How to migrate to Canada from Africa in 2023

Canada, undoubtedly, is one of the most sought-after nations in the world for immigrants. The Immigration Office reports that only in 2022 431,645 immigrated to Canada with a 75% increase in the nation’s population. Given the high demand for immigration, Canada has established a few routes to make the process easier and more manageable.

If you’re considering migrating to Canada from Africa in 2023, here are some general steps and guidelines to help you with the process. Note that immigration policies and procedures can change over time, so it’s essential to double-check the most up-to-date information from official sources such as the Canadian government’s immigration website.

General guidelines to ease the process of Visa application 

Research various immigration Programs 

Canada offers various immigration programs, including skilled worker programs, family sponsorship, and refugee programs. Research and find out which program suits your qualifications, skills, and circumstances.

Review your eligibility 

Once you’ve identified the immigration program you wish to apply for, review the eligibility criteria. Ensure that you meet the requirements, including factors such as education, work experience, language proficiency (English and/or French), and funds to support yourself and your family.

Language proficiency 

Proficiency in English or French is crucial for most immigration programs. You may need to demonstrate your language skills by taking a language proficiency test, such as the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), the Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (CELPIP), or the Test d’évaluation de français (TEF). Prepare for the tests and aim to achieve the required scores.

Education and skills assessment 

If you plan to apply for a skilled worker program, you may need to get your education and skills assessed. This evaluation will determine the equivalency of your qualifications to Canadian standards.  If your education credentials are from a non-Canadian institution, you may need to get them assessed for Canadian equivalence. Contact specified organizations approved to provide Educational Credential Assessments (ECAs) in Canada, such as World Education Services (WES) or International Credential Evaluation Service (ICES).

Create an Express Entry profile 

The Express Entry system is the primary pathway for economic immigration to Canada. Create an online profile through the Express Entry system and provide accurate information about your skills, work experience, education, language proficiency, and other r relevant details. Your profile will be ranked based on the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score. If you meet the criteria, you may be entered into the pool of candidates for permanent residence.

Improve your profile 

Increase your chances of receiving an invitation to apply for permanent residence by improving your Express Entry profile. Improving your profile means increasing your CRS score. To increase your CRS score, consider options such as improving your language proficiency, gaining more work experience, obtaining a job offer from a Canadian employer, or securing a provincial nomination through a PNP. 

Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)

Research and apply for PNPs if you have a particular province or territory in mind for settlement. These programs allow provinces to nominate individuals who meet their specific economic and labor market needs. Each province has its own PNP, and if nominated, you can gain additional points for Express Entry and receive an invitation to apply for permanent residency. Research the eligibility criteria and consider applying if you meet the requirements.

Gather necessary documents 

Start gathering the required documents for your immigration application. This may include identification documents, educational certificates, language test results, work experience letters, police certificates, and medical examinations. Ensure that all your documents are authentic, properly translated (if required), and meet the specific guidelines provided by the immigration authorities.

Submit your application 

Once you have prepared your application and gathered the necessary documents, submit your application through the appropriate immigration program or stream. Pay attention to any fees that may be required and ensure that you submit your application before the deadline.

Wait for a decision 

After submitting your application, the immigration authorities will review it and make a decision. The processing time can vary depending on the program and other factors. Stay updated on the status of your application and respond promptly to any requests for additional information or documentation.

Plan your accommodation 

If your application is approved, start planning for your accommodation in Canada. Research the city or province where you intend to reside, explore housing options, understand the cost of living, and learn about the local culture and services available to newcomers.

Immigration programs available in Canada 

Provincial Nominee Program 

To immigrate under this program, you must be referred by a Canadian province or territory. Bear in mind that each province has a focus on a particular demographic, such as students, skilled employees, entrepreneurs, and semi-skilled workers.

Express Entry 

Under this program, you can move to Canada as a Skilled worker. This program is the fastest way to obtain permanent residency in Canada. To get into this program, you must be a very skilled individual, nevertheless. The route is pointed based. Your score on the pathway will depend on your experience, credentials, education, and skills.

Family Sponsorship 

Under this program, you can sponsor the immigration applications of your family members, such as your spouse, partner, children, parents, grandparentsetctc.

Atlantic Immigration Program 

This program allows you to secure citizenship if you completed your education or find employment in Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, or New Brunswick. You can only move to these parts if you apply through this program. 

Quebec-selected skilled workers 

This program is best for people who want to live in Quebec. You must have gained employment in the province of Quebec as a skilled worker to be eligible for this program. You must also apply for a Quebec Selection Certificate from the Government of Quebec and abide by their requirement to obtain this authorization.

Caregivers Program

You can immigrate by taking care of children, the elderly, or people who require medical attention. You can also secure a visa  if you are employed as a live-in caregiver,

Start-up Visa Program 

This program allows you to immigrate if you can create jobs and start a business in Canada. You need a viable business plan and a letter of support from a recognized organization to be eligible for the start-up visa. You must also complete the language requirements and run a profitable business to settle in Canada.

