Answers to the most commonly asked questions by independent and sponsored workers.
Q: I am a professional, how do I immigrate to Canada?
A: There are federal and provincial worker classes. The federal worker classes were changed in 2008 to include only workers on a designated list of professions (currently there are 38 professions), have work or study experience in Canada or have guaranteed employment from a Canadian company. The provincial programs generally require an employer in the specific province to actively sponsor the foreign worker into Canada.
Q: I am a tradesperson, how do I immigrate?
A: Most tradesperson continue to qualify for immigration under both provincial and federal guidelines. Plumbers, electricians, welders and many other tradespersons may qualify under the federal worker and provincial classes.
Q: I am not on the list of designated professions or have not worked in Canada, how do I immigrate?
A: If you do not qualify under the programs listed above, you may qualify as a sponsored worker. You will need to locate a company who is willing to sponsor you through the provincial or federal programs.
Q: I have a company that can sponsor me for permanent immigration, what are the requirements?
A: The federal program requires the company to have at least one (or more) full-time workers and at least one year of business. The company will be required to prove it has complied with Canadian tax laws for employees (paid payroll taxes) and that it will offer you fair wages for your position.
