Preparing a Canadian immigration application no doubt comes with a lot of hurdles. Like with any important decision in life, you need to plan carefully and look out for possible pitfalls and obstacles. This will not only help you have a less challenging application process but also increase your chances of approval. Additionally, knowing what to expect and the risks involved keeps you mentally prepared for any possible outcomes.
This article provides an overview of the possible Canada immigration application pitfalls, challenges and risks and how to overcome them. The issues addressed here cut across the different Canadian immigration pathways. So, regardless of the pathway you choose to go through, reading this article will equip you with the knowledge you need to make your application process smoother.
Navigating the Canada Immigration Online Application
Applying for Canadian immigration online through the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website is generally efficient. However, it can still come with various challenges.
Document Upload Errors
- IRCC requires documents to be uploaded in specific formats (PDF, JPEG) and within strict file size limits. This can be challenging to meet, especially for scanned documents.
- Poor quality or illegible scans can result in documents being deemed unusable, leading to requests for resubmission.
What to Do
- Use online tools like PDF compressors to reduce file sizes without sacrificing quality. Confirm your document meets IRCC’s format and size requirements.
- Make sure all scanned documents are legible. Use scanners or scanning apps to ensure clarity.
- Label each file clearly (e.g., “Passport_PersonalDetails.pdf”) to prevent misplacement or confusion during uploading.
Challenges in Filling Out Forms Accurately
- Small mistakes (like incorrect dates, typos in names, or misfiled addresses) when preparing a Canadian immigration application can lead to application rejections or complications.
- Information on all submitted documents must be consistent across the application. Any discrepancies may raise red flags or trigger additional verification.
What to Do
- Verify that the details on the form match all documents and crosscheck for spelling errors or typos.
- Use the IRCC glossary if you’re unsure about specific terms or sections.
Transaction Errors
- Payment issues, such as declined transactions, may occur, especially if the bank flags large payments for security reasons.
What to Do
- Verify maximum daily transaction limits with your bank and only use banks that allow you to carry out the needed transactions effectively.
- Always save digital copies and print your payment receipt after completing a transaction.
Risk of Missing Deadlines and Expiry Dates
- Documents like language test results and police clearance certificates have validity periods. If these expire before the application is processed, you may need to obtain and pay for new documents.
- If you wait too long to gather documents, there may be processing delays that could cause you to miss the submission deadline, especially if IRCC has specific intake windows.
What to Do
- Use a spreadsheet to track document expiry dates and submission deadlines.
- Start collecting documents well in advance, particularly for items that may take weeks or months to process, like police clearance.
Evaluating Your Eligibility
Applying for any immigration pathway without meeting the required eligibility criteria is like going on a wild goose chase. This can leave you sad and frustrated after several rejections. Hence, in preparing a Canadian immigration application, it is important to check that you meet the Canada immigration requirements for your desired pathway as this can save time, effort, and money.
Although each pathway has specific criteria, there are general evaluation guidelines that apply across most Canadian immigration pathways. These will be discussed below. However, it is essential to check out the criteria specific to your desired pathway.
Age
Most immigration pathways prioritise younger applicants, especially point-based systems like Express Entry. Generally, applicants between the ages of 18 and 35 receive the most points. After age 35, points gradually decrease. But, it is still possible to apply, especially if you have strong credentials in other areas (such as work experience or language skills).
Education Level
Canadian immigration programs value education highly. Most programs require a minimum level of education, typically a high school diploma, with higher points for college diplomas, bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degrees. If you studied outside Canada, you’ll need an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) to prove the Canadian equivalency of your credentials.
Language Proficiency
Canada has two official languages: English and French. You will need to demonstrate proficiency in at least one of these through a recognised language test especially if you are applying for permanent residency. Higher scores can increase your points for pathways like Express Entry and can also improve eligibility for provincial programs and other immigration options.
Work Experience
Generally, having at least one year of continuous, full-time work experience in a skilled job is often the minimum requirement. Canadian work experience is often valued more highly than foreign experience, particularly in the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) or provincial programs.
Adaptability Factors
If you are preparing a Canadian immigration application for a family immigration to Canada, particularly with a spouse or partner, their education, language skills, and work experience can also contribute to your eligibility and points. Additionally, points or eligibility may increase if you have close relatives in Canada (such as a parent, sibling, or child who is a Canadian citizen or permanent resident), Canadian education, or previous Canadian work experience.
