons.

However, it is important to note that it can be pretty overwhelming and tough to move to a new country, find new jobs, and start a new life. Whether it is because of the diversity of cultures or the difference in climate, you may find yourself in a tight spot when moving to Canada.

That is precisely why we have compiled a comprehensive guide on what a newcomer should expect in their first year of moving to Canada. So, without further ado, let’s get right into the nitty gritty of getting started with your move to this mesmerizing country of maple syrup and tasty poutine.

Getting Started in Canada

Whether you’re here in Canada for study, work or familialar reasons, there are a few crucial steps you need to take as soon as you land in Canada. Let’s go through some of them:

• Get a Social Insurance Number (SIN): SIN is a unique 9-digit number that is used to identify you. You will need this number for everything you do within Canada, from working in Canada to filing taxes, and even getting access to government programs and benefits. To get your SIN number, you can apply online through this website address: https://sin-nas.canada.ca/en/Sin/

• Apply for a Government Health Insurance/Health Card: All Canadian citizens and permanent residents are eligible for public health insurance. You will need to apply for a health card if eligible in the province or territory where you live.

• Open a Bank Account: Opening a bank account will allow you to manage your finances and pay bills easily. Compare fees and services before deciding on a bank.

• Find a Place to Stay: Whether you plan to rent or buy a home, it’s important to find a place to live within the first few months of your arrival.

• Seek Settlement Services: The government of Canada provides free settlement services for newcomers. These services offer support and guidance on everything from childcare to language immersion and finding a place to live.

Understanding Canadian Culture

Canada is known for its inclusivity, politeness, and diversity. Canadians highly value equality, fairness, and multiculturalism. Social norms such as punctuality and respect for personal space are common. You might find strangers greeting you on the street or apologizing for the smallest inconveniences. Embracing these cultural nuances will help you integrate yourself into Canadian communities more smoothly.

Securing Your First Home

Housing prices are drastically rising all over the world and Canada is no different. So, you might find it pretty tough to find proper accommodation in your first year in Canada. On top of that, popular cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal where most immigrants usually move to, are also the places with the highest housing prices.
So, for your first rental home, consider smaller towns where rental costs are more affordable. Online platforms like Kijiji and Craigslist are commonly used to find housing. Social media groups or the good-old Facebook Marketplace are also excellent places to lookout for newcomers to find houses or apartments for sale.

Managing Your Finances

Managing your finances wisely is key to surviving your first year in Canada. The cost of living varies depending on your location. Creating a realistic budget will help ensure you live within your means. Start by opening a Canadian bank account with a reputable financial institution like RBC, TD, or Scotiabank, all of which offer special packages for newcomers. Online banking tools can help you monitor your spending and set financial goals.

Building a Career

Whether you’re on a temporary visa or looking to convert your TR to PR in Canada, finding a job in a new country can be challenging, but there are several resources available to help you. You can search for job openings online, attend job fairs, or connect with employment agencies. Networking with other new immigrants and with people in your profession can be quite beneficial in the long run.

Employment Rates: Employment rates for newcomers vary by region and industry, but newcomers often face challenges in finding employment that matches their skills and experience.

Fun fact: Immigrants make up 36% of physicians, 33% of business owners with paid staff, and 41% of engineers in Canada.

Embracing the Community

Canada is proudly multicultural, and there are many organizations dedicated to helping newcomers feel at home.Public libraries, community centers, and ethnic associations are great sources of information, activities, and friendships. The integration of these resources into your daily life will help you build your support system and become part of your new community.

Cost of Living in Canada

While everyone has their own way of living their life, it is crucial to understand the average cost of living in Canada. The average cost of living in Canada for a single person is approximately CAD 1,330.70 per month without rent. Note: This number may not be representative for all newcomers because of spending habits, lifestyle, etc.

Begin Your New Life In Canada

Hopefully this guide will help you have an easier first year in Canada. And, by the end of your first year, you’ll likely feel more settled and familiar with your new life in Canada. Moreover, if you’re struggling with your visa and require professional assistance or looking for an Immigration consultant in Canada, we’re here to help you out.

