How to Immigrate to Canada from Pakistan
April 18, 2023
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As a Pakistani looking to immigrate to Canada, you may feel overwhelmed and unsure where to start. However, Canada is a popular destination for immigrants from all over the world, and for a good reason. It offers high-quality education, healthcare, job opportunities, and a welcoming and diverse culture. This guide will take you through the step-by-step process of immigrating to Canada from Pakistan and provide tips for a successful application.
Immigration to Canada from Pakistan has been steadily increasing. Pakistan is one of the top source countries for immigrants to Canada. The Canadian government has several programs to facilitate immigration for skilled workers, entrepreneurs, students, and family members of Canadian citizens and permanent residents.
Top Pathways for Immigration to Canada from Pakistan
Express Entry
The Express Entry system is the most popular pathway for skilled workers to immigrate to Canada. The point-based system assesses candidates based on age, education, work experience, and language proficiency.
If you meet the eligibility criteria, you can create an Express Entry profile and enter the pool of candidates. You will then be ranked based on your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score and invited to apply for permanent residency through regular draws.
Your CRS score is based on language proficiency, education, and work experience. The higher your points, the higher your chances of receiving an invitation for permanent residence. Maximizing your score is important so you have a greater chance of receiving an invitation. If you want to start your Express Entry journey, one of the best ways to determine if you qualify for this system is to test your CRS score using a CRS calculator and compare it to the latest Express Entry draw results.
The Express Entry System has three programs:
- The Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
- This program is for skilled workers who have experience in certain occupations. To be eligible, you must have at least one year of work experience and meet the language requirements.
- The Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
- This program is for skilled workers who have experience in specific trades. To be eligible, you must have at least two years of work experience and meet the language requirements.
- The Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
- This program is for skilled workers with Canadian job experience or who previously studied in Canada. The language requirements are more lenient than the other two programs, but you must still demonstrate a high level of proficiency in either English or French.
Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP)
The Provincial Nominee Programs are designed to attract immigrants to specific provinces and territories based on their economic needs. Each province and territory has its own PNP, which targets specific occupations and industries.
Suppose you have the skills and experience that match the needs of a particular province. In that case, you can apply for a provincial nomination and receive an additional 600 points toward your Express Entry application.
Family Sponsorship
If you have a spouse, common-law partner, or dependent child who is a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, they may be able to sponsor you for permanent residency. Family sponsorship is a popular pathway for reuniting families and is often faster than other immigration programs.
Pilot Programs
The Canadian government has several pilot programs to test new immigration initiatives. For example, the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot is designed to attract immigrants to rural and northern communities, while the Atlantic Immigration Pilot targets employers in the Atlantic provinces. These programs have different eligibility criteria and application processes, so it's important to research which one may be right for you.
Work & Study Visas
If you are not eligible for permanent residency, you may be able to come to Canada on a work or study visa. If you land a job in Canada, you will need a Canadian Work permit to work there. If accepted into a Canadian college or university, you can study in Canada, provided you have a Canadian study permit. If you stay in Canada long enough on your work or study permit, you may become eligible for permanent residence in Canada.
While you have many immigration options, ensuring your successful endeavor can be daunting. One must remember a few things when determining how to immigrate to Canada from Pakistan.
- Ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria for the program you are interested in.
- Prepare supporting documents, including language test results, education credentials, and work experience letters.
- Pay attention to detail when filling out your application forms, and provide accurate and truthful information.
- Seek the help of a qualified immigration consultant or lawyer to assist you with your application.
However, even with these strategies, immigrating can be stressful and daunting. This is why we recommend utilizing the experience and expertise of a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC). An RCIC is a professional the Government of Canada authorizes to assess, advise, and represent individuals in their immigration applications. They can help you navigate the complexities of the Canadian immigration system and ensure that your application is complete and accurate.
Why Canada Should Be a Top Destination for Pakistanis
There are many reasons why Pakistanis choose to immigrate to Canada. Here are some of the top benefits:
Job Opportunities
Canada has a strong economy, with many opportunities for skilled healthcare, technology, and engineering workers. The unemployment rate in Canada is also relatively low, which means many job openings are available.
