Application for Canada Working Visa and Permanent Residency Your Questions Answered

Applying for immigration to Canada is a tedious process. It could take a long time and you might need to produce a lot of requirements before you can be approved. But, the good thing is that there are several ways to obtain permanent residence in Canada – by sponsorship or by applying as a skilled worker, and through some other means.

But while not many of us have relatives in Canada who can sponsor us, it’s always possible to apply by working in the said country. And here, we clarify some of the vague issues pertaining to the application for working visa and permanent residence to Canada in the aim to be of help to those who plan to apply.

1. What kinds of programs are available for those who want to get a working visa in Canada?

* There are two: programs for skilled workers and programs for caregivers. Skilled workers (those included in the 29 occupations listed by the Canadian government) can work in Canada and simultaneously apply as a permanent resident. Those who are offered a caregiver work can apply in a live in caregiver program, working in Canada as a caregiver. After two years of being a caregiver, they can already apply for permanent residency.

2. How do I apply for a working visa and how long does processing take?

* First and foremost, you must have a work offer. The length of time it takes to process the visa depends on that work offer, but the average is one year (except for caregiver, which could take only months). If you’re applying for other positions other than caregiver, you have to comply with many other regulatory requirements plus Labor Market Opinion.

3. What are the requirements to qualify for the live in caregiver program?

* Other than the working visa, your initial work permit should be issued outside of Canada, by a Canadian Consulate of Embassy. In case it’s issued within Canada, or issued for another work other than caregiver, then you can’t qualify for the program. Yes, you can still work, but you can’t be considered in the program. If, however, you have been issued a work permit outside of Canada, it’s already possible to renew that permit inside of Canada in case it expires.

4. Other than caregivers, what other professions are in demand in Canada?

* Among the in-demand positions are chefs, architects, doctors, dentists, practical nurses and nursing assistants, and physical therapists. You can check out the list of 29 occupations issued by Canada to see the rest.

5. When applying for permanent residency to Canada, all dependents should be included. Is it possible to exclude a person, such as a spouse who you are already planning to divorce?

* Well, as long as your divorce with your spouse has not been finalized yet, you will have to include your partner as a dependent. You can only exclude your partner if you have a death certificate or a certificate proving that you’re already divorced.

Hope all these questions have clarified your concerns about applying for a working visa, working permit, and permanent residency.