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  • Which country can a Canadian PR card holder travel to?

    Which country can a Canadian PR card holder travel to?

    Which country can a Canadian PR card holder Visa Free Travel to?

    Visa Free Travel for Canadian PR card holder

    As a Canadian Permanent Resident (PR) cardholder, you are entitled to the convenience of visa-free travel to many countries across the globe. This benefit allows you to explore numerous destinations without the need to apply for a visa beforehand. Whether you’re looking for a short getaway or a long-term stay, here is a comprehensive guide to countries where visa-free travel is available for Canadian PR holders, along with visa-on-arrival and eVisa options.

    1. Caribbean Visa-Free Travel
    Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, Aruba, Bahamas: Enjoy these stunning Caribbean destinations with visa-free travel for stays ranging from 30 to 90 days.
    Bermuda, Cayman Islands, Sint Maarten: Take advantage of visa-free travel for 30 days to relax in these tropical paradises.
    Bonaire (Dutch Territory), Turks and Caicos (British Territory): These islands offer 90 days of visa-free travel for Canadian PR holders.
    2. Eastern Europe Visa-Free Travel
    Armenia, Georgia, Moldova: Experience the rich culture and history of Eastern Europe with 90 days of visa-free travel in these countries.
    3. Visa-Free Travel in Central America
    Belize: Explore the natural beauty of Belize with 30 days of visa-free travel for Canadian PR holders.
    El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Panama: Each of these Central American countries offers 90 days of visa-free travel for Canadian PR holders.
    Nicaragua: Enjoy 30 days of visa-free travel in Nicaragua.
    4. Asian Visa-Free Travel
    Japan: Discover Japan with a 90-day eVisa, available to Canadian PR holders for visa-free travel.
    Philippines: Indian citizens with Canadian PR can enjoy 14 days of visa-free travel in the Philippines.
    South Korea: Select nationalities can enjoy 30 days of visa-free travel while transiting through South Korea.
    Singapore: Indian and Chinese nationals can experience 96 hours of visa-free travel while transiting through Singapore.
    Thailand: Canadian PR holders can stay in Thailand for 60 days with an eVisa, making it an ideal destination for visa-free travel.
    5. Middle East and Africa Visa-Free Travel
    Oman: Certain nationalities can take advantage of 30 days Visa on Arrival (VOA) for visa-free travel in Oman.
    Qatar: Enjoy 30 days of visa-free travel in Qatar with an eVisa.
    Morocco: Canadian PR holders can explore Morocco with 90 days of visa-free travel using an eVisa.
    6. Visa-Free Travel in Mexico and Latin America
    Mexico: Canadian PR holders are eligible for 180 days of visa-free travel in Mexico, making it perfect for long-term stays.
    Costa Rica: Visit Costa Rica and enjoy 30 days of visa-free travel.
    Dominican Republic: Canadian PR holders can experience 90 days of visa-free travel in the Dominican Republic.
    7. United Kingdom Transit Visa-Free Travel
    United Kingdom: If you’re transiting through the UK, Canadian PR holders can enjoy 24 hours of visa-free travel while passing through.
    Important Considerations for Visa-Free Travel
    Before embarking on any journey, it is crucial to double-check the latest entry requirements and ensure your visa-free travel privileges remain valid. Rules and regulations for visa-free travel can change, so it’s always advisable to verify the current policies before departure.


    Do you know?

    There are many pathways to have Canadian PR

    Canada offers a variety of opportunities for individuals seeking Canadian Permanent Residency (PR). With numerous immigration programs, it’s easier for skilled workers, entrepreneurs, and students to settle permanently. Once you obtain Canadian PR, you can enjoy the benefits of visa-free travel to many countries, adding convenience and flexibility to your global mobility. In this blog, we’ll explore the different pathways to acquiring Canadian PR and how visa-free travel enhances the experience.

