Canada

Travel Visa:

A Canadian Travel visa is for tourists, organ donors and business people who wish to travel to Canada.

A Travel Visa to Canada is required for nationals from non-Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) exempt countries who wish to visit Canada for a holiday, to see family and friends or to conduct a short business trip. Over 1.5 million applications for temporary residence to Canada were received in 2009:

• Tourist Visa: A Tourist visa allows foreigners to visit family, friends, tourist attractions and take a short course of study in Canada.Canada has much to offer visitors. It borders on three oceans, has towering mountains, countless lakes and a friendly cosmopolitan culture. Under the Tourist Visitor visa, foreigners can apply to come and visit Canada for a short duration of time. This visa allows applicants to apply to come and visit Canada along with their dependent children. Applicants must intend to come to Canada to visit and refrain from engaging in work or study and respect the terms of their entry to Canada. Join more than 5 million people who visit Canada each year and explore the many touristic opportunities this great country has to offer.

Although this visa does not entitle applicants to work in Canada, it does offer them the chance to experience Canada's diverse geographic and cultural landscape for themselves.
In order to apply for the Tourist Visitor visa, applicants from designated countries are required to obtain Temporary Resident visa (TRV) prior to their arrival to Canada.

• Business Visitor Visa: A business visitor visa is designed for foreign businesspersons to conduct business activities in Canada.

Canada has much to offer business visitors. Every year, thousands of international business people flock to Canada temporarily in search of new and exciting business opportunities, for investment purposes or to advance existing business interests and relationships. Under the Business Visitor visa, foreigners can apply to come and visit Canada to do business with world-class Canadian companies.
Under the Business Visitor visa, foreigners can apply to come and visit Canada for a short time. It allows eligible applicants to explore dynamic business opportunities, participate in trade conferences, meet with Canadian counter-parts in Canada as well as experience Canadian culture and hospitality. If applicants wish to come to Canada to travel, sight-see, enjoy leisure activities and explore business options, the Business Visitor visa is best suited for them. Although this visa does not entitle applicants to work in Canada, it does offer them the chance to experience Canada for themselves.

In order to apply for the Business Visitor visa, applicants from designated countries require a Temporary Resident visa (TRV) prior to their arrival to Canada. In addition, all applicants must possess a valid passport, respect the terms of their entry to Canada, and ensure that they are criminally and medically admissible to enter Canada.
Business Visitors must also be prepared to document their intended business activities in Canada. Their main place of business and source of income must remain outside of Canada with all profits generally accruing outside Canada.

Business Visitors are free to travel anywhere throughout Canada and visit family, friends and experience Canada's many attractions. During their stay, business visitors can take part in conferences, trade shows, meet with prospective clients, take orders, seek out lucrative business opportunities and explore their options for extending their stay in Canada. In addition, they can meet with prospective employers or recruiters and seek out employment opportunities, explore schools and educational institutions to pursue further studies and explore options for extending their stay in Canada.

• Organ Donor Visa: The Organ Donor visa allows potential organ donors to come to Canada for required medical procedures:  Canada has much to offer visitors. In addition to sightseeing and tourism, visitors can enter Canada for noble and heroic efforts such as organ donation to those in need. Under the Organ Donator visa, foreigners can enter Canada for the purpose of donating a potentially lifesaving organ to a Canadian resident in need of medical assistance. Applicants must intend to come to Canada temporarily and refrain from engaging in work or study and respect the terms of their entry to Canada. Although this visa does not entitle applicants to work in Canada, it does offer them the chance to provide the necessary and often lifesaving organ donation for the recipient.

In order to apply for the Organ Donor visa, applicants from designated countries must obtain a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) prior to their arrival to Canada; otherwise a TRV is not required. In addition, all applicants are required to possess a valid passport, respect the terms of their entry to Canada, and ensure that they are criminally and medically admissible to enter Canada.
In addition, Organ Donor applicants must provide documentation to support their intended organ donation activities in Canada and related costs. Specifically:

• Medical compatibility between the donor and the recipient;
• Evidence of satisfactory financial arrangements to cover costs related to the organ donation; and
• Evidence that a sale of human organ is not being transacted.

An organ donor is free to travel anywhere throughout Canada and there are numerous Canadian centres conducting organ transplants. In addition to organ donation, visitors are entitled to use their time in Canada to visit with family, friends and experience Canada's many attractions, if they are medically fit to do so. During their stay, visitors can and meet with prospective employers or recruiters and seek out employment opportunities, explore schools and educational institutions to pursue further studies and explore options for extending their stay in Canada.

Work Visa:
The Work Visa category allows highly skilled applications with transferable skills to live and work in Canada.

If the Applicant does not have a job in Canada, then they may qualify for permanent residence as skilled workers in two ways.

