Prepare Your Permanent Resident Card

Applying for Your Canada PR Card

Your Permanent Resident Card is one of your most important documents. It is your proof that you hold status as a permanent resident, and is essential if you plan to take any trips outside of Canada. Each time you re-enter Canada after a trip outside the country, you must present your valid, unexpired Permanent Resident Card.

The Permanent Resident Card expires every five years. Check the expiry date and apply for a new one well before you plan to travel.

Who Can Apply for a Canadian PR Card?

Applying for a Permanent Resident Card is not the same as applying for permanent resident status. Only individuals who have already been granted permanent resident status are eligible to apply for a Permanent Resident Card.

Typical applicants include individuals seeking to replace their expired Permanent Resident Card and individuals seeking to replace a lost or stolen card. In addition, certain individuals who were granted permanent resident status prior to June 28, 2002 never received a Permanent Resident Card, and may apply for a new card using this application.

Under normal circumstances, permanent residents who obtained status after June 28, 2002 received a Permanent Resident Card as part of the application process. However, applicants who did not receive a card due to CIC error may also be eligible to apply for a Permanent Resident Card on this form.

What Are the Steps in the Canada PR Process?

1. Complete your application quickly and accurately, with our easy-to-use Form Navigator^TM technology.
2. Pay the government filing fee online.
3. Gather your supporting documents and submit them with your application to CIC.
4. Upon approval of your application, report to the local CIC office to collect your card.

Welcome to Canada: a newcomer’s checklist

Once you have stepped off the plane follow this to-do list to guide your essential first steps in Canada

Before you leave the airport, check out the newcomer welcome centre. 
At the Toronto Pearson International Airport, look for the Immigrant Reception and Information Services (IRIS) kiosks. At the Vancouver International Airport, go to the Community Airport Newcomers Network (CANN) kiosk in the immigration landing room of the international arrivals area. These kiosks will have pamphlets and resources to help you in your first days in Canada.

Find temporary accommodation for your first few nights after landing and then start looking for a longer term rental. Although you may start off at a hotel/motel, they can get expensive, so try to find one with a good monthly rate. You may then want to find a furnished apartment rental until you decide for certain which areas of the city you prefer before you sign a lease for a longer term rental or consider buying a house.

Obtain a good street map, a telephone book and the Yellow Pages. These resources will be important tools in your first days as you get to know your neighbourhood and search out local services.

Visit a local immigrant settlement agency. Such non-profit organizations receive government funding to offer newcomers services, such as free ESL training, settlement counselling, employment workshops and more. They also often have host programs that buddy up newcomers with volunteers who help guide them through their first few months in Canada. See cic.gc.ca for a list of agencies across the country.  See Settlement.Org for a list of agencies in Ontario.

Apply for your Social Insurance Number (SIN) card. Without it, you cannot get a job or apply for any government assistance or credit. Applications for a SIN card can be made through a Human Resources and Skills Development Canada (HRSDC) office — check the blue pages of your local telephone book under Government of Canada.

Apply for your official health care card. Application forms for these cards are available from doctor’s offices, hospitals and most pharmacies, or by calling the provincial medical services authorities. Since there is a three-month waiting period for coverage in Ontario, B.C. and some other provinces, don’t delay in your application. Ensure you have temporary private health coverage to cover your family during the waiting period.

Open an account at a bank or credit union near your home. It’s important to start a relationship with a bank as soon as possible, so you can manage your money, pay your bills and begin building a credit history.

Validate your professional credentials. Contact a local foreign credentials assessment service, such as World Education Services (wes.org/ca) in Toronto or the International Credential Evaluation Service in B.C. (bcit.ca/ices).

Get your Canadian driver’s licence. An international licence is only valid for a few months. Check with your provincial motor vehicle branch on the rules in your province.

Enrol your kids at school. Every child between the ages of five and 16 is entitled to, and in fact required to, attend school. Ask at schools in your neighbourhood or contact the local school board for guidance.

Want more tips on how to navigate your new life in Canada? Click here to access our Welcome to Canada Guide

Business Migration

Australia, Canada & New Zealand have business migration programs to attract successful entrepreneur in their country. Each country has multiple programs & depending on type of visa it may be a conditional or unconditional visa. The purpose of business migration program is to attract successful businessperson in their country to benefit the economy. Business migration program generally has two main streams Entrepreneur category & Investor category.

TWO Main Stream:

Entrepreneur Category: Entrepreneur category generally does not have condition to transfer funds before getting the visa but it is a conditional visa & applicant needs to fulfill specified conditions in specific time frame. Condition generally revolves around starting the business, hiring 1-2 Citizens or PR Holders, achieving revenue & Profit.

Investor Category:
Investor category is generally designed for Business person with high net worth. This category has a very high eligibility criteria & applicant have to invest a sizable amount in government secured bonds or funds. Depending on the program these investment may have fixed interest rate.

Family Visa:
Businessman look for these visa as they can avail most of the rights as a citizens for them & their family. The benefits include free education , health care , social security, unemployment, child care etc. Any member of the family completing 3 years of stay is eligible to apply for citizenship.

Saving:
Though business programs are generally expensive still it can result in great saving for families. A family planning to send their two children in Canada for higher education can save at least CAD$ 120,000 in three years on children education vs a student visa + children do not have restriction like student visa. Moreover they can take up full time/part time employment & days they spend in Canada will be counted towards citizenship.

