Canada is one of the most beautiful and diverse countries on earth, with the added benefit of being an open and tolerant society with exciting opportunities for British expats. So, if you have visited Canada and fallen in love with the country or are just in the process of finding out more, in this article, we’ll explain the main working visas for prospective residents.
Do You Need A Visa To Visit Canada From The UK?
No, if you are a UK citizen, you can visit Canada for up to 6 months without a visa. Travellers arriving by air usually need to fill out an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA), which is linked to your passport and valid for up to 5 years, although this isn’t required if you enter the country by land or sea. However, for longer stays, work, or permanent relocation, you will need to apply for the appropriate permit or visa.
These include:
1. Express Entry Visa (Fast Track, Self-Application)
This is Canada’s fastest and most popular route for skilled British workers to enter the country as permanent residents. With permanent residency, you’ll gain access to Canada’s health care, education, and social services and will be free to travel in and out of the country without having to give up your UK passport.
Who Is It For? Skilled workers with qualifications and experience in healthcare, finance, engineering, or technology.
How Does It Work? Express Entry uses a points-based system that evaluates applicants based on their age bracket, educational level, work experience, and language proficiency. You can apply yourself without needing sponsorship from a Canadian employer or provincial authority.
How Long Does It Take? Applications take around six months.
2. Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
The PNP program allows Canadian provinces and territories to sponsor the visas of foreign workers to meet local labour requirements, often in healthcare and industry. Popular properties to consider include British Columbia, Alberta, Ontario, and Québec.
Who Is It For? Workers in target industries who want to live and work in a specific part of Canada.
How Does It Work? You’ll need to fulfil the eligibility criteria of your chosen province to receive a provincial nomination. If successful, you will be awarded permanent residency in that province.
How Long Does It Take? This can depend on the province, but some PNP applications can take 12 to 18 months or more.
3. Skilled Worker Visa (Employer-sponsored)
Skilled worker visas are available for individuals with in demand skills required to boost the Canadian economy.
Who Is It For? ‘Skilled workers’ include professionals in a variety of industries, including IT specialists, surgeons, construction experts, experienced teachers, and some categories of tradesperson.
How Does It Work? To apply, you will need a valid job offer from a Canadian business and relevant skills in demand in Canada (training, education, experience, and responsibilities, or TEER). The skills considered in demand can fluctuate with market need, so please refer to the National Occupational Classification (NOC) list on the Government of Canada website for up-to-date information.
How Long Does It Take? Allow up to 18 months for your application to be reviewed, although an Express-linked application should be completed in 6 months.
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