    1. Express Entry System

    The Express Entry program is one of the fastest ways to achieve Canadian PR for skilled workers. This points-based system ranks candidates, and those with the highest scores are invited to apply for permanent residency. Once you have PR, you’ll also benefit from visa-free travel to multiple countries.

    Benefits of PR via Express Entry:

    • Fast processing time (often within six months).
    • Access to visa-free travel as a PR holder.
    • Freedom to live and work anywhere in Canada.

    2. Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)

    Each Canadian province and territory has its own immigration streams under the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). These are designed to attract individuals with specific skills needed in that region. Once nominated, your chances of securing Canadian PR improve greatly, allowing you to enjoy visa-free travel as well.

    Benefits of PR via PNP:

    • Opportunity to settle in a specific province.
    • Visa-free travel to numerous countries post-PR.
    • Economic growth opportunities in smaller regions.

    3. Business Immigration Programs

    Canada offers several business-focused immigration programs, such as the Start-Up Visa and Self-Employed Persons Program. These are ideal pathways for investors, entrepreneurs, and self-employed individuals looking to gain Canadian PR. Once you become a PR, you’ll also unlock visa-free travel privileges to various international destinations.

    Benefits of PR via Business Programs:

    • Establish your own business or invest in Canadian markets.
    • Enjoy visa-free travel as a PR holder.
    • Access to Canadian economic and business opportunities.

    4. Canadian Experience Class (CEC)

    For those who have already gained skilled work experience in Canada, the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) is a suitable path to Canadian PR. This is ideal for international students or foreign workers who want to transition to permanent residency. Once PR is granted, you’ll be eligible for visa-free travel to several countries.

    Benefits of PR via CEC:

    • No job offer is needed to apply.
    • Visa-free travel benefits post-PR to destinations worldwide.
    • Freedom to live and work in any part of Canada.

    5. Family Sponsorship

    The Family Sponsorship Program allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their close relatives, including spouses, children, or parents, for Canadian PR. After obtaining PR, you can explore the world with visa-free travel benefits.

    Benefits of PR via Family Sponsorship:

    • Reunite with family in Canada.
    • Access to visa-free travel after PR approval.
    • The ability to enjoy all the social benefits Canada offers.

    Benefits of Canadian PR and Visa-Free Travel

    Once you obtain Canadian PR, you can enjoy visa-free travel to numerous countries around the world. Some of the destinations offering visa-free travel or visa-on-arrival options to Canadian PR holders include:

    • Mexico: Stay for up to 180 days with visa-free travel.
    • Japan: Explore for up to 90 days with an eVisa.
    • Singapore: Transit visa-free for up to 96 hours.
    • Caribbean Islands: Many Caribbean nations offer visa-free travel for Canadian PR holders, including Antigua and Barbuda, Bahamas, and more.

    These visa-free travel opportunities make it easier for Canadian PR holders to explore the world without dealing with lengthy visa processes.

    Conclusion: Pathways to Canadian PR and Global Travel Freedom

    Canada offers multiple immigration pathways for obtaining Canadian PR, from the Express Entry system to Provincial Nominee Programs and business options. Once you have secured Canadian PR, one of the key advantages is the ability to enjoy visa-free travel to several countries. This opens up a world of opportunities for global exploration and convenience.

    Working in Canada:
    LMIA, Express Entry, Job Approval Letter (JAL) of Saskatchewan, and Community Endorsement in Alberta are key routes for skilled workers to gain work permits and eventually PR.
    Business Opportunities:
    Entrepreneurs can achieve PR through the Start-Up Visa or by establishing and operating a business under various Provincial Nominee Programs
    Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP):
    International students can work in Canada after graduation, gaining experience to help them apply for PR when eligible

    Let GTR Immigration guide you through the process.

    Ready to make Canada your new home?Contact us today at +1 855 477 9797 to explore your pathway to Canadian permanent residency. We’re here to help you every step of the way!

