Immigration to Canada
 

Throughout the world, Canada is known as a prosperous and strong nation valued for its stability, respect for diversity and democratic institutions. With a huge landmass, a relatively small population and abundant natural resources, it has prospered to the point where a recent United Nations study lists it as the best place in the world to live. This is why Canada has recently become the destination of choice for many of the world's immigrants.

This year Canada will admit approximately 235,000 immigrants according to the new immigration policy. On a per capita basis, this level of immigration ranks among the highest in the world. Unlike the United States and other countries, there is no quota based on either nationality or occupation. The Canadian Government's new immigration plan for the next five years and beyond is to emphasize the admission of a greater number of skilled immigrants with abilities to contribute directly to Canada's economic and social development.

Canada needs more immigrants. The 2001 census, released by Statistics Canada, showed a decline in the rate of increase in Canada's population. Immigration was declared the primary contributor to the national population increase of 4 percent, ahead of birth rates and natural increase for the first time since the Second World War.

Under the new Immigration Act enacted on June 28, 2002 many occupations that could not qualify under the previous legislation are now able to qualify e.g. Doctors, Dentists, Teachers, Nurses, Lawyers, Managers, all other professional and technical occupations, skilled trades. Unmarried live-in couples are now recognized and may apply for Permanent Residence. The Canadian Government lowered the pass mark to 67 points on September 18, 2003. I strongly recommend that you proceed immediately with the assessment of your qualifications for Permanent Residence since, according to the present Immigration Act and its Regulations, the Minister of Immigration can change the pass mark at any time, without notice

Every year, Canada welcomes thousands of new residents. Coming to Canada as an immigrant is an exciting opportunity, but also a great challenge.

If you are interested in immigrating to Canada, you have a number of options when applying for permanent residence status. Read about these programs and decide which class suits you and your family best.

 Skilled Worker Class Immigration:
Canada values the skills and experiences that foreign professionals and workers bring with them. Check to see if your skills and experience qualify you to come to Canada as a skilled worker.
Business Class Immigration:
Canada has a strong economic culture. If you have experience running or investing in businesses, you may qualify to come to Canada as a business immigrant.
Provincial Nomination:
Most Canadian provinces have programs that encourage immigrants to settle in those provinces and benefit their economies. Learn about settling in one of Canada’s provinces as a provincial nominee.
Family Class Immigration:
Family class immigration reunites families in Canadian homes. Learn how to sponsor your family member or come to Canada as a member of the family class.
International Adoption:
Adopting children from abroad can be a long process. This is to protect children’s rights. Learn about what you need to do to bring an adoptive child to Canada.
Quebec-Selected Immigration:
Quebec is responsible for selecting immigrants who wish to settle in Quebec. Find out how to apply to be selected to settle in Quebec.