Traveling to Montreal is like visiting Europe without leaving Canada. One of the most distinguishing features is the visual image of Montreal. The architecture itself will take your breath away more than once, we promise!
If you are ready for immigration to Canada, make sure your resources are reliable. There is no place for misconceptions in such a serious project as immigration.
When pursuing their Canadian dream, a lot of potential immigrants are trying to gather as much information about immigration as possible. However, very often the information from non-official resources might be misleading, outdated, outright confusing and even wrong, which may lead to misinterpretation and create more questions from candidates. Here are top-5 misconceptions that may affect the potential immigrants’ decisions:
Nothing is impossible! If you have an entrepreneurial mindset, some funds, and a definite purpose for your business in Canada – you are already a half-way to success. There are multiple variations for business immigration, including Startup Visa, Business Visa, PNP, etc. If you don’t have connections in Canada yet – it shouldn’t stop you. Anyvisa is a one-stop-shop for immigrants-entrepreneurs. We are highly experienced and very well positioned in creating what could be the first springboard for your business success. Order the business consultation to discuss your options.
Unfortunately, this is not true. Students must graduate from an eligible designated learning institution (DLI) in order to obtain a post-graduation work permit. You need this special permit so (even If you don’t have any previous work experience from your home country), you can find a job in Canada and build up your points for Express Entry. Learn more about Student visa on the designated page.
To get your Startup Visa application on point and go through the process smoothly, here are 5 things you need to know before making the first step to your dream.
Business Immigration to Canada is getting more and more popular. Startup Visa is one of Business Immigration options, if you are an entrepreneur with this super innovative idea and a big desire to start your business in Canada.
Here are the main points of the program that candidates need to consider even before they make their first steps towards their immigration process if they select Startup Visa as their path.
1 – Financial Requirements
Unlike other business/investment programs, the Startup Visa stream doesn't have a "proof of funds" requirement beyond what is normally required from skilled workers, etc. – settlement funds. The candidate’s family composition will make a difference. Get familiar with the financial requirements for the Startup Visa on our dedicated page.
2 – Language Test
All the team members must pass the IELTS General (CLB=5). This is a mandatory requirement, so if the candidate is not sure about the language level, we highly recommend devoting some time to IELTS test preparation and taking the exam before taking any significant steps for the Startup Visa application.
If you have an entrepreneurial mindset and a dream to immigrate – Canada offers some business immigration options that you may choose from.
First of all, you need to face the truth – if you have money to invest in such a long-term process as immigration, or not?
Even though you will have expenses for visa itself, setting up your project, and settle your family in Canada, the biggest advantage of this program is that you don’t need any proof of net-worth. Since we got into advantages, we have to mention that here you also don’t need to proof any business experience, you don’t need to wait in any queue to be reviewed, and, finally, this is the fastest business program in terms of getting the Canadian PR status. Even though it is called a Startup Visa, it is technically a straight path to immigration. Language requirements for this program - CLB 5.
Unlike the previous type of program, this Business Visa is just a temporary visa that allows you to run your business in Canada for a limited period of time. It has its requirements that include proving the source of funds and the previous experience of business management. See the extended list of requirements for the Canadian Business Visa. Again, this is a temporary status in Canada. If you want to immigrate having Business Visa on your hands, contact usto see your immigration options. As well as previous option, Business visa has the CLB 5 as a language requirement.
One of the most popular flights between North America’s two coasts will be discontinued. No more daily flights from YVR to JFK by Cathay Pacific starting from April 2020.
After 23 years of operation, the flight from the Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) to JFK service (with a stop at YVR) will no longer exist. According to official reports, this decision has been made since this route has been unprofitable for Cathay Pacific for years because of increased competition from non-stop flights from Hong Kong to New York City.
If you are willing to travel to New York City from Vancouver and try one of the most enjoyable flights, you still have almost eight months to do so. If you have a Canadian Permanent Residency or staying in Vancouver on any temporary visa, check if you need a visa to travel to the USA and use your chance to explore a little bit more.