The first way is by qualifying for the Federal Skilled Trades Class. If they have a Trade or Professional Certificate to work in Canada, then they may qualify to become a permanent resident without a job in Canada. After they are permanent residents it will be much easier for them to find a job. Please see above on our Trade and Professional Certificate Service. Here are the jobs that qualify:

• 7202 Contractors and supervisors, electrical trades and telecommunications occupations
• 7204 Contractors and supervisors, carpentry trades
• 7205 Contractors and supervisors, other construction trades, installers, repairers and             servicers
• 7271 Carpenters
• 7301 Contractors and supervisors, mechanic trades
• 7302 Contractors and supervisors, heavy equipment operator crews
• 8211 Supervisors, logging and forestry
• 8221 Supervisors, mining and quarrying
• 8222 Contractors and supervisors, oil and gas drilling services
• 8241 Logging machinery operators
• 8252 Agricultural service contractors, farm supervisors and specialized                     livestock workers
• 9211 Supervisors, mineral and metal processing
• 9212 Supervisors, petroleum, gas and chemical processing and utilities
• 9214 Supervisors, plastic and rubber products manufacturing
• 9231 Central control and process operators, mineral and metal processing
• 9241 Power engineers and power systems operators
• 9243 Water and waste treatment plant operators
• 7231 Machinists and machining and tooling inspectors
• 7233 Sheet metal workers
• 7235 Structural metal and plate work fabricators and fitters
• 7236 Ironworkers
• 7237 Welders and related machine operators
• 7241 Electricians (except industrial and power system)
• 7242 Industrial electricians
• 7243 Power system electricians
• 7244 Electrical power line and cable workers
• 7245 Telecommunications line and cable workers
• 7246 Telecommunications installation and repair workers
• 7251 Plumbers
• 7252 Steamfitters, pipefitters and sprinkler system installers
• 7253 Gas fitters
• 7311 Construction millwrights and industrial mechanics
• 7312 Heavy-duty equipment mechanics
• 7313 Refrigeration and air conditioning mechanics
• 7314 Railway carmen/women
• 7315 Aircraft mechanics and aircraft inspectors
• 7318 Elevator constructors and mechanics
• 7371 Crane operators
• 7372 Drillers and blasters - surface, mining, quarrying and construction
• 7373 Water well drillers
• 8231 Underground production and development miners
• 8232 Oil and gas well drillers, servicers, testers and related workers
• 9232 Petroleum, gas and chemical process operators

The second way is by qualifying for the Federal Skilled Worker Class.  If they have at least one year of full time experience in the following jobs, then they may qualify to become a permanent resident without a job in Canada:

• 0211   Engineering managers
• 2113   Geoscientists and oceanographers
• 2131   Civil engineers
• 2132   Mechanical engineers
• 2134   Chemical engineers
• 2143   Mining engineers
• 2145   Petroleum engineers
• 2144   Geological engineers
• 2146   Aerospace engineers
• 2147   Computer engineers (except software engineers/designers)
• 2154   Land surveyors
• 2243   Industrial instrument technicians and mechanics
• 2263   Inspectors in public and environmental health and occupational health

and safety

• 3141   Audiologists and speech-language pathologists
• 3142   Physiotherapists
• 3143   Occupational Therapists
• 3211   Medical laboratory technologists
• 3212   Medical laboratory technicians and pathologists' assistants
• 3214   Respiratory therapists, clinical perfusionists and cardiopulmonary
• technologists
• 3215   Medical Radiation Technologists
• 3216   Medical Sonographers
• 3217   Cardiology technologists and electrophysiological diagnostic

technologists

Temporary Work Visa:Foreign students may work in Canada even without a work permit, but the onlystudents who are not citizens of the Canada:

• Temporary foreign workers often have a lot to offer to a Canadian employer, like a unique set of skills that can be transferred to domestic workers or the experience to lead a new project that may create jobs for Canadians.
• If you wish to work temporarily in Canada, you will likely require a work permit, which provides evidence that you have been authorized to work while in Canada. It is usually valid only for the specific job, employer and length of time stated on the permit. An immigration officer may issue a work permit after Human Resources and Social Development Canada (HRSDC) has issued a labour market opinion confirmation letter for your job offer.

Employer must give details of your job offer to HRSDC. This includes:

• a description of the duties;
• the wages and working conditions;
• a statement of essential qualifications;
• registrations or licenses that you need; and
• your name, birth date, place of birth and address.

The employer must also show that hiring a foreign national to fill the position will result in a neutral or positive effect on the labour market in Canada.

An employment counsellor will check to determine if your offer of employment meets the prevailing wages and working conditions for the occupation concerned. The counsellor will also consider the likelihood that a suitably qualified Canadian citizen or permanent resident would be able to fill the position. If not, and the other conditions are met, HRSDC will approve your job offer. They will then issue a confirmation of offer of employment and make it available to the relevant visa office serving your country.

The employer should send you:

• a copy of HRSDC’s labour market opinion confirmation letter for the job offer, including the file number; and
• a detailed job offer so that you can provide it to immigration officers when applying for a work permit.
•  

Employer is also responsible for arranging for your worker’s compensation and medical coverage when you arrive in Canada.

Family Visa:The Family Visa to Canada provides a unique opportunity for Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor family members to live in Canada:

• Spousal Visa: The spousal visa allows legally married and same-sex partners to join their spouse in Canada.Family reunification is a vital component of Canada's immigration agenda. The Spousal visa allows applicants married to a Canadian citizen or permanent resident the unique opportunity to be sponsored along with their dependent children. The applicant and their spouse must be married and show the genuine and continuing nature of the relationship and intend to live together in Canada, upon approval.A Canadian citizen or permanent resident who is living in Canada may be eligible to sponsor their spouse (same or opposite sex) and any dependent children for permanent residence in Canada. An application for sponsorship can be made for a spouse or partner who is living either inside or outside Canada.

