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Canada Visas for Visiting or Moving to Canada

Do you want to visit or move to Canada? Canada has several routes that might be a great choice for you. However, choosing the right route isn’t always straightforward.

That’s where the Immigration advice service comes in! Our Canada immigration lawyers can help you navigate the complex process of immigrating to Canada and find the program that is right for you. Contact us today on +1 844 290 6312 or online for more information!

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    Benefits of Choosing IAS’ Canada Immigration Lawyers

    When it comes to obtaining a Canada visa or permit, IAS Canada immigration lawyers are well-equipped to help you.

    With IAS’ track record of successfully helping clients visit or immigrate to Canada successfully, we can help you achieve your goal.

    Our dedicated immigration lawyers provide our services through a comprehensive and personalised approach. With IAS, you enjoy:

    Compassionate support from an experienced immigration lawyer dedicated to your success

    Support in gathering supporting documents and completing a high-quality application.

    Confidence that your case is being handled by an experienced team.

    In-house document checks done by lawyers who are well-versed in  immigration matters.

    Regardless of what your Canadian immigration query might be, IAS is here to help and support you. Call us or enquire online to learn more about how we can help you.

    Services we Provide

    How To Immigrate to Canada

    Immigrating to Canada may seem like a daunting task, but with the help of the Immigration advice service, it doesn’t have to be. We are here to help you every step of the way, from finding the right program to filling out your application.

    • The first step is to choose which immigration program you want to apply for. There are many different programs available, and each has its own requirements.
    • Once you have chosen a program, the next step is gathering all required documents. This can include things like your passport, birth certificate, and proof of financial resources.
    • The next step is to fill out your application forms.
    • Once your application is complete, the final step is submitting it to the Canadian government for approval.
    • Approval can take several months, so it is important to be patient.
    • Once you have all your ducks in a row, the next step is to get to Canada.
    • If you are approved for an immigrant visa, you will need to obtain a permanent resident card. This can be done by mail or at a Canadian embassy or consulate.
    • Once you have your permanent resident card, you are free to move to Canada and start your new life!
    Gloved hands highlighting Canadian landmark

    Types of Canadian Visa

    There are many different types of Canadian visas, and the type you need will depend on your situation. The most common types of visas are:

    Depending on your situation, you may need to apply for one or more of these visas. For example, if you are immigrating to Canada to work, you will need to apply for a work visa.

    If you are immigrating to Canada with your family for work, you will also need to apply for a family visa.

    The best way to determine your visa type is to contact the Immigration advice service. We will be able to assess your situation and help you determine which visa is right for you.

    Permanent Residency Visa

    A permanent residency visa is a visa that allows you to live and work in Canada indefinitely. It gives you the same

    To be a Canadian permanent residence, you must meet the following requirements:

    • You must have a valid passport
    • You must be at least 18 years of age
    • You must be in good health
    • You must have no criminal record
    • You must have IELTS Score Card

    If you meet all of the above requirements, you can apply for a permanent residency visa by filling out an application form and submitting it to the Canadian government.

    The durability of a permanent residency visa is contingent on you following the terms of your visa. For example, your permanent residency status may be revoked if you are convicted of a crime.

    But if you follow the terms of your visa and follow the Canadian law, your permanent resident status will continue indefinitely. Nevertheless, your permanent residency card must be renewed every five years.

    Work Visas (Canada Temporary Work Routes)

    Overview

    Canadian temporary work routes or visas are for foreign nationals who want to come to Canada to work for a specific employer for a specific period of time.

    Here are the different types of work visas available in Canada:

    Working Holiday Visa

    The working holiday visa Canada program is one of the best working holiday programs in the world. If you are a young person between the ages of 18 and 35, you may be eligible to apply for a Working Holiday Visa in Canada.

    With this visa, you will be able to work in Canada for up to two years. You can also study in Canada for up to six months.

    To be eligible for a working holiday visa, you must meet the following requirements:

    • You must have a valid passport
    • You must be between the ages of 18 and 35
    • You must have enough money to support yourself during your stay in Canada
    • You must be from a participating country. Some of the participating countries are: Australia, New Zealand, France, Germany, the Netherlands, and the UK.

    Canada Work Permit

    If you have been offered a job in Canada, you will need to apply for a work permit. A work permit is a document that allows you to work in Canada for a specific period of time, normally no longer than the duration of your job contract.