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As the COVID-19 preventative measures are getting stricter in almost every country, many travellers are facing issues such as flight cancelations, border crossing, and imposed self-isolation, not to mention the huge impact the coronavirus is having on businesses.
The Canadian border is now closed for foreign nationals who are not residents or citizens. Therefore, having your travel documents in order is a smart and responsible approach, if you are trying to return home safely.
We, at AnyVisa, are committed to helping Canadian Permanent Residents, who have issues with their PR cards, get back to Canada. And, of course, other foreign travelers, who require consular assistance to go to their home countries, can rely on AnyVisa for travel document support.
Summarizing the Canadian government’s measures, including the border closure, here is the current situation:
These travel updates are for those who are stuck in Canada due to the pandemic, or can’t wait when Canada lifts its travel restrictions for foreign travelers.
Canada’s Immigration system has been impacted greatly for the past few months. The good news: things are slowly improving.
We would divide the most popular requests that we are getting from our customers into 2 major groups:
For the first group - it is possible to prolong their legal stay in Canada, as long as all of the documents are well prepared and there is no hidden motive for extending their stay in Canada.
The very recent update from the Government of Canada was announced on July 14, 2020, saying that former workers, students and visitors who remained in Canada, and whose status expired after Jan 30, 2020, will now have extended time to apply until Dec 31, 2020, to restore their status. To find out if you are eligible to apply, contact us.
As for the second group of requests – people are patiently waiting for the borders to re-open for non-essential travel. We have covered in detail the rules for Temporary Residents, Permanent Residents, and Canadian Citizens coming to Canada in our previous blog.
So, who can currently enter Canada?
For all other foreign nationals to be eligible to enter Canada, they must meet 2 requirements:
These measures are in effect until at least August 21, 2020, for travelers coming directly from the US, and July 31, 2020, for all other foreign nationals. The best way to discuss your options in the current situation is by contacting us.
Can you apply for a Canadian Visa meanwhile?
The answer is YES! We can still assist you with Canadian Tourist Visa applications, Student/Work Permits, Business Immigration, PNP, Family Sponsorship files, etc.
What is going to happen next – no one can predict, but we are hoping for the best and will keep you posted on Government Updates. We post travel and immigration updates weekly on our YouTube channel. Subscribe to get recent updates, or contact us directly.
There are more than 80 immigration programs in Canada, and here is what you need to know about PR status and Citizenship in Canada.
The path from a Temporary Resident to Permanent Resident is different for everyone, but as soon as one gets his or her PR card – that significant moment will be one of the brightest memories of their lives. However, make sure you don’t lose your PR status. How can one lose a PR status?
Even though it’s on the list but the last point is surely a positive reason of “losing” the PR status. Please, keep in mind, that in order to keep your permanent resident status, you must spend in Canada for at least 730 days during the last five years. And in order to apply for your citizenship in Canada you must have been physically present in Canada for at least 1095 days during the five years right before the date you sign your application.
If you are ready to start your path to your “Canadian dream”, take a first step – submit our Free Assessment form, and see your chances for Canadian Immigration, or you can order a consultation right away and discuss your options directly with the immigration expert.
If you ever dreamt about running your own business in Canada, business visa might be the right path for you.
It is a Temporary Visa that allows business-people to come to Canada to build a brand new business or operate an existing one. This type of visa is valid for an extended period of time depending on the country of your nationality. The Candidate is allowed to work in Canada: business visa results in the proper Work Permit issuance.
Many people confuse Business Visa and Startup Visa. You can see the difference between these two in our FAQ section. Both programs are worth to consider if you are an entrepreneur and willing to relocate to Canada. You can see Business visa requirements in general qualifications of Owner-Operator on our Canadian Business Visa page.
If you are still indecisive which business program to choose, we highly recommend ordering an in-depth business consultation with us.
If you don’t have your vacation planned, here are some unique and stunning destinations in BC that you can visit with the love of your life.
Plus, this year Canadians got lucky - Valentine’s Day happens just before the long weekend devoted to the Family Day! That is a great opportunity for a 3-4 days getaway somewhere in BC. It is actually known as a vacation destination for many, so if you already live here – see where you can go within just a few hours driving.