Self-employed 

To be eligible for immigration through this program, you must be self-employed or have relevant work experience in cultural or athletic activities. You also would be required to provide enough evidence to back up your application. 

Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot

This program aims to grow smaller Canadian communities. The program allows for permanent residency to skilled and foreign workers who want to live and work in one of the communities involved. 

Agri-food Pilot 

You must work in a selected agri-food industry and profession to immigrate. 

Temporary resident to Permanent resident 

The route from temporary resident to permanent resident is short. This program is intended for specific temporary residents who are employed in Canada and their families.

Permanent residence pathways for Hong Kong Residents 

There are two routes for eligible Hong Kong citizens who are currently living in Canada to get permanent residency. They are;

Stream A: In-Canada graduates

Stream B: Canadian work experience 

Economic Mobility Pathways Program

This program helps skilled refugee immigrants and also gives employers access to a pool of qualified candidates. You can gain permanent residency if you are a skilled refugee. 

Refugees 

Apply through this program if you are a refugee or want to either become a sponsor. 

Francophone immigration 

With this program, you will live, work or study in French in a Francophone community aside from Quebec. 

Make an Appeal 

Contact the Immigration and Refugee Board to appeal for sponsorship, deportation orders, and residency restrictions.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Is Moving to Canada hard to process?

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Moving to Canada is not particularly hard to process. You will find it simpler to be accepted into one immigration stream because Canada is accommodating to new immigrants and provides a variety of immigration programs. However, to apply for the route, you must meet the prerequisites for that route. 

Even though relocating to Canada may not be too challenging, living there requires different preparations in terms of finances, adjustment, and social life.

What are the basic requirements to immigrate to Canada?

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The requirements to immigrate to Canada vary depending on the immigration program you choose. Generally, you will need to meet criteria related to age, language proficiency (English or French), education, work experience, and financial stability. Each immigration program has its specific requirements, so it’s crucial to review the eligibility criteria of the program you’re interested in and ensure you meet those requirements.

How much money do I need to settle in Canada?

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To settle in Canada, you’ll need at least CAD 13,200. This is the typical cost for a single person; but, if you relocate with other family members, the price goes up. During the moving procedure, additional unforeseen charges, such as entry taxes, the cost of shipping your belongings, the legalization of documents, etc., may show up. 

What are the language requirements for moving to Canada?

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Proficiency in English or French is essential for most immigration programs. The language requirements vary depending on the program, but generally, applicants must take a language proficiency test, such as the IELTS for English or the TEF for French. The required scores may vary, so it’s important to check the specific language requirements of the program you are applying to.

How can I find a job in Canada before moving?

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Finding a job in Canada before moving can be beneficial, especially for certain immigration programs or to secure employment in your field of expertise. Here are some methods to explore:

1. Use Canadian job boards and online platforms to search for job postings.
2. Network with professionals in your field through social media platforms like LinkedIn.
3. Research Canadian companies in your industry and directly reach out to them.
4. Consider attending job fairs or industry-specific events in Canada.
5. Engage with recruitment agencies that specialize in placing international candidates.

How long does the immigration process to Canada take?

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The processing time for immigration applications to Canada can vary significantly depending on the program, the number of applications in the system, and other factors. Processing times can range from a few months to over a year. It is important to regularly check the official Canadian government website or consult with an immigration professional to get the most accurate and up-to-date processing time estimates for your specific immigration program.

Can I bring my family when immigrating to Canada?

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Yes, Canada recognizes the importance of family reunification and offers various family sponsorship programs. If you become a permanent resident of Canada, you may be eligible to sponsor your spouse or common-law partner, dependent children, parents, and grandparents, depending on the specific program requirements. There are financial and other eligibility criteria that must be met to sponsor your family members. It’s advisable to consult the official Canadian government’s immigration website or seek professional advice to understand specific requirements and processes involved in family sponsorship.

Is it necessary to have a job offer before immigrating to Canada?

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While having a job offer from a Canadian employer can boost your chances of being selected for certain immigration programs or increase your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score in the Express Entry system, it is not always a mandatory requirement. Canada offers several immigration programs, including those that are not tied to a job offer. Skilled worker programs, for example, often evaluate candidates based on their education, work experience, language proficiency, and other factors. However, having a valid job offer can provide additional points or open up opportunities through Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) or the Atlantic Immigration Pilot (AIP). It’s important to thoroughly research the requirements of the specific program you’re interested in and explore all available options.

It is highly recommended to consult with an immigration lawyer or a certified immigration consultant who can guide you through the process, assess your eligibility, and provide personalized advice based on your circumstances. Immigration processes can be complex, and professional assistance can increase your chances of a successful application.