In 2023, Canada has set a target of welcoming 465,000 new permanent residents, which will increase to 500,000 by 2025. Notably, Pakistan ranks among the top countries of origin for new immigrants to Canada, with over 300,000 Pakistani individuals already calling Canada their home. Among them, the largest concentration resides in Ontario, particularly in cities like Toronto, Mississauga, and Milton.
Over the years, Pakistan consistently positions in Canada’s top ten source countries of new immigrants. From 2016 to 2021, the number of Canadian immigrants born in Pakistan grew from 202,260 to 234,110, a significant increase of almost 32,000 individuals. Additionally, in 2022, approximately 6,400 Pakistani students came to Canada for their studies.
As immigration pathways may vary depending on individual circumstances and goals, it is crucial to be well-informed about available options. By understanding your eligibility and selecting the most suitable path, you can optimize your chances of successful immigration to Canada.
Do you need help to choose which immigration pathway is suitable for you? We’re here to guide you every step of the way. Fill out our Free Assessment Form, our professional immigration consultants will contact you, and we can begin the process today!
Work Permits
A work permit is generally necessary for foreign workers to work in Canada. The work permits categorize into the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TWFP) and the International Mobility Program (IMP). The key distinction lies in the TWFP requiring a Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), while the IMP does not.
The LMIA is the employer’s responsibility to demonstrate to the Canadian government the neutral or positive impact of hiring a foreign worker on the Canadian labor market.
Furthermore, in most cases, a job offer from a Canadian employer is mandatory to apply for a work permit. Nevertheless, the IRCC allows for open work permits in certain situations unrelated to a specific employer.
Federal Skilled Worker Program
The primary route to immigrate to Canada is economic immigration, with numerous pathways available. One such pathway is the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), which allows candidates with work experience to apply for permanent residence, even without a job offer or prior connection to Canada.
The FSWP targets skilled foreign workers with valuable experience, education, and language proficiency. To be eligible, candidates must meet specific criteria, including work experience in skilled occupations, language ability (English or French), and educational qualifications.
Express Entry, the Canadian government’s application system, manages the FSWP, Canadian Experience Class, and Federal Skilled Trades Program. Applicants are ranked using the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) based on age, education, work experience, and language skills. The highest-scoring candidates receive invitations to apply for permanent residence.
Recently, IRCC introduced category-based draw selection for Express Entry candidates, prioritizing those with strong French language skills and experience in specific sectors like healthcare, STEM, trades, transportation, and agriculture. The first category-based draw on June 28th invited 500 healthcare workers to apply for permanent residency.
Canada Study Permit
Canada is a top choice for international students due to its quality, affordable education, work opportunities, and pathways to permanent residency after graduation.
In 2022, a record 551,405 international students from 184 countries chose Canada. The country also had an all-time high of 807,750 valid study permit holders by the year-end.
To study in Canada, secure acceptance from a Canadian school and apply for a study permit. Over 1,500 Designated Learning Institutions in Canada accept international students. After graduation, a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) may allow you to stay for up to three years, depending on your study program’s duration.
In addition, Canadian education and work experience can boost your chances for permanent residency through various federal and provincial immigration programs.
Want to study in Canada and don’t know how to start the process? You’ve reached the perfect place. Green Light Immigration can help you in obtaining your study permit. Fill out Our Free Assessment Form now, and let’s begin your journey.
Provincial Nominee Program
The Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) is a popular immigration option for candidates from Pakistan. Each province and territory (excluding Nunavut and Quebec) customizes its own pathways based on economic and demographic needs.
Through the PNP, provinces, and territories nominate foreign skilled workers based on their specific eligibility criteria. Candidates can apply directly or be invited through Express Entry, earning an additional 600 CRS points, virtually ensuring an ITA for permanent residence in a future draw.
If you’re a Pakistani looking to settle in Canada, explore the available immigration options with an experienced immigration lawyer to guide you through the process. Fill out the Free Assessment Form and we’ll contact you.
