Canadian Immigration

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Tourists

Canada welcomes millions of tourists each year. To visit, you must have acceptable proof of identity, such as a valid passport. Some foreign nationals may also need a visa. Click here for more information.

While visiting, tourists are not eligible for free treatment under Canada's healthcare system.

Studying in Canada

Canada welcomes foreign students. In general, you will need a visa or study permit to attend classes in Canada. Click here for more details.

Working Temporarily in Canada

In most cases, non-residents must have a valid work permit to work in Canada. To get a work permit, you must first be offered a job by a Canadian employer. For more information click here.

Americans Relocating to Toronto

Click here for information specific to Americans.

Permanent Residents

Canada welcomes the following classes of immigrants:

Skilled Workers
Workers that have a defined skill and have work experience in that profession.
Business Immigrants
Workers that can invest or start a business in Canada.
Provincial Nominations
Provinces choose immigrants based upon local criteria.
Refugees
International Adoption
Adoption of a child.
Family Unification
Reunification of immediate family members.

In general, new residents must prove that they have enough money to support themselves and their dependants for at least six months after arrival.

Canadian Citizenship

To become a Canadian citizen you must:

be 18 years of age or older
be a permanent resident of Canada
have lived in Canada for at least three out of the previous four years before applying
be able to communicate in either English or French
pass a citizenship test

A child (under 18 years of age) must be a permanent resident of Canada to apply for Canadian citizenship. To apply on behalf of your child you must either:

already be a citizen
apply for citizenship together as a family

The requirement for 3 years residence in Canada does not apply to children.

The following persons are ineligible for citizenship:

those under a removal order
are now charged with an indictable criminal offence
those convicted of an indictable criminal offence in the past three years
are now in prison, on parole, or on probation
are being investigated for or have been convicted of war crimes
had citizenship revoked in the last five years.

For more information click here.

Links

Canada Customs