Call us on 
English
French
Arabic
If you’re among the ever-increasing number of Albanians that are considering moving to Canada, selecting the right visa can streamline the process and give you a better chance of reaching your goal.
Canada offers an array of immigration options and pathways to obtain permanent residency. Over 22,000 Albanians have already successfully immigrated. There is a large community of Albanian expats in Canada, and they all had to go through the process that awaits you.
The Canadian government plans on welcoming over a million immigrants over the next three years as part of their economic recovery and growth strategy. You can be one of the immigrants who get to enjoy the scenic beauty and economic benefits. This article will explore how to apply for a Canadian visa from Albania, as well as the three types of Canadian visas available to you.
Apply for a Canadian Visa in These Five Easy Steps
Not many people are familiar with the immigration process; from visas to required documents and the procedure for procuring permanent residence in a new country. The copious amounts of paperwork and admin can be intimidating; we’ll break it up into bite-size pieces with five steps to make your Canadian visa application as smooth as possible.
Step 1: Select Your Visa Type
Applying for a suitable visa is the starting point for your travels to Canada. Selecting the correct visa can make your application run smoother and ensure success. It’s important to know what category of visa you fall under. These are the main visa types that you can choose from:
Temporary Resident Visa
A Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) is suitable for students, workers or visitors. This type of visa allows you to enter Canada for a maximum duration of six months provided you meet the set criteria. Upon expiry of your TRV, you will need to return to your home country.
Study Permit
The study permit is for people who want to study in Canada. To apply for this type of visa, you will need an acceptance letter from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada, a valid passport or travel document and proof that you are capable of supporting yourself for the duration of your stay. DLI’s are Canadian schools and learning institutions that can host international students.
Work Permit
There are two types of work permits, and you need to select the one that is suitable for you:
- An employer-specific permit that specifies your employer and employment details
- An open work permit that allows you to work for a wide range of employers in Canada
If you’re still unclear on which permit you should aim for, contact us to speak to one of our experts who will help you determine the type of visa that will improve your chances of success.
Step 2: Check That You Have the Necessary Documents
Create a checklist to ensure that you have all the necessary documents before you proceed with your application. The list of general requirements for a visa entails, but is not limited to:
- Passport
- Proof of clean criminal record
- Proof of medical exam
- Photographs required for your Canadian Visa
- A cover letter explaining the purpose of your travel
- Proof of financial means
- Certified copies of documents
For Work Visa:
- Proof that you meet your job requirements
- At least two written references
- The offer of employment from your Canadian employer
- A copy of your contract
For Student Visa:
- Official letterhead from the Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
- Copies of your current immigration status
- Proof that your stay in Canada is temporary and your plans to leave once the permit expires
- Proof that you can cover expenses for the duration of your studies
Step 3: Complete the Application Form
Download the application form and fill it in – you can either submit it to the Visa Application Centre physically or do it online. A crucial aspect of how to apply for a Canadian visa from Albania is to ensure that the forms are filled out correctly and attach the necessary documents.
Step 4: Pay the Necessary Fees
Once the application is complete, you'll have to pay a set fee. Canadian visa applications range from $100 to $150 depending on the type of permit and the urgency. You have to pay the required amount for your application to be processed.
Step 5: Visit the Visa Application Centre and Track Your Application
You'll have to visit the visa centre even if you choose to apply online. Your biometrics are required, and you'll subsequently get a unique tracking number to track your application status. You'll receive email updates or SMSes directly to your phone regarding the status of your application.
Upon completion of the process, you can collect your visa from the application centre. Do your due diligence and check that the details are correct immediately upon receipt.
Why Would You Want to Immigrate to Canada?
From the breath-taking countryside to splendid cityscapes, Canada is the perfect fusion of nature and city life. Canada has rightfully earned its reputation of being among the best countries to live in. It, therefore, comes as no surprise that copious amounts of people want to move there.
If you still don't get the hype, here are a few more reasons that might sway you to want to live there:
Canada Is One of the Best Countries for Women in the World
According to a survey conducted on over 256,700 women worldwide and published on CEOWORLD in 2020, Canada ranks number five globally as one of the best countries for women. The factors that the survey took into account are; gender equality, human rights, income equality, progress and safety.
The country's low crime rates ensure that vulnerable members of society – women and children – can live freely without an ever-present threat of violence.
Not only are women more physically safer, but pay equity is part of the Canadian Human Rights Act. The act makes wage disparity between men and women based on gender unlawful, and discriminatory.
Free Healthcare and Education
Healthcare and schooling are free for all permanent residents, and when you move to Canada, you can enjoy these benefits. The universal healthcare system is covered by income tax.
Canada's education system is rated third best globally for having high-quality education. Your kids will have access to the best schooling for free. This allows you to invest more money in your children's extramural activities and save for university education.
You'll also have easy access to world-class universities like the University of Toronto and the University of British Columbia, to name a few.
Ample Job Opportunities
Canada has a rapidly growing economy and low unemployment rates. Side by side comparisons of the unemployment rate in Canada and Albania was conducted in 2017 by Countryeconomy.com. The findings display that Albania was at 14.2% as compared to Canada's 6.1% unemployment rate. The low unemployment rate, coupled with a growing economy makes the country alive with opportunity.
The country is also renowned for businesses that invest in upskilling employees and taking care of their people.
Canada Is a Diverse Country
Canada has unprecedented cultural, religious and political diversity. The country's diverse demographic ensures that you will feel at home and find people with similar interests.
The religious composition of the country allows people of various religions to find community and practice their religion safely. Approximately 3.2 per cent of the Canadian population is Islam, and with Albania being a predominantly Islamic country, you can rest assured that your beliefs are respected and welcomed.
Canada is considered one of the friendliest LGBTQIA+ countries in the world. Canadian law prohibits discrimination and harassment of LGBTQIA+ people, whereas Albania's constitution doesn't offer the same protection.
Multiculturism in Canada even evolved to become a national policy. The country recognises dual citizenship, different religions, LGBTQIA+ issues, encourages people to hold on to their cultures and promotes diversity in the workplace.
A Work-Life Balance Is Encouraged
Canadian labour laws are among the best in the world. They aim to protect the well-being and rights of workers.
They have standard 40-hour workweeks, paid leave days, national holidays and parental leave benefits that allow employees enough time to excel at their careers, while also raising their children and spending time with family and friends. Moving to Canada will enable you to strike a balance between work and personal life.
Do I Qualify to Immigrate to Canada?
What are you waiting for? The only way you can be sure is to give it a try. A beautiful future filled with lucrative job opportunities, security and peace of mind await you beyond the five steps to getting your visa.
If you need a bit more assistance on how to apply for a Canadian visa from Albania, get a professional to take you through the process and give you the best options that will set you up for success.
