Consequently, Canada has become the most sought-after destination for Pakistani students and professionals going abroad for higher education and work. It provides numerous opportunities to the visiting people because of the presence of world-class universities, a diverse job market, and a high quality of life. This blog will help you with all the information that you need to know about getting a Canada student visa and Canada working visa and will work as your guide to make your journey smooth.
How does the Canada Student Visa Process work?
What is the Canada Student Visa?
The Study Permit is popularly known as the Canadian Student Visa, which allows international students to study at any of their preferred DLIs across Canada. Hence, the Canadian Student Visa is the first step toward taking higher studies in Canada for a Pakistani student. Not only will this visa let you study, but it also comes with the added benefit of providing you with work experience in Canada by allowing you to work part-time during your studies.
Eligibility Criteria for Canada Student Visa
You will have to meet certain eligibility criteria to be able to apply for a Canada student visa:
Acceptance Letter from DLI: You should hold an acceptance letter from an institution in Canada in the form of a valid letter of acceptance issued by a DLI.
Proof of Financial Support: Proof that you can support yourself financially while managing tuition fees, other living expenses, and return transportation.
Clean Criminal Record: The applicant might be asked to produce a police clearance certificate.
Medical Report: This may be mandatory, depending on your country of residence, to prove you’re in good health.
Intent to Leave Canada: You will have to convince the immigration officer that you will leave the country after your studies are over, even if you have an intention to apply for a PR.
How to Apply for a Canada Student Visa
The application process for a Canadian student visa involves various steps. Following is an overview:
All the required documents will be gathered. This includes an acceptance letter, a passport, proof of funds, and many others needed by the Canadian government.
Application form filling: One needs to fill out the application form for the study permit application online. Ensure checking all the information before submitting it.
Pay the application fee: The application fee presently is CAD 150, approximately PKR 21,000.
Biometrics Submission: You are going to be asked to submit your biometrics—fingerprints and photo—at a Visa Application Centre, VAC, in Pakistan.
Attend the Interview: You would have to appear for an interview at the Canadian embassy or consulate in some cases.
Wait while it gets Processed: The processing time varies, and in the case of applicants from Pakistan, it may take around 9 to 12 weeks.
Get Your Visa: If selected, you will be provided with a Port of Entry POE Letter of Introduction; upon your arrival in Canada, you are to present this to the Immigration Officer.
Tips to Successfully Apply for a Canada Student Visa
The following are tips to ensure that you have a successful visa application:
Accurate Documentation: Check that all of your documents are accurate and complete.
Prepare for the Interview: In case an interview is required, then be prepared to know your study plans and their relevance to your career goals.
Show Strong Ties to Pakistan: Provide evidence of strong ties such as family, property, or job in Pakistan that will help convince the immigration officer that you will return.
Learn about the Canadian Working Visa Options
What is a Canada Working Visa?
A Canada Work visa, also referred to as a work permit, would be needed to allow foreign nationals to work in Canada for a single employer or in one particular occupation. This visa is an excellent way for a Pakistani to get international work experience, which may act as a stepping stone toward permanent residency.
Types of Canada Working Visas:
Available to Pakistani nationals are several types of working visas.
Work Permit for an Employer: This class of permit is available for working with an employer in Canada. You would normally require a job offer and a Labour Market Impact Assessment from the employer.
Open Work Permit: An open work permit allows you to work for any employer without requiring a job offer in Canada. Chances for an open work permit are usually open for spouses of international students or skilled workers.
PGWP: If you have completed your studies at a Canadian institution, then you can successfully enrol for the PGWP which would allow you to work in Canada for up to as long as three years.
How to Apply for a Canada Working Visa
The process of applying for a Canadian working visa varies depending on the kind of permit you apply for. Here are the general steps:
Check the Eligibility Criteria: Make sure you are eligible for the work permit you intend to apply for.
Gather Documents: Put together all the documents that will be required while applying, like your letter of job offer, a valid passport, and an LMIA in case it is required.
Fill in the Application Form: Fill in the application form for a work permit online and submit it with the above-mentioned documents.
Work Permit Application Fee: The application fee for this work permit is approximately CAD 155, which is equivalent to almost PKR 22,000.
Apply for Biometrics: You would be required to provide your biometrics at one of the VACs in Pakistan, as was the case with a student visa process.
Attend an Interview: Depending on the application process, you may be required to attend an interview.
Processing Time: The work permit requires a time of a few weeks to some months depending on the type of permit and workload of the Canadian immigration house.
Get Your Work Permit: If approved, you will be granted your work permit, which shall spell out what and the conditions of your work in Canada.
Benefits of a Canada Working Visa H3
Having a Canadian working visa has several benefits:
International Work Experience: This will add work experience from Canada to your résumé and should be very useful in enhancing your career prospects in Canada and Pakistan.
Pathway to Permanent Residency: It could be a pathway to permanent residence in Canada, for example, through the CEC or PNP.
Opportunities for Career Growth: The versatile job market offers opportunities for growth in careers across a vast array of industries, from technology to health.
Tips for a Successful Application for a Canada Working Visa
Get a Stronger Job Offer
Get a stronger chance of getting a work permit by making sure that the job opportunity you have is solid and so are your skills and qualifications. A clear description of the job and an affirmative LMIA can act as a booster for your application.
Prepare for your Interview
In case an interview is conducted, be prepared to talk about your job designation, your experience, and how you can contribute to the Canadian economy. Confidence coupled with preparation will see one through.
Stay up-to-date on immigration policies
Immigration policies and processes are subject to change; therefore it is paramount to keep oneself updated on the newest developments. Check regularly on the official Government of Canada website or consult a licensed immigration consultant.
Conclusion: Get Ready to Move to Canada
Having to go through the entire procedure for a Canadian student visa and a Canadian working visa might be a drag, but equipped with the right information and preparation, you will surely be off to Canada. Opportunities regarding education or professional international experience abound in Canada for the nationals of Pakistan. The steps outlined herein, if followed keenly and the applicant is well-informed, will help him realize his dreams about migrating to Canada. Start your application process today and begin your journey into the Great White North for a brighter future.