A sponsor must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident living in Canada and be at least 18 years of age. A sponsor is also required to agree to provide financial support for their spouse for three (3) years and any dependent children for up to ten (10) years. Those who have previously sponsored relatives to come to Canada may need to satisfy additional requirements to be eligible to sponsor their spouse.
A spouse must be legally married to their sponsor, in either a same-sex or opposite-sex marriage, that is legally valid and recognised by both Canadian law and the law of the country where the marriage occurred. Both a sponsor and spouse are required to meet additional requirements to apply for permanent residence and must undergo health and character checks.

A spouse, and any dependent children, who is granted permanent residence under the Family Class will have the right to live, work and study in Canada indefinitely. Permanent residents can access Canada 's unique government-funded health care, subsidized education, language training programs and assistance for finding employment. Additional benefits of Canadian permanent residence include eligibility for Canada Pension Plan Benefits, Old Age Security and Guaranteed Income Supplement and the option to participate in retirement plans such as Registered Retirement Savings Plans (RRSP). Together with the many freedoms associated with permanent residence is the ability to apply for Canadian citizenship.

• Common-Law Partner Visa: The common-law partner visa permits eligible same and opposite sex partners who have been living together to establish their home in Canada.Under the Common-Law Partner visa, Canadian citizens and permanent residents who are living in Canada can apply to sponsor their common-law partner and eligible dependent children. This visa allows applicants who have been residing with their qualifying Canadian partners for a period of 1 year or more in an ongoing relationship the opportunity to be sponsored. Applicants and their partner need to be in a genuine and continuing relationship and intend to live together in Canada.The Canadian partner must be willing to live in Canada with the applicant once the visa is granted, and must be capable of supporting the applicant without accessing public funds. Once granted, the common-law partner will be given permanent residence and the right to join their sponsoring partner in Canada.

To apply for the Common-Law Partner visa, applicants must provide evidence of an ongoing and genuine relationship and have resided together at a common address for at least 1 year, with a Canadian citizen or permanent resident living in Canada. Both same-sex and opposite sex couples are eligible for this visa. The sponsor must also sign an undertaking to provide for all of the applicant's basic needs for a period of 3 years from the partner's arrival to Canada. In addition, all common-law partners must undergo health and character checks prior to their arrival.

A common-law partner who is granted permanent residence under the Family Class will have the right to live, work and study in Canada indefinitely. Permanent residents can access Canada's unique government-funded health care, subsidized education, language training programs and assistance for finding employment. Additional benefits of Canadian permanent residence include eligibility for Canada Pension Plan Benefits, Old Age Security and Guaranteed Income Supplement and the option to participate in retirement plans such as Registered Retirement Savings Plans (RRSP). Together with the many freedoms associated with permanent residence is the ability to apply for Canadian citizenship.

• Parental & Grandparental Visa: A parental and Grandparental visa allows parents and grand-parents to be sponsored by their Canadian children and grandchildren to live in Canada:

Extended families are encouraged in Canada! Under the Family Visa category, the Parental and Grandparental visa, Canadian citizens and permanent residents who are living in Canada can apply to sponsor their parents and grandparents.Applicants are required to show their relationship with their Canadian children and grandchildren. The Canadian sponsor(s) must also be willing to live in Canada with the applicant(s) and must be capable of supporting them financially without accessing public funds. Once granted, the applicant(s) will be given permanent residence and the right to join their Canadian children and grandchildren in Canada.

In order to apply for the Parental and Grandparental visa, applicants must possess children or grandchildren with Canadian citizenship or permanent residence living in Canada willing to sponsor them and provide evidence of sufficient income. The sponsor(s) must also sign an undertaking to provide for all of the applicant(s) basic needs for the duration of 10 years from the date the applicant(s) arrives in Canada. As such, the applicant must show that their sponsor(s) meet the required income levels so as to be able to provide for their needs during the undertaking period. In addition, all applicants are required to undergo health and character checks prior to their arrival.

A Parent or Grandparent who is granted permanent residence under the Family Class will have the right to live, work and study in Canada indefinitely. Permanent residents can access Canada's unique government-funded health care, subsidized education, language training programs and assistance for finding employment. Additional benefits of Canadian permanent residence include eligibility for Canada Pension Plan Benefits, Old Age Security and Guaranteed Income Supplement and the option to participate in retirement plans such as Registered Retirement Savings Plans (RRSP). Together with the many freedoms associated with permanent residence is the ability to apply for Canadian citizenship.

• Family-Based Provincial Nominee Visa:This family-based provisional nominee visa allows Canadians living in Alberta, Manitoba, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Saskatchewan or Newfoundland:

Under the Family-Based Provincial Nominee visa, Canadian citizens and permanent residents who are living in certain Canadian provinces can apply to sponsor their family members to live and work in Canada. The Family-Based Provincial Nominee visa allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents living in Canada to sponsor their relatives to a designated Canadian province. These currently include Alberta, Manitoba, Newfoundland, and Saskatchewan.