    Contact us +1 855 477 9797

  • The Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP): A Comprehensive Guide

    The Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP): A Comprehensive Guide

    Demystifying the Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP)

    SINP frequency asked questions

    what is SINP?
    SINP stands for the Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program. It is a provincial immigration program in Canada that allows the province of Saskatchewan to nominate individuals who wish to immigrate to Canada and settle in Saskatchewan. The program is designed to attract skilled workers, entrepreneurs, and investors to contribute to the province’s economy and society.
    what is job approval letter (JAL)?
    A SINP job approval letter is an official document confirming the endorsement of a job offer from a Saskatchewan employer to a foreign national. It’s crucial for certain streams of the SINP, indicating that the job offer meets specific criteria set by the program.
    Who is eligible for sinp?
    General eligibility often includes criteria such as age, language ability, education, work experience, and adaptability factors, but specifics can vary greatly between the streams. For example, some require a minimum language score, while others focus more on work experience or connections to the province. Eligibility for the Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP) varies depending on which of its multiple categories you are applying under
    International Skilled Worker Category

    This category is for skilled workers abroad who want to work and live in Saskatchewan. There are a few streams under this category:

    • Saskatchewan Express Entry: Requires candidates to have an Express Entry profile and meet criteria such as having work experience in a high-skilled occupation found on Saskatchewan’s In-Demand Occupations List.
    • Occupation In-Demand: Aimed at skilled workers who have experience in an in-demand occupation in Saskatchewan but are not necessarily in the Express Entry pool.
    • Employment Offer: For those who have a job offer for a skilled occupation in Saskatchewan.

    Saskatchewan Experience Category

    This is for foreign nationals who are currently working and living in Saskatchewan. Streams under this category include:

    • Skilled Worker with Existing Work Permit
    • Semi-Skilled Agriculture Worker with Existing Work Permit
    • Health Professionals
    • Hospitality Sector Project
    • Long-Haul Truck Driver Project
    • Students

    Entrepreneur Category

    This is for individuals who plan to start a business in Saskatchewan. Candidates must submit an Expression of Interest to the SINP and, if invited to apply, must meet various criteria related to investment and business operation in the province.

    Farm Owner and Operator Category

    Aimed at experienced farmers who plan to buy and operate a farm in Saskatchewan. Applicants must have considerable capital to invest in a farming operation and must plan to live and farm in Saskatchewan.

    What score is required for SINP?
    Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP) uses a points-based system to assess candidates in some of its immigration categories, such as the International Skilled Worker category. This points system evaluates candidates based on factors including education, work experience, language ability, age, and connections to the Saskatchewan labor market.

    To be eligible for nomination under the SINP’s International Skilled Worker category, applicants typically need to score a minimum of 60 points out of 100 on the SINP point assessment grid. However, meeting the minimum point requirement does not guarantee nomination, as candidates may also need to meet other criteria specific to the sub-category they are applying under (e.g., Saskatchewan Express Entry or Occupation In-Demand). Please refer to above section for reference.

    Points that you claim will be confirmed by the documents you show later. You can claim points once for each section.
    EDUCATION AND TRAINING: 12-23 points

    Master’s or Doctorate degree (Canadian equivalency). 23
    Bachelor’s degree OR at least a three-year degree at a university or college. 20
    Trade certification equivalent to journeyperson status in Saskatchewan. 20
    Canadian equivalency diploma that requires two (but less than three) years at a university, college, trade or technical school, or other post-secondary institution. 15
    Canadian equivalency certificate or at least two semesters (but less than a two-year program) at a university, college, trade or technical school, or other post-secondary institution. 12

    SKILLED WORK EXPERIENCE: 0-15 points

    • Your work experience must relate to the job you have put on your application.
    • One year of work experience equals 12 full months.
    		  

    a) Work experience in the 5 years prior to application submission date.

    		  

    5 years

    		 10

    4 years

    		 8

    3 years

    		 6

    2 years

    		 4

    1 year

    		 2

    b) In the 6-10 years prior to application submission date.

