February 17, 2024

As of February 15, the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP) has temporarily paused processing applications for the Alberta Opportunity Stream until further notice.

The AAIP says the pause will give the province time to “address its current inventory and focus its limited immigration nominations on priorities, such as filling labour shortages in healthcare, technology, construction, agriculture, tourism and hospitality and other in-demand sectors.”

The province will continue to assess any Alberta Opportunity Stream applications submitted before February 15 and says it will be implementing measures to “manage future application volumes against program priorities and to maintain reasonable service standards across its streams.”

The Alberta Opportunity Stream of the AAIP targets temporary foreign workers who currently work full-time in the province on a valid Canadian work permit and have a full-time job offer from an employer in Alberta. Post-Graduation Work Permit holders may also be eligible.

Province launches new PNP stream for tourism and hospitality

On March 1, the AAIP is introducing a new stream that targets “individuals who have already been working for a tourism and hospitality business for at least six months and who have met criteria to establish themselves in Alberta permanently.”

Further, candidates must have a “valid full-time, non-seasonal job offer from an approved employer operating within the appropriate industry.”

A recent release by the Alberta government says that the stream will help with shortages throughout the sector and help businesses throughout the province, including those in rural areas, retain workers and the economy.

The province says it will accept a limited number of applications for the stream and expedite their processing within other priority processing initiatives. More details are expected to be released on March 1.

Alberta is one of Canada’s most popular tourist destinations. According to data from the provincial government, 32 million people visited the province in 2022, which generated $10.7 billion in expenditures.

Immigrating to Alberta

The Alberta Advantage Immigration Program is a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) that the Government of Alberta uses to select the economic immigration candidates who are likely to economically establish successfully within the province.

Like all PNPs, there are multiple streams that select candidates with different in-demand attributes. For example, the province has PNP streams that target skilled workers in specific occupations such as healthcare or agriculture. It also has PNP streams for those who work in rural communities within in the province as well as entrepreneurs.

Through the PNP, provinces are allocated a specific number of nominations that they can issue throughout the year. In 2023, Alberta issued 9,750 nominations to AAIP candidates. The province says it has not yet confirmed the number of nominations it has been allocated for 2024 but according to the federal Immigration Levels Plan 2024-2026 Canada will welcome 110,000 newcomers through the PNP by the end of this year.

February 16, 2024

Toronto is Canada’s biggest city. With its vibrant mix of cultures, robust job opportunities, and a bustling city life, Toronto is an appealing destination for anyone seeking a dynamic and enriching place to live.

This guide offers valuable insights and practical tips to help immigrants navigate the nuances of Toronto, ensuring a smoother transition as they establish their new life in Canada’s largest metropolis.

Toronto’s neighborhoods

The downtown core, anchored by the iconic CN Tower, is a hub of business, entertainment, and culture. Here, the Financial District showcases towering skyscrapers, while the Entertainment District comes alive with theaters, restaurants, and nightlife.

Neighborhoods like Queen West and Kensington Market showcase Toronto’s artistic and eclectic side. Queen West is renowned for its trendy boutiques, art galleries, and hip cafes while Kensington Market is a melting pot of cultures, offering a mixture of international flavors and street art.

The Annex, nestled near the University of Toronto, is a mix of students and professionals, featuring tree-lined streets and Victorian houses. While some parts of the Annex can be relatively expensive, there are also more affordable housing choices, making it accessible to both students and professionals.

In contrast, the suburb of Scarborough in the eastern part of the city is a vast and diverse area, home to various cultural enclaves. It is often recognized for its diverse and affordable housing options. This area includes a mix of single-family homes, townhouses, and apartment buildings, providing a range of choices for families and individuals seeking more budget-friendly living arrangements.

North York boasts a mix of residential, commercial, and green spaces. With neighborhoods like Willowdale and Don Mills, North York offers a suburban feel while maintaining close proximity to the city’s amenities. The area around Yonge and Sheppard is a condominium hotspot, attracting young professionals with its convenient access to public transportation.