For the Family Based Provincial Nominee visa, applicants must meet specific requirements as set out below. All applicants are required to provide evidence of having a close family relative willing to provide support and assistance for the sponsorship, possess adequate English or French language skills and the possess the required settlement funds.
Under the Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program (AINP) - Family Stream Visa, applicants and their partner must be between the ages of 21 and 45, possess a combination of three years of full-time work experience and post-secondary school within the past four years.
Under the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program(MPNP) - Family Support Visa, applicants must be between the ages of 21 to 49, have completed post-secondary education of at least one academic year and received a diploma or certificate, have at least two years of full-time work experience within the past five years.
Under the Newfoundland & Labrador Provincial Nominee Program(NPNP) - Family Connection Visa, applicants must be between the ages of 18 to 49, must have completed post-secondary education, training, or apprenticeship of at least one year in length that has resulted in a diploma, a certificate or a degree, and have at least one year of work experience. They must also have a full-time, permanent job offer from a local employer.
Under the New Brunswick Skilled Worker (NBPNP) - Family Support visa, applicants must have close family relatives in New Brunswick and satisfy the employment, language, experience, age, and adaptability requirements.
Under the Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP) - Non-Dependent Child Of Nova Scotia Nominees Visa, applicants must be the non-dependent children of immigrants who were nominated under the Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP). In addition, under the Nova Scotia Family Business Worker Stream family-owned businesses can hire close relatives who have skills that cannot be found locally.
Under the Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP) - Family Members Visa, applicants must be between 18 - 49 years old, have completed the requisite educational requirements, and have a full-time, permanent job offer from a Saskatchewan Employer.

A Family-Based Provincial Nominee who is granted permanent residence under the Family Class will have the right to live, work and study in Canada indefinitely. Permanent residents can access Canada's unique government-funded health care, subsidized education, language training programs and assistance for finding employment. Additional benefits of Canadian permanent residence include eligibility for Canada Pension Plan Benefits, Old Age Security and Guaranteed Income Supplement and the option to participate in retirement plans such as Registered Retirement Savings Plans (RRSP).

• Dependent Child Visa:This Dependent Child visa is aimed at reuniting children with their Canadian parents:

As part of Canada's aim to foster family reunification, the Dependent Children visa allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents who are living in Canada to apply to sponsor their or their partner's dependent or adopted children.
Sponsors must be able to show that their children are still dependent upon them and/or the various requirements relating to the adoption of the children have been met. Once granted, dependent children will be given permanent residence and the right to join their sponsoring parent(s) in Canada.

In order to apply for the DependentChildren visa, prospective sponsor(s) must show that the children they are sponsoring are financially dependent on them and in most cases continuously enrolled and full-time studies at accredited educational institutions. Alternatively, they must be children who have been adopted or are in the process of being adopted. The sponsor parent must sign an undertaking to provide for the dependent children's needs for the longer period of 10 years or until the child turns 22 years of age.

Any dependent children, who are granted permanent residence under the Family Class, will have the right to live, work and study in Canada indefinitely. Permanent residents can access Canada's unique government-funded health care, subsidized education, language training programs and assistance for finding employment. Additional benefits of Canadian permanent residence include eligibility for Canada Pension Plan Benefits, Old Age Security and Guaranteed Income Supplement and the option to participate in retirement plans such as Registered Retirement Savings Plans (RRSP). Together with the many freedoms associated with permanent residence is the ability to apply for Canadian citizenship.

• Conjugal Partner Visa:The conjugal partner visa allows eligible same and opposite-sex partners who have not been living together to reunited with their Canadian partners:

The Conjugal Partner visa seeks to allow the reunification of partners separated by war, persecution or other legal barriers which prohibit the continued cohabitation of the applicant with their Canadian partners. Under the Conjugal Partner visa, Canadian citizens or permanent residents who are living in Canada can apply to sponsor their conjugal partners and dependent children.
This versatile visa allows the sponsorship of applicants who have been maintaining an ongoing relationship with their Canadian partner, but who have not been able to reside together at a common address with their Canadian partner for a period of at least 1 year. Once granted, the conjugal partner will be given permanent residence and the right to join their sponsoring partner in Canada.

In order to apply for the Conjugal Partner visa, applicants must show an ongoing and genuine relationship for least 1 year, with a Canadian citizen or permanent resident living in Canada. Applicants must also have combined their affairs to the extent possible with their Canadian partner and show that cohabitation was not possible due to reasons outside their control. Both same-sex and opposite-sex couples are eligible for this visa. The Canadian sponsor must also sign an undertaking to provide for of all of the partner's basic needs for the duration of 3 years from the partner's arrival to Canada. In addition, all conjugal partners will be required to undergo health and character checks prior to their arrival in Canada.

A Conjugal Partner who is granted permanent residence under the Family Class will have the right to live, work and study in Canada indefinitely. Permanent residents can access Canada's unique government-funded health care, subsidized education, language training programs and assistance for finding employment. Additional benefits of Canadian permanent residence include eligibility for Canada Pension Plan Benefits, Old Age Security and Guaranteed Income Supplement and the option to participate in retirement plans such as Registered Retirement Savings Plans (RRSP). Together with the many freedoms associated with permanent residence is the ability to apply for Canadian citizenship.