    There are a few things you need to do in order to be eligible for a work permit in Canada.

    • You need to have a valid passport.
    • You need to have a job offer from a Canadian employer.
    • You need to meet the eligibility requirements for the specific type of work permit that you are applying for.

    Post-Graduation Work Permit

    The Post-Graduation Work Permit program allows international students who have graduated from a Canadian college or university to work in Canada for up to three years.

    To be eligible for this program:

    • You must have graduated from a Canadian college or university.
    • You must also have a valid study permit when you apply for a post-graduation work permit.
    • You must apply for a work permit within 90 days of receiving your diploma or degree.

    Our expert immigration lawyers can assist you with your Canadian immigration application.

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    Canadian Business Visas

    Canadian business visas are available to foreign nationals who want to start a business in Canada. There are two types of business immigration programs: the Start-up Visa program and the Canadian Investor Visa program.

    • The Start-up Visa program is for entrepreneurs who have innovative business ideas and want to start a business in Canada. To be eligible for this program, you must have a business plan that a designated Canadian organization has evaluated. You must also meet the minimum investment requirements for your Canadian province or territory.
    • The Canadian Investor Visa program is for foreign nationals who want to invest in a Canadian business. To be eligible for this program, you must also make a minimum investment of $250,000  in a Canadian business.
    • Under the business visas, we also have the self-employed visa, which is for foreign nationals who want to be self-employed in Canada. To be eligible for this program, you must have the intention and ability to create your own job by being self-employed in Canada. In addition, you must also have relevant experience in cultural activities or athletics.

    Canadian Family Visas

    The family visas program was created to reunite families in Canada. The family visas program allows foreign nationals to sponsor their family members (spouse, common-law partner, conjugal partner, dependent children, adopted children, and other eligible relatives) to come to Canada.

    Eligibility requirements for sponsors:

    • Be 18 years of age or older.
    • Be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident of Canada, or a person registered in Canada as an Indian under the Canadian Indian Act.
    • Have enough income to support your spouse or partner and any dependent children during their first three years in Canada.
    • Not be inadmissible to Canada.
    • In order to sponsor your spouse or partner, you must be married, in a common-law relationship, or in a conjugal relationship.
    • You must also have been living together in a conjugal relationship for at least one year.
    • If you are sponsoring your dependent children, they must be under the age of 22 and not married or in a common-law relationship.

    Who cannot sponsor spouses, partners, or children?

    • You cannot sponsor a spouse, partner, or child if you are in prison
    • You cannot sponsor a spouse, partner, or child if you have been convicted of certain crimes
    • You cannot sponsor a spouse, partner, or child if you have defaulted on your previous sponsorship undertakings
    • You cannot sponsor a spouse, partner, or child if you are receiving social assistance

    Your spouse or common-law partner must also:

    • Be 18 years of age or older.
    • Not be inadmissible to Canada.

    How to Apply for Canadian Family Visas

    The process of applying for Canadian family visas is different depending on whether you are applying from inside or outside of Canada.

    • If you are applying from inside Canada, you must submit your application to the Case Processing Centre in Vegreville, Alberta.
    • If you are sponsoring your spouse or partner, you must also submit an additional application for permanent residence.
    • If you are applying from outside Canada, you must submit your application to the visa office responsible for your country or region.
    • If you are sponsoring your spouse or partner, you will also need to submit an additional application for permanent residence.
    • The processing time for Canadian family visas varies depending on the visa office.

    Find out how we can assist with your immigration application.

    Express Entry Program visas

    An Express Entry visa is a new type of visa that was introduced in 2015. This type of visa is for skilled workers who want to live and work in Canada. There are four main categories of Express Entry visas:

    • Federal Skilled Worker Program
    • Federal Skilled Trade Program
    • Canadian Experience Class
    • Provincial Nominee Program

    To be eligible for an Express Entry visa, you must score a minimum of 67 points on the express entry pool. The selection grid is based on factors such as age, education, work experience, and language skills.

    You can apply for an Express Entry visa online. You will first need to create an account on the Immigrate to Canada website. Once you have created an account, you can complete the online application form and submit it to the Canadian government.

    The processing time for Express Entry visas is six months or less.