Minister Kenney Supports the Faster Removal of Foreign Criminals Act

The Honourable Jason Kenney, Minister of Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism, today urged Members of Parliament to support the legislation to expedite the removal of foreign criminals from Canada and to enhance the safety and security of Canadians.

“We have introduced a law that will stop foreign criminals relying on endless appeals in order to delay their removal from Canada during which time they continue to terrorize innocent Canadians, we believe all parliamentarians should support this law,” said Minister Kenney. “Canadians are generous and welcoming people, but they have no tolerance for criminals and fraudsters abusing our generosity.”

The Faster Removal of Foreign Criminals Act, focuses on three areas which would:

1. Make it easier for the Government to remove dangerous foreign criminals from our country;
2. Make it harder for those who may pose a risk to Canada to enter the country in the first place; and
3. Remove barriers for genuine visitors who want to come to Canada.

Through the Faster Removal of Foreign Criminals Act, the government is delivering on its commitment to streamline the process to deport convicted criminals by limiting their access to the Immigration and Refugee Board’s Immigration Appeal Division. This will reduce the amount of time certain criminals may remain in Canada by up to 14 months, reducing their chances of committing more crime on Canadian soil.

Another change in the proposed legislation would ensure that foreign nationals who are inadmissible on the most serious grounds – security, human or international rights violations, or organized criminality – will no longer be able to delay their removal by applying for a program that is meant for cases deserving of humanitarian and compassionate consideration. This change is consistent with the government’s no safe haven policy.

Other amendments to the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to protect the safety and security of Canadians include a new Ministerial authority to refuse temporary entry in exceptional cases, and increased penalties for those who try to cheat the system.

In contrast, the legislation will facilitate the temporary entry of low-risk individuals who would have previously been refused entry because one of their family members was deemed inadmissible for non-security reasons, such as health.

“These measures are tough but fair,” said Minister Kenney. “We want an immigration system that is open to genuine visitors, while at the same time prevents the entry of foreign criminals and denies them the ability to endlessly abuse our generosity.”

These amendments, which would update the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act and our immigration program, complement the recent measures in the Protecting Canada’s Immigration System Act as well as the Action Plan on Perimeter Security and Economic Competitiveness.

Come to Canada temporarily

Work in Canada

This application is for people who are not Canadian citizens or permanent residents of Canada and who wish to work temporarily in Canada. A work permit is issued if the application is accepted.

A temporary resident visa may also be required. Check the list of countries and territories that require a visa.

NEW: We have introduced a new Application for a Work Permit Made Outside of Canada [IMM 1295] form. It comes with additional forms and an instruction guide. Please read the guide carefully as it contains important information on how to complete the form.

All applicants must complete and sign their own individual form, including persons travelling as a family. Applicants who are under the age of 18 years must have their form signed by a parent or guardian.

Many visa offices have specific local instructions about which documents you must submit with your application. Consult the list of Canadian visa offices abroad to find the office responsible for your country and what requirements and procedures you must follow when you apply.

Study in Canada

This application is for people who are not Canadian citizens or permanent residents of Canada and who wish to study temporarily in Canada. A study permit is issued if the application is accepted.

A temporary resident visa may also be required. Check the list of countries and territories that require a visa.

You may be able to submit your application electronically. Consult our Online services to verify if you are eligible to submit an application electronically.

NEW: We have introduced a new Application for a Study Permit Made Outside of Canada [IMM 1294] form. It comes with additional forms and an instruction guide. Please read the guide carefully as it contains important information on how to complete the form.

All applicants must complete and sign their own individual form, including persons travelling as a family. Applicants who are under the age of 18 years must have their form signed by a parent of guardian.

Many visa offices have specific local instructions about which documents you must submit with your application. Consult the list of Canadian visa offices to find the office responsible for your country and what requirements and procedures you must follow when you apply.

All Applicants must include the fee payment. To verify acceptable methods of payment, consult the Canadian visa office website responsible for your country.

Visit Canada

You have two options to obtain a fees receipt:
Payment of fees on the Internet
If you have PDF Reader software, a printer, and a Visa, MasterCard or American Express credit card, you can pay your fees online.
Payment of fees at a financial institution in Canada
If you cannot or do not wish to pay online, you must obtain an original receipt form IMM 5401 in order to pay at a financial institution. This form is not available on the website because an original receipt with a unique serial number must be used. You may order an original receipt by mail.

Instruction Guide [IMM 5256]
This application is for people who reside outside of Canada and need a temporary resident visa (TRV) to visit Canada for a temporary purpose such as tourism, visiting family or friends, or business trips.
 
Effective May 29, temporary residents (students and temporary foreign workers) currently residing in Canada with valid status can submit their application for a new temporary resident visa to the Case Processing Pilot Office in Ottawa (CPP-O).

Stakeholder and Public Consultations on Improving the Immigrant Investor Program

Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) is conducting a consultation on the Immigrant Investment Program (IIP).

The Economic Action Plan 2012 announced that business immigration programs will be reformed to target more active investment for Canadian growth companies.
Additionally, in April 2012, the Honourable Jason Kenney, Minister of Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism, announced that Citizenship and Immigration (CIC) is considering whether it should use its authority under the amended Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA) to create small short-term programs that can have a greater impact on Canada’s economy.
CIC is now inviting online submissions from stakeholders and the public on how the Department can:

• Increase the economic benefit that immigrant investment capital brings to Canada;
• Attract experienced, international investors with the skills and resources needed to ensure they integrate into Canada’s economy; and
• Develop efficient and cost-effective ways of delivering an investment program.