1 – Free Spirit Spheres
Where: Vancouver Island, BC
Have you ever dreamt of a treehouse? So these are not just treehouses you are imagining, these are absolutely unique spherical treehouses designed to offer a great mix of back-to-nature experience and glamping. That is a truly exotic getaway where you get to find peace and relaxation while living in a sphere up in the trees of the coastal rainforest.
2 - Spot Bald Eagles at Brackendale
Where: Squamish, BC
Brackendale Eagle Provincial Park is located in the Squamish River Valley, which is one of the best places to mesmerize wintering bald eagles. Also, you can join the big celebration of the Sea to Sky Gondola opening ceremony right on February 14th!
3 – Slopes + Spa = Scandinave
Where: Whistler, BC
This destination never gets old – Whistler Village and everything it offers: a cozy atmosphere, amazing dining spots, little cute shops, and a bunch of nice hotels. However, the most exciting thing about Whistler is the greatest opportunity for downhill sports and one of the best spa experiences at the Scandinave Spa.
According to the federal government of Canada, there are continuing delays for LMIA processing.
Employment and Social Development Canada, which handles Canadian work permits and LMIA requests, is currently experiencing a high number of LMIA applications which is leading to longer processing times for some streams of the Temporary Foreign Worker Program.
ESDC has published average processing times by each Temporary Foreign Worker Program category. Expected LMIA processing times vary:
It is also highly recommended applicants to ensure their applications are complete before submission. Also, it is crucial to respond promptly to official requests for any additional information.
If you are still thinking of applying for any of the mentioned streams and/or unsure about the process, proceed with our legal consultation.
Within the next 5 years the Government of Canada will be working on attracting more international students according to the new $148-million education strategy.
Statistically, more than ½ of all the international students in Canada are Indian and Chinese. This fact has been a bit concerning for the federal government so it came up with a new strategy last week. The international education strategy is based on the $148-million plan to attract more foreign students to Canadian universities within the next 5 years. By “international” it means that the main focus will be targeting Mexico, Brazil, Colombia, Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, Philippines, Morocco, France, Ukraine, and Turkey. Another goal of the Canadian government under this strategy will be attracting students to schools of smaller Canadian cities to benefit those regions of Canada that tend to receive fewer immigrants.“We’re pleased with the countries [the government] has chosen,” said Paul Davidson, president of Universities Canada, the national lobby group that represents 96 universities across Canada. To see the list of schools welcoming international students, visit our educational institutions page. Also, there are multiple different study programs for students to get familiar with before they decide to get their education in Canada.
If you are having difficulties with the educational enrollment or still feeling indecisive regarding the educational institution in Canada or the study program, feel free to contact us and discuss your options during the initial consultation.
Business Immigration to Canada has always been appealing to foreign entrepreneurs. However, it gets complicated when it comes to choosing between business programs.
Business Immigration has been our favorite topic to cover and clarify while comparing different options. We work with business files daily and can contrast all the existing Business Immigration programs not just in theory, but from our own experience.
If you are considering Business Immigration as a path to Canadian Immigration, then you are probably aware of the Provincial Nominee Entrepreneur.
What is the PNP Entrepreneur Program?
According to the official definition, this stream “provides a pathway to Canadian Permanent Residence for experienced businesspeople that can establish themselves in B.C. and invest in and operate a commercially viable business that can provide significant benefits to the provincial economy”.
Like any other stream or immigration program, it has its requirements and specifications. First of all, the candidate has to meet financial requirements:
You will find several dollar amounts for the above PNP requirements on our designated page. Here, we would like to mention that the candidate has to be aware of the hidden costs of this process. Those costs may include the following:
In other words, by the 3rd year of the process of PNP program, the candidate can spend upwards of CAD $700 000, and that may be very overwhelming for many.
Is there any alternative?
For entrepreneurs willing to start their business in Canada and immigrate, there is an amazing alternative – Startup Visa. Even though it is called a “visa” – it is a solid path for Canadian Immigration. We have covered multiple topics regarding the Startup visa, available on our YouTube channel. For more information about the program’s main principles, visit the Canadian Startup Visa page.