Express Entry is one of the most popular ways of settling in Canada as a Skilled Worker from overseas. However, the Canada Express Entry system uses a points system called the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS)

It is crucial to understand the full process and how you can calculate your CRS score if you want to increase your chances of getting invited. But don’t worry, we’re here to help you out. Here’s a detailed guide to help you understand and calculate your CRS points for Canadian immigration in 2024.

How to Calculate Express Entry Points

Canada Express Entry points refers to the CRS score. It is based on multiple factors like age, education, work experience, language proficiency, and additional criteria. There’s actually an IRCC express entry points calculator provided by the Canadian Government on their official website that you can use to calculate your Express Entry points. This is the easiest way to calculate your score. 

However, here are few things you need to understand about the basis of the calculation:

• The younger you are, the more points you receive.
• The higher your level of education, the higher points you receive
• The better you are at English and French, the higher points you receive.
• The more work experience you have, the higher points you receive.
• You also receive points based on the same factors for your spouse or common-law partner (if you are married).
• You can also receive points for a provincial nomination, a valid job offer, Canadian education, a sibling in Canada, etc.

Express Entry Points Breakdown

The CRS score is divided into four main sections which is also the Canada Express Entry points breakdown:

Your Personal Core/Human Capital Factors (Maximum 460 points)

• Age: Up to 100 points
• Level of Education: Up to 140 points
• Language Proficiency in English or French: Up to 150 points
• Canadian Work Experience: Up to 70 points

Your Spouse or Common-Law Partner Factors (Maximum 40 points)

• Level of Education: Up to 10 points
• Language Proficiency in English or French: Up to 20 points
• Canadian Work Experience: Up to 10 points

Skill Transferability Factors (Maximum 100 points)

• Education and Language Proficiency: Up to 50 points
• Foreign Work Experience: Up to 50 points

Additional Points (Maximum 600 points)

• Provincial Nomination: 600 points
• Valid Job Offer: Up to 200 points
• Canadian Education: Up to 30 points
• Sibling with citizenship or PR in Canada: 15 points
• French Language Skills: Up to 50 points

Latest Express Entry Draw and Cut-Off Score

The latest Canada Express Entry Draw was made on August 27, 2024 and it issued 3,300 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) to Canadian Experience Class (CEC) candidates, and the CRS cut-off score was 507. This followed an earlier draw that invited 1,121 candidates through the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), with a minimum CRS score of 694. IRCC has increasingly conducted multiple draws every other week, focusing on PNP and CEC candidates to meet permanent residency targets for 2024-2026.

Key Points:

• The latest CEC-specific draw had a minimum CRS score requirement of 507, which means anyone who scored under the cut-off score of 507 wasn’t invited.
• A prior PNP draw in the same week invited 1,121 candidates with a minimum CRS score of 694.
• IRCC has been holding more frequent PNP and CEC draws recently.
• This approach supports meeting the permanent residency targets for 2024 and 2025.
• IRCC aims to admit 110,770 newcomers through Express Entry in 2024 and 117,500 in 2025.

Tips to improve Express Entry CRS Score

There are multiple ways you can increase your chances of getting invited to permanently live in Canada. Here are some ways you can improve your Express Entry CRS Score:

• Improve Language Scores: Boosting your proficiency in English and/or French can add substantial points. Consider taking language courses and retaking language tests like IELTS or TEF to achieve higher scores.
• Gain More Work Experience: Accumulating additional years of skilled work experience, especially in Canada, can increase your CRS score.
• Study Masters of PhD: As we’ve indicated above, if you’re a masters or PhD graduate, you can get additional points in your CRS score.
• Secure a Job Offer from a Canadian Employer: Obtaining a valid job offer from a Canadian employer, supported by a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), can add up to 200 points.
• Obtain a PN (Provincial Nomination): Receiving a nomination from a Canadian province or territory can add 600 points to your CRS score, almost guaranteeing an ITA.
• Apply with Your Spouse: If applicable, including your spouse or common-law partner in your application and improving their language scores and education can also contribute to a higher CRS score.

Sometimes, for one reason or another, your study permit can expire before your studies are over. Without a valid study permit, international students aren’t legally allowed to stay in Canada which means you’d have to go back to your country without completing your studies. In this case, what should you do?

