Friday, 08th December 2023
For individuals who have recently become permanent residents or foreign workers in Canada, there are five essential steps they must follow during their initial week in the country. It is crucial for these newcomers not only to focus on their future in Canada but also to take the necessary actions upon arrival to set themselves up for long-term success as either permanent residents or temporary foreign workers.
Five Essential Steps for Newcomers to Canada:
1. Obtain Health Insurance
Note: All residents of Canada will also benefit from following up with their employers about health insurance policies if they already have a job in Canada
Private health insurance is recommended for all residents of Canada, even as a complement to public health insurance, because there are limitations to what each provincial/territorial government covers with their public health insurance plan
2. Update Address with IRCC
3. Open a Bank Account
4. Obtain a Social Insurance Number (SIN)
5. Get a Cellphone/Phone Number
Note: Most telecom companies may require a Canadian credit score for post-paid phone plans.
Important Notes:
1. What is a Canada Immigration Visa?
A Canada Immigration (Permanent Resident) Visa is a document which allows a person to live and work anywhere in Canada, and confers upon that person Permanent Resident status.
2. How is a Work Permit different from a Canada Immigration Visa?
A Work Permit allows an eligible individual to reside and work in Canada for a limited period of time, and restrictions are sometimes placed on the type of employment which can be pursued. Canada Immigration Visa entitles its holder to live and work anywhere in Canada, enjoy many of the privileges of Canadian citizenship, apply for Canadian citizenship after three years and sponsor family members for Canadian Permanent Resident status.
3. Is there a benefit to using an attorney for immigration to Canada?
Yes, there is. Immigrating to Canada has become more and more complicated over time. There are currently more than 100 different federal and provincial immigration programs under which an applicant may qualify.
4. Can I apply for Permanent Resident status and Temporary status at the same time?
Yes, you can apply for Permanent Resident status and Temporary status at the same time. Canadian Immigration policy recognizes the concept of dual intent.
5. I have heard that Canada Immigration Regulations have changed. How will I be affected?
Canada immigration regulations, laws and policies are constantly subject to change. To remain continuously informed on changes being made by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), please visit our Latest News Section daily.
Canada Express Entry Draw; June 2019
The latest Canada Express Entry draw was held on 12 June 2019, with 3,350 invitations issued. The lowest qualifying score on the comprehensive ranking system (CRS) was 465 points. The next draw is expected to have a similar minimum CRS score. The previous draw had a minimum cut off point of 470.
These scores are considered pretty high on the CRS system. The reasons can be attributed to the fact that a greater number of qualified candidates have entered the Express Entry pool, and an increased time period between the draws, allowing a greater number of candidates to enter the pool; thus making the Express Entry Draws very competitive.
Want to know if you qualify under Canada's Express Entry migration? Contact us today for a quick assessment!