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FAQ

Welcome To FAQ

We have provided answers to most of your immigration questions

  • What are the benefits of getting PR in Canada?

    Canada offers excellent medical health care benefits to its citizens and permanent residents of Canada. World-class free schooling and highly subsidized university education.
    In any circumstances, if one goes unemployed, the social security benefit supports the affected Canadian Permanent Residents and Citizenship. As one grows older, Canadian government ensures peace of mind by offering retirement and pension benefits to its senior citizens.
    Canada is a multi-cultural migration destination. Despite this, peace &harmony exist, and foreign people, eager to launch a business at their own endeavor, are assisted whole-heartedly.
    Canada is the second largest country in the world and has wealth of natural resources. Aerospace, IT, Tourism, Real estate, Hospitality, infrastructure, and Automobile manufacturing industries provide an abundance of business, investment and employment opportunities to prospective immigrants.
    Peace and living with harmony. Quality of life that you can be happy of.

  • How can I check my eligibility for Canada PR?

    You can check eligibility for Canada PR from various Canadian websites, including the Canadian Government website. Search www.canada.ca website and search for eligibility.
    The most common eligibility check is for Federal skilled worker. However, there are many other Canada PR pathways you may check eligibility for.
    Federal Skilled Workers are persons with suitable education, work experience, age and language abilities under one of Canada’s official languages and who are selected under the Express Entry Immigration system to apply for permanent residence.
    If you are planning to get into Express Entry Pool as a Federal Skilled Worker, you must meet the following conditions:
    Have minimum of one-year of continuous full-time paid work experience or the equivalent in part-time continuous employment within the previous 10 years. This should be in NOC category “B, A or O”: Skill Type 0 (Managerial Occupations), Skill Level A (Professional Occupations), or Skill Level B (Technical Occupations and Skilled Trades) within the meaning of the National Occupational Classification system
    Score 67 points under the skilled worker point grid comprising of six selection factors.
    Undergo language testing from a recognized third party and demonstrate intermediate level language skills in English or French corresponding to the Canadian Language Benchmark of 7)
    Possess suitable settlement funding as indicated in the government website. Undergo a successful security background (police clearance) and medical examination.

  • Is it easy to get PR in Canada?

    This is very difficult to say how easy to get PR in Canada. Because it all depends on which program you are applying for.
    The easiest way to get Canada is highly dependent on the eligibility requirements met by the applicant. Moreover, it also depends on the priorities and goals you have set for yourself.
    The easiest pathway to get PR in Canada is going as a sponsored dependent (dependent child, dependent adult, dependent spouse, dependent parent). One easy approach but need effort and time to work on it, will be going to Canada as a student, first. Then applying for Canadian PR afterwards. Most of the other PR programs require you to have very good education, experience and IELTS score. Many different opportunities available are skilled professionals, students, business investors, entrepreneurs, etc.

  • Which is the best way to enter Canada, through express entry or PNP?

    Generally, three-in-four new permanent residents are admitted through other programs, not through Express Entry. Adding temporary residents as well, less than 10 percent of people who obtain the right to work in Canada annually are admitted through Express Entry.
    At present the provincial nominations results in a 600-point boost to your Express Entry Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score, but did you know that most PNP streams are not aligned with Express Entry? You have to apply to those independently. These are known as ‘base’ PNP streams.

  • What is the step-by-step procedure to apply for Canada PR?

    This is very difficult question to answer. Because there are many, multiple pathways you may be applying for PR. If so, I would recommend visiting our website, carrying out an assessment to check your eligibility and choose the program first. Multiple programs are useful for various categories of applicants including, skilled professionals, students, business investors, entrepreneurs.

  • What is the step-by-step procedure to apply for Canada PR?

    This is very difficult question to answer. Because there are many, multiple pathways you may be applying for PR. If so, I would recommend visiting our website, carrying out an assessment to check your eligibility and choose the program first. Multiple programs are useful for various categories of applicants including, skilled professionals, students, business investors, entrepreneurs.

  • How long must I stay in Canada to keep my permanent resident status?

    To maintain your status as a permanent resident, you must live in Canada for at least 2 years - 730 days - within a 5 year period. During this time you must be physically in Canada.

