Frequently Asked Questions
Welcome to our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) page, where we provide answers to common queries about our services, products, and important information. Find quick solutions here.
Canada Visas FAQs
Canada Express Entry stands as the favored immigration mechanism for obtaining Canadian permanent residency. It was introduced by the federal government in January 2015, replacing the previous “first come, first served” approach.
Express Entry functions as a regulatory framework overseeing the applications of skilled foreign workers aspiring to obtain permanent residence in Canada.
Applicants are assessed and assigned Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points, which are based on factors such as work experience, skills, provincial or territorial nominations, and other relevant criteria.
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Express Entry is not an immigration program on its own; instead, it serves as an online system designed to oversee the intake of immigration applications in Canada.
Eligible candidates who meet the requirements create an online profile referred to as an Expression of Interest (EOI) under one of three federal Canadian immigration programs or a participating provincial immigration program. This profile is then added to the Express Entry Pool.
The three Canadian immigration programs under the Express Entry system are:
Federal Skilled Worker (FSW): This program is designed for skilled workers with foreign work experience who want to immigrate to Canada permanently. To qualify for this program, applicants must meet specific criteria related to their education, work experience, language proficiency, and other factors.
Federal Skilled Trades (FST): The Federal Skilled Trades Program is for individuals who have experience in certain skilled trade occupations and wish to become permanent residents of Canada. It is essential to meet the eligibility requirements, including work experience and language proficiency, to apply through this stream.
Canadian Experience Class (CEC): The CEC is intended for individuals who have gained skilled work experience in Canada and wish to transition to permanent residency. To qualify for this program, applicants must have completed their work experience in Canada, among other requirements.
Candidates eligible for one of these federal programs can create an Express Entry profile and enter the pool of candidates, where they are ranked based on their Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score. Those with higher CRS scores have a better chance of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for Canadian permanent residency.
The processing time for Canadian permanent residency (PR) applications can vary depending on several factors, including the specific immigration program, the completeness of your application, the volume of applications being processed, and other circumstances.
As a general guideline:
Express Entry: The processing time for Express Entry applications can often fall within the 6-12 month range, but it’s important to note that this can vary. Some applications may be processed faster, while others may take longer, especially if additional documents or verifications are required.
Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs): Processing times for PNPs can also vary, and they depend on the specific province or territory to which you’ve applied. Generally, PNP processing times may be similar to or slightly longer than Express Entry.
Family Sponsorship: If you are applying for PR through family sponsorship, processing times can differ based on the relationship and other factors. These times can also vary.
Quebec Skilled Worker Program: Processing times for Quebec’s immigration programs, such as the Quebec Skilled Worker Program (QSWP), may differ from those of the federal programs.
It’s important to check the most current processing times on the official website of Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) or the respective provincial immigration authorities. Additionally, keep in mind that these processing times are subject to change and can be influenced by various factors, including government policies and application volumes.
All eligible skilled immigration applicants under the Express Entry System are grouped into a candidate pool. Within this pool, candidates are assessed and ranked using the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). The CRS employs a points-based system to compare and determine which candidates will receive invitations to apply for permanent residence.
Their profiles are ranked against one another based on their CRS scores, with the top-ranked candidates being considered for an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence. Those who receive an ITA are required to promptly submit a complete application and pay processing fees, with a deadline of 90 days.
The Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) is a points-based evaluation system used to assess candidates within the Express Entry System for immigration to Canada. It assigns a numerical score to each candidate based on the information provided in their profile. This scoring system allows candidates in the Express Entry pool to be ranked against one another, and those with the highest scores are issued invitations to apply for permanent residence (ITA) during periodic draws.
The CRS calculates a candidate’s score by considering various factors, and candidates can earn a maximum of 1,200 points. These factors include:
Skills: Assessment of a candidate’s age, educational qualifications, and the number of years of education completed.
Work Experience: Evaluation of the candidate’s skilled work experience in Canada and/or abroad.
