FAQ
General
How many immigration programs exist in Canada?
There are currently over 60 different federal and provincial programs.
How long will it take to go through the entire process?
Processing times are entire responsibility of Citizenship and Immigration Canada. They vary depending on the type of application and the number of applications currently under process.
Can my process take less time if I hire an immigration consultant?
No. Hiring an immigration consultant won’t affect the processing time of your application as it depends entirely on the immigration authorities.
Why use an authorized immigration consultant?
Because your immigration application is a serious matter that requires the knowledge and experience of an immigration professional. Mistakes in your application could result in a delay or rejection costing you time and money.
How can I be sure an immigration consultant is authorized to work as such?
Before hiring an immigration consultant, make sure your selected consultant has the required Government accreditation to represent you before the Canadian immigration authorities. You can search the Immigration Consultants of Canada Regulatory Council register here.
If you want to immigrate to Quebec, your selected consultant must be also a member of the Quebec Immigration Consultants Registry which can be checked here.
What are the advantages of hiring the services of Integra Immigration?
We will legally represent you before the Canadian immigration authorities.
We will take care of all paperwork and red tape for you.
We will guide you through the different options you may have to select the program that best suits your interests.
If you do not qualify under any immigration program, we will tell you right away and give you advice of what you can do to overcome your weak points.
We provide language training to help you prepare for the IELTS/TEF exam so you will reach the required score for your application.
We will maximize your chances by submitting a complete application and supporting documents.
During the entire process, we will provide pertinent information for you to prepare for your new experience in Canada. Because a process does not end when a visa is issued, we offer you orientation before, during and after coming to Canada.
How do I retain the services of Integra Immigration?
First, we invite you to fill out the free assessment form so we can evaluate your profile and determine if you are eligible under any immigration program. You will receive a receipt confirmation email within the next 48 hours.
After evaluating your case, we will contact you to let you know your options as well as the cost of services. We will then proceed to sign an agreement to start working on your application.
Alternatively, we also offer one-time consultations if you feel just like clarifying certain doubts you may have. These can take place through Skype or in person at our Montreal office.
Do I need a permit to study in Canada?
In general, foreign nationals need a study permit to pursue studies in Canada. There are some exceptions; for example, if your course is six months or less you don’t need a study permit. However, we recommend you get one in case you decide to continue your studies.
If you are from a country that requires a visa to enter Canada, you will need to apply for a TRV as well.
Can I work while I am studying?
Yes. Your study permit allows you to work on or off-campus under certain conditions without a work permit.
As an international student, can I travel outside Canada during my studies?
Yes, as long as you have a valid travel document/passport, a valid study permit, and a valid temporary resident visa (if applicable) in order to re-enter Canada.
If I get sick while I am studying in Canada, will the government or school cover the medical fees?
No. It is mandatory for you to be covered by a medical insurance during the entire duration of your studies.
I am already studying in Canada but I want to change my school/academic program, do I need to apply for a new study permit?
If you are a post-secondary student you may change school/academic program without applying for a new study permit as long as your current one still valid.
Can I stay in Canada after my graduation?
If your academic program was full-time and at least 8 months in duration, you can apply for a Post-Graduate Work Permit and stay in Canada up to three years after your graduation.
Student
Visitor
Do I need a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) if I want to visit Canada?
If you are from a visa-exempt country, you do not need a TRV. Citizens from all other countries must apply for a TRV before coming to Canada.
How long can I stay in Canada as a visitor?
You are allowed to remain in Canada up to six months unless immigration authorities indicate on your travel document/passport you must leave at a certain date.
How does the parent/grandparent Super Visa differ from a visitor visa?
With the Super Visa, parents/grandparents can visit family in Canada for up to two years without the need to renew their status while people on a visitor visa who wish to stay longer than six months must apply for an extension.
Can I study in Canada while I am visiting?
In general, international students need a study permit to pursue their education in Canada. However, if the duration of your academic program is six months or less you are allowed to attend school without a study permit. Although, we strongly recommend you to get a permit in case you want to continue your studies.
Can I work in Canada while I am visiting?
In general, foreign nationals who want to work in Canada must obtain a work permit. However, there are some exceptions.
Do I need a visa to come to Canada on a short business trip?
If you are from a country that requires a visa to visit Canada, you will need to apply for a TRV like any other visitor.
What do I need to work in Canada?
The general requirements include a valid job offer from a Canadian employer, a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), a temporary resident visa (depending on the country you are from), and a work permit. In some cases, you will also need a certification to work in a specific occupation.
What is LMIA?
A Labour Market Impact Assessment is an authorization that an employer in Canada may need to get before hiring a foreign worker. There are some exceptions.
How long can I stay in Canada as a foreign worker?
It will depend on the job offer you received and the category you are applying under. However, there is a maximum duration for certain types of work permits.
Does my work permit allow me to work for any employer in Canada?
It depends on the work permit you have. Work permits are usually tied to a specific employer and if you decide to change jobs you will need to go through the entire process again. In some cases, a foreign national can get an open work permit which allows you to work for any employer.
Who will cover my medical expenses if I get sick while working in Canada?