Navigating the TTC

The Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) operates an extensive public transportation system that includes buses, streetcars, and subways, providing a comprehensive network that covers the Greater Toronto Area.

The subway system is a primary mode of transportation for many commuters. With four main lines—Yonge-University, Bloor-Danforth, Sheppard, and the Scarborough extension—the subway connects key areas of the city. The subway runs from approximately 6:00 AM to 1:30 AM.

In addition to the subway, the TTC operates an extensive bus network that reaches neighborhoods not directly served by the subway. Streetcars also traverse various routes, particularly in the downtown core.

TTC fares are paid through a token, a Metropass (now known as the Presto card), or by cash when boarding buses. The Presto card, a contactless smart card offers a convenient and efficient way to pay for rides across all modes of transportation.

Understanding the schedules, routes, and potential delays is essential for efficient travel. You can get real-time updates, available through the TTC website, smartphone apps, and digital displays at subway stations.

Parks and outdoor spaces in Toronto

Toronto boasts an impressive array of outdoor spaces and parks, providing residents with opportunities to escape the urban hustle. High Park, located in the west end, is a sprawling green oasis featuring hiking trails, a serene lake, and even a zoo. Its cherry blossoms draw crowds in the spring.

The Toronto Islands, accessible by ferry, offer a peaceful retreat just a short ride from the downtown core with beaches, bike paths, and skyline views.

Trinity Bellwood’s Park, situated in the trendy Queen West neighborhood, is a popular gathering spot for locals. The park hosts a range of activities, from picnics to pickup games of soccer or tennis.

Toronto’s waterfront has undergone significant revitalization, resulting in a network of parks and trails along Lake Ontario. Sugar Beach creates an urban beach experience, while the Martin Goodman Trail invites cyclists, joggers, and walkers to enjoy the scenic waterfront.

Thriving industries in Toronto

Toronto is a thriving economic hub with a diverse range of industries contributing to its robust economy. The financial sector stands out prominently, with the city hosting the headquarters of major banks and financial institutions. The Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX) is one of the world’s largest stock exchanges, playing a crucial role in global finance.

The technology and innovation sector is booming in Toronto, earning it the nickname “Silicon Valley North.” The city has become a hotspot for tech start-ups, attracting talent and investment.

The film and television industry is another cornerstone of Toronto’s economy. Known as Hollywood North, the city has a robust production scene, with numerous studios and soundstages. Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) attracts global attention, solidifying the city’s reputation as a major player in the film industry.

Toronto’s healthcare and life sciences industries are also significant contributors to its economic landscape. The city is home to world-renowned hospitals, research institutions, and pharmaceutical companies.

Emergency services in Toronto

In case of a medical emergency, residents and visitors can dial 911, a universal emergency number connecting callers to police, fire, and ambulance services. Toronto Emergency Medical Services (EMS) operates a fleet of ambulances equipped with advanced life support systems, and paramedics are trained to provide immediate care on the scene and during transportation to hospitals.

The Toronto Police Service is responsible for maintaining law and order in the city. In non-emergency situations, individuals can contact the police at their general inquiry number, which varies depending on the specific division. For urgent matters or emergencies, calling 911 is the quickest way to seek police assistance.

The Toronto Fire Services responds to fire emergencies, hazardous materials incidents, and other rescue operations. Similar to police and EMS, the fire services can be reached by calling 911 in case of emergencies. Fire stations are strategically located throughout the city to ensure timely responses to incidents.

Newcomer services in Toronto

Toronto is committed to providing a welcoming environment for newcomers, and the city offers a range of services and programs to help immigrants integrate successfully into their new lives.

Organizations like the Toronto Newcomer Office provide guidance on various settlement matters, including language training, employment services, and community orientation. These agencies often host workshops and programs to help newcomers navigate the Canadian job market, understand the education system, and adapt to cultural differences.