Language Ability: Examination of the candidate’s proficiency in English and French through standardized language tests.
Language Ability and Education of the Applicant’s Spouse or Common-Law Partner: If applicable, the language proficiency and educational background of the candidate’s spouse or common-law partner are considered.
Possession of a Job Offer Supported by a Positive Labour Market Impact Assessment: Additional points are awarded if the candidate has a valid job offer from a Canadian employer with a positive Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).
Possession of a Provincial Government Nomination for Permanent Residence: Candidates who have received a nomination from a Canadian province or territory through a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) can earn extra points.
Certain Combinations of Language Skills, Education, and Work Experience (Skill Transferability): Points are awarded for combinations of factors that indicate a higher likelihood of the candidate becoming employed in Canada.
Candidates with the highest CRS scores are typically the most competitive and have a better chance of receiving an ITA for permanent residence. The CRS is a dynamic system, and candidates can improve their scores by enhancing their qualifications and profile over time, increasing their chances of being selected for immigration to Canada.
The CRS is designed to favor applicants who are likely to successfully settle in Canada and make a positive economic contribution to the country. Therefore, there are specific factors that can have a highly positive impact on an applicant’s CRS score:
Approved Job Offer in a Managerial Field (NOC 00): Holding a job offer in a managerial position is particularly advantageous and adds 200 points to the CRS score. This substantial point allocation significantly enhances a candidate’s profile.
Approved Job Offer in Other Fields (NOC O, A, B): Job offers in other occupations within the NOC O, A, or B categories are also valuable and contribute 50 points to the CRS score. While not as high as NOC 00, these points still strengthen a candidate’s profile.
Provincial Nomination: Receiving a provincial nomination from a Canadian province or territory automatically awards a candidate 600 CRS points. This substantial point allocation is highly advantageous and often guarantees that the candidate will receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence.
These factors play a crucial role in determining an applicant’s overall CRS score and their chances of receiving an ITA for permanent residence. Candidates who secure a job offer or a provincial nomination can significantly enhance their competitiveness in the Express Entry System.
Immigration under the Express Entry System is open to applicants with specific types of work experience, which fall into the following skill categories:
- Skill Type 0 (Management Jobs)
- Skill Level A (Professional Jobs)
- Skill Level B (Technical Jobs and Skilled Trades)
United States Visas FAQs
A U.S. visa is a document placed in your passport that allows you to seek entry to the United States. Whether you need one depends on your nationality and the purpose of your visit. Citizens of Visa Waiver Program countries can often enter without a visa for tourism or business for up to 90 days.
There are numerous U.S. visa categories, such as tourist (B-2), student (F-1), work (H-1B), and more. Your choice depends on the purpose of your visit.
The VWP allows citizens of specific countries to enter the U.S. for tourism or business without a visa for up to 90 days. You can check eligibility on the U.S. Department of State website.
B-2 visa applicants must demonstrate the intent to visit the U.S. temporarily, have sufficient funds to cover their stay, and show ties to their home country.
Processing times can vary, but it typically takes several weeks to several months.
No, citizens of VWP countries can generally enter the U.S. for short visits without a visa.
You must demonstrate that you have enough funds to cover your expenses during your stay in the U.S.
Yes, you can complete the DS-160 form online, which is a critical part of the application process.
ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) is an online application system for VWP travelers. It determines your eligibility to travel to the U.S. without a visa.
F-1 visa applicants must be accepted by a U.S. school, demonstrate the ability to cover tuition and living expenses, and have non-immigrant intent.
The H-1B visa is for temporary skilled workers. To qualify, you typically need a job offer from a U.S. employer and specialized skills or education.
Some visa types are eligible for extensions. Consult with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for specific guidance.
Required documents vary by visa type but may include a valid passport, visa application confirmation, photo, and financial documents.
The DV lottery program offers a limited number of visas to individuals from countries with low rates of immigration to the U.S. Entries are accepted during specific periods.