CIC is also consulting with provinces and territories on changes to federal immigrant investor programming.
A highlight summary of the results will be published on the CIC website in winter 2013.

Online consultation

CIC welcomes your input on how a Canadian investor program can best support Canadian economic priorities.
You are invited to provide feedback by submitting a policy paper/recommendations for the Government’s consideration.

• Read the backgrounder: Improving The Immigrant Investor Program
• Submit your policy paper/recommendations by email to: consultations@cic.gc.ca.

The online consultations are open for input until September 4, 2012.
CIC will publish the responses received through this consultation process, when consent has been provided and in the language of the submission. If you make a submission, please clearly indicate your agreement to:

• Post your submission on the CIC website, and
• Include your name and/or the name of the organization which you represent with your submission.

CIC will not post submissions that do not clearly provide consent to do so. Responses will be posted in the language of submission only.

CIC launches national consultations on immigration levels and mix

Toronto, July 31, 2012 — Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC)’s Parliamentary Secretaries Chungsen Leung and Rick Dykstra have launched a series of cross-country consultations on immigration issues, beginning today in Toronto.

The two Parliamentary Secretaries will be meeting with stakeholders and the public to discuss the appropriate level and mix of immigration for Canada in the coming years. Since 2006, the Government of Canada has welcomed the highest sustained levels of immigration in Canadian history.

Following the Toronto session today hosted by Parliamentary Secretary Leung, meetings with stakeholders will take place in Windsor, Vancouver, Halifax and Ottawa. As of today, online consultations are also open to the public and stakeholders for input.

The purpose of the consultations is to seek feedback on immigration issues, including the appropriate level of immigration for Canada, and the most suitable mix among economic, family, and refugee and humanitarian classes. Discussions with the Parliamentary Secretaries will also touch on CIC’s transition towards a faster and more flexible immigration system, as well as the growing importance of immigration to Canada’s economic growth and long-term prosperity.

In planning for the total number of people to admit as permanent residents, CIC must not only balance the Government of Canada’s immigration objectives, but also consider broader government commitments, input from provinces and territories, and current and future economic conditions. The Department must also take into account its operational ability to process applications in a timely manner, as well as the capacity of communities to welcome newcomers.

These consultations present an important opportunity to generate greater public understanding of the difficult decisions involved in managing a global immigration system. There are competing visions and diverging goals for the future of the immigration program, and there are no easy answers. Engaging stakeholders and the broader public is key toCIC’s development of an overall strategy for Canada moving forward.

Invited stakeholders represent a variety of perspectives, including those of employers, labour, academia, learning institutions, professional organizations, business organizations, regulatory bodies, municipalities, Aboriginal groups, settlement provider organizations and ethnocultural organizations.

The online consultations are open for input until August 31, 2012.

Temporary Foreign Worker Program

The Temporary Foreign Worker Program allows employers to hire foreign workers to fill temporary labour and skill shortages.

You may be able to hire eligible foreign workers to work for you temporarily if you can prove that:

• you cannot find suitable Canadians or permanent residents to fill the jobs
• bringing the workers to Canada will not have a negative impact on the Canadian labour market, and
• you meet all other requirements and conditions.

Employers can hire workers abroad or already in Canada.

Examples of qualified foreign workers already in Canada include those who are about to complete a job contract with another employer or those holding an open work permit that allows the employee to work for any employer in Canada.

The program can be used to hire foreign workers for up to four years.

• Processing times: Vary depending on where and how the application is made.
• The foreign worker is responsible for the application process; however, the employer may need to seek approval from Human Resources and Skills Development Canada (HRSDC) through a labour market opinion. This verifies that there is a need for a foreign worker and that there is no Canadian available. To find out what a foreign worker must do to come to Canada, see Working temporarily in Canada: Who can apply.

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Some temporary foreign workers can transition to permanent residence with the following programs:

• Federal Skilled Worker Program
• Canadian Experience Class
• Provincial Nominee Program

You may need Canadian work experience

Canadian employers, who often do not know how to assess education and work experience from other countries, may require or prefer you to have experience working in Canada. Getting that experience is one of the biggest challenges for newcomers.
Meeting people, getting advice, networking and volunteering are good ways to overcome this challenge, but it still may take time to get your first job in Canada.

What you can do

• Use the Working in Canada Tool to create a report that will tell you whether your job is in a regulated occupation and help you find the correct regulatory body or apprenticeship authority.
• If your job is regulated, ask the regulatory body or apprenticeship authority about programs that will help you find work (for example, internships or bridging programs).
• If you are in Canada, contact an immigrant-serving organization for advice and resources.
• Consider working in an alternative job so that you can continue to learn about your profession or industry in Canada.
• Consider volunteering as another way to get Canadian work experience and build your network of contacts.
• Contact a Service Canada office in Canada to find out about services that can help you.
• Learn more about Canadian workplace culture.
• Learn about what Canadian employers want.

Canadian Experience Class

If you are a temporary foreign worker or a foreign student who graduated in Canada, you often have the qualities to make a successful transition from temporary to permanent residence. You are familiar with Canadian society and can contribute to the Canadian economy. You should have knowledge of English or French and qualifying work experience.

