Understanding More of What You Need

Terms to Know

Welcome to our Canadian immigration word list! It’s like a key that helps you understand the special words for moving to Canada. From Express Entry to Biometrics, these are important words that make the journey clear. Whether you’re new or know a lot, these words are like puzzle pieces that show you the way in Canada. Imagine this list as a guide, helping you understand and follow the path to make your Canadian dream easier to reach.

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  1. Express Entry:
    • Description: A point-based system managing applications for Canada’s economic immigration programs. Candidates are ranked based on factors like age, education, work experience, and language proficiency.
    • Example: Jane, a skilled professional, enters the Express Entry pool with her high language proficiency and extensive work experience.
  2. Permanent Residency (PR):
    • Description: The status granted to foreign nationals, allowing them to live, work, or study in Canada indefinitely, often a precursor to Canadian citizenship.
    • Example: Carlos obtains permanent residency, granting him the freedom to live and work anywhere in Canada.
  3. Provincial Nominee Program (PNP):
    • Description: Programs allowing provinces and territories to nominate individuals for permanent residence based on local labor market needs.
    • Example: Maria, with a job offer in Alberta, is nominated by the province through the Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program (AINP).
  4. Canadian Experience Class (CEC):
    • Description: Immigration program for individuals with Canadian work experience seeking permanent residency.
    • Example: Ahmed, having worked in Canada on a post-graduate work permit, applies for permanent residency through the Canadian Experience Class.
  5. Work Permit:
    • Description: Authorization allowing foreign nationals to work in Canada for a specified period.
    • Example: Elena, an IT specialist from Spain, obtains a work permit to join a Canadian tech company.
  6. Study Permit:
    • Description: Authorization allowing foreign nationals to study in Canada at designated learning institutions.
    • Example: Liu, a student from China, obtains a study permit to pursue a degree at a Canadian university.
  7. LMIA (Labour Market Impact Assessment):
    • Description: Document required by employers to hire foreign workers for certain jobs in Canada, demonstrating a need for a foreign worker.
    • Example: ABC Corporation obtains an LMIA to hire a skilled software developer from India.
  8. COPR (Confirmation of Permanent Residence):
    • Description: Official document indicating approval for permanent residence in Canada.
    • Example: The Smith family receives their COPR, signifying the final step before becoming permanent residents.
  9. Biometrics:
    • Description: Collection of fingerprints and a photo from visa applicants for identity verification.
    • Example: Juan, a Mexican national, submits biometrics as part of his visitor visa application.
  10. IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada):
    • Description: Government department responsible for immigration and citizenship matters.
    • Example: IRCC oversees policies, programs, and services related to immigration and citizenship.
  11. Family Sponsorship:
    • Description: Program allowing Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor family members for immigration.
    • Example: Sarah sponsors her parents for immigration to Canada through the Family Class.
  12. Refugee Status:
    • Description: Protection granted to individuals fearing persecution or facing risk in their home country.
    • Example: Ahmed, fleeing conflict, applies for refugee status upon arriving in Canada.
  13. PR Card (Permanent Resident Card):
    • Description: Official identification for permanent residents when traveling to Canada.
    • Example: Mei, a permanent resident, uses her PR card when returning to Canada from an overseas trip.
  14. Citizenship:
    • Description: Legal status granted to individuals becoming members of a country, entailing specific rights and responsibilities.
    • Example: The Garcia family applies for Canadian citizenship after meeting residency requirements.
  15. SIN (Social Insurance Number):
    • Description: Unique nine-digit number required for work, benefits, and access to government programs.
    • Example: Ahmed obtains a SIN to work and access social benefits in Canada.
  16. PGWP (Post-Graduation Work Permit):
    • Description: Work permit for international students graduating from eligible Canadian institutions.
    • Example: Maria, an international student, applies for a PGWP after completing her studies in Canada.
  17. OINP (Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program):
    • Description: Provincial Nominee Program for Ontario, allowing the province to nominate individuals for permanent residence.
    • Example: Carlos is nominated by Ontario through the OINP for his skills in demand in the province.
  18. IRB (Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada):
    • Description: Independent administrative tribunal hearing immigration and refugee cases.
    • Example: The IRB conducts hearings to determine the refugee status of individuals seeking protection in Canada.
  19. CAN+ (CANPLUS):
    • Description: Streamlined processing for certain temporary resident visa applications.
    • Example: Juan benefits from the CAN+ program, expediting the processing of his visitor visa application.
  20. Express Entry Pool:
    • Description: Pool of candidates in the Express Entry system waiting for an invitation to apply for permanent residence.
    • Example: Emma enters the Express Entry pool, awaiting an invitation to apply based on her comprehensive ranking system (CRS) score.