Canada is one of the potential destinations in the quest for new opportunity by many a Pakistani student and professional. Be it higher education or career growth, Canada has a lot of visa options available to turn your dreams into reality. This guide will, therefore, equip you with all the necessary information on both the Canada Student Visa and the Canada working visa making it easier for you to apply for these visas.

Understanding the Canada Student Visa

What is the Canada Student Visa?

Canada student visas, or study permits, allow foreign students to continue their studies at various learning institutions, most of which are DLIs. Consequently, this visa becomes essential for any student from Pakistan who aims to pursue any type of course in Canada. Additionally, having this visa ensures that you can legally stay and study in the country while gaining valuable educational experiences.

In the absence of it, you will not be legally able to remain in Canada for educational purposes.

Eligibility Criteria for Canada Student Visa

To study in Canada, one has to meet the essential requirements to qualify for a Canada student visa. The major eligibility criteria are as follows:

Acceptance Letter: An acceptance letter from a government-designated educational institution in Canada, hosting international students.

Proof of Funds: Proof of adequate funds to cater to tuition, living expenses, and return transportation.
Clean Criminal Record: You must present a police clearance certificate showing that you have no criminal record.
Medical Examination: You will need to take a medical examination, depending on your country of origin or where you’ve lived and how long you plan to stay.
Intent to Return: You must demonstrate an intent to leave Canada at the end of the authorized stay of your studies.

How to Apply for a Canada Student Visa

Below, we outline the steps to apply for a Canada student visa to Canada:

Get accepted into the DLI and receive a Letter of Acceptance.
Prepare Documents: Gather all the required documents, such as proof of funds, police clearance, medical reports, etc.
Fill in the Application Form: Fill in the form for the study permit application from the official website of Canadian Immigration.

Pay the fees: Follow the instructions provided to forward the visa application fee amount.

Biometrics: You will probably have to provide your Biometrics, including your Fingerprints and Photograph, at a Visa Application Centre available in your area.
In some cases, they may call you for an interview.

Tips for a Successful Application

Use these tips to increase your chances of getting approved for a Canada student visa:

Be Thorough: Make sure all documents are complete and accurate.
Show Ties to Pakistan: Show evidence of strong reasons that will make you come back to Pakistan after your studies.
Professional Help: You may want to consult an immigration specialist who can lead you through the process.

How to Apply for a Canada Working Visa

What is a Canada Working Visa?

A Canadian working visa means a work permit for foreign nationals to work legally in Canada. It’s very important for Pakistani professionals trying to find work in Canada. There are different types of work permits depending on the nature of your job and employer.

Types of Canada Work Permits

Employer-Specific Work Permit: This will enable you to work for an employer in Canada.
An Open Work Permit allows you to work for any employer in Canada without needing a job offer before its issuance. This category is normally applicable to spouses of international students or other categories.
young professionals can obtain an IEC Permit under agreements between Canada and some countries, allowing them to work and travel in Canada.

Eligibility Criteria for Canada Working Visa

To be eligible to get a Canada work permit, you generally need to meet the following criteria:

Job Offer: Most work permits require a valid job offer from an employer in Canada.
In most cases, your employer must acquire an LMIA, which confirms that no citizen or permanent resident is fit for the job.
Qualification Proof: You will have to provide proof of your qualifications and experience for that kind of job.
No Criminal Record: A clean record of criminal offenses must be just like the Canada student visa.
Medical Exam: Depending on the job and your home country, you may need to pass a medical exam.

How To Apply for a Canadian Working Visa

Application processes for obtaining a work permit are explained as follows:

Get a Job Offer: Get a valid employment offer from an employer in Canada.
Get LMIA: If necessary, see that your employer gets a positive LMIA.
Gather Documents: Gather all the documents which include your letter of employment, proof of qualifications, and identification.
Application Form: Download the work permit application form from the official Canadian immigration website.
Forward the application fee as requested.
Providing Biometrics: Provide your biometrics if required to do so.
Applied interview: Attend an interview if called for one.

Tips on Successful Work Permit Application

The following steps will significantly increase the success of your application:

Job Search: Ensure you have a good job offer from a reputable employer in Canada.
Understand the Requirements for an LMIA: Understand the process of the LMIA and seek cooperation from your employer.
All Information Must Be Complete: The information and documents provided must be correct and complete.
Seek advice from an immigration consultant if needed.

CONCLUSION

Canada offers manifold excellent opportunities to Pakistani students and professionals in the form of student and working visas. Knowing and being aware of the requirements and the steps involved in applications may help applicants enhance their chances of obtaining their visa. Whether studying in Canada or furthering your career, careful preparation and adhering to the guidelines will take you places.

If you feel confused or need help, seek professional advice without hesitation. Good luck with your Canadian visa journey!