Toronto offers language training programs to help newcomers improve their English or French language skills. These programs, provided by organizations like the YMCA and local community colleges, aim to enhance communication abilities, increasing newcomers’ confidence and facilitating their engagement with the broader community.

In addition to settlement agencies, community centers across Toronto offer a wide array of services to support newcomers. These centres provide a welcoming space for individuals and families, offering cultural activities, recreational programs, and social events that help newcomers connect with others in similar situations.

Education in Toronto

The Toronto District School Board (TDSB) is one of the largest and most diverse school boards in Canada, serving over 247,000 students in nearly 600 schools. The TDSB offers a range of educational programs, including elementary and secondary schools, specialized schools, and alternative education options. In addition to the public education system, Toronto is home to numerous private and independent schools.

Toronto is also a hub for higher education, boasting several world-renowned universities and colleges. The University of Toronto, consistently ranked among the top universities globally, offers a wide array of undergraduate and graduate programs, attracting students from around the world. Ryerson University and York University are other prominent institutions contributing to Toronto’s reputation as an educational centre.

 

January 30, 2024

According to a Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection (BHTP) report released in late 2023, Canada is considered the world’s safest country for travellers in 2023-2024.

BHTP notes that the overall rankings are based on an average of “all measures from [BHTP’s] State of Travel Insurance research”, which combines “six sub-category scores as the basis” for the rankings.

Furthermore, BHTP notes that it balances its own surveyed “ratings with other indices and information, including the Global Peace Index and the State Department’s own travel safety ratings”, adding that BHTP “also [averages] the GeoSure Global scores of the major cities in each country.”

Together BHTP uses this variety of measures to “calculate a weighted score that reflects each country’s overall safety.”

Canada’s ranking is up five spots from a year ago

Up from sixth place in BHTP’s rankings last year, Canada has ascended to the top spot in the rankings for the world’s safest places to travel this year.

According to the report, key reasons for Canada’s high ranking include “cold weather and low population density, [which] make for safe travels.”

Further, each of the top 15 countries in BHTP’s rankings was given a dedicated section in this year’s report, which included a section titled “what you need to watch out for.”

For Canada, this section identified wildfires as an area of concern for travellers, noting that “Canada’s plethora of forests were seemingly all burning, which has reduced air quality in most major Canadian cities. This made travel to Canada difficult for people with respiratory conditions.”

Still, the quote included in Canada’s dedicated section of the report (from Gap Year Travel Store) sums up travel safety across the country this way, saying “as travelling destinations go it really doesn’t get much safer than Canada … Violent crime is comparatively low and there is a low incidence of gun-related crime.”

Breaking down Canada’s ranking by sub-category

BHTP’s report uses the following dimensions to produce an overall ranking of the safest countries for travel:

  1. Safety from violent crime
  2. Safety from terrorism
  3. Transportation safety*
  4. Health measures (including disease)
  5. Safety for groups (women, travellers of colour and LGBTQ+ travellers)

Notably, Canada ranked first in all sub-categories included as part of this year’s ranking. Click here to view the top 10 countries according to each sub-category.

*BHTP notes that transportation safety includes “countries with either well-developed road and transportation systems (everywhere but Iceland) or a limited need to travel far (Iceland).”

BHTP rankings by age and income

BHTP also notes that survey respondents for the 2023-2024 version of these rankings “had wildly different perceptions of the world’s safest countries depending on their age and income.”

Still, in most cases, Canada remained in the top four safest countries for travel according to these sub-groups.

In comparison to the overall rankings, the following indicates how Canada’s place in BHTP’s rankings would have differed if presented based on the responses from specific groups of respondents.

Millennials

Among Millennials who responded to BHTP’s survey, Canada ranked fourth in overall travel safety behind Norway, Switzerland and the United Kingdom (UK).

Gen Z

Among members of Gen Z who responded to BHTP’s survey, Canada remained number one in overall travel safety.