Many applicants are required to attend an interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate. Preparation includes reviewing application documents, understanding the purpose of your visit, and being ready to answer questions.
The maximum stay on a tourist visa is usually 180 days. However, the immigration officer at the port of entry determines the actual duration based on the purpose of your visit.
Changing visa status is possible but complex. Consult with the USCIS or an immigration attorney for guidance.
If your visa application is denied, you’ll receive a denial letter with instructions on potential next steps. You can reapply if circumstances change or appeal the decision if eligible.
You can check your visa application status on the U.S. Department of State’s Consular Electronic Application Center (CEAC) website.
Russian Visas FAQs
A Russian visa is an official document that allows foreigners to enter and stay in Russia for a specified period and purpose, such as tourism, business, or private visits.
You can apply for a Russian visa by completing the visa application form, providing the necessary documents, obtaining an invitation (if required), and submitting the application to the Russian consulate or embassy.
There are several types of Russian visas, including tourist visas, business visas, private visas, work visas, student visas, and transit visas.
The requirement for an invitation varies depending on the type of visa. Tourist, business, and private visas generally require an invitation from a Russian host or organization.
The processing time for a Russian visa can vary depending on the type of visa and the consulate/embassy’s workload. It can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks.
No, Russia does not offer visa on arrival. You must obtain a visa before traveling to Russia.
Yes, in some cases, you can complete the visa application online through the Russian Foreign Ministry’s website or the official visa application centers.
Yes, travel insurance with coverage for the duration of your stay in Russia is mandatory for visa applicants. It should cover medical expenses and repatriation.
In general, it is challenging to extend a Russian visa once you are already in the country. It is advisable to plan your visit within the visa’s validity period.
No, a single-entry visa allows you to enter Russia only once. If you plan to leave and re-enter Russia, you will need a multiple-entry visa.
To apply for a Russian business visa, you will typically need an invitation from a Russian company or organization and documents proving the purpose of your trip, such as letters of invitation and business-related documents.
A Russian visa only allows you to enter and stay in Russia. If you plan to visit other countries during your trip, you will need separate visas for those countries.
United Kingdom Visas FAQs
A UK visa is an official document granting permission to enter the UK. Whether you need one depends on your nationality and the purpose of your visit.
You can apply online through the UK government’s official visa application website.
UK visas include tourist, work, study, family, and transit visas. The one you need depends on your intended stay.
Processing times vary but generally take a few weeks. Applying well in advance of your travel is advisable.
You must prove that you can financially support yourself during your stay and, if applicable, your dependents.
The UK Visitor Visa is for tourism, visiting family, or business meetings. Eligibility criteria include demonstrating your intent to leave the UK at the end of your visit.
Yes, most UK visa applications are submitted online through the Visa4UK website.
As of January 1, 2021, EU/EEA citizens are subject to new immigration rules and may need a visa to enter and stay in the UK.
The Tier 4 Student Visa allows international students to study in the UK. Apply through the Student route on the UK government’s official website.
Extensions are possible for some visa types, but specific rules apply.
Required documents vary by visa type, but commonly include a valid passport, visa application confirmation, financial statements, and a sponsorship letter if applicable.
You can check your application status through the UK Visas and Immigration website or contact the Visa Application Centre where you applied.
You’ll receive a refusal letter with instructions on reapplying or appealing the decision if applicable.
The UK Ancestry Visa is for commonwealth citizens with UK-born grandparents. Qualifications include proving your ancestry.
In most cases, you can’t work with a UK tourist visa, as it’s intended for leisure and short visits.
The Tier 2 Work Visa requires a job offer from a UK employer with a valid sponsorship license.
The UK Settlement Visa is for family members of UK citizens or settled persons. Eligibility depends on the specific relationship.
Some visa categories allow for switching, but it’s essential to check specific requirements.
The maximum stay on a UK tourist visa typically ranges from six months to ten years, depending on the type.
The UK Youth Mobility Scheme Visa is for young adults from specific countries. Eligibility is based on nationality and age.