Hello, I am looking to move to Canada in a year or two and am wondering how difficult of a process it all is. I do have family living in Canada, my girlfriend (of over a year) also lives there. I'm fluent in English, I will also have a job arrangement because I can transfer within my company. However, the cic.gc.ca website makes it sound like a difficult process, which is the best way to get started on this long journey? Please help. Thank you.
Bambi
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The process is quite similar to the US, immediate family such as wife, parent. Skill in high demand. If your planning on getting married to your gf that will prob be your best route. Best wishes!
Jim B
IF you are over 21, you cannot be sponsored by a Parent, as you are considered a adult.
The NAFTA trade agreement does allow for inter-company transfers, BUT it has to be approved by the Canadian Government, and it is NOT a long term visa, only a two year work visa, then you go home to the USA. And it does NOT count towards any type of Immigrant status in Canada.
You best method is to get married. Then your WIFE can sponsor you under a "spousal visa " application. IF she is a Canadian citizen and fully employed, she can take on the financial support for you, under a legal contract, for a period of time, to allow you to come to Canada, and after approval is granted, you will be be able to work and get acces to all of our social services systems, including health care coverage. Marriage and a spousal application will still mean a 6 to 12 month period of "idleness " for you as you cannot work or attend school while the application is being processed.
But at least you will be able to be together, in Canada.
Good Luck.
Jim B
Toronto.