Respondents with a household income over $200,000

Among BHTP survey respondents who fell into this household income category, Canada ranked second in overall travel safety behind only Portugal.

Respondents spending more than $25,000 per year on travel

Among BHTP survey respondents who fell into this travel spending category, Canada ranked sixth in overall travel safety behind the Netherlands, Hungary, the UK, the Bahamas and Portugal.

“Mature” survey respondents

Although the report does not specify the age that qualifies respondents as “mature”, BHTP survey respondents who fell into this age group ranked Canada as the ninth safest country for travel overall. For this group of respondents, Canada ranked behind:

  1. Iceland
  2. South Korea
  3. Sweden
  4. Japan
  5. Denmark
  6. Norway
  7. New Zealand
  8. Ireland
Parents

For parents who responded to BHTP’s survey, Canada remained number one in overall travel safety.

LGBTQ+ travellers

Uniquely, BHTP survey respondents who identified as members of the LGBTQ+ community were the only sub-group of respondents who completely left Canada outside their top 10 safest countries for travel.

December 5, 2023
AIRCS is your reliable companion on your path to starting a new chapter in your life in Canada. Welcome to AIRCS. The opportunities for a new beginning in 2023 have attracted many Pakistanis to look into the exciting paths that Canada has to offer. We will examine every aspect of the immigration process in this extensive opus, offering a road map for anyone hoping to relocate to Canada. Together, let’s set out on this life-changing adventure, navigating the requirements, the application procedure, the role of expert advisers, and the priceless assistance offered by the Visa Office in Islamabad and the Canadian Embassy in Pakistan.
Canada Immigration 2023: A Land of Opportunities
Canada is a shining example of opportunity when it comes to immigration, especially in the favorable year of 2023. Canada’s attraction stems from its obvious appeal as a place of boundless opportunities, providing people and families from Pakistan with the chance to live better lives, grow economically, and immerse themselves in a culturally rich environment. Canada beckons in the new year with a strong economy, a first-rate healthcare system, and a firm commitment to inclusion. All of these things work together to draw those who are hoping for a better and more rewarding future to Canada. As we explore the plethora of options that await people in Canada, we set out to comprehend the charm and complexities that make the nation.
Immigrating to Canada from Pakistan: A Focus on the Journey
Starting the process of moving from Pakistan to Canada is a life-changing event that requires careful preparation and careful contemplation. The first and most important step is to understand the requirements for qualifying. Analyzing the various immigration options becomes essential whether you are a driven student, aspiring professional, or business owner looking for overseas educational prospects. This section emphasizes the critical importance of each phase, acting as a compass to help you navigate the complex process. It highlights the critical significance of careful planning, from comprehending qualifying requirements to establishing the complexities of immigration systems. Through exploring these specifics, candidates get a thorough comprehension of the immigration process, guaranteeing a well-equipped and seamless adjustment to their new life in Canada.
How to Apply for Canada Immigration from Pakistan: A Step-by-Step Guide
With this thorough, step-by-step guide, navigating the complex process of applying for Canadian immigration from Pakistan becomes more doable. This tutorial is intended to provide you with a thorough overview of the application process from beginning to end. It begins with a comprehensive evaluation of your eligibility based on things like your experience in the workforce, your desire to start your own business or your academic goals. The next step is to carefully choose the immigration program that best fits your particular situation.
Canada Immigration Service: Navigating the Landscape
