Canada is among the most popular immigration destinations for Colombians seeking better career opportunities, higher living standards, political stability, and long-term security. With its friendly immigration policies, booming economy, and multicultural society, Canada offers Colombians a streamlined and comprehensive pathway to permanent residency.​
However, moving to Canada is not a straightforward experience. There are a variety of immigration programs, each with its own respective demands, timelines, and eligibility requirements. It is important to understand all your options to determine which one best fits your circumstances, aspirations, and budget. This is a complete guide for Colombians who want to immigrate to Canada, which includes available immigration programs, eligibility criteria, application steps, expenses, processing duration, and useful advice to help improve your chances of successful immigration.
Why Colombians Choose Canada
Canada has become one of the most desired countries by Colombian immigrants for various reasons.
- To begin with, Canada is economically stable with job opportunities in several industries, including health care, construction, technology, and agriculture, along with various skilled trades. Many of Canada’s provinces actively seek foreign workers to fill their shortages.
- Secondly, Canada has honest and straightforward immigration policies, and allows for moving from temporary immigration to permanent residency and citizenship.
- Third, Canada helps assimilation with their diverse society. There are already Spanish-speaking communities in most of their large cities, including Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal, which allows immigrants to adjust even faster.
- Lastly, Canada has the best and most free healthcare, along with education and social services, which greatly benefit individuals and families for a better future.
​Do Colombians Need a Visa to Immigrate to Canada?
Yes. Colombian citizens must also obtain the pertinent visa or permit before entering Canada for immigration-related travel.​The Colombian citizens who wish to travel to Canada for a short trip may require an Electronic Travel Authorization; however, for permanent immigration to Canada, Colombians need to be approved via immigration programs offered by IRCC.The visa or permit application process to Canada also depends on whether a Colombian is immigrating to Canada as a skilled worker, student, temporary worker, entrepreneur, or family member.
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Main Immigration Pathways to Canada From Colombia
Colombian citizens can access several immigration programs, and these programs are designed specifically for Colombian migrants. The most common programs are:
- Express Entry System: This is Canada’s primary pathway for skilled workers. It manages three federal programs:
- Federal Skilled Worker Program
- Federal Skilled Trades Program
- Canadian Experience Class
Under the Express Entry System, candidates are selected and awarded a certain number of points based on age, educational qualifications, work experience, language proficiency, and how easily the candidates can adapt to the lifestyle of Canada.
- Provincial Nominee Program (PNP): Canadian provinces and territories nominate immigrants based on their specific labor market needs. Having a provincial nomination greatly increases your likelihood of getting permanent residency.
- Family Sponsorship: Canadian citizens or permanent residents can sponsor eligible family members from Colombia, including spouses, common law partners, dependent children, and grandparents.
- Study-to-Immigration Pathway: Many Colombians study in Canada first and then immigrate after transitioning to a work permit and eventually permanent residency.
- Work Permit to Permanent Residence: Temporary workers in Canada can gain Canadian work experience and may qualify for permanent residency.
- Business and Entrepreneur Programs: Canada also has pathways for business people, investors, and self-employed people.
- Express Entry: The Fastest Path for Skilled Colombians: The Express Entry program is still one of the most popular options for professional Colombians.
How Express Entry Works
Applicants create an online profile and get a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score. The Canadian government selects and invites the top candidates to apply for permanent residency.
Eligibility Requirements: To qualify, you must generally meet the following:
- At least one year of skilled work experience
- A recognized educational qualification
- Language proficiency in English or French
- Proof of settlement funds
Language Requirements: As most candidates from Colombia, you need to do an English language test. High scores in language work to the benefit of your CRS ranking.
Advantages of Express Entry
- Fully online process
- Fast processing times
- Direct path to permanent residence
Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP)
Provincial Nominee Programs are ideal for Colombians who have:
- A job offer from a Canadian employer
- Work experience in in-demand occupations
- A willingness to live in a specific province
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All provinces have a distinct model for candidate capabilities, professional fields, and selection norms. A few Express Entry PNPs and the rest function autonomously.
