For those seeking a brighter future in a new country, Canada consistently ranks as a top choice. Known for its robust job market, publicly funded healthcare, world-class education, safety, and stable economy and politics, Canada offers ample opportunities for immigrants.
According to Statistics Canada, there are over 300,000 individuals of Pakistani origin residing in Canada. With a shrinking population and rapidly growing industries, Canada is eager to welcome skilled foreign workers to fill crucial roles in its labor market.
To streamline the immigration process, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has developed more than 100 visa and immigration programs. With so many options available, deciding on the best route to take can be overwhelming. To assist, we’ve compiled key pathways for obtaining permanent residency or a Canadian visa from Pakistan.
For those looking to make the move from Pakistan to Canada, there are numerous outstanding immigration options available. Some of these pathways begin with temporary visas that can ultimately lead to permanent residency, while others offer a direct route to becoming a permanent resident.
The Express Entry System
The Express Entry system is Canada’s most renowned method for obtaining permanent residency. Launched in 2015, this system was designed to facilitate the immigration of skilled workers and their families to Canada in as little as six months.
To apply through the Express Entry system, candidates need to create a profile on the IRCC web portal. This profile requires details such as:
There are various excellent pathways for moving to Canada from Pakistan. These include both temporary visas, which can later transition to permanent residence, and direct routes to permanent residency.
Express Entry System
Canada’s Express Entry system is the most favored approach for acquiring permanent residency. Launched in 2015, this system facilitates skilled workers and their families to immigrate to Canada in approximately six months.
To begin the process, applicants create an Express Entry profile on the IRCC’s official portal. Here, they fill in details such as:
The Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) assesses these details to generate a CRS score. All scores are entered into an Express Entry pool. Every two weeks, an Express Entry draw occurs, selecting candidates with scores above a certain threshold to receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency in Canada.
Applicants with an ITA have 60 days to submit necessary documentation that verifies the information in their Express Entry profile and to pay the required fees. Successful candidates can achieve permanent residency in as little as six months.
The Express Entry System comprises three specific programs:
Federal Skilled Worker Program
This program targets applicants engaged in professional occupations generally requiring a university degree. Examples include:
The Canadian Experience Class Program
This program is tailored for skilled individuals who have already spent a year living and working in Canada.
Each of these programs comes with specific eligibility criteria. To enhance your prospects of immigrating to Canada from Pakistan through the Express Entry system, focus on boosting your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score.
Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
Knowing which Canadian province you’d like to settle in can significantly impact your immigration journey. By obtaining a Provincial Nomination via one of Canada’s Provincial Nominee Programs, your path to living in Canada might be expedited. Out of the 13 provinces, 11 have PNPs, each with unique eligibility standards based on regional requirements. There are two main ways to apply for a Provincial Nomination.
The most common method is through the Express Entry web portal. When setting up your Express Entry profile, you can express interest in a particular province. This involves submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI) to that province. If the province believes you can contribute significantly to its economy, you may receive a nomination. A provincial nomination can add up to 600 points to your CRS score, virtually ensuring an Invitation to Apply (ITA) in the upcoming Express Entry draw.
Alternatively, you can apply directly to the province’s governmental authority. This can be done via the specific province’s official website. Although this process might be lengthier, it doesn’t require participation in the Express Entry draw system.
Family Sponsorship
Family sponsorship offers another pathway to move to Canada from Pakistan if you have relatives in Canada who are citizens or permanent residents. Through familial support, your partner or close kin can sponsor your immigration, provided that they:
Several family sponsorship programs exist, depending on your relationship with the sponsor. Options include sponsorship for your spouse or common-law partner, conjugal partner, parents, grandparents, and children.
Work Permit Opportunities in Canada
Obtaining a work permit is an excellent pathway to securing a Canadian visa from Pakistan, even if it doesn’t guarantee permanent residency immediately. Nonetheless, it affords you the chance to work and reside in Canada long enough to become eligible for permanent residency through programs like the Canadian Experience Class.
