How To Immigrate To Canada in 2025

Are you interested in going to Canada? What you need will depend on the reason for your travel. Here’s how to immigrate to Canada in 2025.

Canada’s Immigration System

Canada has one of the most dynamic immigration systems in the world. With many different types of immigration programs available, it can be very overwhelming. Preparation is key when considering your options on how to immigrate to Canada.

Make sure you keep up to date with the latest changes to Canada’s immigration programs by visiting the official Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada website.

So you don’t get confused, if you’re not a Canadian citizen, you’ll need to ask for permission to go to Canada. You’ll either apply as a Temporary Resident (visitor, international student or foreign worker) or as a Permanent Resident (landed immigrant).

If you need help, make sure you only work with a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) or a Canadian immigration lawyer.

If You’re Going To Visit Canada

Unless you’re from a visa-exempt country, you’ll need to apply for a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV).

If you have a valid US non-immigrant visa (B-1, B-2, B-1/B-2), you may be able to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) instead.

If you need a TRV, you can apply at the Visa Application Centre (VAC) which has jurisdiction over your home country or country of residence (as long as you have legal status in that country).

You’ll need to meet all the basic requirements to apply, including:

• Having a valid travel document (such as a passport)
• Being in good health
• Not having a criminal record
• Having enough money for your travel

When you arrive in Canada, an immigration officer will determine if you’re eligible. If you are, you’ll be allowed to enter Canada for a limited time (up to six months, at the discretion of the immigration officer).

You can’t study nor work while you’re in Canada, and in most cases, won’t be able to transition from a visitor visa to study or work permit neither.

You’ll be expected to leave Canada before the end of your authorized stay; staying past your authorized stay will most likely have a detrimental effect on any future immigration applications, not only for Canada but also for every other member country of the Five Eyes Alliance (the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia and New Zealand).

If You’re Going To Study In Canada

You’ll need to meet all the basic requirements to apply, in addition to specific requirements including:

• Letter of Acceptance from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
• Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) or Territorial Attestation Letter (TAL)
• Proof of identity
• Proof of financial support

When you arrive in Canada, an immigration officer will determine if you’re eligible. If you are, you’ll be issued a Study Permit.

You’ll need to follow the restrictions on your study permit. If you have questions about your immigration status in Canada, consult your DLI’s international student adviser and call IRCC at the phone number located at the back of your study permit.

Keep in mind that international students do not have a guaranteed path to permanent residency in Canada. Not all program of studies are eligible for Post-Graduation Work Permits, check with your DLI for eligible programs of studies.

If you do not meet the requirements to apply for other immigration programs, you will be required to leave Canada before the expiration of your Study Permit.

If You’re Going To Work In Canada

The requirements to apply as a temporary foreign worker in Canada will depend on where you apply and what type of Work Permit you’ll be applying for.

You’ll need to meet all the basic requirements to apply, in addition to specific requirements including:

• Proving to an immigration officer that you’ll leave Canada before the end of your Work Permit
• Show that you have enough money to support any family members who might be coming with you
• Proving that you’re not planning to work for Canadian employer on the ineligible list
• Proving that you’re not planning to work for a Canadian employer who offers striptease, erotic dance, escort services or erotic massages

Canadian employers must be authorized by the Government of Canada before they can hire temporary foreign workers.

You and your Canadian employers are also subject to the rules and regulations of your home country.

Keep in mind that temporary foreign workers do not have a guaranteed path to permanent residency in Canada.

If you do not meet the requirements to apply for other immigration programs, you will be required to leave Canada before the expiration of your Work Permit.

If You’re Going To Immigrate To Canada

If you’re going to apply as a landed immigrant from outside of Canada, you’ll have to submit an application under the Express Entry system.

You and every member of your family (even if they’re not joining you in Canada) will need to meet all the basic requirements to apply, in addition to specific requirements including:

• Proof of language proficiency
• Medical exam results
• Proof of funds

You will receive points based on the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). IRCC conducts regular draws, and if you have enough points, you will receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA). You’ll need to submit your application within 60 days after you receive your ITA.

Permanent residents are not subject to the same restrictions that visitors, international students and temporary foreign workers have. They can live and work anywhere in Canada.

Remember!

Canada has many different immigration programs, with each program having different requirements from others.

Most immigration applications for Canada must be done online. Check the official IRCC website for the latest changes to Canada’s different immigration programs in 2025.

Are you ready to take your first step? Have you chosen your path on how to immigrate to Canada? Leave a comment below!

Book A Consultation Today!

Would you like to explore your immigration options for Canada? Book a free consultation with Eric Parungao, Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) today!