Probably you are from Pakistan, and as a study or job destination, Canada interests you. Here are some of the many students and professionals across the world who share this feeling. Canada is a very popular destination for students and professionals from all over the world. Its diversified culture, high quality of life, and excellent education system make Canada offer varied opportunities. This guide will walk you through everything that you may need to know to access a Canada Student Visa and a Canada Working Visa. We’ll look at how to apply, eligibility requirements, and additional tips to ensure your application goes through. Let’s get started!
Understanding the Canada Student Visa
The Canada student visa, officially termed the Study Permit, happens to be the document from the Canadian government that protects foreign students and, at last, allows them to study in the country’s DLIs. Studying in Canada is all about, as a Pakistani student, knowing the drill and observing all relevant requirements regarding your case to study.
Eligibility Requirements to Apply for a Canada Student Visa
Before applying for any type of Canadian student visa, certain eligibility requirements should be met by the candidates.
DLI acceptance: You need to have an acceptance letter from a Designated Learning Institution in Canada. You will first need to make sure that the institution you are applying to is on this list of approved DLIs under the government of Canada.
Proof of Financial Support: You must be able to show that you will be able to support yourself throughout the study period. Such expenses usually cover tuition fees, living expenses, and the return air ticket. This normally means a bank statement for students from Pakistan, or sometimes even a letter of financial support from a sponsor.
Criminal Record: A clear record of crimes is required. In some cases, you may be asked to submit a police certificate.
Medical Examination: This will be required, depending on the length of your stay and the country you are coming from.
Intent to Leave Canada After Studies: You need to prove that you will leave Canada after completing your studies, even if you are going to apply for a post-graduation work permit.
The application process for a Canada student visa
The application procedure for a student visa in Canada is as follows:
Apply to DLI: Apply to a Canadian DLI and obtain an acceptance letter. This program allows you to choose either a work or study option after graduation.
Get Documents: There are various documents to be submitted during the application process, such as an acceptance letter, passport, evidence of financial support, and photographs.
Complete the Application Form: One should complete the application form, which can also be found on the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada website in clear detail. One is required to make an account, complete the form, and submit documents.
Pay Application Fee: The sum of money proposed for a student visa to Canada is 150 Canadian dollars. This can be paid online using a credit card.
Biometric Enrolment: One must provide their biometrics, fingerprints, and photos at a Visa Application Centre (VAC) that has been set up in Pakistan.
Processing Time: Once you’ve submitted your application, you will be waiting for it to be processed. This time varies, so be sure to apply well before your intended start date.
Get the Decision: If your application is successful, you will be issued with a POE Letter of Introduction and in some cases, a temporary resident visa. You must keep these documents in a safe place since you will present them upon your arrival in Canada.
Tips for Successful Student Visa Applications in Canada
Apply Early: Apply very early. This will give you ample time to collect all your documents and complete any other required procedures.
Be Honest and Accurate: Throughout your application, remain honest and accurate. Any shady element may result in a point-blank refusal or even a ban.
Prepare for Your Interview: Plan to be questioned about your study plans, your financial situation, and your future intentions. Practice responses to frequently asked questions.
Canada Working Visa Understanding
A Canadian working visa permits one to work in Canada for a certain period. There are various working visa types depending on the nature of the work and duration of stay.
Canada Work Visas
Temporary Foreign Worker Program: Allows Canadian employers to hire foreign workers temporarily to fill labor shortages, provided at the time of application you must have a positive Labor Market Impact Assessment and a job offer from a Canadian employer.
International Mobility Program: Includes work permits under this category which requires a Labor Market Impact Assessment, such as intra-company transfers, working holiday visas, and post-graduation work permits.
Post-Graduation Work Permit: In case you have studied for more than six months at a DLI in Canada, you will be entitled to get a PGWP. The work permit for up to 3 years will be granted, depending on the length of your study.
Canada Working Visa Eligibility Requirements
As per the specific type of Canadian working visa being applied for, the eligibility requirements may vary; however, the general eligibility requirements include:
Job Offer: One requires a valid job offer from a Canadian employer for most working visas.
LMIA: For the TFWP, your employer must obtain a positive LMIA, proving that no Canadian worker is available to fill the position.
Proof of Qualifications: You could be required to submit documentation to support your credentials, which comprises your educational credentials, work experience, and language proficiency.
Applying for a Canada Work Visa
Secure a Job: The first thing to do is to obtain an offer of employment from a Canadian employer. Remember to get from your employer a copy of the LMIA if the case requires it.
Submit Your Application: You need to apply for a working visa through the IRCC site. You will need to submit your job offer letter, LMIA (if available), passport, photos, and other supporting documents.
Pay the Application Fee: Make sure you are clear with the payment structure for a type of permit for a working visa, as this changes with factors that can always be checked on the current IRCC website.
Submit Biometrics: You will be required to provide the biometric information at one of the VACs in Pakistan, the same as it entails for the student visa.
Wait for Processing: As the working visa has different processing times, apply as early as possible.
Get the Decision: You will be issued with a work permit, in which the conditions for the work permit in Canada will be mentioned.
Success Tips for the Canada Working Visa Application
Choose the suitable Working Visa: You have to obtain the working visa that’s most appropriate for your situation and job offer.
Request All Documents Needed: Ensure you have all the documents required for the application. Missing documents almost always lead to a delay in the application.
Know Your Rights: Determine your rights and obligations as a temporary worker in Canada.
Key Differences Between Canada Student Visa and Canada Working Visa
Even though these two visas give you the right to reside in Canada, they have different purposes to serve which include:
Purpose: The Canada student visa is for studying while the Canadian working visa is aimed at employment.
Validity: While the student visa is normally valid for the span of your program and another 90 days for an additional stay, the working visa is valid based on the job offer and type of permit.
Post-Visa Opportunities: With a visa using a student permit, post-graduation work permits can be applied for, after which there is the opportunity to apply for permanent residency. A working visa may also mean permanent residence, depending on the circumstances and type of job.
Conclusion
If your requirements are known and proper measures are taken, both these processes of obtaining a Canada student visa and a Canada working visa can be quite simple for a Pakistani citizen. But do keep in mind the rules of applying early, collecting all your required documents, and passing all information that needs to be true. Now you can do anything: study or work in Canada. It opens so many opportunities for you! So come, and begin your journey today, moving one step closer to a brighter and better future in Canada!
If you have any questions or if you would like further assistance, please do not hesitate to call or visit the nearest Canadian Visa Application Centre in Pakistan. Good luck with your application!