    The two years do not need to be continuous. An officer can confirm if your time in Canada counts when you re-enter Canada, or apply for a permanent resident card. But there are exceptions where time spent outside Canada may also count towards the two years / 730 days residency requirement.

  • How long will it take to process my PR application?

    CIC can’t tell you exactly how long it will take us to process your application. Each application is different and takes a different amount of time to process. CIC gives you an estimate, based on your application type. Check the processing times to find out how long it takes us to process most applications.
    https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/application/check-processing-times.html
    In 80% of cases, an application submitted through Express Entry is processed within 6 months from the date it is received. Please note that these processing times do not include the time it takes to submit an Express Entry profile, receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA), and prepare the final application for submission. Many other PR applications may take more than 12 months to process.

  • What is the minimum CRS score for Canada express entry?

    The minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score required to receive an invitation in the January 8 draw was 473. This was the first draw for 2020. The minimum score depends from one draw to another. You have to keep watching each draw to find out the minimum score required. In general, considering last six months, we get average score of 467 as a practical minimum CRS score.

  • Can I move to Canada without IELTS?

    Yes, you can move to Canada without IELTS, but these programs are restricted to below only. Spousal sponsorship, child dependent sponsorship, adult sponsorship, parent sponsorship, selected student applications, refugee claimant and visitor visas. If you are looking forward to migrate to Canada/ or applying for Canada PR, then you will need IELTS or CELPIP results.

  • Should I do academic or general IELTS?

    This depends on which category of visa you are applying for?. If you are applying for Canada PR, it is compulsory to have IELTS general test results. For most of the student visa program, IELTS academic module results are required.

  • What is a good CLB score for PR?

    If you are a skilled worker and are applying for Canadian express entry PR applications you must have CLB 7.0 score to qualify. You must meet the Canadian Language Benchmark ( CLB ) 5 level for speaking and listening, and CLB 4 for reading and writing in either English or French to be eligible for the Federal Skilled Trades Program.

  • Is IELTS required for Canada PR?

    Canada PR applications require language test results. Having results of a language test is compulsory. IELTS general test is one of required tests. In addition CELPIP: Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program- General test, TEF Canada: Test d’évaluation de français, TCF Canada: Test de connaissance du français,are also accepted.

  • Can I apply for Canadian PR without work experience?

    For all permanent resident applications you must have working experience and the minimum requirement is one year full time (or equivalent) skilled-working experience.

  • What is the minimum IELTS score required for Canada PR? ( EE&PNP )

    Minimum requirement for express entry skilled migration is IELTS general test results equal to CLB 7. For many PNP programs CLB 4-5 would be the minimum score.

  • How much money, settlement funds, do I need to settle in Canada?

    Proof of funds is how you show us that you have enough money to settle in Canada. You need proof of funds to meet the minimum requirements of the, Federal Skilled Worker Program, Federal Skilled Trades Program. Usually CIC will update the amount of funds, according to the cost of living index. Below is a summary, but please check online to find out the actual amount at the time of your application.
    This table shows the minimum amount you need to immigrate to Canada. If you have more money, you should list the full amount in your profile or application.
    Number of
    family members Funds required
    (in Canadian dollars)
    1 $12,960
    2 $16,135
    3 $19,836
    4 $24,083
    5 $27,315
    6 $30,806
    7 $34,299
    For each additional family member $3,492

  • How much bank balance is required for Canada PR visa?

    Please check the answer for settlement funds

  • Who does not need to show proof of funds for Canada migration?

    You don’t need to show that you have enough money to support yourself and your family if you’re applying under the Canadian Experience Class or you’re authorized to work in Canada and you have a valid job offer, even if you apply under the Federal Skilled Worker Program or the Federal Skilled Trades Program

  • How many months of bank statement do I need to show for Canada PR visa application?

  • How many months of bank statement do I need to show for Canada PR visa application?

    This depends on the program. Currently, for the express entry application, you do not have to show any history of funds. However, for PNP applications may require you to show history of funds.

  • Can my parents show money for my PR process?

    Only you or your spouse can show settlement funds deposits.

  • Can we show property for Canada proof of funds?

    Property cannot be shown towards proof of funds for PR application. Only, cash can be shown as proof of funds.

  • What is your total cost for Canada PR process (CGL fee)?