    		  

    5 years

    		 5

    4 years

    		 4

    3 years

    		 3

    2 years

    		 2

    Less than 1 year

    		 0

    LANGUAGE ABILITY: 0 -30 points

    • Check IRCC’s website to convert your IELTS, CELPIP or TEF scores to CLB 4-10.
    		  
    a) First Language Test (English or French)  

    CLB 8 and higher

    		 20

    CLB 7

    		 18

    CLB 6

    		 16

    CLB 5

    		 14

    CLB 4

    12

    English or French speaker without language test results.

    		 0
    b) Second Language Test (English or French)  

     CLB 8 or higher

    		 10 

     CLB 7

    		 8 

     CLB 6

    		 6 

     CLB 5

    		 4 

     CLB 4

    		 2 

     Not Applicable

    		 0 

    AGE: 0-12 points

    Less than 18 years 0
    18 – 21 years 8
    22 – 34 years 12
    35 – 45 years 10
    46 – 50 years 8
    More than 50 years 0

    CONNECTION TO SASKATCHEWAN LABOUR MARKET & ADAPTABILITY: 0-30

    oints are given for having a connection to the Saskatchewan labour market. This shows your ability to successfully settle in Saskatchewan as a permanent resident.
    The following points are for the Employment Offer subcategory only:  
    High skilled employment offer from a Saskatchewan employer 30
    The following points are for the Occupation In-Demand and Saskatchewan Express Entry subcategories only  
    Close family relative in Saskatchewan

    • The applicant or accompanying spouse has a family relative that is a Canadian citizen or permanent resident living in Saskatchewan and is not supporting any other family relatives at the time of your application. Eligible family members are a: parent, sibling, grandparent, aunt, uncle, niece, nephew, first cousin and step-family members or in-laws of the same relationships. The family members in Saskatchewan must meet the requirements as listed under “Required Documents” for your ISW sub-category. If your close relative in Saskatchewan has supported other relatives before your application, you must submit proof that the nominee who your close relative previously supported has been settled successfully in Saskatchewan for at least six months.
    		 20
    Past work experience in Saskatchewan

    • At least 12 months of work in the past five years on a valid work permit.
    		 5
    Past student experience in Saskatchewan

    • At least one full-time academic year at a recognized Saskatchewan post-secondary education institution on a valid study permit.
    		 5

    do you know that you can earn additional points by proving CONNECTION TO SASKATCHEWAN LABOUR MARKET & ADAPTABILITY

    30 points by having a High skilled employment offer from a Saskatchewan

    20 points by having Close family relative in Saskatchewan

    5 points by having at least 12 months of work in the past five years on a valid work permit.

    5 points by having at least one full-time academic year at a recognized Saskatchewan post-secondary education institution on a valid study permit

    How long does SINP process take?
    The processing time is updated every quarter (every three months). It shows the average time it took that quarter to process an application. the processing time for the Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP) can vary significantly based on the category under which an application is submitted, the completeness of the application, and the current processing volumes at the time of submission. Generally, processing times can range from a few months to over a year.
    International Skilled

    SINP Category Quarter 3: 2023-24
    (October 1 to December 31, 2023)
    Employment Offer 4 weeks
    Occupation In-Demand 39 weeks*
    Express Entry 33 weeks*
    Tech Talent Pathway 3 weeks
    Hard-to-Fill Skills Pilot 3 weeks

    Saskatchewan Experience

    Saskatchewan Experience

    SINP Category Quarter 3: 2023-24
    (October 1 to December 31, 2023)
    Existing Work Permit 2 weeks
    Health Professionals 1 week
    International Students 2 weeks
    Truck Drivers Not available due to sample size.
    Hospitality Workers 1 week

    Entrepreneur & Farm

    The goal is to process all Entrepreneur and Farm applications (including Entrepreneur Nomination requests) within 12 weeks, and all Good Faith Deposit Return requests within 24 weeks.

