Moving to Canada

Canada is renowned for its economic stability, high standard of living, safety, hospitality, and educational opportunities. Various immigration pathways provide numerous opportunities for South Africans who want to work, study, or reside permanently in the country. Today, we look at the options available to South Africans considering moving to Canada.

Immigration resources

If you want to move to Canada, you can apply for citizenship, a permanent resident card or refugee protection. The Government of Canada’s website offers immigration and citizenship information, as well as online resources for checking the status of your application, application processing times, how to pay the required fees, and how to get a medical exam and police clearance. It is strongly advised that anyone interested in moving to Canada familiarise themselves with the website and its functionality.

The Government of Canada’s website also offers numerous helpful resources. The webpage provides a video that explains how to send a complete application, as well as an online experience to explore the country’s immigration programs to live, study, or work in Canada.

Immigration options

Like most countries, Canada provides several options for immigrants. These include visas for skilled workers, families, start-ups, caregivers, and self-employed persons, amongst others. It is essential to choose the right visa type to increase your chances of a successful application. Let’s explore what you need for Express Entry for skilled workers.

Express entry for skilled workers

This is the application pathway for skilled immigrants who would like to become permanent residents of Canada and contribute to its economy.

The Express Entry system for immigrating to Canada requires various documents at different stages of the application process. Here’s a summary of what you need:

Documents for Your Profile

• Passport or travel document. (Note that Venezuelan passport holders may have additional steps.)
• Language test results.
• Proof of Canadian education or an educational credential assessment report if applying through the Federal Skilled Workers Program or if you want points for education obtained outside Canada.
• Provincial nomination (if applicable).
• Written job offer from a Canadian employer (if applicable).
• Proof of work experience.
• Certificate of qualification in a trade occupation issued by a Canadian province or territory (if applicable).
• Proof of funds.

Documents for Your Application for Permanent Residence

• Police certificates.
• Proof of funds.
• Birth certificate for dependent children.
• Use of a Representative form (if using a representative).
• Common-law union form (if declaring marital status as common-law).
• Marriage certificate (if married).
• Divorce certificate and legal separation agreement (if divorced).
• Death certificate (if widowed).
• Adoption certificate (if a dependent child is adopted).

Other Documents (If Applicable)

• Proof of relationship to a relative in Canada.
• Digital photos to confirm your identity.
• Other name documents to confirm aliases.
• Authority to release personal information to a designated individual form.
• Any other documents relevant to your application.

As of October 1, 2023, upfront medical exams are not required before submitting your application for permanent residence through Express Entry. However, you will be informed when to get your medical exams. The documents listed are essential for creating your profile and completing your application, with additional documents required based on your personal circumstances and the program’s requirements.

For more information, visit How Express Entry Works.

Is Canada right for you?

Climate

Canada has a tremendous latitudinal extent and therefore has a variety of climates. The northern parts have cold winters and short, cool summers. Quebec and Southern Ontario have cold, snowy winters and hot, humid summers. Make sure you choose the climate that is right for you.  

Job opportunities

It is always advisable to research industries with high demand for skilled workers. Over 354,000 people became Canadian citizens in 2023. According to CANADIM, jobs in demand include nursing, website development, electrical engineering, truck driving, welding, veterinarians, electricians, pharmacists, and accountants.

Healthcare insurance

Canada has one of the best healthcare systems in the world. If you would like more information on how healthcare in Canada works and the type of insurance that is available to you as a newcomer, visit the “Learn about health care in Canada” page.

Culture shock 

Be prepared for cultural differences and seek support from local communities. Stay connected with family and friends back home while building new connections in Canada to prevent becoming homesick.

Choose Elliott when moving to Canada

Every country, including Canada, has its unique set of rules and regulations governing imports and exports, visas and permits, pets, storage options, and more. Navigating these procedures can be overwhelming for anyone. However, when you choose to move with Elliott, you’re not just hiring a moving company; you’re choosing the services of one of the finest moving companies in the world. Elliott prides itself on its extensive global network of top-tier moving partners, ensuring constant communication during your relocation. Furthermore, as members of prestigious moving associations like the International Association of Movers (IAM) and the International Federation of International Furniture Removers (FIDI), Elliott demonstrates its commitment to quality, reliability, and customer satisfaction.

Need more information about moving? See our article on How to Ship Special Items from South Africa, or view our comprehensive international moving guide.

Please keep in mind that the information in our blogs is for information purposes only. Additionally, country laws and emigration rules change. It is therefore essential to get in touch with the local home affairs office and use the current government immigration or citizenship resources they make available to you.