Our guidance stresses the need to complete a thorough and correct application as we take you through each step. Our comprehensive method guarantees that your application not only satisfies but beyond the strict requirements, starting with obtaining the required evidence and concluding with precisely filling out forms. We recognize that making a name for yourself in the cutthroat immigration market is essential, and this work attempts to provide you with the tools necessary to do exactly that. You will be better equipped to handle every aspect of the application process if you adhere to this comprehensive roadmap, which will raise the likelihood that your move to Canada will be smooth and successful. The environment of immigration services in Canada requires an in-depth understanding of the variety of alternatives it offers. This section acts as a compass, pointing Pakistani nationals in the right direction of the several federal programs and provincial candidate choices. We examine every aspect of each service because we understand how important it is to make decisions that are well-informed and in line with each person’s qualifications and goals. The study clarifies the variety of alternatives accessible, ranging from provincial nominee programs targeted at certain regions to federal initiatives catering to trained individuals. The objective is to provide people with knowledge about the various services so they can make decisions that support their objectives. The objective is to not only supply information as we explore this terrain together but also to provide a knowledgeable and calculated approach.
Guiding Success: The Pivotal Role of Leading Consultants in Canada Immigration
The importance of professional experts in the complex process of migrating to Canada cannot be emphasized. Outstanding consultants function as strategic partners, providing direction that goes beyond the transactional parts of the process, going beyond their role as advisers. This section explores the key attributes that propel consultants to the top of their industry: knowledge, steadfast dependability, and a client-focused mindset. Through an examination of these characteristics, Pakistanis are able to comprehend in great detail what sets elite consultants apart. Aspirants may confidently negotiate the complexity of the immigration process with the proper expert by their side, guaranteeing not only a seamless procedure but also a route to success in fulfilling their Canadian goal.
Visa Office in Islamabad: Your Local Connection
The Visa Office in Islamabad stands out to our Pakistani readers as a vital local resource in the global world of Canadian immigration. It is a vital link to the larger immigration system, offering crucial assistance and direction. This section explores the complex duties performed by the Visa Office and clarifies its importance in the immigration process to Canada. It becomes critical to comprehend the services provided because this neighborhood center serves as a lifeline for people starting the immigration process. The Visa Office in Rawalpindi is positioned as a trustworthy resource, guaranteeing that applicants will be provided with local support as they traverse the difficulties of their Canadian immigration attempt, from answering questions to helping with the filing of papers.
Canada Embassy in Islamabad: Assistance in Diplomacy
The Canadian Embassy in Islamabad serves as a cornerstone of diplomatic support, providing direction and help to people navigating the immigration process to Canada. The embassy offers diplomatic support in addition to transactional services, making sure that applicants are well-informed about the procedure. This section will examine the services offered by the embassy and emphasize how crucial they are to a seamless immigration process.
Elevating Your Aspirations: The Indispensable Role of the Canadian Embassy in Pakistan
As we wrap up this extensive guide, we highlight the essential assistance provided by the Canadian Embassy in Pakistan, establishing it as an important hub for a range of services. Beyond its traditional functions, the embassy plays a vital role in giving vital information about various immigration programs and vital assistance in navigating the complex documentation process. It becomes critical to identify and appreciate the range of services provided by the embassy. This knowledge is not only helpful but also necessary for effectively utilizing its resources, guaranteeing that applicants have consistent assistance throughout their whole immigration process. The Canadian Embassy in Pakistan is a vital resource that provides invaluable support and strengthens the route for anybody starting their journey to Canada, from early questions to the complexities of paperwork.
November 7, 2023
November 7, 2023