    The cost depends on many factors including application type, number of applicants, amount of work load etc.

  • What are the requirements for PNP Canada?

    There are multiple Provincial nomination programs for Canada. Each program has it’s own criteria and needs. Therefore, please refer to www.cgl.lk website to find out more information.

  • What are the requirements to apply for Express Entry Canada?

    This program has minimum requirements for:
    • skilled work experience
    • language ability
    • education
    You must meet all the minimum requirements to be eligible.
    Selection factors
    If you meet all the minimum requirements, we’ll then assess your application based on:
    • age
    • education
    • work experience
    • whether you have a valid job offer
    • English and/or French language skills
    • adaptability (how well you’re likely to settle here)
    These factors are part of a 100-point grid used to assess eligibility for the Federal Skilled Worker Program. You earn points for how well you do in each of the 6 factors.
    The current pass mark is 67 points. In addition you must also have scored a score that allow you to be selected. Those requirements include experience, education, language test results and the age.

  • What is provincial nominee program in Canada? Can you explain?

    PNP program is for workers who:
    • have the skills, education and work experience to contribute to the economy of a specific province or territory
    • want to live in that province, and
    • want to become permanent residents of Canada
    Each province has its own “streams” (immigration programs that target certain groups) and requirements. For example, in a program stream, provinces and territories may target: students, business people, skilled workers, semi-skilled workers
    Once nominated from the provincial program you are eligible to apply for Canada PR through the federal system. You must prove that you are not inadmissible to Canada, such as you are in good health and your don’t have criminal convictions.

  • What is the difference between Express Entry and PNP?

    Express entry Federal skilled worker (or) Federal trade worker are applications that are directly submitted to IRCC. PNP on the other hand, requires a nomination from the province you plan to settle in
    The prerequisites under provincial nomination programs change by province to province. Every territory with a program has its own necessities to fit the work needs of the specific region. As a rule, potential candidates who are not eligible to qualify under the federal express entry program can qualify under at least one of the province of Canada. Usually, when one pathway appears to be closed, another that is practically around the bend should be opened. Each province has its own unique time to accept applications from skilled individual.
    Express Entry program is a federal program that chooses outsiders on the basis of criteria built up by the government. Provincial programs (PNPs) select outsiders dependent on the criteria of individual areas and need of labour market locally. Despite the fact that the criteria of the areas are not the same as one another, they are for the most part comparable in a way that the criteria are largely simpler to meet than the government criteria as far as dialect capability and work understanding is concerned.

  • What are the PNP programs in Canada?

    There are several PNP programs that are available you to make an application.
    To be nominated by a province or territory, you must follow the instructions on their website and contact them directly: in the provinces
    Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Northwest Territories, Nova Scotia, Ontario, Prince Edward Island, Saskatchewan, Yukon

  • Which is the best & easiest PNP program in Canada?

    There is no any particular PNP program known as easy. It all depends on your applicability. Please compare details of various PNP programs from www.cgl.lk

  • What is the age limit for Canada PR?

    There is no age limit stated for Canada PR. However, age as a factor has been awarded CRS points. Hence, if you are older than 35 years of age you lose significant number of points for the age.

  • what is the minimum education required for Canada PR (Express Entry & PNP)

    Minimum education level will be completion of secondary school

  • How do I migrate to Canada with my family?

    You need to select a PR/migration program that is favourable for your situation. Once you select that program, you can include your family as dependents.

  • Who are the child dependents for migration applications?

    To qualify as a dependent child when applying for temporary or permanent residence in Canada, your child must be within the age limit and meet the requirements of a dependent child. The age limit of dependent children (for immigration purposes) has changed from “under 19” to “under 22.” This change applies to all new applications received on or after October 24, 2017.
    If you are a Canadian citizen, your child may already be a Canadian citizen, even if your child was born outside Canada.
    If you are a Canadian citizen, a registered Indian, or a permanent resident, you may be eligible to sponsor your child if they are not already Canadian citizens.

  • Can I migrate to Canada with my husband?

    Yes, certainly can. Your spouse is a dependent in your migration application. You have the choice to include spouse or not to include.

  • How much experience is required find a job/work in Canada?