    SINP Category Quarter 3: 2023-24
    (October 1 to December 31, 2023)
    Entrepreneur Applications* 5 weeks
    Entrepreneurs Nominations 2 weeks
    Farmers** Not available due to sample size.

    Job Approval Letter (JAL)

    SINP Category Quarter 3: 2023-24
    (October 1 to December 31, 2023)
    Job Approval 4 weeks

    Does obtaining a SINP nomination simplify the process of acquiring permanent residency (PR)?
    Receiving a provincial nomination from the Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP) significantly increases your chances of obtaining Canadian Permanent Residency (PR), mainly because it demonstrates that a province supports your application. Here’s why a SINP nomination can make the PR process relatively easier:
    Additional Points in Express Entry: If you are applying through an Express Entry-linked SINP stream, receiving a provincial nomination awards you an additional 600 points on your Express Entry profile. This effectively guarantees that you will receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence in the next Express Entry draw.
    Direct Pathway to PR: For those applying through SINP’s non-Express Entry streams, a successful nomination means you can apply directly to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for PR as a provincial nominee.
    it’s important to note that while a SINP nomination does facilitate the process of obtaining PR, applicants still need to meet federal immigration criteria, including security, criminality, and medical checks. The process also requires thorough documentation and adherence to procedural steps, which can be time-consuming and complex.
    When will Hard to fill scheme of SINP resume?
    As of January 11, 2024, the Hard-to-Fill Skills Pilot is closed for a program review, to be completed in Spring 2024. Occupations in the health care, agriculture or value-add agriculture sectors are excluded from the closure. Job Approval Forms received prior to January 11, 2024, will be processed if candidates were identified at the time of submission or if existing employees working in Saskatchewan are added by January 22, 2024.
    Would a nomination from SINP assist my Express Entry profile?
    Yes, obtaining a nomination from the Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP) can significantly benefit your Express Entry profile. Here’s how:

    Additional Points: If you secure a provincial nomination through one of SINP’s Express Entry-linked streams, you will receive an additional 600 points toward your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score. This substantial increase in points effectively ensures that you will receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency in a subsequent Express Entry draw.

    Increased Chances: With the boosted CRS score, your chances of being invited to apply for permanent residence are greatly enhanced, making the SINP nomination a highly advantageous route for Express Entry candidates looking to secure permanent residency in Canada.

    Strategic Benefit: For candidates who may not have high enough CRS scores to be competitive in the Express Entry pool due to factors like age, language proficiency, or work experience, receiving a provincial nomination can be a crucial strategy for achieving their immigration goals.

    It’s important to ensure you meet the specific criteria set out by the SINP for its Express Entry-linked nomination process, which includes having a profile in the Express Entry system and meeting the minimum requirements of one of the Federal High Skilled immigration programs (Federal Skilled Worker Program, Federal Skilled Trades Program, or Canadian Experience Class) as well as the criteria specific to the SINP’s Express Entry stream.

  • Alberta pauses processing for Alberta Opportunity Stream applications

    Alberta pauses processing for Alberta Opportunity Stream applications

    February 15, 2024: Alberta Opportunity Stream intake pause

    The Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP) has temporarily halted the intake of applications for the Alberta Opportunity Stream until further notice.

    Applications already submitted for the Alberta Opportunity Stream before the pause will continue to be assessed by the AAIP. However, any draft applications within the AAIP portal that were not submitted before the pause, even those awaiting final fee payment, will not be considered.

    This pause is necessary for the program to address its current backlog and to concentrate its immigration nominations on priority areas, such as addressing labor shortages in critical sectors like healthcare, technology, construction, agriculture, tourism, hospitality, and other high-demand fields.

    The AAIP will also be implementing measures to effectively manage future application volumes in line with program priorities while ensuring reasonable service standards are maintained across all its streams.