Applying to stay in Canada permanently in your case is simple. You can do this under the Canadian Experience Class. All the guides, information and forms you need to apply are included here.
Before you apply, make sure you get to know the requirements and current application procedures. After you apply, make sure you return to this website to find out about the steps that follow.
Learn about:

• Who can apply
• How to apply
• After applying
• Frequently asked questions
• Canadian National Occupational Classification (NOC)

Related Links

• Video: Canadian Experience Class for temporary foreign workers
• Video: Canadian Experience Class for students

Finding a permanent job in Canada

Work in Canada

Finding a job can take time. To succeed in this process, the key is to be prepared!  The fact that you have been accepted to come to Canada does not guarantee you employment in Canada in your preferred profession or any other profession.
Working in Canada can further help you prepare for the Canadian job market by producing a report based on your occupation and a location. It includes information about job descriptions, licensing and certification, wages, skill requirements, language training and job opportunities, and much more.

Finding a permanent job in Canada

Finding a job in Canada may be different from finding a job in your home country. New immigrants face some significant challenges when trying to get jobs in Canada:

• Your credentials may not be recognized.
• Your language skills may not be sufficient.
• You might need Canadian work experience.

You may also need to learn new job search skills, create a new group of contacts and find out what Canadian employers want.

Work permits for students

It is possible to work in Canada while you are here as a student, and there are opportunities for jobs on and off campus.

Work permit for temporary jobs

It is possible to work temporarily in jobs that help Canadian employers address skill shortages, or to work aslive-in caregivers.

Learn more about

• Preparing to Work in Canada
• Social Insurance Number
• Credential Recognition
• Workplace Language Skills

Related Links:

• Video: Finding a Job

Application to Change Conditions or Extend Your Stay in Canada as a Visitor

The content below is offered in PDF format. For more information or to download the appropriate viewer, check the Help page.

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New application form: As of July 31^st, 2012, all applicants must complete and sign the new Application to Change Conditions, Extend My Stay or Remain in Canada as a Visitor or Temporary Resident Permit Holder [IMM 5708]. Applicants are encouraged to complete the form electronically and validate the information to generate 2D barcodes before printing. To ensure you have the most recent application form, please use the link to the application form.
The old form Application to Change Conditions, Extend My Stay or Remain in Canada[IMM 1249] will still be accepted, but only until November 1^st, 2012.

Effective May 29, temporary residents currently in Canada with valid student or temporary foreign worker status must submit their application for a new temporary resident visa to the Case Processing Pilot Office in Ottawa (CPP‑O), or visa office that serves their country of nationality.

This application includes the following items:

• Document Checklist [IMM 5558]  (PDF, 35 KB)
• Application to Change Conditions, Extend my Stay or Remain in Canada as a Visitor or Temporary Resident Permit Holder [IMM 5708]  (PDF, 411 KB)
• Statutory Declaration of Common-Law Union [IMM 5409]  (PDF, 97 KB)
• Use of a Representative [IMM 5476]  (PDF, 55 KB)
• Fees Receipt
  You have two options to obtain a fees receipt:
  1. Payment of fees on the Internet
     If you have PDF Reader software, a printer, and a Visa, MasterCard or American Express credit card, you can pay your fees online.
  2. Payment of fees at a financial institution in Canada
     If you cannot or do not wish to pay online, you must obtain an original receipt form IMM 5401 in order to pay at a financial institution. This form is not available on the website because an original receipt with a unique serial number must be used. You may order an original receipt by mail.
• Instruction Guide [IMM 5551]

This application is for temporary residents who are already in Canada as visitors and wish to:

• extend their stay;
• change the conditions of their stay; or
• correct problems with their status.

It is important to apply for the renewal before the expiry of your current status.

New: You now have two options available when submitting an application to change conditions or extend your stay in Canada as a visitor:

Option 1

• Submit your application electronically
  or

Option 2

• Read your instruction guide and download your application forms
• Complete, sign and date your application forms
• Pay the fees
• Mail your completed application to the Case Processing Centre in Vegreville, Alberta

Help:
The Application to Change Conditions, Extend My Stay or Remain in Canada as a Visitor or Temporary Resident Permit Holder [IMM 5708] form is only supported by Adobe Reader 8.1 or higher, and can be completed and saved on a computer.
Completing the form electronically is easier and reduces the risk of errors that can slow down the application process.
To ensure you submit all the pages of the form [IMM 5708] with your application package:

• Click on the “Validate” button at the top or bottom of the form.
• A fifth page with barcodes and a signature line will automatically be created.
• Print, sign and date the form.
• Place the barcode page (page 5 of 5) on the top of each individual package.

Find out more about the barcode form.
Printing Tips

• Print on white, bond-quality and non-glossy paper
• Use of a laser printer is recommended

News Release — Canadian Experience Class: Creating Jobs across Canada

New, Innovative and Fast Economic Program Attracts the World’s Best and Brightest

Ottawa, September 14, 2012 — Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism Minister Jason Kenney announced today that Canada has welcomed its 20,000th permanent resident through the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) immigration stream, reflecting the success of the government’s efforts to attract as well as retain the world’s best and brightest skilled workers.

The Minister was joined at the announcement by Gaurav Gore, originally from India, who was recognized as the 20,000th permanent resident admitted under the CEC. Mr. Gore earned a master’s degree in business administration from the University of Toronto. He is applying his education as well as his experience as a business consultant with a major bank in Toronto.