Here are the occupations that are currently most in demand in Canada to help you find where your dream job might be waiting.
Quality Housing
Canada has a high standard of living, with quality housing options available in both urban and rural areas. The cost of living can vary depending on the location, but it is comparable to other developed countries.
World-Class Sanitation and Healthcare
Canada's publicly-funded healthcare system provides all residents access to quality medical care. You can learn more about Canada's healthcare system here.
The sanitation standards in Canada are also among the world's highest, ensuring a clean and healthy living environment.
Fantastic Infrastructure
Canada has a modern and efficient infrastructure, including a well-developed public transportation system, high-speed internet, and reliable utilities. This makes it easy to get around and stay connected.
World-Famous Education
Canada is known for its high-quality education system, with top-ranked universities and colleges. As a result, international students are welcomed and encouraged to study in Canada, which can lead to opportunities for permanent residency.
Discover what has put Canada's education system on the map here.
Canadian-Pakistani Relations
Diplomatic relations between Canada and Pakistan were established in 1947, soon after Pakistan gained independence. Canada has a high commission in Islamabad, a consulate and trade office in Karachi, and a consulate in Lahore to represent its interests in Pakistan. Meanwhile, Pakistan is represented in Canada by a high commission in Ottawa and the consulates general in Montreal. Both nations are the Commonwealth of Nations members and have a history of contributing to United Nations peacekeeping efforts.
The two countries have maintained a relationship marked by mutual respect and cooperation. In 1998, Canadian Governor-General Roméo LeBlanc visited Pakistan as part of a state visit. More recently, in 2019, Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan traveled to Canada to participate in the Global Conference on Media Freedom. During this visit, both countries reaffirmed their commitment to continuing engagement to boost bilateral relations further.
Canada and Pakistan have a longstanding, friendly, and cordial relationship. While there have been concerns about the region's stability, both countries have worked together to promote peace and stability in the India-Pakistan region. In addition, Pakistan is an important trading partner for Canada, with bilateral trade valued at over $1.82 billion from April to December of 2022. Canada is also a major source of foreign aid for Pakistan, providing millions of dollars in assistance each year.
As a Canadian-Pakistani immigrant, you can exploit the close ties between the two countries and forge meaningful connections.
FAQs
How Long Does it Take to Immigrate to Canada From Pakistan?
The processing time for immigration applications can vary depending on the program and the number of applications being processed. Generally, Express Entry applications are processed within six months, while other programs may take longer.
Here is a breakdown of Canada's immigration processing times to better understand.
Do I Need a Job Offer to Immigrate to Canada?
Not necessarily. While having a job offer can increase your chances of being approved for permanent residency, it is only sometimes required.
Here's how to immigrate to Canada without a job offer.
Do I Need to Take an English or French Language Test?
Yes, language proficiency is essential in determining eligibility for many immigration programs. You must take a language test and achieve a minimum score to qualify.
Here's a breakdown of Canada's language testing system for immigration, known as the Canadian Language Benchmark.
What do I do Once I Arrive in Canada?
Settling in a new country can be a daunting experience, but Canada has a welcoming and inclusive culture that makes it easier for immigrants to adapt. Here are some tips for settling in Canada as a Pakistani immigrant:
Learn English or French
Canada has two official languages, and proficiency in one or both can help you communicate and integrate into Canadian society.
Connect with the Pakistani Community
There are many Pakistani communities across Canada, and connecting with them can help you feel more at home and provide a support system.
Take Advantage of Settlement Services
Many settlement services are available for newcomers to Canada, including language classes, job search assistance, and cultural orientation.
Explore Your New Home
Canada is a vast and diverse country; exploring it can help you appreciate its beauty and diversity.
Canada: Your Future Home?
Immigrating to Canada from Pakistan can be a complex process, but it can be a smooth and successful transition with the proper guidance and support. RCICs are licensed professionals who can provide you with expert advice and assistance throughout the immigration process. They can help you choose the right program, prepare your application, and navigate challenges. Schedule a consultation with an RCIC today to start your journey to Canada.