    There is no such a limit as number of years of experience for a job/work finding in Canada. Anyone can find a job in Canada, but there are many factors that govern finding a dream job.
    If you are a highly skilled worker, you will find that there are many job opportunities for you in Canada. Whether you are a software developer or mechanical engineer, you are likely to find a workplace you love in Canada. The industries you will want to look at are manufacturing, service, real estate, and communications, all of which are important sectors in Canada and have been growing continuously over the years.
    There are many temporary positions available. These jobs include could be au pair positions, office administration, hospitality (hotels, bars, restaurants), or seasonal agricultural work.

  • How much work experience do I need to be eligible for the Canadian Experience Class?


    To be eligible for permanent residence under the Canadian Experience Class you must have completed, within the three years before you apply, at least:
    12 months of full-time work:
    30 hours/week for 12 months = 1 year full time (1,560 hours), OR
    equal amount in part-time hours, such as:
    15 hours/week for 24 months = 1 year full time (1,560 hours)
    30 hours/week for 12 months at more than 1 job = 1 year full time (1,560 hours)

  • Can I migrate to Canada with a criminal record?

    Under Canada’s immigration law, if you have committed or been convicted of a crime, you may not be allowed into Canada. In other words, you may be “criminally inadmissible.” This includes both minor and serious crimes, such as: theft, assault, manslaughter, dangerous driving, driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol, and possession of or trafficking in drugs or controlled substances.
    If you were convicted of a crime when you were under the age of 18, you may still be able to enter Canada.

  • Can I migrate to Canada while pregnant?

    With careful preparation, travelling while pregnant can be safe, but there are additional risks and challenges to take into consideration. Pregnant women can be at increased risk of becoming infected and/or developing severe complications from certain infections, which can also affect the unborn baby.
    It is important that you consult a health care provider or visit a travel health clinic to discuss your travel plans, preferably six weeks before you travel.
    Timing of travel
    The safest time to travel is between the 18th and 24th weeks of pregnancy. Most common obstetric emergencies occur in the first and third trimesters.
    The decision to travel should be made in consultation with your health care provider. Discuss the purpose of travel, destination(s), length of the trip, planned activities, underlying medical and/or pregnancy related complications and available medical care in other countries.
    If you decide to travel while pregnant, make sure that you have proper travel health insurance. Review your policy and the coverage it provides, as most policies do not automatically cover pregnancy-related conditions or hospital care for premature infants.

  • Should I need to pay money for the Canadian government to migrate to Canada? If yes, how much?

    There are various payments that you must pay to CIC, Canadian government when migrating to Canada. These include, but not limited to, migration application fees, right of permanent residence fee, cost for biometrics, cost for provincial nominations, Visa center fees, etc.

  • How can I apply for a Canada PR from another country? What are the requirements?

    Application for PR has the same requirements, where ever you apply from. There is no any specific requirement depending on the country you apply from. The requirements are universal and can be found in our website, www.cgl.lk or from the Canadian immigration website.

  • Can I get a job easily if I have a PR visa of Canada?

    Finding a job in Canada depends on many factors. The main marketability is your suitability as an applicant. As a PR holder you will have a better chance to find a job in Canada.

  • How to get a job offer in Canada while living outside of Canada?

    Getting job offer while living outside of Canada is difficult because any employer would like to interview you before hiring. However, if you have a good network, and option to get a job interview online and the employer like to hire you, you may be able to receive a job offer.

  • How to get job after landing in Canada?

    Ensure you have carefully read our resume format in Canada guide before sending your resume to employers in Canada. Poorly written resumes as well as resumes that list duties rather than personal or team achievements will hinder you from making an impact and stop you from getting a job in Canada before even reaching the interview stage. Read these tips carefully, ensure you understand the objective, and apply these simple concepts to help your resume impress an employer. Your resume is the all-important first impression, so don’t fall short at this crucial first step when applying for jobs in Canada.

  • Is it OK to immigrate to Canada without job offer?

    Immigration visa is Canadian permanent residence visa. When you move to Canada as an immigrant you will be considered as same as a Canadian citizen. Therefore, you have the same possibility of finding a job as a Canadian citizen. Almost all PR approved applicants travel to Canada without a job and they all find jobs in Canada.

  • What is the processing time for Canada PR?

    Processing time of express entry PR application is around six months. Or you can find out the actual processing times from CIC website.