The main advantages of Startup Visa include the following points:
What happens if your business fails?
And that is one of the most important differences between PNP and Startup Visa: if your Startup fails as a business (after you get your PR), it will NOT affect your Permanent Residence status. Meanwhile, if your business fails due to the insufficiency of meeting the terms and conditions of your signed PNP Performance Agreement within the imposed timeframes, it may result in refusal at any stage of the process.
Every situation is unique, and all the candidates have the right to choose which program is more suitable for them. We are happy to help with making the right choice when it comes to immigration in general and Business Immigration in particular. Send your request on our contact page and we will be happy to assist you!
East Coast of North America is recovering from the extremely powerful hurricane Dorian. People are being evacuated from the flooded areas. It is advised to avoid any traveling to the Atlantic region.
Started from a tropical wave and damaging winds in the Central Atlantic, Dorian affected the Caribbean region, Virgin Islands. Rapidly transforming into a destructive hurricane Dorian made landfall in the Bahamas causing catastrophic damage to Grand Bahama and Abaco Island. As a result, more than 70 thousand people lost their homes.
Dorian began to move towards the north-northwest slowly weakening. Fluctuating in intensity between Category 1 and 2 it sped northeastward toward Atlantic Canada.
On September 7 and 8, the hurricane Dorian made landfall in eastern Canada. Causing wind damage and bringing heavy rainfall, Dorian left about 400 thousand people without power in provinces of Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, New Brunswick, and Newfoundland.
On September 9, additional rainfall is expected from Dorian in eastern Quebec, Newfoundland, and Labrador. Meanwhile, mid-Atlantic and New England coasts of the U.S. and the coast of Atlantic Canada may expect life-threatening tide and surf conditions.
We encourage all travelers to be cautious and stay safe. There are situations when it seems to be impossible to cancel the trip that was planned way before. However, it is always better to follow travel advisories and keep yourself and your family away from emergencies. Pick safe destinations for your next trip and feel free to ask for professional assistance before your trip. First, check if you need a visa to reach your destination.
TOP-5 Canadian cities that will make your Christmas holidays experience the most festive and memorable!
If you are planning to spend your Christmas holidays away from home, consider Canada as an option and you won’t regret! Festive season in Canada is quite remarkable with its snowy scenes, Christmas markets and seasonal cheer. Here are TOP-5 best Canadians cities to go for your winter holidays:
1 – Toronto
It is not only the largest city in Canada, it’s the biggest concentration of fun! Half a million people are coming to Toronto every year to see sparkling lights, enjoy outdoor skating rinks and attend various of seasonal events, such as Toronto Christmas Market, Christmas at Casa Loma, Cavalcade of Lights, Christmas Flower Shows and many more!
2 – Montreal
This one is the largest city in the French-speaking province of Quebec, and definitely a great destination to enjoy the Christmas season. Delicious food, European atmosphere, weekly fireworks shows – all that is about Christmas holidays in Montreal. If you are planning your getaway to Montreal, check out these events: Christmas in the Park, Holiday Alley in Old Montreal, Merry Montreal.
Pre-Assessment is our unique B2C approach to let people from all over the world check if they have any options for Canadian Immigration.
For many years of our practice, we have been providing Pre-Assessment for those who come to us for the first time. Why is it so important?
1 - It is the best way to understand the situation of the potential client and see the bigger picture.
2 - We can see multiple options: if you have good chances for Canadian Immigration, besides obvious ones, we can see and identify non-standard options that you probably haven't heard of.
3 - It's saving your time and money: Why? Because if there are no chances for you to immigrate to Canada, we will let you know without the paid consultation.
4 - If you do have multiple options for immigration, we will be able to devote the entire consultation to the strategy discussion and planning the steps (oppose to getting to know you from scratch).
We always want our clients to feel comfortable, safe and make the most of our paid consultations.
Our team of Canadian immigration experts can support you with visitor visa applications, study/work permits, Permanent Residence, Business Immigration, and Citizenship applications. For all inquiries, please contact us or request Pre-Assessmentright away.