CANADIAN IMMIGRATION TODAY

THREE TYPES OF IMMIGRATION We have lots of space, but can’t accept everyone without overwhelming the economy A system was needed to fairly determine who would be accepted and who would be turned away. (ie: not as racist) There are three classes of immigrants: 1. Family Class 2. Refugee Class 3. Independent (Economic) Class

FAMILY CLASS All Canadian Citizens or permanent residents over the age of 18 can sponsor relatives to come to Canada and become permanent residents themselves. Only applies if the relatives are: parents and grandparents dependent children, including adopted children; children under 18 years of age whom you intend to adopt; brothers, sisters, nephews, nieces or grandchildren who are orphans, under the age of 18 and not married or in a common-law relationship Any other relative if you have none of the above relatives or family members, either in Canada or abroad.

FAMILY CLASS CONTINUED Everyone is subject to medical, criminal and background checks. Sponsor is required to support their family members upon their arrival to Canada for a period of time. The sponsor’s financial records are accessed in order to ensure that they are capable of supporting the immigrant. Approximately 22% of Canadian immigrants arrive under the family class.

REFUGEE CLASS 9% of Canadian Immigrants are from the refugee class. A refugee is a person who flees their country of origin because of fear of persecution for reasons such as race, religion, gender, political beliefs or membership in a particular social group. Canada has obligation under International law to accept refugees and give them a home here in Canada.

REFUGEES CONTINUED Once a person claims refugee protection, he or she can’t be deported from Canada until the resolution of his claim by the Immigration & Refugee Board. Applicant has to prove at least 3 personal incidents of persecution or people like him If accepted, the refugee can apply to be a permanent resident in 3 years. If not, he can appeal to the Federal Court, and the process can last for 2 or more years. There are many programs in place in Canada that help refugees find homes, jobs and become integrated into Canadian society.

INDEPENDENT CLASS Independent immigrants include skilled workers, entrepreneurs, investors and the self-employed. Entrepreneurs are people who intend to purchase and run a business in Canada and have a minimum net worth of $300,000

INDEPENDENT CLASS CONT’D Investors are those who have at least $800,000 net worth and are willing to invest $400,000 through the Receiver General of Canada. The money is distributed to the provinces for economic development. Self-employed : reserved for world-class athletes, well- known artists and those with specialized farm management skills. Skilled workers are usually those who have professional abilities that would be beneficial to Canada. Sometimes, this person already has a job offer in Canada. They are judged against a points system, requiring 75 points out of 100 to gain entry into Canada.