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Canada is recognized worldwide as a prime immigration destination. With its breathtaking landscapes, thriving economy, and multicultural society, it is evident why Canada has become an enticing destination for Dutch people seeking new opportunities and adventures.
If you’re interested in becoming a part of the growing trend of moving to Canada from the Netherlands, we'll provide all the details you need regarding visa requirements, eligibility criteria, and other important aspects of immigration to help you become a part of the growing numbers of Dutch immigrants to Canada.
Ready to take the next step in becoming a Dutch Canadian? Dutch immigration to Canada has never been easier. Here is how to immigrate to Canada from the Netherlands in 2023.
Immigration Pathways to Canada From the Netherlands
There are various immigration visa pathways that you can use to immigrate to Canada from the Netherlands. The most prominent among them include:
Express Entry
The Express Entry system is one of the most popular pathways for Dutch immigrants looking to relocate to Canada. The points-based system considers age, education, work experience, and language proficiency factors.
By creating an online profile and meeting the eligibility requirements, candidates enter into a pool and are ranked based on their Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score. You can evaluate your own CRS score with our CRS calculator. Those with the highest scores are invited to apply for permanent residency through regular draws by the Canadian government.
Federal Skilled Trades Program
If you have experience in a skilled trade and wish to work in Canada, the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) may be the right pathway for you. This program is for skilled workers who have experience in occupations classified under the National Occupational Classification (NOC) system.
To qualify, you must have at least two years of full-time work experience in a skilled trade, meet the language requirements, and have a valid job offer or a certificate of qualification issued by a Canadian province or territory.
Federal Skilled Worker Program
The Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) is another option for Dutch immigrants seeking to move to Canada. This program is designed for individuals with skilled work experience who can contribute to the Canadian economy.
To be eligible, you must:
- Have at least one year of continuous full-time or equivalent part-time work experience in a skilled occupation
- Meet the minimum language requirements
- Have sufficient funds to support yourself and your family members
Canadian Experience Class
The Canadian Experience Class (CEC) is specifically for individuals who have gained skilled work experience in Canada. If you have been working in Canada on a temporary work permit and wish to transition to permanent residency, the CEC may be the right pathway for you.
To be eligible, you must have at least one year of skilled work experience in Canada, meet the language requirements, and plan to live outside the province of Quebec.
Provincial Nominee Programs
Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) are designed to address the specific labor market needs of individual Canadian provinces and territories. Each province and territory has its own eligibility requirements and selection criteria. That province or territory may nominate you for permanent residency in Canada if you have skills and work experience that are in demand in a particular province or territory.
Immigration Pilots (RNIP, AIP, AFP, HCPP)
Canada introduced several immigration pilots to attract skilled workers to specific regions or industries. These pilots include the:
- Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP)
- Atlantic Immigration Pilot (AIP)
- Agri-Food Pilot
- Home Child Care Provider Pilot (HCPP)
Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot
The Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot is community-driven. It provides a path to permanent residence for skilled foreign workers intending to live and work in participating rural communities.
Atlantic Immigration Pilot
The Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program provides a path to permanent residence for skilled foreign workers and international graduates who graduated from a Canadian institution and want to work and live in Canada’s Atlantic provinces:
The program helps employers hire qualified candidates for jobs they haven’t been able to fill locally.
Each pilot has its own eligibility criteria and application process. Therefore we recommend you research and determine which pilot is suitable for you.
Agri-Food Pilot (AFP)
The Agri-Food Pilot addresses the labor needs of the Canadian agri-food industry. The pilot provides a path to permanent residence for non-seasonal, experienced workers in certain industries and occupations.
Home Child Care Provider Pilot
The Home Child Care Provider Pilot and Home Support Worker Pilot are economic pilot programs designed for foreign national caregivers who:
- Have Canadian work experience or a qualifying job offer in an eligible caregiver occupation
- Meet minimum language proficiency and education requirements
Business Immigration (Start-up Visa, Self-Employed Visa)
If you are an entrepreneur or self-employed individual looking to start a business or invest in Canada, there are two main pathways available to you:
- Start-up Visa Program
- Self-Employed Visa Program
Start-up Visa Program
The Start-up Visa Program is designed for innovative entrepreneurs who have the support of a designated organization in Canada.