“We are working hard to attract and retain the best and brightest students from around the world. Gaurav is an excellent example of the benefits of welcoming highly educated and skilled people to stay as well as work in Canada. Mr. Gore completed a challenging, competitive university program. He is now building a successful career, contributing to our economy and helping create jobs for Canadians here in Canada. Guarav is exactly the sort of skilled worker that Canada hopes to attract and retain through the CEC program,” said the Minister.

“As a student, I saw the wealth of opportunities that are available in Canada,” said Mr. Gore, a Personal and Commercial Digital Channels Advisor with BMO Financial Group. “I felt welcome.  I wanted to stay, pursue a career here, and contribute to the economy as well as to the country. I was happy to discover that it was possible through the CEC and that I could use my skills immediately upon graduating.”

“Canada’s universities are pleased to see the success of the CEC in helping international student graduates become permanent residents. The graduates contribute their knowledge, talent and global perspectives to our communities and to our economy,” says Paul Davidson, President of the Association of Universities and Colleges of Canada. “These graduates contribute to economic growth and innovation in Canada and help Canadian businesses connect with new international markets.”

The CEC, Canada’s fastest growing economic immigration program, offers a pathway to permanent residency for international student graduates as well as others with skilled work experience in Canada. Those who are eligible may apply from within Canada and expect a quick decision. In the past, a brilliant student graduating from our top universities who wanted to stay in Canada and help create jobs would have had to return to their home country to wait at the back of a seven or eight year queue. They may have spent several years waiting in the immigration queue and may have been required to leave the country before applying for permanent residence. The goal of the CEC is to ensure that Canada retains talented and motivated people who have already shown that they can put their skills as well as their experience to work, grow the Canadian economy, create jobs and integrate easily into Canadian life.

“The Canadian Experience Class is a sound program that responds to the needs of employers. The program contributes to economic growth,” said James Knight, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Association of Canadian Community Colleges. “Equipped with diplomas as well as degrees, international students become Canadian citizens, excellent employees and community members.”

In order to make the CEC even more responsive to Canada’s labour market needs and economic goals, CIC is proposing changes that will expedite the transition to permanent residence of those already working successfully in Canada. With the proposed change, all applicants will require 12 months of Canadian work experience gained in the 36 months preceding their application. Some applicants currently require 24 months of full-time work experience. This change will make the program more flexible for international student graduates. It will provide them with more time to launch their careers as well as gain the necessary experience to apply for permanent residency through the program.

Minister Kenney concluded by saying that, “International student graduates have educational credentials that are recognized by Canadian employers as well as official language skills that are important factors for success. The proposed changes to the CECwill make it easier for them to stay here, contribute to Canadian innovation as well as to the economic development that will help ensure Canada’s future prosperity.

Minister of Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism

Biography of Jason Kenney

Minister of Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism

Riding: Calgary Southeast (Alberta)

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Jason Kenney was born in Ontario and raised in Saskatchewan, where he graduated from Notre Dame College. He did undergraduate studies in philosophy at the University of San Francisco.

Mr Kenney served as President and Chief Executive Officer of the Canadian Taxpayers Federation, prior to his election to the House of Commons in 1997 as Member of Parliament for Calgary Southeast. He has been re-elected five times, most recently with 76% of the vote.

http://premiersinternational.blogspot.com/2012/09/minister-of-citizenship-immigration-and.html

Live in Canada -- Learning English and French

Learning English and French

Learning English or French is essential

Speaking either English or French can help you to adapt to life in Canada by making it easier to get a job, communicate with Canadians and talk with your children in the language they learn at school.
You also need to know English or French to become a Canadian citizen. It is a good idea to learn both languages. Depending on where you decide to live in Canada, being bilingual can make it easier for you to communicate with people in your new community and at your new job.

English and French across Canada

English is the most common language spoken everywhere in Canada except the province of Quebec, where French is the official language. French is also spoken in many communities in other provinces, especially New Brunswick, Ontario and Manitoba. New Brunswick is Canada’s only officially bilingual province.
Canada is officially a bilingual country and there are anglophone and francophone communities in every province and territory.

Language training is widely available

There are many language courses available and many of them are free. Sometimes these courses are called ESL for English as a second language, or FSL, for French as a second language.
It is important to have your language skills assessed before you move to Canada. A completed language assessment will determine how much, if any, language training you need.

First Steps Education Video

This video offers information about:

• English language classes
• Translation and evaluation of your previous education
• Enrolling your children in school

To watch the video, select your language and the topic “Education”.

• Education Video

News Release — Canadian citizenship not for sale: Minister Kenney provides update on residence fraud investigations

Ottawa, September 10, 2012 — The Government of Canada’s investigation into residence fraud continues to grow, with nearly 11,000 individuals potentially implicated in lying to apply for citizenship or maintain permanent resident status.

“We are applying the full strength of Canadian law to those who have obtained citizenship fraudulently,” said Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism Minister Jason Kenney. “Canadian citizenship is not for sale. We are taking action to strip citizenship and permanent residence status from people who don’t play by the rules and who lie or cheat to become a Canadian citizen.”

Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) has begun the process to revoke the citizenship of up to 3,100 citizens who obtained it fraudulently. Minister Kenney first announced the investigations last year. CIC is working closely with the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA), the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), and Canadian offices abroad to tackle this fraud.