Well, fortunately, you can apply for a Study Permit Extension. Not sure how? We’re here to guide you through the whole process on how you can apply for a Canada Study Permit Extension, processing times, fees, and more. Let’s get right into it!

When to Apply For a Study Permit Extension?

If your study permit is going to expire, you need to apply for a Canada Study Visa Extension at least 60 days before your current permit expires. The IRCC can take up to 60 days to approve your extension, so you need to ensure you can continue your studies without breaking any Canadian laws. 

How to Apply For a Study Permit Extension?

You can either apply for a Study Permit Extension on your own through the IRCC’s website or get help from a immigration service provider in Canada to do it for you. If you’re doing it on your own, here are the steps to follow:

• Log into your IRCC Account: If you don’t already have one, create your IRCC account on the official website and proceed.
• Complete the Student Visa Extension Application: Fill out the application form and upload all the required documents.
• Pay the Fees: It costs CAD 150 for the study permit extension in 2024.
• Submit Your Application: Once you’ve completed steps 1 to 3, submit your application online.

Required Documents

When applying for a visa extension in Canada, here are the general list of documents you’ll need:

• Proof of Enrollment: A letter from your educational institution confirming your enrollment and the duration of your program.
• Proof of Funds: Evidence that you have sufficient funds to support yourself during your extended stay. This can include bank statements, a letter from a sponsor, or proof of a scholarship.
• Passport: A copy of your passport, including the page with your personal details and any pages with stamps or visas.
• Current Study Permit: A copy of your current study permit.

Processing Time

The processing time for a study permit extension generally takes around 55 days but you can check the exact time through IRCC’s official website. It’s important to apply early to ensure you receive your extension before your current permit expires.

FAQs

1. What If Your Permit Expires Before You Apply For An Extension?

In case your study permit expires before you apply for an extension, you have a 90-day grace period to restore your status as an international student. During this time, you cannot study or work until your status is restored. If you fail to apply within this period, you will have to leave Canada.

2. How long can Canada Study Permit holders Work?

International students in Canada can work up to 20 hours per week during regular academic sessions and full-time during scheduled breaks, such as summer and winter holidays. While the Canadian Government did allow students to work more than 20 hours per week in early 2024, this policy expired on April 30, 2024.

3. How much does a Canadian Study Visa Extension cost?

It costs CAD $150 to apply for a study permit extension (subject to change) in Canada. Additionally, there can be a biometrics fee of CAD 85 for the collection of fingerprints and a photo.

4. What Comes in Study Permit Extension Proof of Funds?

When applying for a Study Permit Extension, you have to prove that you have enough money to support you and your family’s stay in Canada throughout your studies. Here’s what you can include to prove your financial capability:

• Proof of a bank account with enough funds in a Canadian bank in your name if you’ve already transferred money to Canada.
• A GIC (Guaranteed Investment Certificate) from a participating Canadian financial institution.
• Proof of an education loan from a trusted bank.
• Bank statements from the past 4 months.
• Proof that you have paid college/university tuition and accommodation fees.
• A letter from the person (sponsor) or school giving you money.
• Proof of funding paid from within Canada if you came to Canada on a full or partial scholarship or are in a Canadian-funded educational program.

Are you an International student or a recent graduate looking to cement your stay in Canada as a permanent resident? Or have you recently graduated in your native country and are exploring opportunities to find yourself settling down in Canada? Whichever category you fall into, Canada is one of the most sought-after countries in the world by international students for settling down—and for good reason. 

But since you’re here, you already know why Canada is a great country to settle after studies in 2024. So, let’s instead go through the steps of how you can actually get PR in Canada after study.

Permanent Residence (PR) is a legal document in Canada that allows an immigrant from another country to legally live, work, and study within the country for an indefinite amount of time. While it is relatively easier to get PR in Canada than some countries like the US or UK, it can be quite confusing for someone who doesn’t know much about the full process. Hence, we have pieced together this step-by-step guide on how you can get PR in Canada in 2024. Let’s get right into it!

Available Pathways of PR in Canada for International Students

Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)

After graduating from a Canadian educational institute, you can apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) that allows you to live and work anywhere in the country for a maximum of 3 years. 

The duration of your Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) depends on the length of the course you studied.