As an approved foreign worker, you will be covered by the provincial/territory health care plan.
I am working in Canada under a work permit and my spouse came with me. Does she need a work permit in order to work as well?
Yes, she must apply for her own work permit. However, if you are allowed to work in Canada for at least six months in an eligible job, your spouse may obtain an open work permit which will be valid for the same period as yours.
Temporary Worker
Permanent Resident
SKILLED WORKER
What do I need to apply as a skilled worker?
You must have at least one year of continuous full-time paid work experience in an eligible occupation within the last 10 years; proof of advanced intermediate language proficiency in English or French; provide either Canadian educational credentials or a foreign educational credential assessment conducted by a designated institution; show proof of sufficient settlement funds.
How can I prove my language proficiency?
You must submit the results of an authorized language test (CELPIP/IELTS/TEF) taken in the last two years.
Can I apply as a skilled worker if I have a Canadian job offer?
Yes, as long as it is a full-time and not seasonal work. Notice that some job offers may require a LMIA as well.
Can I apply as a skilled worker if I am currently studying in Canada?
Yes, PhD students who have completed 2 years of their program and are in good standing are eligible as well as those who graduated from a PhD program within the last 12 months. However, if your studies are part of a scholarship or award requiring you to go back home after graduation then you won’t be eligible.
If I apply as a skilled worker, can my family accompany me?
Yes, your family can be part of your own application.
SKILLED TRADES PROGRAM
What are the requirements to apply under the Skilled Trades Program?
You must have a valid job offer or a provincial certificate of qualification; 2 years of work experience in that specific trade in the last five years; intermediate language proficiency in English or French; and plan to live outside the province of Quebec.
How do I get a provincial certificate of qualification?
To obtain a certificate of qualification, the trades’ regulatory body in a province or territory must assess your training, experience and skills to determine if you are eligible to take the exam to get certified.
Which trades are eligible under this program?
- Industrial, electrical, construction.
- Maintenance and equipment operation.
- Supervisor and technical jobs in natural resources, agriculture and related production.
- Processing, manufacturing and utilities supervisors and central control operators.
- Chefs, cooks, butchers, bakers.
PROVINCIAL NOMINEE PROGRAMS
What do I need to apply under a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)?
You must obtain a nomination certificate from a specific province or territory and then apply for your permanent resident visa. Notice that each province and territory has its own nomination guidelines.
All provinces and territories participate at the PNP?
No. The province of Quebec has its own immigration selection criteria.
What categories exist under the PNP?
Most provinces and territories accept certain workers, students and business people.
CANADIAN EXPERIENCE CLASS
How do I know if I can qualify under the Canadian Experience Class (CEC)?
You must have worked full-time or the equivalent in Canada for 12 months in the last three years in a high skilled eligible occupation on a work permit, plan to live outside the province of Quebec, and submit the results of a language test to prove your proficiency (intermediate or advanced intermediate depending on the occupation).
Can I apply under the CEC if my work experience was gained in the province of Quebec?
Yes, all Canadian experience is admissible as long as you plan to live outside the province of Quebec.
Do I have to be in Canada to apply under the CEC?
Not necessarily. As long as you meet the requirements you can still apply if you return to your country.
I am a student in Canada and I work at the same time, does this work experience count?
No. In the case of students, the work experience must be gained after graduation.
QUEBEC EXPERIENCE PROGRAM
Who can apply under the Quebec Experience Program (PEQ)?
Quebec graduates or future graduates as well as Quebec temporary workers.
I am a student in Quebec and want to stay here, what do I need to be eligible under the PEQ?
You need to be at least 18 years old; have conformed to the conditions of your study permit; hold a Quebec eligible diploma or being six months away of completion of your study program; have advanced intermediate level of French; have sufficient funds to provide for yourself (and family if the case) for the first 3 months after becoming permanent resident.
How long do I have to apply under the PEQ after obtaining my degree in Quebec?
You must apply within the next 3 years after completion of your studies.
I finished my university degree and now I am about to start my master’s degree in Quebec as well; can I submit my application under the PEQ so the process will take place while I study?
No, the objective of this program is for you to become part of the job market so if studies will be your main activity you do not qualify.
What do I need to qualify under the PEQ as a temporary worker?
You must be at least 18 years old; be present in Quebec as legal temporary worker; work on an eligible occupation and have worked for 12 out of 24 past months; have conformed to the conditions of your work permit; have advanced intermediate level of French; have sufficient funds to provide for yourself (and family if the case) for the first 3 months after becoming permanent resident.
I am studying in Quebec and my spouse got an open work permit, can she qualify under the PEQ?
No, accompanying family members of students or temporary workers do not qualify as main applicants.
SPONSORSHIP
Which family member can I sponsor to come to live in Canada?
You can sponsor your spouse, common-law partner or conjugal partner; your parents; grandparents; dependent children; orphaned, unmarried and under 18 years old brother, sister, niece, nephew, grandchildren; intended adopted children under 18 years old; or any other relative if you have no living family member as those listed and no relatives who are Canadian citizens or permanent residents.