    Passport, travel bag

    Canada Visitor Visas

    If you want to visit Canada, you may need a visitor visa. A visitor visa is also known as a temporary resident visa. You will need a visitor visa if you are from a country that is not on the list of countries that are exempt from the requirement. Here are some types of visitor visas in Canada:

    Visitor visa

    A visitor visa is for people who want to visit Canada for tourism, business, or personal reasons. It allows you to stay in Canada for up to six months. You must meet certain requirements to be eligible for a visitor visa, such as having a valid travel document, being in good health, and having enough money to support yourself during your stay in Canada.

    Super visa

    A super visa is for parents or grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents. To get the super visa, you must apply through the Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC website) formerly known as Citizenship and Immigration Canada. The super visa allows you to stay in Canada for up to five years at a time (if you applied after June 22, 2023). For one to qualify for a super visa, they must meet the following requirements:

    • A Canadian citizen or permanent resident must invite you to Canada. They must also complete an application form and sign it.
    • You must have a valid travel document, such as a passport.
    • You must be in good health and have had a medical exam done within the past 12 months.
    • You must have valid health insurance from a Canadian company for at least one year.

    Transit visa

    If you’re passing through Canada by plane on your way to another country, you might need a transit visa.

    You don’t need one if you:

    • Have a valid visa for the country you’re going to.
    • Are traveling to or from the United States and have a valid passport.

    You might need a transit visa if you’re not from a visa-exempt country and:

    • Are traveling to or from the United States and don’t have a valid passport.
    • Are flying through Canada on your way to another country and don’t have a valid visa for that country.
    • Are traveling to or from the United States and have a criminal record.
    • Have been refused entry into Canada, the United States, or any other country.

    You can apply for a transit visa online or on paper. If you’re applying online, you must have a credit card to pay the processing fee.

    Electronic Travel Authorization

    The Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) is a new entry requirement for visa-exempt foreign nationals traveling to or transiting through Canada by air. It is electronically linked to your passport and is valid for five years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. You need an eTA if you plan to visit Canada and are:

    • From a visa-exempt country.
    • Traveling by air.
    • Not already a Canadian citizen, a permanent resident of Canada, or a person registered under the Indian Act.

    If you have a valid Canadian visa, you do not need an eTA.

    You can apply for an eTA online on the IRCC website. The process is usually quick and easy. You should get a decision on your application within minutes.

    Speak to us for further assistance with your immigration application.

    How to Apply for a Canadian Immigration Program

    Here’s is a step by step for people who want to Immigrate to Canada

    • Decide which immigration program you want to apply for.
    • Get help to choose the right immigration program.
    • Check if you meet the requirements of the program.
    • Choose the province you want to live in and settle; the provinces include Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Northwest Territories, Nova Scotia Nunavut, Ontario, Prince Edward Island, Quebec, Saskatchewan, and Yukon.
    • Immigrate as a permanent resident through Express Entry.
    • Complete an online profile.
    • Get invited to apply.
    • Fill out the application form.
    • Gather all the documents you need and make sure they are valid.
    • Pay your fees.
    • Submit your application and wait for a decision. You will need to submit more documents if you are invited to apply.
    • After you apply, get ready to enter Canada.
    • Check the status of your application online.
    Two lawyers ready to provide legal services

    How Can IAS Help?

    Immigrating to Canada can be a strenuous task, with all of the paperwork and requirements. However, the Immigration Advice Service can help make the process much easier.

    We have a team of experienced immigration lawyers who can help you with your Canadian citizenship application process. The services we offer include:

    • Free initial consultation.
    • Complete assessment of your eligibility.
    • A detailed explanation of the Canadian immigration process.
    • Comprehensive analysis of your supporting documents.
    • Expert advice on which immigration program to choose.
    • Guidance on how to improve your application.
    • Professional representation at your visa interview.
    • On-going support after your arrival in Canada.

    If you’re interested in immigrating to Canada, contact us today to schedule a consultation. We’ll be happy to answer any of your questions and help you get started on the path to success.

    We offer immigration advice sessions as face to face appointments at all of our UK offices, or via the phone.