  • Can I get my parents to Canada once I receive PR in Canada?

    Technically, you can get a visa for your parents such as visit Canada. This is possible after you land in Canada and after you find your accommodation.

  • Is there an interview for Canadian PR?

    In certain cases your have an interview for Canadian PR.

  • What is Educational credential assessment (ECA) for Canada immigration?

    An Educational credential assessment (ECA) is used to verify that your foreign degree, diploma, or certificate (or other proof of your credential) is valid and equal to a Canadian one. There are different types of ECAs. You need to get an ECA for immigration purposes. If you got another type of ECA, you may be able to get it re-issued, depending on the type of ECA and/or issuing organization.
    You must include your ECA report and the reference number in your Express Entry profile.
    Your ECA report may help when you’re looking for a job. But, it doesn’t guarantee that: you’ll get a job in your field, or at a certain level, you’ll get a license to practice in a regulated profession (job)
    If you plan to work in a regulated job, you must get your license in the province or territory that you plan to settle in.

  • Is education evaluation necessary for Canada PR?

    Yes, you must have education assessment from a designated institution. If you completed your education outside Canada, you need an assessment to be eligible as the principal applicant for Federal Skilled Workers Program (Express Entry), or earn points for education you got outside Canada
    You can also earn points for your spouse or common-law partner’s education, if they are coming with you to Canada.
    You don’t need an assessment for a Canadian degree, diploma or certificate.
    To earn points, your report must show that your completed foreign credential (degree, diploma or certificate) is equal to a completed Canadian secondary school (high school) or post-secondary credential.
    Which credentials to get assessed
    In most cases, you only need an assessment for your highest level of education.
    For example, if you have a Master’s degree, you only need an assessment for that degree. You don’t need one for your Bachelor’s degree.
    When to get an assessment for 2 or more credentials
    To get points for having 2 or more credentials, you need an assessment for each one.
    To get full points for more than 1 credential, at least 1 of the credentials must be for 3 or more years of study.
    The order that you complete your credentials does not affect points.
    When to get your secondary education assessed
    If your post-secondary credential is not equal to a Canadian credential, you could get your secondary credential assessed. This would get you points for completing secondary school.

  • What is the cost of Educational credential assessment (ECA) for Canada immigration for Canada PR?

    This varies from one institution to another as well as number of education certificates you may be assessing. Prices ranges from C$100-C$300 per assessment. Please visit individual institution website to find out further details.

  • What documents are required for Educational credential assessment (ECA) for Canada immigration?

    Each institution will show you the required documents for education assessment. Generally, each intuition will request education certificates and transcripts to be sent to them through the respective institutions.

  • How long is Educational credential assessment (ECA) for Canada immigration valid?

    Once completed from the date of the letter, ECA is valid for five years

  • Can a PR holder buy property in Canada?

    As a PR holder you have almost all the rights as a Canadian citizen. Therefore, you can buy properties in Canada.

  • How soon do I have to move to Canada once the PR gets approved?

    The document, Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) a permanent resident visa and the visa sticker, shows the expiry date. You must land in Canada before the expiry date.

  • How long do I need to stay in Canada to get a PR card?

    The processing of PR card issuance takes 1-2 months.

  • What happens after my PR is approved?

    If we approve your application, we’ll mail you a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) a permanent resident visa (if you’re from a country that requires a visa). Your COPR will have information about who you are, as well as your photograph. Check to make sure your information is correct. It should be the same as the information on your passport. If there is a mistake on your COPR, contact us through your account. We can’t extend your COPR, so you should make sure to use it before it expires.

  • As a new Canadian immigrant, how soon should I apply for the Canada child benefit for my children?

    As soon as you land in Canada you can apply for child benefit. Please visit the closest Service Canada location and get what to do.

  • What is the difference between Canadian citizenship and permanent resident?

    The main difference is that before someone can become a citizen, they must first become a permanent resident. Permanent residents can apply for citizenship once they have met certain residency requirements. Once you are a Canadian citizen, you do not need to do anything to maintain your citizenship. There is no difference in the rights and duties of naturalized citizens and Canadian citizens. The only other major difference between Canadian permanent residency and Canadian citizenship is that PR must be maintained with timely renewals or it may get lapsed, while citizenship is permanent.

