Frequently Asked Questions
How can I immigrate to Canada?
The main pathways are Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Programs, employer-supported work permits, study permits, family sponsorship, caregiver programs and business immigration. The right one depends on your age, education, work experience, language scores and family ties. An RCIC can assess which program fits you best.
What is Express Entry and who can apply?
Express Entry is Canada’s online system for permanent residence. It covers three programs: the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Canadian Experience Class and the Federal Skilled Trades Program. Eligible candidates create a profile, get a CRS score, and are invited to apply through general and category-based draws.
What is a CRS score and how can I improve it?
The Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score ranks Express Entry candidates on age, education, language ability, work experience and other factors. You can raise it by:
- Improving your IELTS, CELPIP or PTE score
- Adding French language ability
- Gaining more skilled work experience
- Completing additional education
- Having a sibling in Canada
- Getting a provincial nomination, which adds 600 points
Since March 2025, job offers no longer add CRS points.
What is a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)?
A PNP lets a province nominate candidates who meet its labour market needs. For example, Ontario uses the OINP. A nomination through an Express Entry-linked stream adds 600 CRS points, and some streams are open to people who don’t qualify for Express Entry.
Can I immigrate to Canada without a job offer?
Yes. Express Entry and many PNP streams don’t require a job offer. Some PNP streams and employer-driven programs, such as the Atlantic Immigration Program, do require one.
What is an LMIA and when is it needed?
A Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is a document a Canadian employer may need before hiring a foreign worker. It shows that no suitable Canadian worker is available. Most employer-specific work permits require a positive LMIA unless an exemption applies.
What is a Super Visa and who qualifies?
A Super Visa lets parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents stay in Canada for up to 5 years per visit. Requirements include:
- A letter of invitation
- Proof that the host meets minimum income requirements
- A medical exam
- Medical insurance from an eligible insurer, with at least $100,000 coverage valid for one year
Can international students in London, Ontario stay and work after graduation?
Graduates of eligible programs at Western University, Fanshawe College and other DLIs may qualify for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). Depending on the program, you may also need a language test and an eligible field of study. Canadian work experience can later support permanent residence.
Can I include my spouse and children in my application?
In most permanent residence programs, yes. Spouses, common-law partners and dependent children can be included. Spousal open work permits are now limited to certain students and workers, so eligibility should be checked case by case.
How can I sponsor my spouse or parents to Canada?
Canadian citizens and permanent residents can sponsor a spouse, common-law partner or dependent children. Parents and grandparents can be sponsored through the PGP intake, when it is open, or invited on a Super Visa. We prepare complete, well-documented sponsorship applications.
What documents do I need for a Canadian immigration application?
Common documents include:
- Passport
- Language test results
- Educational Credential Assessment (ECA)
- Work reference letters
- Police certificates
- Medical exam
- Proof of funds
We give you a personalised checklist for your program.
How long does Canadian immigration take?
Processing times vary by program and country, and IRCC updates them regularly. A complete, error-free application avoids extra delays. We share the latest estimates during your consultation.
What are the most common reasons for refusal?
The most common reasons are:
- Incomplete documents
- Insufficient proof of funds
- Weak ties to your home country (for visitor and study visas)
- Misrepresentation
- Inadmissibility
- Not meeting program criteria
A licensed RCIC helps you avoid these mistakes.
My visa or application was refused. What can I do?
A refusal is not always final. We review your refusal letter and GCMS notes, find the issues, and advise whether to reapply with a stronger file, request reconsideration, or choose another pathway.
What is the difference between an immigration consultant and an immigration lawyer?
Both can represent you before IRCC if licensed. RCICs are regulated by the CICC and specialise in immigration applications. Lawyers are regulated by provincial law societies and can also take cases to Federal Court.
How do I verify that my immigration consultant is licensed?
Search the consultant’s name or licence number on the CICC public register. Avoid anyone who guarantees approval or can’t show a valid licence. No one can guarantee a visa.
Why choose Ampra Immigration?
You get a licensed RCIC, a free first 15-minute consultation, honest eligibility advice, transparent fees with payment plans, and both in-person and online service. We handle your file from start to finish.
How do I book a consultation?
Call +1 (416) 553-6333, email info@ampraimmigration.com, or use our Contact form. Your first 15-minute consultation is free.