  • Canada Extends Ban On Foreign Ownership of Housing Until 2027

    Canada Extends Ban On Foreign Ownership of Housing Until 2027

    The Canadian government, represented by Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland, has announced its intention to extend the ban on foreign ownership of Canadian housing for an additional two years. This decision comes in response to concerns over foreign investment driving up housing prices and exacerbating affordability issues, particularly in major urban areas. The ban, which is currently set to expire on January 1, 2025, will now be extended until January 1, 2027. Foreign commercial enterprises and individuals who are not Canadian citizens or permanent residents will remain prohibited from purchasing residential property in Canada.

    This extension is part of the government’s broader efforts to improve housing affordability for Canadians. The government has significantly increased its investment in housing since 2015, with the current annual federal housing investment more than double what it was in 2013-14. Various measures have been implemented to address housing affordability, including the passage of the Prohibition on the Purchase of Residential Property by Non-Canadians Act in 2022. Additionally, the government’s economic plan includes initiatives such as the Affordable Housing and Groceries Act, the Apartment Construction Loan Program, the Affordable Housing Fund, the Housing Accelerator Fund, the Rapid Housing Initiative, the Federal Lands Initiative, and others aimed at increasing housing supply and supporting Canadians in achieving homeownership.

  • Canada announces cap on international students

    Canada to stabilize growth and decrease number of new international student permits issued to approximately 360,000 for 2024

    The Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship announced today that the Government of Canada will set an intake cap on international student permit applications to stabilize new growth for a period of two years. For 2024, the cap is expected to result in approximately 360,000 approved study permits, a decrease of 35% from 2023. Study permit renewals will not be impacted. Those pursuing master’s and doctoral degrees, and elementary and secondary education are not included in the cap. Current study permit holders will not be affected. 

    IRCC will allocate a portion of the cap to each province and territory, who will then distribute the allocation among their designated learning institutions. To implement the cap, as of January 22, 2024, every study permit application submitted to IRCC will also require an attestation letter from a province or territory. Provinces and territories are expected to establish a process for issuing attestation letters to students by no later than March 31, 2024.

    In the weeks ahead, open work permits will only be available to spouses of international students in master’s and doctoral programs. The spouses of international students in other levels of study, including undergraduate and college programs, will no longer be eligible.

  • Increased Cost of Living Requirement for International Students to Canada – How GTR Immigration can help?

    Increased Cost of Living Requirement for International Students to Canada – How GTR Immigration can help?

    Increased Cost of Living Requirement for International Students to Canada

    Starting from January 1, 2024, Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has heightened the financial stipulation for single study permit applicants, doubling the cost-of-living requirement from $10,000 to $20,635. In conjunction with the initial year’s tuition fee and travel expenses associated with relocating to Canada, international students must now consider this augmented financial obligation.

    The revised financial requirement will be effective for all new study permit applications submitted on or after January 1, 2024.

    Eligibility criteria for applying through the SDS:

    To be eligible, you must:

    • – Reside outside of Canada and hold legal residency in one of the designated 14 countries.
    • – Possess an acceptance letter from a post-secondary designated learning institute (DLI). Attain the minimum score stipulated for one of the qualifying language tests.
    • – Demonstrate possession of an International Student Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) amounting to CAD $20,635 (effective January 1, 2024).


    Find out more about SDS and pathway from study to PR

  • Summary of Express Entry draws since June 2023

    Summary of Express Entry draws since June 2023


    EXPRESS ENTRY

    ARE YOU HAVING CRS >400?

    If you are an applicant who has CRS score between 400 and 440, you should explore the alternate options to increase the opportunities to obtain the permanent residency in Canada.

    We can help!

