Immigrate to Canada from the UK

Moving to Canada from the UK

Immigrate to Canada from the UK is possible. If you’re exploring the possibility of a move to Canada from the United Kingdom (UK), you’ll likely have a host of questions that need answers. How difficult is it to obtain a permanent resident status? Can I open a bank account as a non-resident/newcomer? What is the paperwork associated with family sponsorship? Whether the impetus behind the change is personal or professional, we have all the information you need to make the big move.

After all, Canada is considered by many to be a fantastic place to live, so whether you plan on living in the more temperate climate of Vancouver, British Columbia or the hustle bustle of downtown Toronto, Ontario, there’s no need to wait to get started.

The move to Canada from the UK has never been easier, especially with the federal skilled worker program and the federal skilled trades program, as well as support of many other Canadian immigration programs implemented by the Canadian government. Read on below to find out how you can become a permanent resident today.

What If I’m Retired and Want to Move to Canada?

The Government of Canada’s economic immigration programs prioritize the entry of skilled immigrants in order to connect workers with job opportunities in Canada. But this doesn’t mean that you can’t find a place in Canada!

Any UK citizen can visit Canada for up to six months without a Canadian visa. Additionally, if you have a child or grandchild that is already a Canadian citizen, you can receive a super visa which allows for visits up to two years long. However, there are limitations related to the super visa, and additional complications that relate to any UK state pension. Pensions payments remain won’t rise with inflation if you move to Canada, so you’ll have to incorporate that in advance into any financial planning.

Ultimately, to keep things simple it is usually best to move to Canada from the UK before you retire. This way, you can work and earn your residency before changing your official status. Alternatively, you can establish or buy a business in Canada and make that the driving force behind your permanent move to the True White North. Book a free 15 minute call with us to learn more about your options.

Business Immigration to Canada

For UK nationals with business ownership or senior management experience, it’s possible to emigrate to Canada by buying a business or establishing a new one. In nearly all cases, it is required that applicants have the financial means, and experience to run a business in Canada. In addition, the applicant must show a commitment to hire ‘in Canada’ by submitting a detailed business plan outlining the expansion of the business under your direction and management. There are several viable options for experienced business owners to leverage including the ‘owner-operator LMIA’ or CUSMA or CETA Treaty investor pathways and intra-company transfer program. Emigrating to Canada through business is a complex process, however it is our specialty. To learn more, please book a free 15 minute call. We can assist you in both.

One of the most common obstacles in business immigration to Canada from the UK is knowing what program or pathway to apply under. This is where Tudor House can guide and assist you. We will assess your profile against all the provincial and federal business immigration streams and explain to you the best available options and timelines. If you’re serious about pursuing business immigration to Canada, contact us and we can show you the process and verify your eligibility.

Job Hunting in Canada

To work in Canada you will need to apply for a work permit. It should take approximately five weeks to complete the process from the UK.

You’ll also need a Social Insurance Number (SIN). The SIN provides you with the added bonus of allowing you to enjoy benefits similar to what National Insurance offers to in the UK. If your spouse, partner or dependent family members will be joining you in Canada, they will also be able to apply for open work permits.

To apply for the required permits, you may need a Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), which is an application made on behalf of your future employer. You can read about the LMIA process here on the Government of Canada website. Once a positive LMIA is issued, you are free to apply for a work permit so long as you meet these conditions.

• You have a valid job offer
• You have the skills and qualifications required to do the job
• The employer cannot find a Canadian to do the job as well as you can

For more clarity on LMIAs, contact us for a free 15 -minute Discovery Call.

What is an RCIC?

Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultants are professionally trained and qualified immigration practitioners whose job it is to advise and represent people through the complexities of the Canadian Immigration system. Choosing an RCIC is a vital step in achieving your long-term immigration goals.

See Us on the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants directory

Study in Canada from the UK

Canada’s education system is world renown for its highly reputable programs and institutions starting at the high school level and going all the way up to postgraduate studies.