“Today’s announcement is the end-result of the hard work done by the RCMP and CBSA, and they should be congratulated for their dedicated effort in bringing these charges forward,” said Canada’s Public Safety Minister Vic Toews. “These efforts reinforce our government’s commitment to protecting the integrity of our immigration system.”

The Department has also been working on cases of those who are not yet citizens. Nearly 5,000 people with permanent resident status who are known to be implicated in residence fraud have been flagged for additional scrutiny should they attempt to enter Canada or obtain citizenship. The majority of these individuals are believed to be outside the country.

Permanent residents must reside in Canada for three years out of four years prior to applying for Canadian citizenship. To retain their status as permanent residents, they must be physically present in Canada for two out of five years with few exceptions.

In typical cases, permanent residents will use the services of an unscrupulous immigration representative to fraudulently establish evidence of residence in Canada while living abroad most, if not all, of the time. This is perpetrated so that individuals can fraudulently maintain their permanent residence status and later apply for citizenship.RCMP and CBSA criminal investigations have found that a family of five may pay upwards of $25,000 over four or more years to create the illusion of Canadian residence.

Finally, CIC has flagged the files of another 2,500 individuals where, for various reasons, there are concerns. These individuals will be watched closely should they make future applications. This makes a total of nearly 11,000 individuals tied to citizenship and residence fraud investigations.

To date, CIC and its partners have removed or denied admittance to over 600 former permanent residents linked to the investigations, and have denied about 500 citizenship applications where the applicants do not meet the residence requirements. Almost 1,800 applicants linked to the investigations have abandoned their citizenship applications as word about these investigations spreads.

“We will not stand by and allow people to lie and cheat their way into becoming citizens,” added Minister Kenney. “I encourage anyone who has information regarding citizenship fraud to call our tip line to report it. There is no time limit for investigating this type of fraud.”

Over the past six years, Canada has had the highest sustained level of immigration in Canadian history. The Government of Canada is committed to creating an immigration system that brings the world's best and brightest to Canada while protecting our immigration system against those who would abuse our generosity.

Cases involving false representation, fraud or knowingly concealing material circumstances in the citizenship process—for example, pretending to be present in Canada to meet the residence requirements for obtaining citizenship—should be referred to the citizenship fraud tip line at CIC’s Call Centre at 1-888-242-2100 (in Canada only, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. local time, Monday through Friday). Tips may also be reported by email at Citizenship-fraud-tips@cic.gc.ca. Those overseas can also contact the nearest Canadian visa office.

All other types of immigration fraud can be reported to the CBSA’s Border Watch Tip Lineat 1-888-502-9060. Tips accepted by the Border Watch Tip Line include, but are not limited to, suspicious cross-border activity, marriages of convenience, misrepresentation in any temporary or permanent immigration application, or the whereabouts of any person wanted on an immigration warrant.

Citizenship Judges: Roles and responsibilities

Senior Citizenship Judge

The Citizenship Commission is headed by the Senior Citizenship Judge, who is first among equals.
The Senior Citizenship Judge is responsible for ensuring that citizenship judges perform their statutory and administrative duties under the Citizenship Act, and acts as the link between citizenship judges, the Minister and the Department of Citizenship and Immigration on citizenship issues.
The Senior Judge also acts as a spokesperson for the Commission, and manages the administrative and professional services that the Commission provides for judges.

Citizenship Judges

Citizenship judges play a number of roles:

• Review approximately 160,000 citizenship applications per year;
• Assess applicants to ensure they meet the requirements of the Citizenship Act and theCitizenship Regulations;
• Administer the oath of citizenship and highlight the rights and responsibilities of Canadian citizenship to new Canadians;
• Maintain the integrity of the citizenship process; and
• Promote citizenship by working with school boards, service clubs, multicultural groups and other community organizations.

Role as Decision Makers

Citizenship judges are independent, quasi-judicial decision makers. At least 90% of their time is spent reviewing citizenship applications, making decisions and explaining those decisions in writing.
Citizenship judges work closely with the staff of Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC). Applications are first processed by CIC staff who make preliminary checks to determine if the applicant meets the criteria set out in theCitizenship Act and the Citizenship Regulations to become a citizen.
CIC staff administer a knowledge test and conduct a preliminary screening of applicants’ capacity in French or English. All files are sent to citizenship judges for their review and decision. Based on the information on file, the judge decides whether or not the applicant meets the criteria to become a citizen.
Before making a decision, a judge may hold an oral hearing in which he or she meets with the applicant to obtain more information and assess whether the applicant meets the requirements for citizenship. Depending on the nature of the hearing and at the request of the applicant, they may be accompanied by a translator, legal counsel or other representative. Oral hearings are only required for a small percentage of files but are a significant element of the judge’s normal work.
Judges must provide written decisions within 60 days of the hearing, setting out the reasons for their decision. Decisions can be appealed to the Federal Court of Canada by either a non-approved applicant or the Minister of Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism.

Citizenship Ceremonies

Although citizenship judges are, first and foremost, quasi-judicial decision makers, the public is much more aware of their ceremonial and ambassadorial roles.
Judges preside over citizenship ceremonies where they have the honour and privilege of welcoming new citizens into the Canadian family. To reflect Canada’s bilingual nature, judges administer the oath of citizenship in both French and English and incorporate both official languages into their remarks. Citizenship judges speak to new citizens about the rights and responsibilities of citizenship, but it is also at these ceremonies and at promotional events in the community that judges pass on their pride, enthusiasm and respect for the institution of Canadian citizenship.

