UK / British Immigration to Canada - Explained
A vibrant economy, rich history, and diverse culture, these are just a few reasons driving UK citizens to Canada. Whether you’re looking for a temporary escape or you want to become a permanent resident of Canada, it’s important to understand the immigration options available for you.
Here are some U.K. to Canada Immigration Options:
Applying for an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)
If you are a British resident, you do not need a visa to visit Canada for a short period of time. You can stay for up to 6 months at a time without having to apply for a visa. However, you still need to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to board your flight to Canada. Keep in mind that you don’t need an eTA if you are entering Canada by land or sea (such as driving to Canada or taking a train, bus or cruise ship). Temporary travel is a great option for British residents who may wish to explore the country, look for a job or see what options are available.
How to apply for an eTA
eTA applications are done online. Most applicants get their approval within minutes via email. Some requests may take several days to process especially if supporting documents are needed. It’s advised to apply for an eTA well before making travel plans.
The eTA application form is in English and French. You will need the following to complete the form:
- A valid passport from a visa-exempt country
- A valid email address
- $7 CAD fee which can only be paid using one of the acceptable payment methods
Use the online form to apply for the eTA. Note that this form cannot be saved, therefore, ensure that you have all the information ready before you begin. Once you complete the form, pay the $7 CAD. You will receive an email after submitting your application. It’s either the eTA application is approved, or you will receive an email within 72 hours requesting you to submit supporting documents.
Important reminders when applying for eTA:
- You can only fill one application at a time. If you want to apply for a family of 4, you’ll need to submit 4 forms.
- Print your receipt immediately because you can’t do it later.
- All communication is via email only. Check junk mail if you don’t see a response in your inbox.
All eTA applications are made on this link.
UK to Canada Family Sponsorship Program
If you have a spouse or partner who is a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, then you can be sponsored for Canadian permanent residence on this basis. The major categories are the spousal sponsorship program and the common-law partner program. Under the spousal sponsorship category, you must be legally married. To qualify as a common-law partner, you must have resided with your Canadian partner for at least one year continuously. The sponsorship application can be processed either outside of or within Canada and will take about six months to one year to process. Once permanent residence is granted, the UK citizen can live in Canada indefinitely, work and study, and access social services. After living in Canada for at least three years you can then qualify for Canadian citizenship.
If you would like our office to assess whether you can qualify for family sponsorship, please fill out the Free Family Sponsorship Assessment Form.
See If You Qualify For Spousal or Partner Sponsorship
Fill out our FREE Family Sponsorship Assessment form to see if you qualify to sponsor your spouse or partner to Canada.
Skilled Workers and The Express Entry Program
If you are a skilled worker or professional currently working in the UK or any other country, you may qualify to immigrate permanently to Canada through the Express Entry program. You will have to complete an Express Entry profile where you submit details about your work experience, age, education, and language ability. Your profile will be assessed, and points awarded based on the information you provided. If you score well enough, you will receive an invitation to apply for permanent residence through the skilled worker program.The Canadian Experience Class Program
If you have worked in Canada for at least one year, you may become a permanent resident through the Canadian Experience Class program. Canadian Experience Class applications are processed under the Express Entry immigration selection system. Candidates who qualify for this immigration program must have accumulated at least one-year Canadian work experience. If you would like our office to assess whether you can qualify for the Express Entry, please fill out the Free Express Entry CRS Calculator.
Free Express Entry CRS Calculator
We have years of experience assisting applicants with their permanent residence applications through the Express Entry system. See if you qualify by calculating your CRS score.
