There are several federal immigration programs in Canada. Compared with the provincial immigration, the main advantage of immigration under the federal program is that you can live and work anywhere in Canada.
The federal (main) government of Canada has developed several major immigration programs to attract foreign specialists. If you meet the requirements of the programs, you are eligible to apply and in prospect obtain permanent resident status (permanent residence). Hence you’ll be able to live in any Canadian province and any city, except for Quebec. Most immigrants choose to settle in Toronto, Vancouver or Ottawa.
There are three federal immigration programs in Canada:
- Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSW)
- Federal Skilled Trades Program (FST)
- Canadian Experience Class Program (CEC)
Immigration applications are accepted through the Express Entry system.
The most popular program is the Federal Skilled Worker. Candidates, considering this program, are required to have high proficiency in English or/and French, good education and skilled work experience, usually gained in their native country.
Federal Skilled Trades is available to people who are skilled in trades (skilled work, usually requiring manual skills and special training) and who have received a job offer from a Canadian employer or a certificate of qualification from one of the provinces. The list of professions (skilled trades) includes electricians, cooks, butchers, builders, fitters, welders and others.
Only those who have temporarily lived in Canada and have worked there for at least 1 year can apply to immigrate under the Canadian Experience Class Program. This program is popular among the graduates of Canadian universities and colleges. Therefore, immigration to Canada through education is very popular.