Opinion Research Scan E-newsletter – July 2012

Association for Canadian Studies: Younger Canadians more supportive of multiculturalism

Background: This survey, commissioned by the Association for Canadian Studies and the Mosaic Institute, was conducted by Leger Marketing from March 17-18, 2012. Leger polled 1,522 Canadians via web panel; a comparable telephone survey would have a margin of error of 2.9%, 19 times out of 20.

Key Findings:

• When asked if “Canada’s model of multiculturalism should be exported to other countries to help address their ethnic, religious or linguistic conflicts,” 82% of Canadians aged 18-24 strongly agreed. By age group, support was then highest among those 25-34 (68%), 55-64 (57%), 35-44 and 45-54 (60%), and lowest among those 65+ (57%).
  • Agreement with the statement was higher among Allophones (70%) than Anglophones (64%) or Francophones (58%).
• Almost three quarters (74%) of Canadians aged 18-24 had a positive opinion of Canadian Multicultural Policy. By comparison, support ranged from 61% for those aged 25-34 or 35-44, to 47% among those aged 65 or older.
  • The younger age group were also more likely to have a “very positive” opinion of multiculturalism policy: 34% felt very positively, followed by those 25-34 (18%). Only 8% of those aged 65+ felt very positively.
  • Less than half (48%) of Francophones had a positive opinion, compared to 60% of Anglophones and 67% of Allophones.
• Younger Canadians are also more likely to feel that Canadians of different backgrounds can establish close relationships with each other (see chart below).

It’s easy for Canadians from different racial, religious and cultural communities to establish close relationships with each other

Text version: It’s easy for Canadians from different racial, religious and cultural communities to establish close relationships with each other

• Over two thirds (69%) of Canadians aged 18-24 agree that “newcomers to Canada accept people of different cultures, races and religious traditions,” followed by those 25-34 (55%), 35-44 and 45-54 (50%), those 55-64 (46%) and those 65+ (42%).
  • Once again, Allophones are more likely to agree with this statement (62% agreement) compared to Anglophones (51%) and Francophones (42%).
• Older Canadians are more likely than younger age groups to be “concerned with the tensions that arise from historic conflicts that originate outside of Canada.” Eighty-six percent (86%) of those 65 or older agree that they are concerned, followed by those aged 55-64 (76%). Younger age groups are less concerned: 67% of those 18-24 are concerned, followed by 66% of those 45-54, 64% of those 35-44, and 56% of those 25-34.
  • Anglophones are more likely to feel concerned (71%), compared to 68% of Allophones and 66% of Francophones.

New citizens share their experiences and opinions of Citizenship and Immigration Canada’s new citizenship test and potential test questions

Background: When the new Citizenship and Immmigration Canada (CIC) citizenship test was introduced in March 2010, a decision was taken to monitor test results to assess the validity of the questions and determine the effectiveness of the test. As a result of assessment, a pool of 120 new questions was developed which CICwanted to assess prior to adding them to the actual pool of questions used for the citizenship test. In late 2011, CIC contracted Ipsos Reid to conduct qualitative research among citizenship applicants who passed the new citizenship test. A total of eight focus groups were conducted in Toronto and Montreal, between November 28th and December 1st, 2011. Participants were instructed to write a mock citizenship test consisting of 30 questions. Once the initial testing session was completed, participants were queried as to their general impressions of the proposed citizenship questions.

Key Findings [Note 1]

• Despite receiving the Discover Canada study guide well in advance of receiving the notification of citizenship exam date, respondents indicated that more often than not, true exam preparation begins in earnest when the notification of the actual citizenship exam date is received.
• Most agreed that the Discover Canada study guide is essential study material when preparing for the citizenship test. Many described it as very rich reference material. Based on focus group feedback it seems citizenship applicants also rely on various practice exams available to them via the Internet.
• Generally speaking, participants relied on ‘trusted sites,’ i.e. provincial government or other publicly funded web sites for practice exam scenarios – and have little concern about the accuracy of the information presented in these practice exams.
• Participants felt that the nature as well as the number of questions on any given subject area should be aligned with the relative importance this information is assigned in the Discover Canada study guide; applicants often disregarded information that figures less prominently in the guide (call out boxes, information in the margins).
• The relative mix of question areas by broad subject matter was deemed appropriate in all sessions. That said, questions which focused on Canada’s system of government or democratic process were seen as more appropriate for the citizenship exam than were those based in history or requiring memorization – many questioned the likelihood that they would retain this information beyond exam day.
• There was general agreement that history-related questions should focus on the historical relevance or significance of the event or the individual to Canada’s development rather than function simply as an exercise in memorization of specific dates and names. There was also interest in having history questions that are based on more recent Canadian historical events and facts.
• Questions lacking in specificity, those presenting extraneous and or unnecessary information, as well as those focusing on information that was deemed not to be sufficiently prominent in the guide were seen as problematic. Participants also felt that some questions seemed to be designed to confuse, with answer categories that used similar words, for example.

Gallup poll places Canada as third most popular destination for those interested in emigrating

Background: This Gallup poll surveyed 452,199 adults in 151 countries between 2009 and 2011. Full methodological information is available.