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    What our clients are saying

    Immigration Advice Service4.7
    Based on 1984 reviews
    Nesrine Shalabi
    23 hours ago
    My residency was renewed promptly and without glitches.
    My experience with IAS has been fabulous so far Laura Christian was very helpful in taking the time to research what my options were based on my needs and wants can’t recommend her enough
    Man Chung CHAU
    3 days ago
    Staff are nice, solicitors are reliable and helpful.
    Tawanda Matonga
    5 days ago
    I spoke with Saima Jabeen about the areas where I needed assistance. She was very helpful and provided me with clear and useful information. I was satisfied with the support and guidance she provided.
    Very positive professional experience. My immigration advisor Mariam Adebayo helped my wife successfully obtain her Spouse visa extension. At the very start we had a face to face meeting at their Oldham office to discuss our needs, explain the process and what evidence we would need. We later received a written confirmation of advice laying out everything from timeframes, fees and documentation needed. Through out we had video calls and regular emails for updates and when our input was needed, Mariam even uploaded all of the extensive evidence as part of the application process which I was very happy with as I know from my own experience this can take a while. I would definitely use IAS again, don't be fooled in to opting for cheaper options, I came to IAS after a poor experience with a different company and so came back as I'd had a good experience with IAS way back in the 90's so know that they have been around for a years. Thank you IAS Oldham and Mariam Adebayo.
    Fatima Babar
    7 days ago
    I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to Abdul Mutee for everything he has done throughout my visa process. The past year was incredibly stressful, especially after facing two Canada visa refusals. During this difficult time, Abdul Mutee did not simply provide guidance; he actively worked on my case and supported me every step of the way when I felt overwhelmed and uncertain about my future. Thanks to his dedication, hard work, and continuous support, my UK visa has now been approved. This approval allows me to continue my education and pursue my dream of becoming a dentist. I truly believe that this achievement would not have been possible without his assistance and commitment. Abdul Mutee played a significant role in making this outcome possible, and I am deeply thankful for the relief, hope, and opportunity he has given me. His efforts have made a lasting impact on my life, and I will always be grateful for everything he has done. I will never forget the support, encouragement, and professionalism he showed throughout this journey. Abdul Mutee's help has made a real difference in my future, and I sincerely appreciate all of his hard work and dedication.
    Elizabeth chuks
    7 days ago
    I had a great experience with Anna Claridge. She was professional, friendly and very helpful throughout our consultation. She explained everything clearly, answered all our questions and made sure we understood the options available to us. I really appreciate her support.
    Sami Abdi
    1 week ago
    I would like to say a huge thank you to Lauren Blommel for all her help and support with my case. She has been absolutely amazing from start to finish. Lauren was very kind, professional and patient. She explained everything clearly and always made sure I understood what was happening. She worked very hard on my case and did everything she could to help me. I am extremely grateful for everything Lauren has done for me. I am very happy with the service I received and would definitely recommend Lauren to anyone who needs immigration advice and support. Thank you so much, Lauren, for everything. I truly appreciate all your hard work and support. I wish you all the best for the future!
    Norrian
    1 week ago
    We like to express our deepest thanks to Saimah Razzap. She helped us through our immigration matter with total professionalism; she took the time to explain every step clearly, returned our calls and emails promptly when we contacted her, and, with this, we ultimately won our first case with a great outcome. We felt supported the entire time, and we highly recommend her services.
    Anna Downie
    1 week ago
    I would highly recommend Jason Griffiths, he was incredibly understanding of our situation and had very constructive ideas.
    Lee Mcpherson
    1 week ago
    Great service! efficient, quick and available to answer any queries! Our application went seamlessly.. I would highly recommend!
    Claudia T
    1 week ago
    I used IAS for my first visa and I must say it wasn't a pleasant experience. We didn't receive all the information, we would find out about things along the way and it made it all very stressful even though the application was successful. We were a bit reluctant to do it again for the renewal but went for it anyway due to lack of time. Anne Liu was out caseworker and she was terrific! Super on top of the case! She would review the docs very quickly after we submitted it and would immediately tell us what would be missing. She made herself available when we needed her all the way up to the appointment. Definitely made the experience more stress free!
    yu zheng
    2 weeks ago
    Alice Jackson
    2 weeks ago