    Find out more about alternative Routes to Canada Express Entry and how GreenTech Resources Worldwide Canada can assist you in increasing your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score for Express Entry in several ways

    View more

  • We are hiring! SINP and LMIA jobs

    We are hiring! SINP and LMIA jobs

    WE ARE HIRING

    SINP and LMIA Jobs

    We are looking for experienced qualified candidates globally
    Candidate basic requirements
    • English Language Certificate (CLB 4 – 5)
    • Related experience: 2 – 5 years
    • Certificate could be certified by WES
    • Social Insurance records
    • Bank statements

    Send us your resume

  • Settlement in Saskatchewan – Things to Do As a Newcomer

    Settlement in Saskatchewan – Things to Do As a Newcomer

    Settlement in Saskatchewan – Things to Do As a Newcomer

    Coming to a new country, learning the culture and settling into a new community can be daunting and slightly nerve-wracking. Those coming to settle in Saskatchewan as newcomers are often put to task if coming during winters and may initially seem lost. It’s best to know what to expect when you land because that will help create a smoother experience to settle in Saskatchewan.

    Here is a guide we put together to help you transition into your new community in Saskatchewan. When you land in Canada, one of the first few people you will meet after your arrival in Canada will be a Canadian customs agent. You should be ready with all your landing certificates, passports, and visas. You’ll also meet other officials from immigration Services who may ask you to validate your arrival and show your passport and visa papers.

     

    As you start your journey there are a few very important documents and papers that you will need handy for all your ongoing applications for banking, etc.

    Permanent Resident (PR) Card & Landing paper
    Social Insurance Number (SIN) card
    Health care card
    Driver’s license and or Government-issued photo ID

    It’s very important that you start the process to obtain these documents as soon as you land as it may take several weeks/months to receive the cards after you apply.

    Before you leave the airport, you should check out the newcomer welcome center. Toronto and Vancouver being the main airports, you’ll find their welcome kiosks at airports. At Toronto Pearson International Airport, look for the Immigrant Reception and Information Services (IRIS) kiosks. At Vancouver International Airport, go to Community Airport Newcomers Network (CANN) kiosk. These kiosks will have all the resources to help you in your first days in Canada. They will further share information on your onwards journey to Saskatchewan.

    Accommodation

    It’s always best to find temporary accommodation for your first few nights after landing and then start looking for a long-term rental in the city and the area you like as per your research. It’s good to do some research on where you want to live for the long term before committing to a lease. There are some big property companies like Mainstreet, Broadway, Remai, Elite Property Management, etc. and you should check the vacancy as soon as you start your home search.

    Navigation and Direction

    These days, almost every one of us carries our data-enabled smartphone. However, during your early days, you may not have access to mobile data plans and will need a good old paper map. Most of the local grocery and convenience stores will have an elaborate map of your city. You can also get the maps from the local library. It’s good to have a detailed street map pointing all local amenities, a telephone book, and the Yellow Pages. During your initial days, theses resources will be very important and helpful to do the research about the place and settling in.

    Settlement Services

    There are many settlement service agencies available in the cities and you must take some time to visit a local immigrant settlement agency. These agencies are usually non-profit organizations and receive government funding to offer newcomers services, such as free language training, settlement counseling, employment workshops, etc. They help newcomers to settle into the Canadian society and provide numerous free services including printing to help you adjust to life in Canada.

    PR Card for settlement in Saskatchewan

    Permanent resident identification or PR card, in short, is an identification and travel document. Wallet-sized, this card replaces your paper IMM 1000 Record of Landing document. It’s proof of your permanent resident status and you will need this card whenever you re-enter Canada and for other identification purposes.

    SIN Card for settlement in Saskatchewan

    It’s a 9-digit private and secure number that you’ll need to work in Canada. You should apply for your Social Insurance Number (SIN) card as soon as you land. If you don’t have a SIN card you cannot work or apply for any government assistance or credit. Applications for a SIN card can be made through the local Services Canada office.

    Health Card

    One of the other important things is health card which you should apply as soon as you start living in Saskatchewan. Application forms for these cards are available online on the e-health Saskatchewan website, doctor’s offices, hospitals, and most pharmacies, or by calling the provincial medical services authorities. It’s best to apply right after landing since there is an approx. three-month waiting period for coverage and you should not delay your application. It’s also good to have temporary private health coverage to cover your family during the waiting period.

