General Immigration Regulations

• Although there are no formal age limitations for immigrants to Canada, preference is generally given to those aged 18 to 49 at the time of application for a work permit or permanent resident status. Applicants must also demonstrate that they will be able to function as productive members of the workforce, and have knowledge of one or both of Canada's two official languages, English and French. Applicants must also submit the results of a medical examination and a police background check as a condition of immigration. Applicants with family ties to Canada, who have prearranged employment or who hold provincial sponsorship are given favorable status when applying for immigration. The process can be lengthy, and there are substantial fees involved. However, if the applicant fulfills the requirements above a certain minimum level, immigration is usually approved eventually.
  
  

Skilled Workers and Professionals

• Most potential immigrants are admitted as Skilled Workers and Professionals. Skilled Workers and Professionals must qualify for one of the job classifications listed in the National Occupational Classification (NOC) chart. Applicants are rated according to amount of relevant experience and level of education, in addition to the factors noted above. Skilled workers and Professionals must provide proof of sufficient funds to support themselves and their families while they are seeking work, unless they already have a job offer from a Canadian employer.
  
  

Quebec-Selected Skilled Workers

• Quebec establishes its own immigration requirements under the Canada-Quebec Accord on Immigration. In addition to skilled work qualifications, French speaking skills at a high level are a major requirement for immigration to Quebec. Potential immigrants to Quebec must first apply to the Quebec government for a certificate of selection (Certificat de Sélection du Québec) before submitting the general application for immigration.
  
  

Canadian Experience Class

• The Canadian Experience Class was introduced in 2008 for skilled workers who have worked temporarily in Canada or are recent graduates from a Canadian university with work experience. Applicants under the Canadian Experience Class must have high level English or French speaking skills and qualify for an occupation listed on the NOC. The Canadian Experience Class does not apply to immigrants who wish to immigrate to Quebec.
  
  

Investors, Entrepreneurs and Self-Employed People

• The Business Immigration Program is designed for experienced business people who will make a substantial investment in Canada (at least $400,000 (CAD)), or who will own and manage businesses in Canada. There are three classes of business immigrants, each with its own set of requirements. Each application can be made for only one class of business immigrant: investors, entrepreneurs, or self-employed persons, and cannot be changed once the application is submitted.
  
  

Provincial Nominees

• Provinces outside of Quebec may also nominate immigrants to Canada under the Provincial Nominee Program. Sponsored provincial immigrants usually have skills, education and work experience that are in high demand in the province which sponsors them. They are considered as candidates who will adjust well as productive members of the Canadian workforce and resident population.
  
  

Refugees

• Canada provides protection to thousands of refugees every year. Canadian refugees must demonstrate that they fear persecution, torture or a risk of cruel and unusual treatment or punishment if they were to return to their home countries. Groups and individuals can also sponsor refugees from abroad. Refugees are not subject to regular immigration requirements. However, once they are granted asylum, refugees are encouraged to integrate themselves into Canadian society by training for productive work if they do not possess work skills, and studying French or English.