To qualify for a work permit, you’ll need a genuine job offer from a Canadian employer and a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), which confirms that the employer could not find a suitable candidate within Canada. Since the job application process in Canada may differ from that in Pakistan, here’s a useful guide to help you successfully secure employment in Canada.
Once you receive your job offer, you can proceed with your Canadian work permit application. If you need guidance navigating the visa application process from Pakistan or want to ensure your CV and interview skills meet Canadian standards, our Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultants (RCICs) are here to offer expert support.
Study Permit Pathway
Studying in Canada is another excellent method to relocate from Pakistan. Canadian universities and colleges offer world-class education, and to study there, a study permit is essential. Here’s a brief overview of obtaining a study permit for Canada.
Student Direct Stream (SDS)
For Pakistani nationals, the Student Direct Stream is an efficient option to acquire a Canadian study permit. This program allows international students from certain countries in Africa, Asia, Central America, and South America to obtain a study permit in as short as 20 days. Pakistan is among the eligible nations. However, SDS has specific criteria that applicants must satisfy.
Learn more about the SDS and its application process here.
Although these are popular Canadian immigration routes for applicants from Pakistan, they are not the only options available. Our RCICs can assess your unique situation and guide you toward the most suitable visa or immigration program, helping you navigate the application process efficiently and effectively.
Canada has consistently been a top choice for those seeking opportunities for a better life. Among the numerous groups migrating, Pakistanis have made a noticeable impact on Canada’s multicultural landscape. In recent years, the number of Pakistanis moving to Canada has significantly increased. According to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), Pakistan remains a significant contributor to Canada’s rising immigration figures.
Temporary Residence Applications
In 2020, there were 25,600 finalized Temporary Residence (TR) applications from Pakistani nationals. This number rose considerably in 2021 to 32,060 processed applications. The upward trend continued through 2022, with an impressive total of 77,641 TR applications finalized, reflecting an average annual growth rate of 83.7%.
For the first quarter of 2023, 44,312 TR applications from Pakistan have already been processed. This indicates a strong ongoing interest among Pakistanis in exploring temporary residency opportunities in Canada.
Permanent Residency Pathways
The Canadian government provides various pathways for transitioning from temporary to permanent residency. In 2020, 5,137 Pakistani nationals were awarded Permanent Residency (PR), establishing a stable base for their lives in Canada. This number increased significantly in 2021, with 9,144 PRs granted, and continued to rise in 2022, reaching 12,988, which constitutes an annual growth rate of 60.2%.
As of the first quarter of 2023, 2,999 Pakistanis have been granted PR status. Although this figure only covers part of the year, it reflects a steady trend for Pakistani immigrants seeking a more permanent place in Canada.
Acquiring Canadian Citizenship
After settling into life in Canada and fulfilling the necessary requirements, many choose to apply for Canadian citizenship. In 2020, 4,740 individuals of Pakistani descent achieved this milestone. The following year saw an increase to 5,552 new citizens of Pakistani origin. By 2022, the number had risen notably to 15,204, encapsulating an annual growth rate of 95.49%.
In the first quarter of 2023, 3,253 Pakistanis have acquired Canadian citizenship. While these figures are subject to change as the year progresses, they suggest a positive trend in Pakistani immigrants fully integrating by becoming Canadian nationals.
The numbers clearly reflect the increasing trend of Pakistani migration to Canada. From the rise in finalized TR applications to growing PR grants and citizenship acquisitions, it is evident that Pakistani nationals are actively seeking opportunities in Canada.
Canada: A Welcoming and Inclusive Nation
Canada prides itself on its multicultural heritage, warmly welcoming individuals from various backgrounds. For Pakistanis seeking a more tolerant and accepting place to live, Canada offers a refuge. The country’s reputation for openness, respect for diversity, and equal rights allows newcomers, including Pakistanis, to naturally integrate into Canadian society and feel a genuine sense of belonging.
