How to Move to Canada from Pakistan: A Complete Guide
So, what’s the easiest way to migrate to Canada? Should you apply for Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), or a student visa? Let's dive deep into the step-by-step guide on how Pakistanis can make their Canadian dream a reality.
Why Canada?
Before we get into the specifics of visas and immigration programs, it's important to understand why Canada is such a popular destination for migrants. Some of the key reasons include:
- Strong Economy: Canada has one of the most stable economies in the world, offering numerous opportunities for skilled workers, entrepreneurs, and professionals.
- High Standard of Living: From healthcare to education, Canada ranks high in global quality-of-life indices. It is known for its universal healthcare system and high-quality education, making it a great place to raise a family.
- Diversity and Inclusion: Canada is renowned for being a country of immigrants. Its society is welcoming, and the government promotes policies that support diversity and multiculturalism.
Now that you have a clear idea of why Canada might be the perfect place for your new life, let’s break down the steps required to move there from Pakistan.
1. Understand Your Visa Options
Canada offers various immigration programs. Here's a breakdown of the most common options:
Express Entry System: This is the most popular route for skilled workers. It is a point-based system that evaluates candidates based on factors like age, education, work experience, and language skills. There are three streams under the Express Entry:
- Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
- Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs): Every province in Canada has its own immigration program. PNPs are designed to meet specific local labor market needs. Candidates with skills in demand in a particular province may receive an invitation from the province, giving them additional points towards their Express Entry profile.
Family Sponsorship: If you have family members already in Canada, they can sponsor your move. This is an ideal route for those with close ties to the country.
Study Permit: Studying in Canada is a popular way to eventually secure permanent residency. After graduating from a Canadian institution, many international students qualify for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) that allows them to work in Canada and later apply for permanent residency.
Business and Investor Visas: If you have a significant amount of capital and entrepreneurial experience, you might be eligible for one of Canada’s business immigration programs.
Refugee and Asylum Programs: Canada also offers protection to those facing persecution in their home countries. While this route is only available to a specific group of people, it's important to mention it as one of Canada’s many pathways to entry.
2. Language Proficiency
Language proficiency is a key factor in your visa application, particularly for the Express Entry system. You’ll need to prove your proficiency in either English or French (Canada’s two official languages). Here’s how to prepare:
- Take the IELTS or CELPIP (for English). The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) or the Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (CELPIP) are the two main tests accepted for English language proficiency.
- TEF for French: If you're proficient in French, you can take the Test d'évaluation de français (TEF). Being bilingual can significantly boost your Express Entry score.
3. Educational Credential Assessment (ECA)
For immigration purposes, Canada requires an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) to verify that your foreign degree or diploma is equivalent to a Canadian qualification. Several organizations are authorized to conduct these assessments, such as:
- World Education Services (WES)
- International Qualifications Assessment Service (IQAS)
- International Credential Assessment Service of Canada (ICAS)
4. Job Offer from a Canadian Employer
While not always necessary, having a job offer can greatly increase your chances of success in the immigration process. If you’re applying under the Provincial Nominee Program or Express Entry, a job offer can give you a significant advantage.
Several online platforms can help you find job opportunities in Canada, such as:
- Job Bank Canada: A government-run platform for job listings.
- LinkedIn: This professional networking site can be an invaluable resource for making connections with Canadian employers.
- Indeed Canada: A widely-used job portal.
5. Express Entry: The Fastest Route
The Express Entry system is often considered the fastest and most straightforward route for skilled workers. Here's how it works:
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility: Use the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) to check if you have enough points to qualify. Your score will be based on age, work experience, language skills, education, and adaptability (e.g., having a job offer or family in Canada).
Step 2: Create Your Express Entry Profile: After confirming your eligibility, create an online profile. Make sure all your information is accurate, as providing false information can lead to being banned from applying for several years.
Step 3: Get an Invitation to Apply (ITA): If your profile is among the highest-ranking candidates in the pool, you will receive an ITA. This allows you to formally apply for permanent residency.
Step 4: Submit Your Application: Once you receive an ITA, you have 60 days to submit your complete application, which includes medical exams, police certificates, and supporting documents.
Step 5: Wait for Approval: If your application is successful, you will receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) and can plan your move to Canada.
6. Moving with Family
Many people moving to Canada from Pakistan plan to bring their families with them. If you’re applying under Express Entry or Provincial Nominee Programs, you can include your spouse and children in your application. Your spouse's qualifications (education, work experience, and language skills) can also help boost your CRS score.
7. Financial Requirements
You need to prove that you have sufficient funds to support yourself and your family during the initial months in Canada. The amount depends on the number of family members, but as of 2024, a single applicant must show roughly CAD 13,757, and this increases with each additional family member.
8. Life After Immigration: What to Expect?
Finding Accommodation: Housing in Canada can vary significantly depending on the city. Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal are the most popular cities, but also among the most expensive. Smaller towns and provinces like Alberta or Manitoba may offer cheaper living costs and an easier transition.
Healthcare: Canada’s healthcare system is publicly funded, but you'll need to apply for a health card in your province of residence. Most new immigrants can access healthcare within three months of arrival.
Education: For those moving with children, Canada’s education system is one of the best in the world, and schooling is free up to Grade 12. Higher education is also affordable compared to countries like the USA.
Conclusion: Is Moving to Canada Worth It?
Moving to Canada from Pakistan is a life-changing decision. It requires meticulous planning, financial stability, and perseverance. But for many, the rewards—better job opportunities, a higher standard of living, and a brighter future for their families—make it all worth it. Whether you're moving as a skilled worker, student, or through family sponsorship, understanding the process and meeting all the requirements is essential for a successful move.
Now, it's your turn—start preparing, ensure you meet all the criteria, and soon enough, you could be living your dream life in Canada.
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