Studying in Canada from the UK provides countless opportunities to the thousands of students who come each year to further their academic goals.

With some exceptions, nearly everyone who comes to Canada to study must apply for a study permit before entering. This can include UK nationals.

You must be financially stable. You need to prove that you can pay for your tuition fees and have enough money for other expenses such as food and travel for yourself and any other family members who may accompany you to Canada. You should be aware that even if you have been accepted to a Designated Learning Institute in Canada, you will still need to apply for a study permit either at the port of entry or prior to boarding a flight to Canada.

You must prove to be a law-abiding citizen who poses no security risk to Canada and its people. You may need to bring a certificate of good conduct from the police. Learn more about studying in Canada.

How Much Does it Cost to Move to Canada?

Certain fees exist to process your application when moving to Canada, and the fees vary depending on what category or program you applied under. For those in the skilled worker programs, the cost is $550, plus $550 for a spouse and $150 per child. Once you have secured permanent residence, there is also an additional cost of $490 per person.

In addition, it is important to note that unless you have arranged for employment in Canada prior to your arrival, you must have what are termed “settlement funds” that total a minimum of $10,000 per person, calculated in Canadian dollars. It is also required that you have an additional $2,000 for each dependent that is moving to Canada with you.

While situations vary, and while different regions of Canada have different living costs, the key element to remember is that you will need to provide yourself and your family with enough breathing room to support your living expenses for six months.

Also, remember that if you are living in Canada you may still be required to pay taxes in the UK. And for retirees currently receiving a pension, you will also need to consider how to transfer that money while minimizing fees. In addition, it is prudent to consider other factors such as how inheritances may be impacted by your Canada move, how to manage the volatility of exchange rates, and other factors.

Under 30 Years of Age?

If you’re under 30 years old, you may be eligible for the International Experience Class, which allows young people from the UK to travel and work in Canada for up to 24 months. Often UK nationals who participate in this program gain valuable skilled work experience, which can then be used to support a permanent residence application. If you’re under the age of 30 and wish to come to Canada for travel and work, and possibly permanent residence, this program could be perfect for you.

The International Experience Program at a Glance

Canada has negotiated bilateral youth mobility agreements with 30 countries, one of which is the UK. The International Experience Class is targeted to assist a younger demographic, and anyone between the ages of 18 and 30 can receive a temporary working visa to live and work in Canada for up to two years.

The central requirement is that you must have done a minimum total 1,560 hours of work (equivalent to 30 hours per week for 12 months) over the last three years, whether as a full or part-time worker. Successful candidates will be placed into a pool with draws that pick winners throughout the year.

Once your application has been selected, all you need to do is show that you:

• Have at least $2,500 in settlement funds to help you land softly
• Have a return ticket to your country of origin
• Proof that you have health insurance

To learn more about this exciting opportunity, Book a Consultation and get started today.

What If I’m Over 30 Years Old?

If you are not eligible for the International Experience Class, the best way to move to Canada from the UK is to become a permanent resident. Typically, between 5,000 and 10,000 UK citizens become permanent residents each year by applying through one of the two skilled worker programs.

Each of the programs have various requirements for education, language ability and work experience. If you meet the minimum eligibility requirements, your permanent residency application will then be scored based on a number of factors, including:

• Age
• Education
• Work experience
• Existing valid job offers in Canada
• English/French language skills
• Adaptability

Just as it was with the International Experience Class, successful candidates are placed into a pool, with regular draws that pick winners throughout the year. Candidates with the highest scores are most likely to be picked. In 2023, the cut off scores for the Express Entry pool have been higher than the historical averages, which in practical terms means that most overseas applicants will require a pre-arranged job offer supported by an LMIA or a job offer supported through one of Canada’s provincially run PNP programs.

To get a better sense of the requirements, you should start with a some in-depth research about the Canadian Experience Class, Skilled Worker Class or the Skilled Trades Class on the Government of Canada’s website.

To learn even more about eligibility requirements or to receive a complete breakdown of scoring factors, book a consultation and we will get you the information you need.

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