by If you want to immigrate to Canada from Colombia, you’re probably wondering which immigration routes to take. Over the years, Canada has remained a destination for many immigrants and families worldwide, including Colombians.
More recent records show people constantly moving from Bogotá, Cali, Cartagena, and Medellin, which shows that you’re not alone in this quest. You also don’t have to worry about seeing other Colombians in Canada.
To clear your doubt, about 60,555 Colombian immigrants lived in Canada as of 2011, with 150,580 Canadians claiming Colombian ancestry. Moreover, research shows also that Colombians are Canada’s second-largest Latin American immigrant group, trailing only Mexican Canadians.
So, if you are seeking a new life in Canada and need a guide on choosing a suitable pathway, you are at the right place. The most delicate ways to relocate to Canada from Colombia are discussed in this article.
A little about Colombian Canadians and other Colombian Immigrants in Canada
As of 2011, there were 60,555 Colombian immigrants in Canada, and 150,580 Canadians claimed Colombian ancestry, including Mestizo, Wayuu, Romani, and African Colombians ethnic groups. In addition, Colombians are Canada’s second-largest Latin American immigrant group, trailing only Mexican Canadians. From 2006 to 2015, 43,982 Colombian immigrants arrived in Canada and were granted permanent residency.
Furthermore, most Colombian immigrants in Canada have settled in Ontario and Quebec, with smaller populations growing in Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, and Saskatchewan.
And, for the benefit of Colombian immigrants, there is a Colombian Embassy in Canada. Notarial and consular services are available at the office.
Why Immigrate from Colombia to Canada
Before we begin, you’ll probably want to know what is so unique about Canada and why you should immigrate to this country. So here are the compelling reasons you should consider making Canada your permanent abode.
1. Stable economy;
Canada has one of the world’s most stable economies, with a world-class banking system and a stable currency. Not only this, the country provides simple access to banking, loans, and government help for businesses, as well as financial conveniences such as international money transfers, attracting investment capital, starting a new business, and purchasing real estate or land.
So, the Canadian banking system is frequently regarded as the most stable in the world when it comes to value for money. This information should excite you if you’re a business tycoon who wants to immigrate to Canada from Colombia. You can even access loans easily to support your business growth.
2. Universal healthcare;
Good health is one thing one cannot negotiate. And that is why the Canadian government adopted the universal health care system in 1960. Through this system, any Canadian citizen or permanent resident is entitled to free health coverage.
You can access health insurance if you have your health card. Thus, when it comes to healthcare, you’re sure to get the best if you immigrate to Canada from Colombia.
4. Multiculturalism;
Did you know that Toronto in Canada is known as the world’s most multicultural city? So diversity should be the least of your worries if you’re seeking to immigrate to Canada from Colombia! In Canada, there are over 30 ethnic communities with 100,000+ people.
Besides, about 22.3% of Canadians identify as a visible minority, and 21.9% are foreigners.
So, regarding multiculturalism, Canada is the only country where individuals of various ethnicities coexist while preserving their cultural heritage and religious practices.
5. World Class Education;
If you only had one reason to immigrate to Canada from Colombia, it should be for education. Canada places a high value on education.
Moreover, the country spends more per capita on education than industrialized countries. Canada’s K-12 public education system is considered one of the best in the world. McGill University, the University of Toronto, McMaster University, and the University of British Columbia are among the top 100 universities in the world.
According to Statistics Canada, 54 percent of Canadians aged 25 to 64 hold a post-secondary degree, with another 10.8% having finished an apprenticeship or crafts diploma. In addition, tuition is entirely or partially funded for low-income students in various jurisdictions.
How to Immigrate to Canada from Colombia
The Canadian government has created different immigration programs and pathways to enable more foreigners to immigrate to Canada. There are over 100 different immigration programs and visas you can choose from.
So, if you want to immigrate to Canada from Colombia, here are the most popular pathways you should follow:
Express Entry
Express Entry is Canada’s primary system for skilled workers seeking permanent residency in Canada. Express Entry is a highly competitive immigration system that ranks eligible candidates based on their profile and experience (age, education, work experience, ability in English and French, and other factors).
Notably, if you want to immigrate to the province of Quebec, you cannot use Express Entry because Quebec has its immigration system.
Express Entry may not be the best option for everyone due to its competitiveness. However, express Entry may be a good option for you if you are:
- A younger candidate with skilled work experience.
- High levels of post-secondary education.
- A strong command of English and French.
