Every year, tens of thousands of newcomers create new economic opportunities for themselves and for Canada by joining this country’s labour force. Many come to stay in Canada permanently (as permanent residents) through Canada’s immigration programs for skilled workers, or through the Provincial Nominee Program operated by many of Canada’s provinces and territories. Other newcomers come to Canada to start their own business or to work temporarily to help Canadian employers address short-term requirements for employees in specific occupations.

Come to Canada — One of the best countries in the world!

Canada is consistently ranked as one of the best countries in the world to live. It is easy to understand why thousands of people choose Canada every year. From its strong, stable economy and vibrant, cosmopolitan cities to the breathtaking beauty of its natural environment, Canada offers newcomers opportunities and a quality of life that are second to none.

Skilled workers

If you have skills and experience that meet Canada’s labour market needs, you may qualify for permanent resident status in Canada under the Federal Skilled Worker Program. Other factors, including education, the ability to speak English or French well, and whether you have an offer of employment are also considered.

Provincial Nominee Program

As part of the Canadian immigration system, most provinces and territories of Canada have agreements with the federal government that allow them to nominate immigrants who have the skills to meet their specific economic and labour market needs. One of the standard requirements of the Provincial Nominee Program is that applicants intend to settle in the province that nominates them.
To qualify for this program, you must apply to the province or territory where you wish to settle and complete its provincial nomination process. The provinces and territories have different requirements and each has its own application process.

Foreign credentials assessment

Before applying to immigrate to Canada, it is important to consider the requirements to work in Canada, including the steps you may need to take to have your training, qualifications and experience as a professional, technical or skilled worker recognized in Canada. It’s also a good idea to learn more about labour market trends and how to look for employment in Canada.

Business Immigration Program

If you are a businessperson, an investor or someone with self-employment experience, you may be eligible for permanent resident status in Canada through the Business Immigration Program.
This program is designed for newcomers who have financial resources to invest in Canada, as well as businesspeople who will own and operate businesses that can contribute to Canada’s economic prosperity and create jobs for Canadians. People with self-employment experience in farm management, the arts or athletics may also be eligible for permanent resident status through this program.
There are three categories for business immigrants to Canada:

• investors;
• entrepreneurs; and
• self-employed people.

There are different experience and financial requirements for each category.

Working in Canada temporarily

Every year, thousands of people enter Canada to work temporarily through the Temporary Foreign Worker Program. Temporary workers help Canadian employers address shortages of people with particular skills or work experience. As a temporary foreign worker, you may eventually become eligible to apply for permanent resident status in Canada. In fact, the Canadian Experience Class was created in 2008 to offer some temporary foreign workers the opportunity to stay in Canada on a permanent basis.
As part of your application, you will need to include some documents that will be provided by your employer in Canada, including a detailed job offer. Your employer may also have to obtain permission from the Government of Canada to hire you. If this is required, your employer will also give you a copy of a document called a Labour Market Opinion to include with your application for a work permit. The Labour Market Opinion is just one of the factors that will be assessed as part of your application.

Entering Canada — The basic requirements

Whether you are coming to Canada to study, visit, work or live permanently, everyone must meet basic requirements. For example, you must not pose a threat to the health, safety or security of Canada. As well, any record of criminal activity could prevent you from being allowed to come to Canada. This includes convictions for shoplifting or driving while impaired. You also must not provide false information or fraudulent documents, or withhold information that could be related to your application.