Immigrating to Ontario

Information about immigrating to Canada under the independent immigration classes and infromation about studying, working temporarily and immigration enforcement.

How do I apply to immigrate to Canada?
Application should take place outside Canada at a Canadian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate. In certain cases, application can also take place within Canada by contacting a CIC Call Centre.

How can I come to Canada as a Skilled Worker?
Most independent immigrants are skilled workers, who are expected to have the skills, education, work experience, language ability and other qualities needed to participate in the Canadian labour market.

How long does it take to process my immigration application?
The length of time it takes to process an immigration application (including Skilled Worker, sponsorship, business immigrant, etc.) can be different in each overseas mission or visa office.

How can I check the status of my immigration application?
There are two ways to find out about the status of your Immigration application: by using the e-Client Application Status service on the Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) web site or by calling the CIC Call Centre in Canada.

Should I get help with my immigration application from an immigration consultant or lawyer?
It is not necessary to use the services of a consultant. No priority or special treatment is given to the file of an applicant who uses the services of an immigration consultant. Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) does not require you to have a representative.

How can I come to Canada as a business person?
Business immigrants are selected based on their ability to become economically established in Canada.

I'm coming to Ontario as a Business Immigrant. What help is available for me?
There are many services available to you before and after you successfully immigrate to Ontario as a business immigrant.

Visiting Canada

Do I need a visitor's visa to visit Canada and if so, how do I apply for one?
If you live in certain countries you have to apply for a visitor's visa before you can come to Canada.

How can I help someone get a visitor visa to come to Canada?
Sometimes a person applying for a Temporary Resident Visa to visit Canada is asked to provide a letter of invitation from someone in Canada. A letter of invitation does not guarantee that a visa will be issued.

Studying and Study Permits

How can I study in Canada?
Foreign students must apply for student authorization abroad in order to study in Canada.

Can I change my Foreign Student status into Permanent Resident status?
Yes, but it can be a long process. Call the Citizenship and Immigration Canada Call Centre for more information.

Temporary Work Permit

How do I come to Canada as a Temporary Worker?
Temporary workers require employment authorization in order to work legally in Ontario.

Enforcement

How does Citizenship and Immigration enforce Canadian Immigration laws?
Enforcement activities can take place overseas, at ports of entry in Canada and within the country.

A Guide to Being Arrested and Detained for Immigration Reasons
This fact sheet is about what you can do if you are arrested and detained for immigration reasons. People who are not citizens can be arrested and detained by Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) for certain reasons. The law is complicated. If you are not a citizen and you are arrested or detained, try to get legal help from someone who knows immigration law.

Immigrating to Ontario

Related Articles

Visiting Canada

Studying and Study Permits

Temporary Work Permit

Enforcement