Of course, you can apply for Canadian permanent resident status directly through Express Entry. This gives you the freedom to live and work anywhere in Canada for as long as you want. Express Entry also allows you to include your spouse/common-law partner and dependent children, allowing you to become permanent residents all at once.
Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
Most of Canada’s provinces run mini-immigration programs known as Provincial Nominee Programs or PNPs. These PNPs enable provinces to choose new immigrants based on their requirements. A PNP could provide you with a path to Canada, depending on which province you want to live in!
Each province has multiple PNP streams, each with its eligibility requirements. For example, the province of British Columbia has one stream for healthcare professionals, another for businesspeople, and yet another for people who graduated from university in the province.
In total, more than 80 PNP streams are available across Canada that Colombian citizens can qualify for. However, when it comes to PNPs, one of the most difficult challenges is determining your eligibility for these PNP streams to determine which ones might be an option for you.
But you may check our immigration assessment tool to have a more comprehensive analysis of your immigration options.
Canada-Colombia Free Trade Agreement (CCoFTA)
The Canada-Colombia Free Trade Agreement (CCoFTA) offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for Colombians who want to immigrate to Canada. The CCoFTA allows professional workers and technicians in certain occupations to obtain work permits in Canada.
To qualify for a Canadian work permit under the CCoFTA, you must be:
- A citizen of Colombia or a permanent resident of Colombia;
- A professional or technician employed in an eligible occupation (see list of occupations below); and
- Entering the country to provide pre-arranged professional services (i.e., have a job offer from a Canadian employer).
To be considered a professional or technician by the CCoFTA, you must work in an occupation that requires the conceptual and practical application of a body of specialized knowledge at National Occupational Classification (NOC) Skill Level 0 or A.
Also, your occupation must necessitate completing at least four years of post-secondary education.
Study permits Option
Another excellent way for Colombians to get started in Canada is as an international student. Canada has world-class educational institutions and is one of the top international student destinations in the world. Furthermore, studying in Canada can make it much easier to stay in the country indefinitely.
After completing their Canadian studies, many international students in Canada are eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP).
The PGWP allows you to work and stay in Canada for up to three years. Furthermore, Canadian work experience may qualify you for a permanent residence program, such as Express Entry or specific PNP streams.
How much money do you need to Immigrate to Canada from Colombia?
Regarding immigration costs for Colombian citizens, Canada remains relatively inexpensive compared to other popular immigration destinations such as Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
Essentially, the amount of money required to immigrate to Canada is determined by the size of your family and the type of immigration program you apply for. It includes settlement funds, visa processing fees, document collection, and even bringing your pet over.
In general, an individual applicant would need around CAD 12,500 (i.e., 46,570,207.68 Colombian Pesos) to immigrate to Canada. Couples will need approximately $15,000 CAD (i.e, 63,103,388.50 Colombian Peso), while families with children will need between $28,000 and $32,000 CAD. The table below breaks down the expected immigration costs in great detail.
IRCC Settlement Funds for Canadian Immigrants
Number of Persons in Household Minimum Funds Required (CAD)
- One Person $12, 164
- Two People $15, 143
- Three People $18, 617
- Four People $22, 603
- Five People $25, 636
- Six People $28, 913
- Seven People or More $32, 191
Important
It should be noted, as well, that the number of family members includes both accompanying and non-accompanying dependents. That means that even if your spouse or children do not accompany you to Canada, your savings must account for their contribution.
Read also: Colombia investment visa.
FAQ’s
Why do Colombians move to Canada?
Undoubtedly, many Colombians have chosen to relocate to Canada for safety and a higher standard of living. Employment and family sponsorship are two of the most common ways to obtain permanent residency in Canada.
Do Colombians need a visa to visit Canada?
Yes! Colombian citizens must obtain a tourist visa to enter Canada. The stay is usually limited to 180 days, and the visa expires in 180 days. The applicant must be present when applying for a tourist visa to Canada. A total of 12 documents are required to apply for a tourist visa to Canada.
How can a Colombian get a job in Canada?
You need to apply for Skilled Migration to Canada from Colombia. To move to Canada on Skilled Migration, an ex-pat living in Colombia or a Colombian citizen must first qualify for an eligible occupation and enter the Canadian Express Entry Pool of Candidates.
Conclusion
The federal government of Canada has always made its commitment clear to immigration policies. Canada wants and will continue to welcome immigrants to Canada, and Colombia is no exception.