    Anne has been nothing short of exceptional throughout mine and my husbands immigration query. From the very start, she was informative, diligent, understanding, compassionate and helpful. Any immigration matter is delicate and stressful for those involved and Anne met us with patience and kindness throughout, keeping us well informed and calm when everything felt tricky. We honestly couldn’t have asked for a better advisor and we are so grateful for everything that she did for us to get my husbands spousal visa approved. Her dedication and commitment proved enormously valuable and I will be welcoming my husband home tomorrow because of her. Without a doubt we will use her again in 2029 when required and we cannot recommend her enough for anyone going through a similar matter. Thank you Anne, from the bottom of our hearts, we will always appreciate you and remember your engagement fondly.
    Roger Hall
    2 weeks ago
    Everybody at IAS has been professional and helpful. In particular my case worker, Elena Ampova simply could not have been more patient, friendly and approachable and knowledgeable. Nina and I found it difficult to supply information in the file formats required and Elena spent hours helping us. And the end result has been that my fiancée, Nina's visa application has been approved. Perfect service and a perfect result.
    Julian Everett
    2 weeks ago
    Dina's explanations were clear and she took time to make sure we understood. The only small worry we now have is that there may be hidden fees which were not specified. However, I'm just checking that through an email.
    Chaimae Dr
    2 weeks ago
    I received excellent advice from Safa Ali. She was patient, thorough, and took the time to make sure I understood everything. Highly recommended for anyone going through the asylum process.
    Siraw KEBEDE
    3 weeks ago
    I have had amazing results in a short period of time with Lauren Blommel at Immigration Advice Services. She was very professional and supportive every step of the way, always answering my questions and addressing my concerns quickly. I am very happy with the service I received and would definitely recommend her to anyone looking for immigration assistance.
    Lili Ayele
    3 weeks ago
    I am extremely grateful for the excellent support and professional service I received from Immigration Advice Service, especially from my caseworker, Lauren Blommel. Lauren supported me throughout my asylum case and kept me informed and reassured during what was a very difficult and stressful process. Thanks to her professionalism, dedication, patience, and hard work, my case was handled with great care and I successfully received my refugee status. I truly appreciate everything Lauren has done for me and all the support she provided from beginning to end. I highly recommend Immigration Advice Service to anyone who needs immigration support. Thank you so much, Lauren, for your outstanding service and for helping me through such an important journey in my life. I will always be grateful.
    Othman Khunji
    3 weeks ago
    I cannot recommend Mariam Adebayo at IAS highly enough. She supported me thoroughly from A–Z throughout my UK Global Talent Visa journey, ultimately helping me successfully obtain my visa through the Exceptional Talent route. From the very beginning, Mariam was incredibly professional, knowledgeable, patient, and attentive. She guided me through every stage of the process with clarity and reassurance, always making sure that my application was as strong and comprehensive as possible. What stood out most was how consistently she went above and beyond her dedication, responsiveness, and genuine commitment to achieving the best possible outcome for me were evident throughout the entire journey. Thanks to Mariam’s exceptional support and hard work, I now have the incredible opportunity to continue developing and practicing my talent in the UK. This is a truly significant milestone in my professional and creative journey, and I am extremely grateful for the role she played in making it possible. Mariam is an outstanding caseworker and a true asset to IAS. I wholeheartedly recommend her to anyone seeking immigration support, particularly those applying through the UK Global Talent route. Thank you, Mariam, for your dedication, guidance, and for helping turn this opportunity into a reality.
    Roy Williams
    3 weeks ago
    Re: Kurshida Begum My wife and I cannot thank our immigration lawyer, Kurshida Begum enough for the professional help and support she gave us to obtain a successful outcome to my wife’s application for her extension visa. I would have no hesitation in recommending her services to anyone seeking help on immigration matters.
    Scott Graham
    3 weeks ago
    Daniel Lugo Pino
    3 weeks ago
    Saima Maqsood was super helpful in my father's visitor visa application. Very communicative and supportive - we had low odds of a favourable outcome and yet with her guidance we were able to succeed.
    Virginie
    4 weeks ago
    I had a good exchange with Saima Jabeen, she helped me and it was useful.
    Peter Welch
    4 weeks ago
    My case worker Mariam Adebayo guided my fiancee, a Belarusian national and me on what documentation and translations were required and checked through everything at every stage. She then made the application on our behalf for a fiancee visa. The application was 100% successful with no other documentation required or any queries raised by UKVI. Mariam further assisted in getting our spouse visa after our marriage in May 2026. Again 100% successful. Mariam has been extremely thorough in every part of our fiancee and spouse visa. Everything went through without a hitch! I have no hesitation in recommending her. Peter and Teresa Welch.
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    At the Immigration Advice Service our lawyers specialise in a wide range of UK visas, nationality and asylum applications and have represented clients in various successful complex and high-profile cases.

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