Canada is often seen as a top destination for immigrants. It has a reputation for its welcoming attitude toward diversity and a range of immigration pathways. However, myths about immigration to Canada can create false expectations for many. Knowing the realities beforehand is essential to making informed decisions and preparing for life in a new environment.

Here are five common myths about immigrating to Canada and the truths behind them:

1. Immigrating to Canada is easy

   Immigrating to Canada can be a lengthy and complex process, requiring patience and careful documentation. Applicants may face delays and bureaucratic hurdles. And, even after the pandemic backlog is now out of the way, changes affecting immigration pathways can still cause delays.

   Aside from being mentally prepared for long wait times and other contingencies, applicants also have to be financially prepared. Depending on the immigration stream (and whether you’re a single applicant or if your family is coming with you), you will need to have upwards of $20,000 CAD to cover your application fees, settlement funds, as well as the cost of the required documents and tests to complete your application. After completing the application process, the real challenge begins – facing the challenges of settling into a new culture and environment.

2. Marrying a Canadian automatically makes you a citizen

   This is one of the biggest misconceptions about immigrating to Canada. Getting married to a Canadian does not automatically grant citizenship. A non-resident would have to apply and go through the same process as everyone else.

   If someone marrying a Canadian does not live in Canada and is not a permanent resident, their Canadian spouse (or common-law or conjugal partner) can sponsor them to become a permanent resident. In this process, the Canadian partner must provide proof that they can meet basic needs (food, shelter, and clothing) for themselves and the family, support their partner financially, and make sure that their partner will not need financial help from the government.

3. Everyone gets a job shortly after arriving

   While it’s possible to find employment after landing, especially if your profession is in demand, most newcomers face a more competitive job market than they expected. Finding work in Canada often involves learning how to navigate a new hiring process. Additionally, if your profession is regulated, you’ll need to complete licensing requirements before being able to practice. Patience, preparation, and persistence are essential in this aspect of settlement.

4. International students become permanent residents after they graduate

   Permanent Residency is not guaranteed to international students. After graduating, they would need to apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) to continue living and working in Canada. They would also need to meet certain program requirements to apply for PGWP. Then, to apply for permanent residency, they would again need to meet other requirements, such as having at least one year of continuous, full-time, skilled work experience in Canada. An international student can certainly become a permanent resident, but it’s not granted automatically after graduation.

5. Social assistance is available for all immigrants

   Canada has a robust system of supports made up of more than 500 settlement organizations all over the country. These organizations provide services intended to ease the settlement of newcomers to Canada. However, not all immigrants are eligible to receive this support. Temporary foreign workers, international students, and refugee claimants, to name a few, are not eligible to receive these services. Even then, immigrants that are eligible for social assistance are required to have enough settlement funds to support themselves through the first months upon landing. No one is encouraged to become dependent on social services and become a burden to society.

Immigrating to Canada comes with both opportunities and obstacles. While myths about the process can create unrealistic expectations, understanding the realities will help you prepare mentally, emotionally, and financially. Moving to a new country isn’t easy, but with the right preparation and mindset, it can lead to a fulfilling and rewarding future. Canada offers countless opportunities, but success depends on your determination and effort to adapt and thrive.
 
Sources: Clearing up three common misconceptions about immigrating to Canada, Edana Robitaille, CIC News; Proof of funds, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada; and Do I become a citizen when I marry a Canadian? Canada.ca. Accessed October 15, 2024.