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.

Social media & sharing icons powered by UltimatelySocial
Facebook
LinkedIn
Instagram
Tiktok
×