Financial Stability and Settlement Funds
Most immigration programs require proof that you have sufficient settlement funds to support yourself and your family upon arrival. The specific amount varies based on family size. However, if you have a valid job offer in Canada or apply through the Canadian Experience Class, you may not need to show settlement funds.
Health and Security Clearances
All applicants must undergo a medical examination to ensure they do not pose a health risk to the Canadian public or burden the healthcare system. Applicants also need to provide police certificates from every country where they have lived for more than six months since the age of 18 to demonstrate they have no serious criminal record.
Job Offer or Canadian Employer Support
If you intend to work in Canada, may require a valid job offer from a Canadian employer to be eligible for certain immigration programs. In most cases, the Canadian employer will need to get a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) to prove that hiring a foreign worker won’t negatively affect the Canadian labour market.
Understanding Financial Risks
Preparing a Canadian immigration application involves several financial commitments, some of which are nonrefundable. There are also other unforeseen payments you may have to make. Being aware of these financial demands and risks helps you to prepare better. Keep in mind that these fee prices are subject to change by Canadian immigration.
Non-Refundable Fees
These fees are generally required upfront and will not be returned to you, even if your application is rejected or withdrawn.
Application Processing Fees for Express Entry and Economic Class Programs:
This cost CAD $1,525 for a single applicant
- Processing fee: CAD $950
- Right of Permanent Residence Fee: CAD $575
Application Processing Fees for Family Sponsorship:
Sponsoring a relative 22 or older cost CAD $1,205
- Sponsorship fee: CAD $85
- Principal applicant processing fee: CAD $545
- Right of permanent residence fee: CAD $575
- Including a dependent child on an application cost CAD $175 per child.
NOTE: The right of permanent residence fee is refundable if your application is denied before you land as a permanent resident.
Sponsoring a dependent child costs CAD $170 per child
- Sponsorship fee: CAD $85
- Processing fee: CAD $85
Provincial Nominee Program (PNP):
- Processing fee varies by province, but generally range from CAD $250 to CAD $1,500.
Biometrics Fee:
- Single applicant: CAD $85
- Family (2 or more applicants): CAD $170
Medical Exam:
- Required for all applicants and costs vary by country and physician. Average cost: CAD $200–$500 per person.
Potential Hidden Charges
Language Testing Fees:
- IELTS (English): CAD $300–$350 (varies by country)
- CELPIP (English, only in Canada): CAD $280
- TEF or TCF (French): CAD $300–$400
Educational Credential Assessment (ECA):
- Varies by organization (e.g., WES, ICAS): CAD $200–$300
Police Certificates:
- Fees vary by country, but applicants need a certificate from every country they have lived in for six months or more since age 18. Costs range from CAD $25–$100 per certificate.
Document Translation Fees:
- When preparing a Canadian immigration application, you have to translate any document not in English or French. You should use a certified translator which may cost between CAD $20–$50 per page.
Dealing with Unforeseen Policy Changes
Stay Informed on Policy Updates
From time to time, the Canadian government announces new changes in immigration policies. Thankfully, they typically provide a period of grace before the policies are implemented. Hence, intending immigrants have some time to reassess their plans if need be and make necessary adjustments.
Keeping up-to-date with IRCC announcements helps you stay ahead in the game. This is especially important if you’re in the middle of an application. IRCC will update any new changes on its website and social media channels. If you have access to any social media group for immigrants, you may also get some information there.
Avoid Delays
Start your application as soon as you meet the eligibility criteria to avoid the risk of policy changes affecting your status. Processing times can be long, and policies often change without notice. Sometimes, they can impact both new and ongoing applications.
Set Aside a Financial Buffer
Policy changes can sometimes lead to increased fees or requirements for new documentation. A financial buffer can help you cover unexpected costs without disrupting your budget or delaying your application.
Finally,
Preparing a Canadian immigration application requires diligence and a proactive approach to managing risks. By understanding the challenges, such as processing delays, document requirements, financial obligations, and policy shifts, you can create a well-rounded strategy to mitigate these risks. With careful planning and patience, you can overcome the hurdles and focus on what awaits you in Canada.
