According to American think tank, Pew Research, at least 50 000 South Africans were living in Canada by 2017 – this is 16 000 more than recorded in the 2011 census and the figure continues to rise - it is estimated that the figure currently stands at closer to 55 000.
Over the past two years, South African residents have been in the top ten immigrants to Canada by country of origin under the Express Entry system. This is not surprising given the fact that the number of people trying to immigrate to Canada has risen by over 65% since 2017.
Pew says as many as 6000 South Africans moved to Canada between 2011 and 2016 and interest in the country is only growing. Citing a number of reasons for making the move South Africans who have packed their bags for the Great North are not looking back.
Pathways to Canadian Residency
You can obtain Canadian Permanent Residency by applying for a visa in one the following categories:
- Investor
- Entrepreneur
- Self Employed Person
- Skilled Professional
Once your application is approved, you and members of your immediate family may enjoy all advantages of Canadian citizens (with the exception of voting and holding political office) including access to excellent free health care and first-class education.
How do most migrants immigrate to Canada?
Most South Africans whom have immigrated to Canada have done so though the Economic Classes for Express Entry. This means they obtained work visas.
Express Entry is the online application system used by anyone applying under the Federal Skilled Worker, Federal Skilled Trades, Canadian Experience Class or certain Provincial Nominee Programs.
These programs target foreign nationals who are highly skilled and have at least one year of full time paid skilled work experience, have experience working in certain trades for two years or longer in the past five years, have already worked in Canada for one year or longer in a full-time paid skilled position, or have work experience in certain occupations which are in demand in specific parts of Canada.
Applications are typically processed within six months or less.
Do I qualify?
The best way to find out if your Canadian visa application is likely to be successful is to speak to an experienced immigration consultant. They will be able to assess your CV and match it with the criteria for Canadian Immigration and advise you on how best to approach the process.
An immigration consultant will help you decide on the best immigration path for your specific situation and will prepare your application in such a way that it has the best chance of being successful.
Consultants are experienced and know to watch out for pitfalls and mistakes that could cost you dearly.
Source: Pew Research, Business Tech, The South African, New World Immigration