Navigating the Complexities of Relocating from the UK to Canada: A Practical Guide for African Immigrants
For many African families, the allure of the UK Tier 2 visa and the prospect of life in the UK seem to offer an easy transition to a new country. However, the journey to Canada for a work visa presents its unique challenges. This guide aims to provide practical advice for African immigrants considering a move from the UK to Canada.
Understanding UK Tier 2 Visas
The UK Tier 2 visa system, while flexible, does not necessarily offer pathways to radical changes in immigration status. A family that has already spent 2 years on a Tier 2 UK visa is essentially living temporally. The critical advice is to accept that any move to Canada for a work visa is not an immigration decision, but a temporary one. Without a specific job offer from one of the few Canadian employers who qualify, the chances of obtaining a work permit are slim.
Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA)
To find a work permit in Canada, a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is required. This process ensures there are no Canadian workers willing and capable of doing the job. This stringent process is designed to protect Canadian workers, but it also makes it extremely difficult for foreign workers to gain entry, making immigration through this route challenging.
Comparing Life in the UK and Canada for Immigrants
While the UK offers a more straightforward pathway to immigration, Canada is more immigrant-friendly. However, this does not mean it is easier to move or gain residency. Coming to Canada on a work permit is a temporary measure, with a maximum stay of three years. Renewals are not guaranteed, and ultimately, you must leave the country again.
It's important to consider that while there are some jobs available that come with work permits in Canada, they are limited and highly competitive. Experiencing a denial is a possibility, and planning for the uncertainties is crucial.
Permanent Residency: A Long Path Ahead
For those willing to commit to a longer period in Canada, the path to permanent residency is a challenging one. It involves a detailed application process with strict requirements. According to recent statistics, 70% of applicants fail to meet these stringent criteria. Even if you have Canadian work experience and are residing in the country, the process can still be overwhelming.
Considering the CRS (Comprehensive Ranking System) score, which dictates who gets invited to apply for Canadian permanent residency, the lowest successful score in recent months has been 489. This indicates that even with several years of work experience, a high CRS score is still necessary. For those approaching this process, a pre-assessment using the CRS can provide invaluable insights into their eligibility.
Future Planning and Best Practices
Before embarking on this journey, it's crucial to carefully assess your chances. Make an initial assessment at your current age and without any Canadian work experience. After three years in Canada, reassess your CRS score with three years of work experience and an age increase. This dual assessment helps in understanding whether pursuing immigration through Canada is a viable option.
Foreign workers seeking to immigrate to Canada should prepare for extended and possibly unsuccessful attempts. The only viable job opportunities for foreigners in Canada are found through the Canadian government's job sectors are less likely to offer the necessary work permits.
In conclusion, relocating from the UK to Canada presents significant challenges, particularly for African immigrants. Understanding the intricacies of the Canadian work permit and permanent residency process is essential. Delve into the requirements, assess your chances, and prepare for the road ahead with careful planning and realistic expectations.