How to Start the Process of Immigration to Canada
Whether you're looking to move to Canada for a business opportunity or to be closer to family, there is only one office in the U.S. that processes applications for permanent residence in Canada. The application process can be started by obtaining an application package online and mailing it to the visa processing center with the appropriate fees.
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Instructions
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Obtain an application package. In general, Canada accepts skilled foreign workers, those who have experience working in Canada, and business class immigrants (which includes investors, entrepreneurs and the self-employed). Canada also welcomes those foreigners sponsored by Canadian family members, residents of Canada's provinces and territories, and those selected for employment by the government of Quebec. The application package for each category is available from the CIC website (see Resources).
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Complete application documents and checks. In addition to the formal Application for Permanent Residence in Canada, you will have to provide a declaration of your background and evidence of your qualification as one of the accepted class of immigrants. All applicants must also submit to thorough medical, criminal and background checks, any one of which can disqualify an applicant if the results reveal you as a threat to the national security of Canada.
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Calculate fees. The processing fee for starting the process of immigration to Canada is $550 for the principal applicant and an additional $550 for each immigrating family member 22 years old or above. For those under 22, increase the fee by an additional $150. The processing fee must be mailed with your application. If it is accepted, a further Right of Permanent Residence Fee is assessed at $490 per person.
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Submit your application. Sign your application. Send it, with your supporting documents and your payment, to the Canadian visa office in Buffalo at: Consulate General of Canada, Immigration Regional Program Centre, 3000 HSBC Center, Buffalo, New York 14203-2884, USA
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Tips & Warnings
Expect your application to take several months. Half of the applications filed in the Americas are finalized within 11 months, but some can take 20 months or more if there are complications.
All fee amounts in this article are quoted in Canadian dollars and must be paid in Canadian currency by certified "cheque," bank draft or money order payable to the "Receiver General for Canada." Do not enclose cash with your application.
