Canada offers a diverse range of over 100 visa and immigration programs to cater to individuals aiming to live, work, or establish a permanent residence in the country. For those in the Philippines yearning to experience life in Canada, there is certainly a visa or immigration pathway that matches your qualifications and aspirations. In this article, we will explore the steps involved in applying for a Canadian visa from the Philippines.
The journey of Filipinos to Canada began in the early 1930s. However, the significant shift occurred in the 1990s when a large number of Filipinos immigrated to fill critical labor shortages in the country. According to the 2021 Statistics Canada Census, there are currently 960,000 individuals of Filipino descent residing in Canada. Notably, Filipinos make up 11.4% of all new immigrants.
Filipino communities thrive in several Canadian cities, including:
On March 3, 2023, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) unveiled a new application processing center in Manila, Philippines. Supported by 37 dedicated employees, this center marks a significant step in enhancing Canada’s immigration processes. The new facility aims to expedite applications, effectively contributing to Canada’s commitment to promoting a diverse and inclusive environment by welcoming students, workers, travelers, and immigrants.
Job Prospects Canada faces a significant demand for workers due to a declining birth rate and a growing number of retirees. This has resulted in thousands of job vacancies across the nation. Canada not only seeks skilled and semi-skilled workers but also welcomes unskilled and low-skilled individuals to help fill these gaps.
Benefits of Permanent Residency Obtaining permanent residency in Canada offers numerous advantages. As a permanent resident, you enjoy similar benefits to those of Canadian citizens, such as access to free universal healthcare and complimentary education for children up to the high school level.
Renowned Educational Institutions Canada boasts some of the world’s top-ranking universities and colleges, providing endless opportunities for academic and personal growth. The country places a strong emphasis on post-secondary education, which may even be a pathway to permanent residency, depending on the immigration program you choose. Programs like the Atlantic Immigration Pilot have specific streams for international graduates from Canadian institutions, making it possible to obtain residency by earning a qualification from a Canadian post-secondary school.
A True Democratic Society In Canada, citizens’ rights are protected by a liberal government that prioritizes freedom above all else. Individuals can express themselves freely, news organizations can report without restrictions, and human rights are upheld with utmost respect.
Family Unity Canada values family unity and offers programs that allow you to bring your family with you, provided you meet the minimum settlement fund requirements.
Embrace Canada’s Diverse Culture One of the biggest concerns about immigration is adjusting to a new country. However, Canada is a multicultural hub that welcomes thousands of new immigrants every month, making it one of the most accommodating societies for newcomers. Immigrants, particularly from Asia, are warmly embraced and make Canada their home alongside Canadians and other newcomers.
Explore various pathways for moving to Canada with Immigration to Canada. Here are some visa options available:
Canadian Work Visa To legally work in Canada, you need a work permit. There are two main types: the open work permit and the employer-specific work permit. An open work permit grants flexibility, allowing you to work for any employer across Canada, subject to conditions set by federal law.
The employer-specific work permit is more restricted. It requires you to work for a designated employer, at a set location, for a certain duration. Before applying for this permit, your employer must provide essential documents such as:
Temporary Foreign Worker Program This program addresses labor shortages in Canada. Employers in Canada need a positive LMIA to hire foreign workers. Typically, positions filled through this program include caregivers, agriculture workers, and academics. Gaining Canadian work experience through this program can also pave the way for permanent residency.
Student Visa Canada boasts numerous prestigious universities with relatively affordable tuition compared to other developed countries. Thousands of international students choose Canada for their studies. A Canadian study permit is required to study here.
Eligibility criteria include:
Canadian Visitor Visa If you’re considering relocating to Canada and wish to explore, visit family, or enjoy a vacation, a Canadian Visitor Visa is needed. Available in single-entry and multiple-entry types, each visa has specific criteria.
Express Entry System The Express Entry system is highly favored among immigrants due to its simplicity, accessibility, and speedy processing times, typically around six months. You might be eligible for various programs such as the Federal Skilled Worker Program, Federal Skilled Trade Program, and the Canada Experience Class. Applicants in the Express Entry pool are evaluated and ranked based on their Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) scores. Those with the highest scores receive invitations to apply for permanent residency in Canada.
British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP) The Provincial Nominee Program is another attractive pathway for immigration, especially if you secure employment in Canada. The BC PNP is particularly appealing for international workers, especially tech specialists, because of its BC Tech Pilot. It also offers some of the swiftest processing times, ranging from two to three months. If you are a tech professional in the Philippines, this could be an excellent option for your Canadian visa application.
Home Care Provider Pilots Experienced caregivers with a minimum of two years’ work experience or a valid job offer in Canada, accompanied by proof of ability to fulfill their duties, can use one of two home care provider pilots to immigrate from the Philippines:
These programs have replaced the former Live-in Caregiver Programs and come with an added flexibility not previously available, allowing you to decide if you want to accept a live-in position with your employer.
Family Sponsorship As a Canadian permanent resident or citizen, you have the opportunity to sponsor your spouse, common-law partner, dependents, parents, or grandparents to join you in Canada. Canada places great importance on family reunification, providing pathways to enable your loved ones to live their dreams alongside you.
When moving to Canada from the Philippines, the fees can vary depending on the visa or immigration program you select. Additionally, you will need to show proof of settlement funds, which is influenced by the number of family members accompanying you.
Below is a list of visa application fees for various immigration programs:
Please be aware that these are government processing fees and do not cover charges from your immigration consultant or costs related to supplemental documents such as language proficiency tests, medical examinations, police clearance certificates, or education credential assessments.
With a range of temporary and permanent pathways to move to Canada, nothing should stand in your way of achieving your Canadian aspirations—provided you’re eligible. It’s time to begin your application for a Canadian visa. Feeling overwhelmed by the process? Don’t worry! Our Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultants (RCICs) are ready to assist you at every stage.
Filipinos can immigrate to Canada through several pathways such as the Express Entry system, Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), Family Sponsorship, and various work and study permits. Each program has specific requirements, so it is crucial to determine which one aligns best with your qualifications and goals.
The Express Entry system is a point-based online immigration application process for skilled workers. Filipino applicants create an online profile where they are ranked based on factors such as age, education, work experience, and language proficiency. High-ranking candidates receive invitations to apply for permanent residency.
Several provinces have PNP streams that could be suitable for Filipino applicants, especially those with specific skills, work experience, or language abilities that are in demand in certain regions. Researching the criteria for each province and territory can help pinpoint the best opportunities.
Yes, an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) is often required to determine if your education from the Philippines is equivalent to Canadian standards. This is especially necessary when applying through the Express Entry system and other skilled worker programs.
Canada offers diverse job opportunities across numerous sectors, including healthcare, engineering, IT, and skilled trades. Many Filipino immigrants find employment due to their strong skills and work ethic. However, job prospects can vary by region and industry demand.
Preparation involves understanding the immigration process, researching job markets, and planning accommodations. Learning French could be an asset if moving to bilingual regions like Quebec. It’s also beneficial to familiarize yourself with Canadian culture and climate.
Canada has a publicly funded healthcare system, providing essential health services to residents. As permanent residents, Filipino immigrants have access to public health insurance, but coverage specifics and waiting periods vary by province, so it’s important to research the region you're moving to.
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