A provincial nomination is a huge bonus in your Express Entry system application, and it is almost a guarantee that you will receive an invitation to apply for the Express Entry system.
Immigrating Through Family Sponsorship
Colombians immigrating to Canada through family sponsorship is also one of the most secure sponsorship pathways.
Who Can Be Sponsored
- Spouses and common-law partners
- Dependent children
- Parents and grandparents
Sponsor Requirements
The sponsor must be
- A Canadian citizen or a Canadian permanent resident
- Meet Support Financial Requirements
- Agree to provide financial sponsorship for the sponsored individual
Because sponsorship applications don’t use a points system, even those who don’t qualify for Canada’s skilled worker programs will still likely qualify.
- Studying in Canada as a Pathway to Immigration
Many Colombians choose to immigrate to Canada through education.
Step 1: Obtain a Study Permit: You must be accepted into a designated Canadian educational institution and prove that you have the financial capability to pay for tuition fees and living expenses.
Step 2: Work During Studies: International students can typically work part-time.
Step 3: Post-Graduation Work Permit: After you graduate, you may be eligible for a work permit that will allow you to obtain work experience within Canada.
 Step 4: Apply for Permanent Residence: Having Canadian education and work experience will greatly enhance your profile and eligibility under Express Entry or PNP for a permanent resident application.
Work Permit to Permanent Residence Pathway
Some Colombians immigrate to Canada after getting a job offer from a Canadian employer.
- Temporary Work Permits
Employers may hire foreign workers due to Canada’s labor shortages. Gaining work experience in Canada may also help workers qualify for permanent residence in Canada.
- Transitioning to Permanent Residence
Many workers would then have enough work experience to apply through Express Entry or one of the provincial programs.
Business and Entrepreneur Immigration Options
Canada welcomes foreign entrepreneurs who can contribute to the economy.
- Start-Up Visa Program
This program is meant for creative and innovative entrepreneurs who have promising business ideas and are partnered with designated Canadian organizations.
- Self-Employed Programs
Athletes, artists, and cultural professionals may qualify if they are able to make a significant contribution to Canadian society.
- Provincial Business Programs
Some provinces operate entrepreneur streams for individuals willing to invest and manage businesses locally.
Documents Required for Canadian Immigration
While documents vary by program, most applicants will need:
- Valid passport
- Language test results
- Educational credential assessments
- Proof of work experience
- Police clearance certificates
- Medical examination results
- Proof of funds
Accuracy and completeness are very important to avoid delays or refusal.
Application Process Step by Step
- Choose the most suitable immigration program
- Confirm eligibility requirements
- Gather required documents
- Submit your application or profile
- Receive an invitation or nomination
- Complete medical and security checks
- Receive permanent residence approval
Processing Times and Costs
Processing times vary between different programs and can take anywhere from a few months to over a year. Considerable costs include:
- Application fees
- Language tests
- Medical exams
- Credential assessments
- Settlement funds
Applicants should take their time reviewing their finances before beginning the process.
Settling in Canada After Arrival
Once approved, immigrants must:
- Register for healthcare
- Obtain a social insurance number
- Open a bank account
- Find housing
- Enroll children in school
Canada offers many settlement services to help newcomers integrate successfully.
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Common Mistakes Colombians Should Avoid
Some of the frequent errors that should be avoided include:
- Choosing the wrong immigration program
- Providing incomplete documents
- Not fully grasping the immigration program language needs
- Providing contradictory information
- Not adhering to the timelines​
The presence of consultants in the immigration assistance field can help in successful planning.
Conclusion
With the right dedication and planning, moving from Colombia to Canada is attainable and realistic. With Canada’s immigration system, there are multiple legal options to bring in skilled workers, families, and even students and entrepreneurs. By learning the systems, fulfilling the requirements, and sending the application, a new life is possible for Colombians in Canada. Canada is welcoming for immigrants willing to contribute and integrate, and remains one of the most welcoming countries for immigrants for career advancement, family reunification, and long-term security.