Can I sponsor my spouse’s child?
Yes, as long as the child qualifies as dependent can be included in your spouse’s application.
Who can be considered a dependent child?
A child under the age of 19 who is not married and depends financially on his parents. However, those children suffering from a mental or physical condition and unable to self-support will be considered dependent regardless the age.
How can I prove that my partner and I have a common-law relationship?
You must have been living together for at least 12 consecutives months and submit proof of it. For instance: shared bank accounts, shared property, mail, bills, etc.
Can a same-sex partner be sponsored?
Yes, as long as the marriage was valid in the place where it took place it will be valid in Canada. Same-sex common-law partners and conjugal relationships are admissible as well.
A sponsorship application should be submitted only if the sponsored person is outside Canada?
No, there are certain circumstances when a sponsored person can apply within Canada.
Can a sponsored person work or study while the application is being processed in Canada?
Sponsored persons are allowed to work or study only after the sponsorship application has been approved in principle by Citizenship and Immigration Canada. However, if the sponsored person was already in Canada under a work or study permit, may continue to do so.
START-UP VISA
What is the Start-up Visa Program?
This is a program that links immigrant entrepreneurs with experienced Canadian private sector organizations who are experts in working with start-ups. If your business idea gets funded you can immigrate to Canada permanently.
What do I need to obtain a start-up visa?
You will need a letter of support from a designated angel investor group, a venture capital fund or a business incubator; a proof of intermediate language proficiency (English or French); one year of post-secondary education and sufficient settlement funds.
How do I get a letter of support from a designated organization?
You must contact a designated organization and convince them that you have a business idea that is worth supporting. Once you reach an agreement with the organization you will receive a letter of support.
Will I have to invest my own money to get a start-up visa?
No. The minimum investment required should come from the venture capital fund or angel investor group that supports you.
SELF-EMPLOYED
What do I need to be eligible under the Self-employed Program?
You must have two years of relevant experience in cultural activities, athletics or farm managing; and show that you intend to become self-employed in Canada.
As a self-employed person, can I do any job I want?
No. Only cultural activities, athletics and farm management are admissible under this program.
Do I have to own a farm in Canada?
Yes, you must prove you will buy a farm in Canada and that you will be actively involved in the management of it.
Is there a net worth requirement to apply under the Self-employed Program?
No, there is no minimum net worth required. However, you must prove you have enough money to settle in Canada and finance the work you intend to do.
Business People
Citizenship
What do I need to become a Canadian citizen?
You must be a permanent resident, be 18 years of age or older, have lived in Canada for at least 1,095 days in the four past years, have an adequate knowledge of English or French and pass a test to prove your knowledge of Canada.
If I become a Canadian citizen, will I lose my original citizenship?
That depends on your country of origin. Some countries as Canada allow dual citizenship while others do not.
If I marry a Canadian citizen, will I become a citizen as well?
No. Marriage to a Canadian citizen does not give you citizenship.
Does the time I previously spent in Canada as a worker/student count towards my citizenship?
The time you spent in Canada before becoming permanent resident counts only as half up to a maximum of one year.
Can I count any time I have spent outside Canada with my spouse who is a Canadian citizen?
You can only count that time if your spouse is working for a federal or provincial public service or is in the Canadian armed forces.
How can I prove my adequate knowledge of language?
You can prove you have achieved intermediate level of English or French with the results of an authorized test, with the completion of secondary or post-secondary studies in English or French (in Canada or abroad), or with the completion of certain government-funded language training programs.
Integra Immigration offers you IELTS and TEF training to help you get the score you need for your application.
Can I submit the results from the language test I took when applied for my permanent residence?
Yes. There is no expiration date for language test results for citizenship purposes.
TEF
What does TEF stand for?
TEF stands for Test d’Évaluation de Français.
Where can I take the TEF?
There are TEF centers all over the world. You can visit http://www.francais.cci-paris-idf.fr/tef-canada/ to get a list per location and further information.
How long does it take to get my results?
You will get your results four weeks after you take the test.
If I did not get the score I need, can I take the test again?
Yes, you can take the TEF as many times as you want.
How can Integra Immigration help me to reach the score I need?
Our team has over 10 years of experience in language teaching, examination and TEF itself. The language training we offer is conducted by a native speaker, professional in the field, who will assess your language level on individual basis to provide you with a personalized training plan.
IELTS
What does IELTS stand for?
IELTS stands for International English Language Testing System.
Where can I take the IELTS?
There are IELTS centers all over the world. You can visit www.ielts.org to get a list per location and further information.
How long does it take to get my results?
Two weeks after you take the IELTS you will be able to see your results online and you will receive your Test Report Form shortly after.
If I did not get the score I need, can I take the test again?
Yes, you can take the IELTS as many times as you want.
How can Integra Immigration help me to reach the score I need?
Our team has over 10 years of experience in language teaching, examination and IELTS itself. The language training we offer is conducted by a native speaker and professional in the field who will assess your language level on individual basis to provide you with a personalized training plan.
If you are based in another country, we work closely with IELTS experts in a variety of cities who can help you reach your goals.