  • What should I bring with me when moving into Canada with PR?

    You must have
    • your valid passport and/or travel documents
    o your passport must be a regular, private citizen passport
    o you can’t immigrate to Canada with a diplomatic, government service or public affairs passport
    • your Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) and your permanent resident visa (if we gave you one)
    • proof that you have the funds to support yourself and your family after you arrive in Canada
    When you arrive in Canada, you’ll meet an officer from the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA). The officer will:
    • make sure you’re entering Canada before or on the expiry date shown on your COPR
    • make sure that you are the same person who was approved to travel to Canada (we may use your biometrics to do this)
    • ask to see your passport and other travel documents
    • ask you a few questions to make sure you still meet the terms to immigrate to Canada
    o the questions will be similar to the ones you answered when you applied

  • Can a PR holder study in Canada?

    Yes, certainly. As a PR holder, you are free to carry on with any legal activity in Canada, that includes studying in Canada.

  • Can I go to USA with Canadian PR?

    Canadian PR holders cannot travel to USA without a valid visa. However, obtaining a visitor visa to USA as a Canadian PR holder is relatively easy. You have go through the regular visa application procedure to do that.

  • I am a new permanent resident of Canada. Do I need to apply for a permanent resident card?

    No, CIC will mail your permanent resident (PR) card to you when you arrive in Canada. If you did not provide your Canadian mailing address when you became a permanent resident, use our online address notification tool to send it to us. You must provide your address within 180 days of the day you become a permanent resident. If you do not send it within 180 days, we will cancel the PR card and you will have to apply for another one and pay the processing fees. Check current processing times to see how long you will have to wait to get your new card. Please tell us if you did not get your PR card within the processing times.

  • Is education free in Canada for permanent residents?

    Permanent residents have the right to free education up to the age of 18 in the Canadian public school system. When it comes to university, tuition fees are dramatically reduced for permanent residents when compared to international student rates. as a permanent resident, you pay the same low tuition rates as Canadian citizens. In the eyes of the government and educational institutions, you are effectively already Canadian when it comes to education within Canada. The government is willing to pay most of your costs.
    If you want study science at the University of British Columbia as a Canadian permanent resident, for example, you will pay just over $5,000 per year in tuition fees, rather than the nearly $38,000 per year you would have had to pay before you became a permanent resident.

  • What happens if my PR card expires?


    If your permanent resident (PR) card is expired or will expire in less than 9 months, you can apply for a new card. The new card will have a new expiration date. Most new PR cards are valid for 5 years.
    To be eligible for a PR card, you need to: be a permanent resident and submit your application in Canada

  • When Can I apply for PR again after rejection?

    There is a time gap that you must maintain or wait for the next application.

  • Does US visa rejection affect Canada PR?

    There is no direct relationship between USA visa rejection and Canadian visa approval.

  • How can I come to Canada as a visitor, worker or student?

    Canadian immigration, CIC, has created an online tool called Come to Canada. It will help you figure out whether you can come to Canada as an immigrant, visitor, worker or student. This tool guides you through some questions and based on your responses and your situation, it then gives you: a list of options and step-by-step instructions on how to apply.
    This tool will help you understand the requirements for immigrating to, visiting, studying in or working in Canada. If you are eligible as a visitor, worker or student you can apply online through this tool. You will also have the option to complete a paper application.

  • How do I know my application has been received by CIC?

    You’ll see a confirmation page after you submit your application. You’ll also receive an email asking you to check your account. A confirmation message with a confirmation number will be in your account. Keep your confirmation number for your records. Please note that it may take a few hours for you to receive an email from IRCC after you’ve submitted your application.

  • What is UCI?

    UCI stands for “unique client identifier.” It is also known as a client identification number (client ID). It’s on official documents you get from us. It has either, four numbers, a hyphen and four more numbers (Example: 0000-0000) or two numbers, a hyphen, four numbers, a hyphen and four more numbers (Example: 00-0000-0000)

  • What is my client ID?

    Your client ID, also referred to as a UCI, is on all documents you get from us. It is an eight or ten-digit number that looks like this: 0000-0000 or 00-0000-0000. If you are applying to us for the first time, you will not yet have a client ID. If you are filling out a form that asks for one, write “Not Applicable” or “N/A” in the space provided. If you are applying online and the form does not allow you to input “N/A,” leave the space blank.