Abundant Economic Opportunities
Canada’s robust economy and diverse job market present countless opportunities for skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, and investors from Pakistan. With a solid infrastructure, an excellent healthcare system, and top-notch educational institutions, Canada creates a favorable environment for both professional growth and personal development. The focus on innovation and technology.
Embracing Multiculturalism
Canada is celebrated for its multicultural ethos, making it an ideal destination for Pakistanis in search of a tolerant and accepting environment. Known for its inclusivity and respect for diversity, Canadian society is built on principles of equality. This welcoming environment allows newcomers from Pakistan to smoothly integrate and feel a profound sense of belonging in their new home.
Vibrant Economic Prospects
Canada’s robust economy and diverse employment landscape present a wealth of opportunities for skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, and investors from Pakistan. With state-of-the-art infrastructure, a strong healthcare system, and top-tier educational institutions, Canada offers an ideal setting for career advancement and personal growth. The country’s commitment to innovation and technology opens further opportunities for Pakistanis to thrive across numerous sectors.
Top-Notch Education and Research Opportunities
For Pakistani students aiming for higher education, Canada provides access to world-class universities and colleges renowned for their academic achievements and research facilities. With an array of programs and scholarships, Pakistani students can benefit from quality education in a multicultural atmosphere, broadening their skillset and perspectives. Additionally, Canadian qualifications are internationally recognized, paving the way for global career opportunities.
Comprehensive Social Benefits and Healthcare
Canada’s social welfare system guarantees access to essential healthcare services, offering peace of mind regarding medical expenses. Additionally, the Canadian government provides supportive initiatives, such as child benefits, unemployment insurance, and affordable housing programs, all designed to help newcomers establish a comfortable and prosperous life for themselves and their families.
Safety and Stability
Ranking among the world’s safest nations, Canada offers a serene and secure environment for individuals and families alike. The country’s dedication to human rights, social justice, and the rule of law ensures a stable future for Pakistanis moving to Canada. With low crime rates and a reliable legal system, Canada provides a solid foundation for those seeking security and peace of mind.
With a solid grasp of the immigration pathways, it’s crucial to confirm your eligibility for Canada. Although each Canadian immigration program has its unique qualifications, there are fundamental criteria you must meet to be considered admissible, as well as factors that can significantly enhance your chances for the specific program you wish to pursue.
To be deemed admissible to Canada, you need to:
Key factors that can greatly improve your chances of being eligible for your chosen immigration program, job, or institution include:
Absolutely! Canada is known for its inclusive attitude towards individuals from around the globe and boasts significant Pakistani communities in cities such as Toronto, Calgary, and Vancouver. Many cultural festivals celebrating Pakistani traditions are held annually in these cities, enhancing the welcoming atmosphere.
The ease of moving to Canada depends largely on your eligibility and the immigration program you apply through. Collaborating with a certified immigration specialist, like those at Immigration to Canada, can greatly simplify the process, as they have experience assisting applicants just like you.
The speed of your immigration process depends on your personal eligibility and the program you're applying for. Immigration to Canada offers a clear guide on the fastest pathways for those moving from Pakistan.
Immigration to Canada provides resources and advice to assist Pakistani nationals in finding employment in Canada. This includes job search strategies, resume building, and connecting with potential Canadian employers to facilitate a smoother transition.
Understanding cultural nuances can play a significant role in easing the transition to a new country. Immigration to Canada offers workshops and resources that focus on Canadian customs, values, and community engagement, helping newcomers adapt comfortably.
Yes, family reunification is a key component of Canada's immigration policy. There are several pathways available for bringing family members, and Immigration to Canada can guide Pakistani nationals through the options to ensure a successful family migration.
The Express Entry system manages applications for several economic immigration programs. Pakistani nationals can apply through this system, and Immigration to Canada can assist in navigating the eligibility requirements, point calculations, and application process to increase your chances of selection.
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