Understanding the Canada Student Visa and Canada Working Visa

Canada is a hot destination for Pakistani students and professionals who wish to enhance their education or advance their careers. Obtaining a Canada student visa or a Canada working visa is perceived to be quite complex, but with adequate information, you will be good to go. In this blog, we will cover everything you need to know about these visas: the application process, requirements, and how you can succeed.

What is a Canada Student Visa?

A Canadian student visa is a document issued by the Government of Canada giving an individual the authority to study in a DLI, a designated learning institution in Canada. This kind of visa is needed for everyone who’s going to undergo an academic program that will last more than six months in duration.

Conditions of Canada Student Visa

In any case, certain conditions must be fulfilled to obtain a student visa for studies in Canada. Among these are the following:

Acceptance by a DLI: The student should hold an acceptance letter from one of the institutions in Canada that have been accredited to host international students.

Proof of Funds: Proof that you have enough financial resources to cover tuition fees, living expenses, and return transportation.
No Criminal Record: You may be required to submit a police clearance certificate stating that you have no criminal record.
Good Health: There is a possibility that you shall have to undergo a medical examination to prove that you are in good health.
Intent to Leave Canada: You must prove to the visa officer that you will leave Canada once you complete your studies.

How to Apply for a Canada Student Visa

The steps to apply for a student visa in Canada are as follows:

Get an acceptance letter: Apply to a Designated Learning Institution; once you are admitted, you will receive an acceptance letter.
Gather documents and information: Required documents would be your passport, letter of acceptance, proof of funds, and other documents, if any, required by the visa office.
Apply online or on paper: You can apply either online at the IRCC website or on paper.
Pay the Application Fee: The cost of a Canada student visa is currently CAD 150, but you must be sure to update yourself with the present amount.
Biometrics and Interview: There may be a requirement for you to provide your biometrics and have an interview.
Wait for Processing: The processing times are usually varied and hence, one has to apply as soon as possible.

Tips for a successful Canada student visa application

Apply Early: Start with your application early enough, as soon as you receive your letter of acceptance to avert any form of delays.
Provide Accurate Information: Ensure that all the information you have provided is truthful and accurate.
Prepare for an Interview: If there may be a need for an interview, prepare to explain the reason behind Canada and how your study will be of importance to your future.

What is a Canada Working Visa?

A Canadian working visa, commonly referred to as a work permit, is a document that permits one to be employed in Canada for some time. There are several kinds of work permits depending on your job and the nature of your employment.

Types of Canada Working Visas

Employer-Specific Work Permit: This work permit permits the holder to work with a specified employer. The conditions of work include the name of the employer, the location of work, and the period the permit is valid.
Open Work Permit: This type of permit allows a holder to work with any employer except a few in Canada.
Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP): This is appurtenant after graduation from a Canadian post-secondary institution. This allows students to obtain substantial Canadian work experience.

Qualification for a Canadian Working Visa

Qualification will vary depending on what type of Canadian working visa you are applying to:

Job Offer: This will be an offer about an employer-specific work permit given by an employer in Canada.
LMIA stands for Labour Market Impact Assessment. Some work permits can only be issued if there is an LMIA, which confirms that the hiring of a foreign worker will not hurt the Canadian job market.
Proof of Qualifications: Depending on the type of job, you may be asked to provide proof of your qualifications, education, or work experience.
Language Proficiency: You may have to reveal your proficiency in the language in either English or French.

Application Process for a Canada Working Visa

Surely, the process for a work permit in Canada involves the following steps:

· Job offer: A prospective individual should have a Canadian employer’s Letter of Offer,
· LMO: The employer may need to apply for an LMO (Labor Market Opinion).
· Gather documents: Passport, job offer letter, LMO, proof of qualifications, language test.
· Apply for a work permit: Can apply online over the official website of IRCC and also by hard copy.
Application Fee: The fee for a work permit is generally CAD 155. That may have changed.
Biometrics and Interview: Similar to the student visa application process, you will most likely be asked to provide your biometrics and appear for an interview.

Moving from a Canada Student Visa to a Canada Working Visa

Most international students who study in Canada stay in the country to work post-study. Shifting from a Canadian student visa to a working visa can be done through the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP).

How the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) Works

The PGWP allows students to work in Canada for up to three years after completing their studies. Such an experience can be very beneficial while seeking permanent residency in this country.

Eligibility for Post-Graduate Work Permit

To avail of a PGWP, you should:

DLI graduate: You should be a graduate from a full-time program from a DLI.
Apply Within 180 Days: You are supposed to apply for the PGWP within 180 days of receiving the final marks or your degree.
Valid Status: You are supposed to have a valid status of student visa at the time of application of PGWP.

Processed Significance of the PGWP

Canadian Work Experience: You would be allowed to work in Canada under the PGWP, which is considered an essential precondition to count towards your permanent residency.
Open Work Permit: The PGWP is an open work permit allowing you to work for any employer in Canada.

Important Points to Note and Useful Tips for Applicants from Pakistan

While the visa application process is very cumbersome, a few basic pointers may just get you the advantage that will help you glide through with success:

Start Early: Leave ample time to complete the application process so that if there are any unexpected issues, you have time to sort those out.
Stay Informed: Immigration rules and regulations change from time to time, therefore; it is important to keep updated with the current information on the IRCC website.
Professional Guidance: When in doubt concerning some areas in the application procedure, professional guidance may be of most help from an immigration consultant or lawyer.
Be Truthful: The only way to make sure things don’t get more complicated than they are is to state the information in your application.

Conclusion

To apply for visas to study or work in Canada for applicants from Pakistan, there is a need for meticulous planning and arrangement. The applicant is advised to understand what is required, the right procedures to follow, and the preparation needed to avoid the most common reasons for which such applications are unsuccessful. This guide gives the basic info for commencing your way to Canada for studies or to start your career.