 Overview
of Canadian Immigration
Like the United States, Canada distinguishes between immigrants
and visitors. Visitors are people who are coming for a limited
period of time for a specific purpose. Visitors are expected to
leave Canada when the purpose of their visit is completed.
Immigrants are people who plan to come to Canada permanently. Canada is a very accepting country, and extends immigration
benefits not only to traditional families, but also to many people
who have formed committed non-traditional relationships such as
same-sex partnerships. See our article on
this subject for more information.
Visitors
Canada's system for admitting visitors is less complicated
than the U.S. system. There are just a handful of categories.
These include tourists; business visitors and temporary workers;
and students. To enter Canada in any category, you will need to
apply for a visa from a Canadian consulate if you are from one of
130 listed countries. If you don't need a visa, you can usually
apply at a port of entry. However, some types of temporary workers
must apply for work authorization through a Canadian consulate
first.
Immigrants
Canada accepts several classes of immigrants.
"Economic" immigrants are people who have job skills
that are needed in Canada, or who plan to invest in Canada.
"Family class" immigrants are relatives of Canadian
citizens or permanent residents, including spouses and same-sex partners.
"Provincial nominees" are immigrants who are accepted under
programs administered by the individual Canadian provinces. Unlike the United States, Canada
does not have a quota system.
If the main applicant is approved, the spouse and minor children
of the applicant will receive visas as well. Regardless of the
category, all applicants and their dependents must take a physical
exam and undergo a security check.
Most applications for permanent residency are processed at
Canadian consulates abroad. Successful applicants receive
immigrant visas, and then proceed to Canada, where they are
formally "landed" by an immigration officer at a port of
entry. Spouses and common law partners of Canadians are now permitted to apply from within Canada. Once landed, permanent residents may live, work and study
in Canada indefinitely. After three years of residency they may
become citizens.
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