Have you ever dreamt of exchanging the sand dunes for snowy peaks? Or perhaps, imagine yourself sipping on maple syrup rather than Arabic coffee? If you are thinking about migrate to Canada from the UAE, my friend, you are not alone. Canada welcomes thousands of new immigrants each year, attracted by the country’s multiculturalism, scenic landscapes, and friendly people.
But how do you make it actually happen?
Well, that’s where we can help you. This blog aims to cover all the important information and requirements for migrating from the UAE to Canada.
Don’t worry; it’s not that difficult.
Navigating Your Journey from Dubai to Canada
1. Why Canada?
So why Canada? Well, this is a very common question.
For starters, it’s consistently ranked among the world’s best countries for quality of life. You get great health care, an incredible education system, breathtaking scenery, you name it. And not to overlook the variety of career options.
But what about the weather? Yes, it is cooler than Dubai, but don’t stress. As Canadians, it’s not just one season you must indulge in, but four.
The winters are cool, the summers colorful, and every season brings its own beauty.
2. Getting Started with the Visa Options
The first hurdle is the coveted visa. Immigrating to Canada from Dubai has many pathways, so here are a few.
Express Entry: It is Canada’s main immigration program for skilled workers. It is a point-based system, and criteria like your age, education, work experience, and language skills are counted.
Provincial Nominee Program (PNP): Every province in Canada has its own immigration system that caters to that province’s needs. If you have skills that a province is looking for, then this is your golden ticket.
Canada Business Immigration: If you are a businessman, entrepreneur, or investor, then this is the perfect route for you. This means you can start a business or invest in Canada and receive your permanent residence as well.
Family Sponsorship: Do you have a close family member who is a Canadian citizen or a permanent resident? They can sponsor you through this program.
Student Permit Many people begin their immigration journey in Canada with a student permit and become permanent residents after graduating.
Meeting the Requirements –
Next are the moving to Canada from Dubai requirements. Well, they can differ quite a bit because the programs are so different.
Language Proficiency
You are required to take a language test, such as IELTS or CELPIP, to demonstrate your English or French proficiency.
Education
Educational requirements vary, but most programs require a minimum of a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent. You might need to complete a qualifications assessment to make sure your qualifications are comparable to Canadian standards.
Work Experience
You have work experience to show.
Funds
You must have sufficient funds available for yourself when entering Canada.
Clean Record
Finally, many immigration applications request a criminal record check.
Crunching the Numbers: Costs Involved
What is the cost of migrating to Canada from the UAE? This will depend on your circumstances.
Application Fees
When applying through Express Entry, this fee is CAD 1,325, though this can vary from program to program.
Language Tests
IELTS test fees cost around AED 1,260 in the UAE
Educational Credential Assessment
This usually costs CAD 200-300.
Medical Exam
A budget of approximately AED 900 should be allocated for this.
Police Clearance
It would only cost you around AED 150, although that will depend on your individual circumstances.
And we haven’t included all these costs, such as flights, shipping your personal belongings, and the expenses of settling in Canada.
Application Process
Now that you have got all the essentials, let’s move to the main steps. Here is an overview of the application process.
- Choose Your Program: Depending on your qualifications and aim, you have to first decide what type of immigration program best fits you.
- Gather Documents: Everything from your passport to your academic qualifications will come into play here.
- Submit Your Application: You may apply online using the Express Entry program or by paper, depending on the program.
- Wait for Processing: This can take a few months to several months depending on the program and your choices.
- Attend an Interview: Not all candidates get an interview call, but in your case, you must always be prepared for it.
- Tips for Canada Visa Interview: Be honest and confident, and take some time to prepare for the interview. Be familiar with your application from top to bottom, and think ahead about explanations for why you want to come to Canada.
- Receive a Decision If all is well and you are granted approval, then you will be sent an invitation to apply for permanent residence.
Tips for a Smooth Transition
Once you have the visa, it is time to begin planning your move. We’ve a few tips that can make your transition a little smoother.
Research Different Cities
Canada is huge and diverse. Every city and province is a world unto itself.
So, do your research to find your best fit.
Network
Connect with people in Canada as soon as you can (especially in your field). This is where LinkedIn can be an excellent resource.
Plan for the Weather
You probably have better acclimatization to the heat around Dubai, but winters in Canada could literally be a shock. Invest in warm clothes.
Learn About Canadian Culture
Although the country and its residents are quite welcoming towards immigrants, it is always wise to know of local customs and etiquette.
Start saving
Moving countries can be costly; the more you save before you go, the smoother your transition will be.
Getting Your Canada Visa from Dubai
If you’re applying for a Canada visa from Dubai, you must do it through a Canadian visa centre in the UAE.
- Location: The visa application centre is located in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
- Documents: In addition to a completed visa application, you must also provide supporting documentation such as a passport, photographs, and proof of funds.
- Biometrics: As part of the application process, you will be required to provide your fingerprints and a photograph.
- Processing Time This varies, but it is usually around 30 days for a visitor visa.
So keep in mind that it is a time-consuming process. That may sound like a lot of work, and honestly, it is, but thousands of people relocate from Dubai to Canada annually.
So please keep in mind that it is a process and it takes time, thank you. That may sound like a lot of work and honestly it is, but thousands of people relocate from Dubai to Canada annually.
Final Thoughts
So, are you ready to switch to poutine? Or your trips to the desert safari for skiing?
Well, we do get it. This is a gut-wrenching, life-changing move, but the rewards, are worth the effort.
Canada is known for its high quality of life, scenic natural beauty, and potential for both personal and career advancement.
So relax and take that first jump. Get back to researching, start planning, and who knows, maybe by this time next year, you’ll be enjoying this blog again from the comforts of Toronto or Montreal with hot maple syrup in hand.