• Remaining Relative Visa:The Remaining Relative visa is designed to reunite Canadians with no living close family relatives with their remaining extended relatives in Canadian:

As part of the family reunification policy, Citizenship and Immigration Canada seeks to reunite families in Canada. For Canadians with no immediate family relatives in Canada or abroad, the Remaining Relative Visa allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to sponsor an extended relative from abroad.
The Remaining Relative visa allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents living in Canada to sponsor one relative regardless of age or relationship, if the Canadian sponsor does not have any relatives who are Canadian citizens or permanent residents or any other relative who may be sponsored under the family category. Once granted, the remaining relative(s) will be given permanent residence and the right to join their sponsor in Canada.

To apply for the Remaining Relative visa, applicants must have an extended relative who is either a Canadian citizen or permanent resident living in Canada with no living close family relatives. The Canadian sponsor must be willing to sponsor the remaining relative(s) and provide evidence of sufficient income. The sponsor must also sign an undertaking to provide for all of the applicant(s)'s needs for a specified period of time. As such, the applicant(s) must show that their Canadian sponsor meets the income requirements to provide for their essential needs during the period of the undertaking. In addition, all applicants must meet the required visa requirements including health and character prior to their arrival to Canada.

A Remaining Relative who is granted permanent residence under the Family Class will have the right to live, work and study in Canada indefinitely. Permanent residents can access Canada's unique government-funded health care, subsidized education, language training programs and assistance for finding employment. Additional benefits of Canadian permanent residence include eligibility for Canada Pension Plan Benefits, Old Age Security and Guaranteed Income Supplement and the option to participate in retirement plans such as Registered Retirement Savings Plans (RRSP). Together with the many freedoms associated with permanent residence is the ability to apply for Canadian citizenship.

Business Visa:Business visa are designed for individuals seeking to establish and  / or invest in a business to foster:
The Business Visa to Canada provides investors, entrepreneurs and self-employed business people and their families with the opportunity of settling permanently in Canada:

• Federal Investor Visa:The federal investor visa allows experienced business people to invest in Canada’s economy through federal government:

The Federal Investor Program provides an opportunity for foreign investors to invest their capital in Canada and offers many advantages to foreign investors seeking to establish Canada as their new home. No New Applications For The Federal Investor Visa Are Being Accepted Until Further Notice As Changes Are Being Proposed To This Visa.
Applicants to the Federal Investor Program must have at least two (2) years of senior level business experience and the ability to invest C$400,000 (proposed to be changed to C$800,000) in Canada for at least five (5) years. In addition, applicants must meet the pass mark on a points-based assessment. Successful applicants will obtain permanent residence, which will entitle them and their families to live and work in Canada with few restrictions.

To qualify for migration under the Federal Investor Immigrant Program, applicants must be able to satisfy the basic visa requirements related to an applicant's health and character. In addition, applicants under this program must:

• Have a minimum of two (2) years of executive business experience (ownership and/or management);
• Have a minimum net worth of C$800,000 (proposed to be changed to C$1,600,000);
• Make an investment of at least C$400,000 (proposed to be changed to C$800,000) to CIC;
• Obtain at least 35 Points on a points-based assessment; and
• Have sufficient funds to support themselves and their family in Canada.

The points-based assessment awards points in areas related to an applicant's education, business experience, age, English and/or French language ability and adaptability.

Successful applicants and holders of a Canadian Business visa become permanent residents of Canada. Permanent residents are entitled to live, work and study in Canada on a permanent basis.
Investments made under the Federal Investor Immigrant Program are guaranteed and managed by Citizenship and Immigration Canada to create employment opportunities and boost local economies. Your investment will usually be returned, without interest, after approximately five (5) years.
Additional benefits of Canadian permanent residence includes access to government-subsidised education and healthcare (Medicare), as well as unrestricted access to Canada's labour market and associated insurance and pension benefits. Permanent residents also have the ability to apply for Canadian citizenship and opportunity to sponsor family members to join them in Canada.

• Federal Entrepreneur Visa:The federal entrepreneur visa allows successful business people to own and manage new or existing enterprise in Canada:

Canada is looking for skilled business owners with recent business experience, seeking to invest in Canada. In exchange for the foreign capital into its economy, Canada offers many advantages for families of foreign entrepreneurs seeking to establish a new home.
The Federal Business Program is seeking to attract experienced business owners to Canada who will support the development of a strong and prosperous Canada. Foreign investment in existing businesses in Canada or the establishment and management of new business helps to foster a climate of continual business development. The dynamic Federal Entrepreneur visa allows applicants meeting the relevant requirements to file an application. Applicants must also meet some additional basic visa requirements including a points-based assessment.

The Entrepreneur Program seeks to attract experienced business persons who will own and actively manage businesses in Canada that contribute to the economy and create jobs. Entrepreneurs must:

• Show that they have at least 2 years of business experience;
• Have a minimum net worth of CDN $300,000 that was obtained legally;
• Obtain at least 35 Points on a points-based assessment; and
• Respect the conditions placed upon them as entrepreneurs once they arrive in Canada.

Successful applicants of the Federal Entrepreneur program will be granted conditional permanent residence in Canada. Once the application is approved, entrepreneurs must commit to managing and owning a qualifying Canadian business for at least one year after becoming a permanent and within three years of arriving in Canada and the business must have created the equivalent of at least one full-time job for a Canadian citizen or permanent resident. Upon successful completion of the conditions, entrepreneurs can apply for the removal of all conditions and for the granting of permanent residence.