Key Findings:

• Of people globally who are interested in permanently leaving their country (640 million people, or 13% of the world’s adults), 42 million (4% of those interested in leaving) would like to move to Canada.
  • This makes Canada the third destination of choice for those interested in emigrating. The United States was the most popular (23% of potential migrants would like to move there), followed by the United Kingdom (7%). France and Saudi Arabia were the next most popular destinations (5%), followed by Australia (4%) (see chart below).

Top Desired Destinations for Potential Migrants Worldwide: 2009–2011

Ideally, if you had the opportunity, would you like to move permanently to another country, or would you prefer to continue living in this country? To which country would you like to move?

Country	Millions of adults (projected numbers based on percentages who would like to move)	% of potential migrants who would like to move to these countries
United States	150	23%
United Kingdom	45	7%
Canada	42	6%
France	32	5%
Saudi Arabia	31	5%
Australia	26	4%
Germany	26	4%
Spain	25	4%
Italy	18	3%
United Arab Emirates	13	2%
Japan	12	2%
Switzerland	9	1%
South Africa	8	1%
Russia	6	1%
Sweden	6	1%

Based on rolling averages from surveys in 151 countries between 2009 and 2011.
Projected numbers based on World Bank population estimates.

Conseil supérieur de la langue française study: Speaking French critical for social function in the province

Background: The conseil supérieur de la langue française conducted a study with a representative sample of 6700 Québec residents between January and May 2010, and has now released its results in a report titled Conscience linguistique et usage du français (available in French only). The study was geared toward measuring perceptions of the importance of French and English in various situations, and levels of agreement with the priority accorded to French in public communications.

Key Findings:

• 95% of respondents agreed that everyone residing in Quebec should know how to speak French, and 92% agreed that immigrants establishing themselves in the province should learn French prior to learning English.
• Overall, for societal and social interactions, a strong majority of the population feels that French is more important than English (74% and 78% agree, respectively).

Metro Vancouver Study: Many groups of residents struggle to feel connected and engaged in the community

Background: This study was conducted by Sentis Market Research and commissioned by the Vancouver Foundation. The survey was conducted with 3,841 people in metro Vancouver: 2,806 online surveys and 1,035 telephone interviews were conducted. According to the report, over 80 ethnic groups were represented in the study, and while most interviews were conducted in English, some were conducted in Cantonese, Mandarin or Punjabi.

Key Findings:

• According to the report, “People who have been in Canada for fewer than five years have smaller networks of close friends.” Forty-two percent (42%) “report a network of three or fewer close friends. This compares to those living here six years or longer (32%).” (page 10)
• Thirty-five percent (35%) “of people polled had no close friends outside their ethnic group. People of South Asian descent are significantly more likely than other groups to have at least one close friend from a different ethnic group (89%).” (page 10)
• “Of those who get together in a public space like a community centre or park, there is a large spike among people who have lived in Canada for fewer than five years. For that group, 64% use public spaces to get together, compared to 42% of longer-term Canadians.
  • When examined by ethnicity, the highest users of community centres or parks to get together with friends are South Asians at 50%, compared to Chinese at 39%.” (page 12)
• Fifty percent (50%) “of people who have lived in Canada for fewer than five years, and 44% of people who have lived in their neighbourhood for fewer than five years, say it is hard to make new friends.” (page 13)
• “Immigrants who have lived in Canada for under 20 years are somewhat less likely to know their neighbours’ names. And there is a difference among ethnic groups: 68% of Chinese residents report knowing their neighbours’ names compared to 74% of all the people we surveyed.” (page 18)
• While many respondents felt that all ethnic groups would be equally welcomed in their neighbourhood (see below), many respondents declined to answer the question, which the Vancouver Foundation feels may be indicative of discomfort to answer honestly, or a genuine lack of knowledge of the neighbourhood residents’ attitudes. (page 21)
• Among those who do not participate in their community, a portion feel that a language barrier is an obstacle: overall, 9% see it as a major obstacle, and 29% see it as a minor obstacle. “The groups that most often identify language as a major barrier to participation are Chinese (16%) and residents from other Asian backgrounds (15%).” (page 32)
• Sixty-six percent (66%) “of respondents agree that they do not experience discrimination in their day-to-day lives. The most likely to report discrimination are single parents (24%), people of Aboriginal ancestry (27%), and South Asians (28%), the ethnic group with the fastest-growing number of new immigrants.” (page 33)
• “Fully 65% of those surveyed agree that while most people are tolerant of different ethnic groups, most prefer to be with people in the same group as their own.” (page 33)
• “While 28% do not view non-English speakers as disinterested in community participation, almost half (44%) do” (see below). (page 34)

Question: If immigrants or refugees from the following places moved into your neighbourhood, which group do you think would be the most welcomed?

• Europeans: 18%
• Asians: 15%
• South Asians: 5%
• Middle Easterners: 2%
• Africans: 1%
• No group would be welcomed: 2%
• All groups would be equally welcomed: 37%
• Don’t know/Refuse: 20%

Question: And which group would be the least welcomed?

• Europeans: 1%
• Asians: 3%
• South Asians: 8%
• Middle Easterners: 12%
• Africans: 5%
• No group would be welcomed: 32%
• All groups would be equally welcomed: 7%
• Don’t know/Refuse: 32%

Statement: People who live here and do not speak English simply do not try hard enough to be part of the community.

• Strongly agree: 13%
• Agree: 31%
• Neither agree nor disagree: 23%
• Disagree: 23%
• Strongly disagree: 5%
• Don’t know/Refused: 4%