  • How can I get help with my immigration or citizenship application?

    A representative is anyone (family, friend or paid advisor) who helps you with your application and who has your consent to get information about your file. You don’t need to hire anyone to help you with your application. You can get all the forms and information you need to apply for free. Hiring someone doesn’t guarantee that we’ll approve your application or process it faster.
    Most programs you can apply for have an application package with an instruction guide. The guide provides tips and information on how to fill out your forms, pay your fees, submit your application

  • How can I apply for a refund?

    Yes, you will get a refund if we return your application. We will return your application if it was incomplete, It was received before the program re-opened, he program was full, you have paid extra fee that is not needed. Refunds can take up to six weeks to complete. If you’ve been waiting longer, submit a refund request. This can be placed online through CIC site.

  • Can my friend or family member handle my immigration or citizenship application for me?

    Yes, if you send a completed Use of a Representative form (IMM 5476) with your application. This form is for if you wish to appoint a representative (an immigration or citizenship consultant, lawyer, friend, family member, etc.) to provide advice, consultation, or guidance to you at any stage of the immigration or citizenship application process, or in an immigration or citizenship proceeding.

  • What should I do if I want my spouse, family member or friend to check on my application for me?

    If you want your spouse, family member, friend or other person to check your application status for you, but not do business with IRCC on your behalf, you must, Fill and submit the Authority to Release Personal Information to a Designated Individual (IMM 5475) form with your application.
    If you already submitted your application, send the authorization through this Web form. It will take us 5 to 10 business days to update your file. Note: If you want to appoint someone to do business with us on your behalf, you must submit a Use of a Representative (IMM 5476) form.

  • If my visa, work or study permit application is refused, will I have to give biometrics for my next application?

    No, when you apply for a visitor visa or a work or study permit and you give your biometrics, they will stay valid for a 10-year period, even if your visa or permit application is refused or has expired.

  • Do I need to get a police certificate for my staying over time in Canada?

    No. You don’t need to get a police certificate for your time in Canada.

  • How can I change my address or contact information for my immigration or citizenship application?

    To change your address or any information you can change your information online or through our Web form.

  • What is an open work permit?

    An open work permit is a work permit that is not job-specific. Because it is not job-specific, you will not need the following when you apply for your work permit: a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) from Employment and Social Development Canada; or proof that an employer has submitted an offer of employment through the Employer Portal and paid the employer compliance fee.
    In most cases, you will have to pay the open work permit holder fee at the same time that you pay the work permit fee. Check the fee list for the most up-to-date application fees.
    Before applying for the open work permit, please check on CIC site whether you are eligible to apply for an open work permit.

  • Who can apply for an open work permit?

    You may be eligible for an open work permit if you:

    are an international student who graduated from a designated learning institution and are eligible for the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program
    are a student who’s no longer able to meet the costs of your studies (destitute student)
    have an employer-specific work permit and are being abused or at risk of being abused in relation to your job in Canada
    • applied for permanent residence in Canada
    • are a dependent family member of someone who applied for permanent residence
    • are the spouse or common-law partner of a skilled worker or international student
    • are the spouse or common-law partner of an applicant of the Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program
    • are a refugee, refugee claimant, protected person or their family member
    • are under an unenforceable removal order
    • are a temporary resident permit holder
    • are a young worker participating in special programs
    In each of these situations, you must meet additional criteria to be eligible.

  • What is a Labour Market Impact Assessment?

    A Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is a document that an employer in Canada may need to get before hiring a foreign worker. A positive LMIA will show that there is a need for a foreign worker to fill the job. It will also show that no Canadian worker or permanent resident is available to do the job. A positive LMIA is sometimes called a confirmation letter. If the employer needs an LMIA, they must apply for one. Once an employer gets the LMIA, the worker can apply for a work permit.
    To apply for a work permit, a worker needs: a job offer letter, a contract, a copy of the LMIA, and the LMIA number.

  • How can I extend work permit in Canada?

    If you have a work permit that’s about to expire or you need to make changes to it, you need to apply to extend it or change the conditions on it. You need to apply at least 30 days before your current work permit expires. You can’t extend your work permit beyond the expiry date of your passport.