The Federal Entrepreneur visa provides applicants with the opportunity to invest in or establish a business anywhere in Canada (except Quebec), and great flexibility with regards to the nature of business venture, subject to meeting the requirements for the category. Other benefits of holding permanent residence include access to government-subsidized health care, subsidized education and the ability to apply for citizenship once eligible.

• Federal Self-Employee Visa:The federal self-employed visa attracts individuals with experience and skills in the cultural, athletic or farming sectors to become self-employed in Canada:

Canada wishes to attract newcomers with world-class skills who are able to employ themselves once they arrive in Canada. Applicants can employ themselves in cultural or athletic activities, or through managing a farm in Canada. The Federal Self-Employed Persons Program seeks to attract applicants who have the intention and ability to become self-employed in Canada.
Self-employed persons are required to have either the relevant experience that will make a significant contribution to the cultural or athletic life of Canada or have experience in farm management and the intention and ability to purchase and manage a farm in Canada. Once granted, applicants will obtain permanent residence and be able to work and live in Canada with their families.

In order to apply for the Federal Self-Employed visa, applicants must provide evidence of their experience in athletic, cultural or farming activities, have sufficient funds to support their family upon their arrival, and demonstrate their intention and ability to become self-employed throughout Canada. In addition, they will also have to meet some additional requirements.

Eligible self-employed applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Have experience in either participation at a world-class level in cultural activities or athletics, farm management experience or self-employment in cultural activities or athletics;
• Possess the intention and ability to become self-employed in the province or territory of destination;
• Possess sufficient English or French language skills;
• Obtain at least 35 Points on a points-based assessment; and
• Possess sufficient settlement funds to support their family in Canada.

Once a Federal Self-Employed applicant becomes a landed immigrant, they are free to settle anywhere in Canada, work or pursue further study or invest in a business. Applicants will have access to Canada's first rate communication facilitates, a highly trained workforce, special taxation incentives for business investment, close geographical access to the wider North American market. Other benefits of holding permanent residence include access to government-subsidized health care, subsidized education and the ability to apply for citizenship once eligible.

• Provincial Nominee Investor Visa:The provisional nominee investor visa encourages multinational business to establish operations and provide their foreign employees the opportunity to settle in Canada:

The province of Ontario recognizes that employers play a critical role in economic success. For many employers, newcomers to Ontario are a valuable source of skilled workers and professionals. The Ontario Pilot Provincial Nominee Program - Multinational Investor Stream has been created to assist multinational firms establishing or expanding their businesses in Ontario wanting to bring key executives, managers or employees to work in their Ontario operations.
This program seeks to foster a significant investment in Ontario which will lead to job creation and economic development. The Ontario Multinational Investor category favours employer applicants who make a qualifying investment in Ontario of $3 million or more, and create 5 net permanent full-time positions. The visa allows applicants the opportunity to immigrate and settle themselves and their families in the prosperous Canadian province of Ontario.

The Ontario Pilot Provincial Nominee Program - Multinational Investor Stream is intended for companies that will make a significant investment in Ontario which will lead to job creation and economic development. To be eligible for the Pilot PNP, a company must:

• Make a qualifying investment in Ontario of $3 million or more;
• Create at least 5 net permanent full-time positions;
• Must specify the positions being applied for, the roles and responsibilities of each position and the qualifications and experience required for each position.

Companies may request up to a maximum of five employees, known as nominees, for each qualifying investment they make in Ontario. Employers are pre-screened by the Ministry of International Trade and Investment. If the employer is approved for the program, employees - known as 'nominees' - then apply to the Pilot PNP for individual approval. The Pilot PNP is a program of the Ministry of Citizenship and Immigration.

Once a Provincial Nominee Investor becomes a landed immigrant, they are free to settle anywhere in Canada, work or pursue further study or invest in a business. Applicants will have access to Canada's first rate communication facilitates, a highly trained workforce, special taxation incentives for business investment, close geographical access to the wider North American market. Other benefits of holding permanent residence include access to government-subsidized health care, subsidized education and the ability to apply for citizenship once eligible.

• Provincial Nominee Self-Employed Visa:The provincial nominee self-employed visa encourages business owners and operations to establish and develop a business or farm in Canada:

Persons who immigrate to Canada under this provincial nominee visa have the skills, education and work experience needed to make an immediate economic contribution to Alberta. They are ready to establish themselves successfully as permanent residents in Canada.
The unique Provincial Immigrant Nominee Program - Self Employed Farmer & Professional Stream is a provincial nominee program that is designed to assist farmers and professionals with skills and resources to develop growth within the farming industry and other businesses in various provinces of Canada. This visa favours applicants who intend to immigrate to Canada, and can purchase and manage a farm or other business in Canada.

Under the Alberta, Manitoba, And Saskatchewan Farming Programs, a farm owner/operator who intends to immigrate, can purchase and manage a farming business. Under the Yukon And North West Territories Self-Employed Program, applicants must demonstrate that they have sufficient financial resources to start and operate a business, and that they have the relevant experience and business plan to ensure that the business thrives in the selected skilled-shortage field.

