Vancouver

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Immigration Services

Support for newcomers including settlement services, visa information, and citizenship resources.

Sections

1. Overview of Immigration Services in Vancouver, Canada

Vancouver, located in British Columbia (BC), is one of Canadaโ€™s most popular destinations for immigrants due to its diverse culture, strong economy, and high quality of life. Immigration services in Vancouver are primarily managed by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), with local support from provincial and municipal organizations.

2. Visa and Immigration Categories

Canada offers a variety of immigration pathways, depending on your purpose of visit or settlement. Below are the main categories:

a. Temporary Residence

  1. Visitor Visa (Tourist Visa):

    • For short-term visits (up to 6 months).
    • Required for citizens of countries that do not have visa-exempt status.
    • Cost: CAD $100.
    • Processing Time: Varies by country (typically 2-4 weeks).

  2. Study Permit:

    • For international students enrolled in Canadian educational institutions.
    • Cost: CAD $150.
    • Processing Time: 1-3 months (varies by country).
    • Key Requirement: Letter of acceptance from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI).

  3. Work Permit:

    • For individuals with a job offer from a Canadian employer.
    • Cost: CAD $155.
    • Processing Time: 1-4 months.
    • Types:
      • Employer-Specific Work Permit.
      • Open Work Permit (e.g., for spouses of international students or workers).

b. Permanent Residence (PR)

  1. Express Entry:

    • For skilled workers under three programs:
      • Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP).
      • Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP).
      • Canadian Experience Class (CEC).
    • Cost: CAD $1,365 (including Right of Permanent Residence Fee).
    • Processing Time: 6 months (after receiving an Invitation to Apply).

  2. Provincial Nominee Program (PNP):

    • For individuals nominated by the province of British Columbia.
    • Cost: CAD $1,365 (federal fee) + CAD $1,150 (BC PNP fee).
    • Processing Time: 2-3 months for BC PNP + 6 months for PR.

  3. Family Sponsorship:

    • For Canadian citizens or PR holders sponsoring family members.
    • Cost: CAD $1,080 (spouse/partner) or CAD $150 (child).
    • Processing Time: 12 months (spouse/partner).

  4. Start-Up Visa:

    • For entrepreneurs with innovative business ideas supported by a designated organization.
    • Cost: CAD $2,140.
    • Processing Time: 12-16 months.

  5. Refugees and Asylum Seekers:

    • For individuals seeking protection in Canada.
    • No application fees.
    • Processing times vary.

c. Citizenship

  • After living in Canada as a PR for at least 3 years (out of the last 5 years), you may apply for citizenship.
  • Cost: CAD $630 (adults) or CAD $100 (minors).
  • Processing Time: 12-24 months.

3. Application Process

The application process varies by visa type but generally follows these steps:

Step 1: Determine Eligibility

  • Use the IRCCโ€™s online tools to check your eligibility for specific programs (e.g., Express Entry, Study Permit).

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

  • Common documents include:
    • Passport (valid for the duration of your stay).
    • Proof of funds (bank statements, sponsorship letters).
    • Educational credentials (e.g., transcripts, diplomas).
    • Language test results (e.g., IELTS, CELPIP for English; TEF for French).
    • Job offer letter (if applicable).
    • Police clearance certificate.
    • Medical exam results (if required).

Step 3: Submit Application

  • Most applications are submitted online via the IRCC portal.
  • Paper applications are accepted for certain categories (e.g., refugee claims).

Step 4: Pay Fees

  • Fees are paid online during the application process.

Step 5: Biometrics

  • Applicants from most countries must provide biometrics (fingerprints and photo).
  • Cost: CAD $85 (individual) or CAD $170 (family).
  • Biometrics can be done at Visa Application Centres (VACs) or Service Canada locations.

Step 6: Wait for Processing

  • Processing times vary by visa type and applicantโ€™s country of residence.

Step 7: Receive Decision

  • If approved, you will receive a visa or permit. For PR, you will receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR).

4. Costs Overview

| Category | Cost (CAD) | |------------------------------|----------------------| | Visitor Visa | $100 | | Study Permit | $150 | | Work Permit | $155 | | Express Entry (PR) | $1,365 | | BC PNP Application | $1,150 | | Citizenship Application | $630 (adults) | | Biometrics | $85 (individual) |

5. Local Immigration Offices and Resources in Vancouver

Vancouver has several resources to assist immigrants:

a. IRCC Offices

  • Vancouver IRCC Office:
    • Address: 877 Expo Blvd, Vancouver, BC V6B 8P8.
    • Services: PR card renewals, citizenship tests, interviews, and refugee claims (by appointment only).

b. Service Canada Centres

  • Provide biometrics collection and other government services.
  • Closest location: 757 Hastings St W, Vancouver, BC V6C 1A1.

c. Settlement Services

  1. Immigrant Services Society of BC (ISSofBC):

    • Address: 2610 Victoria Dr, Vancouver, BC V5N 4L2.
    • Services: Language training, job search assistance, housing support, and community integration.

  2. MOSAIC:

    • Address: 5575 Boundary Rd, Vancouver, BC V5R 2P9.
    • Services: Employment programs, legal support, and settlement services.

  3. SUCCESS:

    • Address: 28 W Pender St, Vancouver, BC V6B 1R6.
    • Services: Family and youth programs, language training, and business support.

d. Language Training

  • LINC (Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada):
    • Free English classes for PR holders.
    • Offered by ISSofBC, MOSAIC, and SUCCESS.

e. Legal Aid

  • Access Pro Bono:
    • Free or low-cost legal advice for immigration-related issues.

6. Tips for Immigrants in Vancouver

  1. Housing:

    • Vancouver has a high cost of living. Consider temporary housing options (e.g., Airbnb, hostels) while searching for long-term rentals.
    • Websites like Craigslist, PadMapper, and Rentals.ca are popular for finding housing.

  2. Transportation:

    • Vancouver has an excellent public transit system (TransLink). Consider getting a Compass Card for buses, SkyTrain, and SeaBus.

  3. Healthcare:

    • Apply for the BC Medical Services Plan (MSP) as soon as you arrive. There is a 3-month waiting period for coverage.

  4. Banking:

    • Open a Canadian bank account to manage finances. Major banks include RBC, TD, Scotiabank, and CIBC.

  5. Cultural Integration:

    • Vancouver is multicultural. Participate in community events and programs to meet people and learn about Canadian culture.

7. Additional Resources

This guide should help you navigate the immigration process in Vancouver, Canada. If you have specific questions or need further assistance, feel free to ask!