Introduction to Immigration: Step by Step Guide to make the right decision!

Author: Yan Desjardins, Founder & Executive Director

You have decided to live in another country! That is an exciting and important move and one that requires a proper preparation. There are many things to consider, but to help narrow the list, we have compiled a quick checklist to help guide your decision-making process.

Step 1: Start by choosing your preferred destination.

Many countries offer immigration programs, so it is essential to consider where you would like to live first. Factors such as language spoken, access to higher education and healthcare, climate, and culture should be considered. Try to narrow your options to a maximum of 3 countries and then do a comparison exercise. If you haven’t made up your mind yet, let us tell you about Canada.

Canada offers one of the highest quality of life in the world. With a world-class education and healthcare system, a strong economy where your business can prosper, and a safe environment to raise a family, make Canada your top choice. Our comparison table provides an overview of the quality of life by province.

Step 2: Define your intent, choose the right program.

Ask yourself: how long do I want to live abroad, and what do I want to do?

This will help you choose the right immigration program that fits your needs. For instance, if you’d like to work abroad and gain international experience, then a work permit might be the solution for you! The same goes if you wish to study in Canada.

But if what you are looking for is to immigrate to Canada with the whole family and live permanently, there are permanent residence programs to choose from. Many programs will embrace your skills, education, and work experience for those wanting to immigrate to Canada under the Skilled Category. Once you and your family become permanent residents, you can apply for Canadian citizenship after a few years in Canada.

Check out our website for more information on the different programs:

Step 3: Apply by yourself or hire a professional consultant.

You can decide to venture out on your own and register to apply for your visa with the Canadian Government directly. There is no obligation to hire an immigration consultant for you to be granted a visa. But if you wish to use professional services o, do your research first.

Make sure you engage with a reputable Canadian immigration consultant that is registered as a ‘Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant’ with the CICC. These professionals are the only ones authorized to deal directly with the Canadian Government on your behalf. Beware of fraud – nobody can offer any guarantee to Canada.

Make sure you protect yourself by using the right consultant! At Phan Immigration, we are a fully licensed and registered CICC consultancy firm.

Step 4: Start gathering your documents.

You will be asked to provide numerous documents to apply for a Canadian visa. Therefore, it is best to start preparing in advance.

Financial documents, bank statements, or business documents.

These are helpful to prove your financial establishment, regardless of the immigration program you choose.

Education credentials, certificates, and transcripts

You may be required to obtain an ‘Educational Credential Assessment’ to have your degree recognized in Canada.

Police certificates

You will be required to provide a certificate from your country of residence and any countries you have lived in for 6 months or more within the past 10 years.

Certified Translation

Canada requires documents not written in English or French to be translated and accompanied by a certified translation certificate.

Step 5: Apply for your visa and start preparing for life in Canada.

Once you have chosen your immigration program and gathered all the necessary documents, it is time to send your application for your visa. Phan Immigration is a reputable immigration consulting company that can help guide you every step of the way.

Depending on the immigration program, delays can vary from weeks to months before the application is processed. Use this time wisely and start looking at settlement locations in Canada. Look up some of the neighbourhoods you’d like to live in, find communities for you to connect with, and learn more about Canadian culture. Our ‘Life in Canada’ blog section is filled with great Canadian stories.

If you would like to find out how you can qualify for Canadian immigration, visit our website and use our self-assessment tool