Canada provides an ideal location for business entrepreneurs. With a large portion of businesses being accounted for by small or medium business owners, Canada provides a thriving economy, high export ratio and the latest expertise in technological advances. Other benefits of holding permanent residence include access to government-subsidized health care, subsidized education and the ability to apply for citizenship once they satisfy the residency requirements.

• Quebec Entrepreneur Visa:The Quebec Entrepreneur visa permits successful business to establish business and settle in the province of Quebec:

Quebec welcomes foreign investment into its economy, and it offers many advantages for families of foreign entrepreneurs seeking to establish a new home. The exciting Quebec Entrepreneur Program is similar in aim to the Federal Entrepreneur Program. The program is specifically designed to encourage newcomers to invest in Quebec's local economy. Applicants must be experienced business persons, and have the required amount of legally acquired funds.
Once granted, applicants will have the opportunity to invest in and manage a business venture within the historic province of Quebec and obtain conditional permanent residence to Canada.

To be eligible for the Quebec Entrepreneur program, applicants must:

• Have net assets of at least CDN $300,000 that have been legally obtained;
• Have at least two years' experience business experience within the last five years;
• Submit a business project with the purpose of creating or acquiring a business (agricultural, industrial or commercial) in Quebec that they will manage with a value of at least C$100,000, OR acquire a business in Quebec with a value of at least C$100,000;
• Actively participate in the management and daily operations of the intended business in Canada;
• Meet a points-based assessment.

In addition, upon their arrival in Quebec, applicants must for at least one year during the three years after obtaining permanent resident status, satisfy the following conditions:

• Create or acquire, in whole or in part, an agricultural, commercial or industrial business established in Quebec which will employ, on a permanent basis and for a minimum of 30 hours a week, a Quebec resident other than yourself and accompanying family members; and
• Participate in the daily management and operations of the business.

The Quebec Entrepreneur visa provides applicants with the opportunity to invest in or establish a business anywhere in Quebec. Quebec Entrepreneurs will have access to Canada's first rate communication facilitates, a highly trained workforce, special taxation incentives for business investment. Other benefits of holding permanent residence include access to government-subsidized health care, subsidized education and the ability to apply for citizenship once applicants satisfy the residency requirements.

• Quebec Entrepreneur Visa:The Quebec Self-Employed visa is for self-employed professionals to pursue their occupation in the province of Quebec:

Under the Canada-Quebec Accord on Immigration, Quebec establishes its own unique immigration requirements and selects immigrants who will adapt well to living in Quebec. The Quebec Self-Employed visa is similar to the Federal Self-Employed visa but allows for professionals seeking self-employment in Quebec. The program is geared towards applicants who will generate their own employment by pursuing an occupation in which they already have experience. The program is specifically designed to encourage newcomers to invest in Quebec's local economy.
Applicants must be experienced business persons, and have the required amount of legally acquired funds and have proficiency in Canada's official languages. Once granted, applicants will obtain permanent residence and be able to work and live in Canada with their families.

Applicants to the rewarding Quebec Self-Employed visa must possess the intention and ability to create their own employment by pursuing their occupation in Quebec. All applicants for this visa must also meet basic visa requirements such as health and character prior to their arrival.

To be eligible for this program, applicants must:

• Come to Quebec to create their own employment in an occupation for which they have at least 2 years of experience;
• Possess legally acquired net assets of at least $100,000 CDN;
• Possess the required skills, training experience and licensing required to be self-employed in Quebec;
• Satisfy a points-based assessment.

Quebec provides an ideal location for business entrepreneurs. With a large portion of businesses being accounted for by small or medium business owners, a thriving economy, high export ratio and with the latest expertise in technological advances, Quebec boasts many advantages. Other benefits of holding permanent residence include access to government-subsidized health care, subsidized education and the ability to apply for citizenship once they satisfy the residency requirements.

• Provincial Nominee Entrepreneur Visa:The Provincial Nominee Entrepreneur visa program provides permanent residence to talented business people who invest in and establish business in their sponsoring Canadian province:

Persons who immigrate to Canada under the Provincial Nominee Entrepreneur visa have the required capital, skills, education and business experience needed to make an immediate economic contribution to the province that nominates them. Under these various provincial nominee entrepreneur programs, lucrative and exciting opportunities exist for business migrants to make a personal investment to establish or purchase an eligible business in the respective province. In return they are provided with the expedited handling of their applications for permanent residence allowing them and their families to settle in a Canadian province.

The specific requirements for the British Columbia, New Brunswick, North West Territories, Prince Edward Island, Saskatchewan, Newfoundland & Labrador, and Yukon provincial nominee entrepreneur programs are outlined below. Generally, additional conditions also apply to each program such as the requirement to engage in exploratory trips, the submission of performance agreements, cash deposits and business plans.

Generally, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• make a personal investment of at least $150,000 to $400,000 CAD to establish or to purchase and expand an eligible business
• create new jobs for locals,
• provide active and on-going participation management of the business,
• possess a personal net worth as required by the Province
• possess previous management or business experience relevant to the business intended to pursue

Provincial Nominee Entrepreneurs will have access to Canada's first rate communication facilitates, a highly trained workforce, special taxation incentives for business investment, close geographical access to the wider North American market. Other benefits of holding permanent residence include access to government-subsidized health care, subsidized education and the ability to apply for citizenship once eligible.