Henley & Partners—a global immigration consultancy firm—has ranked the Canadian passport as the 7th most recognized in the world, putting it alongside passports of the United States, Poland, Greece, and Czechia.

 

According to the report, a Canadian passport allows visa-free travel access to 183 countries, making it one of the foremost in the world. This year the distinction of most recognised passport went to the Singaporean passport (granting access to 193 countries), with Japan trailing closely behind (granting access to 192 countries). The Afghanistan passport scored last this year, allowing access to 27 countries without a visa.

Travelling with a Canadian passport

Having a Canadian passport impacts your travel activities. With it, unrestricted exit or entry into Canada is permitted without the need for permits, visas, or other travel restrictions. However, only Canadian citizens are eligible to receive passports, not permanent residents, or those with temporary status.

As mentioned previous, Canadian passport holders enjoy visa-free travel to over 183 locations around the world, some of which include:

  1. The United States;
  2. The United Kingdom;
  3. The Schengen Area;
  4. Australia and New Zealand;
  5. South Korea;
  6. Singapore;
  7. Japan;
  8. Brazil; and
  9. The United Arab Emirates.

You do not necessarily have to give up your current passport if you apply for a Canadian one. Canada permits dual citizenship, and hence multiple passports (if one’s home nation also has a dual citizenship policy). Thus, you can maintain as many passports as you qualify for.

You Need to Become a Citizen First

Attaining citizenship is a prerequisite for acquiring a Canadian passport. This involves several steps.

You must first be a permanent resident of Canada and comply with the country’s physical presence rules. For example, you need to demonstrate that you have lived in Canada for at least three of the past five years, which translates to approximately 1,095 days.

If applicable, you must also file your taxes. To highlight your understanding and communication abilities, passing a Canadian citizenship test and proving your language skills are also necessary.

Even if your permanent resident status was procured differently, these conditions must be met. Overall, a minimum of three years is generally required to secure Canadian citizenship, if pursuing a naturalisation route.

Note that if you are the direct child of a Canadian citizen (who was a citizen at the time of your birth) you may be eligible to inherit citizenship status from your parent.

How to Obtain a Canadian Passport

Once you have completed your citizenship ceremony and received your citizenship certificate, you can apply for a passport. Every citizen of Canada is eligible to apply for this document, and it is uncommon to be found ineligible. However, if you are found ineligible your citizenship may be revoked due to misrepresentation on your application or if there are concerns about security, violations of human or international rights, or connections to organised crime, associated with your application.

The procedure to apply for a Canadian passport requires specific paperwork as well. Your citizenship certificate is among the most critical documents, and you must include the original copy in your application. Even Canadians who were born in Canada need to provide a birth certificate as proof of their citizenship.

You will need several documents in your application form, including:

  1. proof of Canadian citizenship (citizenship certificate or Canadian birth certificate only);
  2. any valid Canadian passport or other form of travel document issued in your name (such as a refugee travel document or certificate of identity);
  3. two references in support of your passport application;
  4. a document that confirms your identity; and
  5. two identical passport-size photographs.

In addition, when applying for your first passport, you will need a guarantor. A guarantor must fulfil certain requirements, which can change based on both the type of passport, and location from which your application is being submitted.

You can apply for a passport online, and can complete the process at a Service Canada centre, either with a pre-arranged appointment, or through the walk-in service.

Passport Processing Duration

The need for new passports and passport renewals among Canadians is currently high, owing to travel restrictions caused by the pandemic easing across the globe.

The Canadian government has recently introduced a tool for tracking processing times. As of now, it indicates that the time taken to process a passport application from inside Canada could range from regular service (10-20 business days) to urgent processing, which could take anywhere from 2-9 days, or as little as by the end of the next day.

As a result, if you plan to travel outside Canada in the foreseeable future, it is advisable to initiate the application process well in advance.

Other Benefits

Apart from unrestricted travel, a Canadian passport offers several other advantages. With the passport, you’ll be recognised as a Canadian citizen, enjoying all the rights and freedoms like any other citizen; specifically, you’ll be eligible to vote in elections, run for political office, and be eligible for jobs that may require higher security clearances.

Another significant perk is that the hassle of status renewal every five years is eliminated, (something usually mandatory for permanent residents). This translates into saving costs associated with application submission and remaining hassle-free from approaching Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for extensions.

Lastly, new Canadians are also given free perks in Canada for the first year of their new citizenship. Over 80% of permanent residents in Canada prefer to attain citizenship, primarily due to these benefits.

Applying for your Passport

Applying for your Canadian passport is an important step in benefitting from all the rights of being Canadian. Like any other step in the immigration process it must be adhered to carefully, as any misrepresentation (known or otherwise) can constitute serious penalties, and even potential loss of status. For this reason, many individuals choose to hire immigration lawyers to handle their passport applications, not just to ensure adherence to best practices, but also for the peace of mind that their services can provide.

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