    Bank account for settlement in Saskatchewan

    Check out local banks and their offers for new Canadians. Once you’ve researched and identified the best offer, set up a bank account and get a credit card. In Canada, you will need to start building your credit score for future financial needs such as mortgages or loans. It’s important to start a relationship with a bank so you can manage your money, pay your bills and begin building a credit history. Open an account at a bank or credit union near your home that is accessible and provides the best service to you.

    Cell Phone for settlement in Saskatchewan

    Communication is an important part of our living and you will need a cell phone plan to talk to your family and friends back home. Sign up for a Canadian cell phone, even just a pay-as-a-you-go plan so you will be accessible for potential employers and landlords. As with any other bills, paying your phone bills (if you have monthly contracts) is another way of building your credit score.

    Driver License for settlement in Saskatchewan

    An international license is only valid for a few months (the rules differ by province) so it’s better to get a Canadian driver’s license. If you are in cities with limited public transit facilities, you will need to have access to a car to drive from your place of work or to run any chores. Learn about the driving rules, practice your driving and take the exam as soon as you can.

    School 

    One of the main reasons you and most immigrants come to Canada is a better future and it all starts with a good education. The Canadian education system guarantees an education to everyone, every child between the ages of five and 16 is required to attend school. Ask schools in your area or contact the local school board for guidance to register and enroll your kids at school.

    For more information and how Greentech Resources can help you with jobs and recruitment, get in touch with our expert immigration consultant at our service locations in Saskatoon, Regina, Prince Albert, North Battleford and Moose Jaw.

  • Recruitment & Employment: Tips on Getting Hired As a Newcomer

    Recruitment & Employment:
    Tips on Getting Hired As a Newcomer

    There are few things that can help a new immigrant to settle down and get employment in Saskatchewan. You should be proactive and use available resources for recruitment and employment. There are some organizations available for free to assist newcomers about the job market in Saskatchewan and you may join those groups to brush your communication skills as well.

    Sign up with some recruitment agencies online and complete your profile so that they can assess your skills and can connect you with available positions.

    There are 6 main points to keep in your mind:

    Understand Culture

    It’s important to understand that Canada is a country of immigrants, that is the reason Canada has a very open culture and welcomes new immigrants. Major Canadian cities are multicultural and attract more immigrants. Watch some online presentations and videos to get familiar with the culture.

    Resources for new immigrants

    For a newcomer, the Canadian government website is an excellent resource. As it contains all the required details of what a newcomer needs like eligibility criteria, required documents, application, etc. Each province has volunteer organizations that provide initial guidance and support to the newcomers to get a job and provide further assistance to get settled in Canada.

    Create a Resume

    When you’re ready to apply for jobs in Canada, the most important step is to create and update your resume as per Canadian style because that increases your chance to get selected in a company and get a job offer. There are quite a few formats available online which you may use. Job providers look at the resume to qualify candidates so it should have the complete and correct information. Make sure you include your name with contact information, professional summary highlighting skills, work history, and complete experience. You should also include your education and professional experience in your resume.

    Network

    Networking is really important for your career in Canada, it’s not only required for professional growth but also helpful for personal growth when you move to a new country.

    It’s best to reach out to friends and family because they might have some contacts which can help you in Canada. Explore the job market online by using social media applications like CICCanadaJobs, LinkedIn and other job portals like indeed etc.

    Prepare for Interview

    For a newcomer, it might be difficult to crack an interview in the first go but if you’ve done some research online and have an idea about the type of interview questions you may crack the interview in one go. It’s always best to brush up your communication skills along with technical skills. Complete some practice questions and watch some videos depending on the type of interview or job you’re applying for.

    Wages

    Once you’re ready for the interview, another important thing to know is salary expectations. You should research the pay rate for the job(s) you’re applying. It depends on the experience and the skills you have. If you have arrived in Canada through the express entry skilled worker category, the experience, and education assessment will already be completed ahead of arrival. In case you’re not aware of what salary to ask, you may check the job bank portal online as well.