• For Undergraduate or Special Courses (below the Master’s level):
• If your course is between 8 months and less than 2 years, you may be eligible for a 1-year PGWP.
• If your course is 2 years or longer, you may qualify for a 2-year PGWP.
• For Master’s or higher-level courses:
• If your course is over 8 months in length, you may be eligible for a 3-year PGWP.

Please note that these numbers are subject to change and are not guaranteed. The work experience gained through a PGWP is crucial for your PR application.

Canadian Experience Class (CEC)

The Canadian Experience Class (CEC) is a popular pathway for international students to obtain PR and operates under the Express Entry system. 

To be eligible, you must have:

• One year of full-time skilled work experience in Canada. If you’ve worked part-time, you must accumulate an equivalent amount of skilled work experience.

Additionally, you must demonstrate proficiency in either English or French:

• For TEER 0 and 1 occupations, a minimum Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level of 7 is required.
• For TEER 2 and 3 occupations, a minimum CLB level of 5 is needed.

The Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)

Another Express Entry avenue is the FSWP. To be eligible for the FSWP program, you must:

• Have at least one year of full-time or equivalent part-time relevant skilled work experience.
• Be proficient in English or French (level 7).
• Have at least completed a high school level of education.

Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)

Each Canadian province and territory has a PNP for nominating people based on the person’s specific needs for PR. Some PNPs even have special streams for overseas graduates. Requirements may range from one province to another but will generally be made up of the following:

• An offer of employment from an employer based in the province.
• Work Experience and Education.

• Quebec Immigration Options

Quebec has its own immigration programs, separate from the federal system. The Quebec Experience Program (PEQ) is designed for international students who have obtained a degree from a Quebec institution and have an intermediate level of French proficiency.

Steps to Obtaining PR in Canada

Step 1: Check if You Are Eligible

There are many online tools for this very purpose, such as the Come to Canada Tool, which helps in determining eligibility for various PR programs existing in Canada. However, general requirements that one needs to obtain a PR in Canada are:

• At least one year of skilled work experience.
• Knowledge of either English or French that is usually demonstrated through the results of a standardized test, such as IELTS or TEF.
• A minimum of a high school education, however higher education may grant you extra points.
• You must be able to support yourself and your family in Canada.
• Medical and Security Clearances.

For programs like the Canadian Experience Class or the Federal Skilled Worker Program, creating an Express Entry profile is required. Your profile will be assessed based on your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score, which determines if you receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency.

Step 2: Gather all the Documents Required

Prepare the required documents, including proof of work experience, language proficiency testing results, and academic qualifications.

Step 3: Create an Express Entry profile. 

If applying through the above-mentioned Express Entry programs, create a profile and enter the pool.

Step 4: Invitation to Apply (ITA)

You can receive an ITA to a PR if you meet the eligibility criterion.

Step 5: Submitting Your application

Once you have completed the Permanent Residency (PR) application form, submitted the required documents, and paid the application fees, you will be on your way to securing a permanent stay in Canada.

Conclusion

So there you have it. A complete guide to obtaining a PR in Canada after your studies in 2024. However, if you already own a temporary residence permit and are looking for a TR to PR pathway, we’ve covered that in a different blog that you can check out. Please be informed that immigration rules are subject to change and it is crucial to consult a Canadian Immigration Consultant to guide you through the process with up-to-date information. 

FAQs

How many years of work permit can I get in Canada after a 1-year study?
If your course lasts between 8 months and less than 2 years, you are eligible for a 1-year Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). However, if you’re studying a Master’s or PhD program of the same duration, you may qualify for a 3-year PGWP.

How many years of work permit can I get in Canada after a 2-year study?
If your course is 2 years or longer, you are eligible for a 2-year PGWP. However, for Master’s or PhD programs of this length, you can qualify for a 3-year PGWP.

How long can I stay in Canada after my study permit expires?
You have a few options depending on your situation:

• If you apply for a PGWP before your study permit expires, you can stay and work in Canada while your application is being processed.
• You can apply to change your status to a visitor, which allows you to remain in Canada but prevents you from working or studying.
• If you don’t apply for another visa, you have a 90-day grace period after your study permit expires to either apply for a new permit or restore your status. During this period, you are not allowed to study or work until your status is restored.