Citizenship:
Citizenship allows permanent residents and persons with certain ties to Canada to become Canadian citizen:

• Citizenship Through Permanent Residency: Citizenship through permanent residency is for those who have maintained their permanent residency status in Canada:

Canadian Citizenship is one the most prized opportunities in the world. Citizenship allows lawful permanent residents and applicants who have certain ties to Canada to apply to become citizens and be eligible to obtain a Canadian passport.
Citizenship through Permanent Residency favours applicants who meet the age, permanent residence; time lived in Canada, language, character and knowledge of Canada requirements. The Citizenship through Permanent Residency allows applicants the opportunity to become citizens of Canada and apply for a Canadian passport. The citizenship ceremony is the final step in becoming a Canadian citizen. During the citizenship ceremony, applicants will be asked to take an oath of citizenship and will receive their certificate of Canadian Citizenship.

To become a Canadian citizen through permanent residency, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Must be at least 18 years of age (or 14 years or older with parent);
• Must possess Canadian permanent resident status;
• Must meet the residency requirements for time lived in Canada;
• Must possess a working knowledge of one of Canada's official languages (English/French);
• Must not pose a security threat or possess a criminal history;
• Must undergo a knowledge test to confirm the applicant's knowledge of some basic facts about Canada and Canadian citizenship.

Certain exemptions apply to the above requirements for applicants below 18 and above 54 years of age.

An applicant who is granted citizenship through permanent residency will be entitled to rights and freedoms including legal rights, equality rights, mobility rights, aboriginal peoples' rights, freedom of thought, freedom of speech, freedom of religion, and the right to peaceful assembly. They will also have to obey Canada's laws, express their opinions freely while respecting the rights and freedoms of others, help others in the community, care for and protect our heritage and environment, and eliminate discrimination and injustice. Another privilege is the right to vote and to have a say in the political leadership of Canada.

• Renunciation of Canadian Citizenship:  Renunciation of Citizenship is for Canadian citizens who want or need renounce their Canadian citizenship to become a citizen of another country:

Canadian citizens who wish to become citizens of certain countries must sometimes renounce their Canadian citizenship if the other country does not allow dual citizenships. Renunciation of citizenship allows applicants who are Canadian citizens the opportunity to renounce their Canadian citizenship, affording them the opportunity to become citizens of another country.
The Renunciation of Citizenship assists applicants who decide that they want to renounce or give up their Canadian citizenship. A formal application is required to renounce Canadian citizenship and a Renunciation Certificate is granted. Once granted, applicants will lose all the rights and privileges of Canadian citizenship, including the right to travel under a Canadian passport and the right to vote.

To be eligible to renounce their Canadian citizenship, applicants must:

• Be a Canadian citizen;
• Prove that they are or will become a citizen of a country other than Canada if the application to renounce is approved;
• Reside outside Canada;
• Be at least 18 years old;
• Not pose a threat to Canada 's security; and
• Understand the significance of renouncing Canadian citizenship.

An applicant who is granted renunciation of citizenship will lose all the rights and privileges of Canadian citizenship and enable them to apply for citizenship of another country which prohibits dual citizenship with Canada. They will lose the right to travel under a Canadian passport, will have lost the right to vote, and if they return to Canada as a permanent resident, they will have to go through the immigration process all over again.

• Citizenship Through Adoption: The Citizenship through adoption is intended for those who have been adopted by Canadian parents and are able to apply to obtain citizenship through adoption:

Canadian Citizenship is one the most prized opportunities in the world. Citizenship allows lawful permanent residents and applicants who have certain ties to Canada to apply to become citizens and be eligible to obtain a Canadian passport.
Citizenship through Permanent Residency favours applicants who meet the age, permanent residence; time lived in Canada, language, character and knowledge of Canada requirements. The Citizenship through Permanent Residency allows applicants the opportunity to become citizens of Canada and apply for a Canadian passport. The citizenship ceremony is the final step in becoming a Canadian citizen. During the citizenship ceremony, applicants will be asked to take an oath of citizenship and will receive their certificate of Canadian Citizenship.

To become a Canadian citizen through permanent residency, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Must be at least 18 years of age (or 14 years or older with parent);
• Must possess Canadian permanent resident status;
• Must meet the residency requirements for time lived in Canada;
• Must possess a working knowledge of one of Canada's official languages (English/French);
• Must not pose a security threat or possess a criminal history;
• Must undergo a knowledge test to confirm the applicant's knowledge of some basic facts about Canada and Canadian citizenship.

Certain exemptions apply to the above requirements for applicants below 18 and above 54 years of age.

An applicant who is granted citizenship through permanent residency will be entitled to rights and freedoms including legal rights, equality rights, mobility rights, aboriginal peoples' rights, freedom of thought, freedom of speech, freedom of religion, and the right to peaceful assembly. They will also have to obey Canada's laws, express their opinions freely while respecting the rights and freedoms of others, help others in the community, care for and protect our heritage and environment, and eliminate discrimination and injustice. Another privilege is the right to vote and to have a say in the political leadership of Canada.