Self-Employed Visa Program
The Self-Employed Visa Program is for individuals with experience in cultural or athletic activities and can significantly contribute to Canada's cultural or athletic life.
Family Sponsorship
If you have close relatives who are Canadian citizens or permanent residents, they may be able to sponsor your immigration to Canada. The Family Sponsorship program allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their:
- Spouse
- Common-law partner
- Conjugal partner
- Dependent children
- Parents
- Grandparents
Sponsors must meet certain eligibility requirements and agree to provide financial support to their sponsored family members for a specified time. Please note that you must be 18 years or older to be eligible to be a sponsor.
Work Permits
If you are not eligible for permanent residency but still wish to work in Canada, several work permit options are available to Dutch immigrants. There are primarily two different types of work permits:
- Employer-specific work permits: Allows you to work for the same Canadian employer in the same specified location for a certain time period
- Open work permits: Enables you to work in Canada for any employer of your choice for a specified period of time.
Temporary Foreign Worker Program
The Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) allows Canadian employers to hire foreign workers to fill temporary labor shortages.
Bridging Open Work Permit
The Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP) allows certain individuals who have applied for permanent residency via programs like the CEC to continue working in Canada while waiting for a decision on their application.
Post-Graduation Work Permit
The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) allows international students who have completed a program of study at a designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada to work in Canada for up to three years after graduation. This eventually provides a path towards obtaining permanent residency in Canada
Find out more about how to apply for a work permit.
IEC Working Holiday
The International Experience Canada (IEC) program allows young Dutch citizens to work and travel in Canada. Under the Working Holiday program, eligible individuals between 18 and 30 (or 35 in some cases) can obtain an open work permit and work for any employer in Canada for up to two years.
This program promotes cultural exchange and allows participants to gain valuable work experience while exploring Canada's diverse culture and natural beauty.
Learn more about the types of work permits in Canada.
What Does Canada Have to Offer Dutch Immigrants?
The following benefits are just some you can look forward to once you receive permanent residency status in Canada.
Friendly, Welcoming and Diverse Communities
Canada is renowned for its friendly and welcoming communities. Dutch immigrants will find a multicultural society that celebrates diversity and embraces people from all walks of life.
Whether you settle in a big city or a small town, you will find open-minded, inclusive communities eager to welcome newcomers. Canadians are known for politeness and willingness to help others, making it easy for Dutch immigrants to feel at home in their new country.
Broad Range of Land For Settlement
Canada is the second-largest country in the world by land area, which means there is ample space for Dutch immigrants to settle and build a new life. Whether you prefer the hustle and bustle of city life or the tranquility of rural areas, Canada offers a diverse range of landscapes and environments to suit every preference.
There is something for everyone in Canada from the stunning Rocky Mountains of Alberta to the picturesque coastlines of British Columbia and the charming small towns of the Maritimes.
Beautiful Natural Environments
Canada has a range of natural environments that reflect and span almost every conceivable biome and ecology. From tundra in the north to temperate, humid prairies in the south, Canada’s natural environment is uniquely beautiful and filled with fauna and flora that beg to be explored using its extensive national parks system.
Affordable Cost of Living
Compared to many Organization of Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) countries like the United Kingdom, Canada offers a relatively affordable cost of living. While housing and living expenses can vary depending on the region, Dutch immigrants will find that their money goes further in Canada. For comparison, here is a breakdown of the cost of living in Canada vs UK.
Quality Government Services
The healthcare system is accessible and of high quality, and education, both at the primary and secondary levels, is generally free. Additionally, the Canadian government provides various social benefits and support programs to ensure the well-being of its residents.
Relocating from the Netherlands to Canada opens opportunities for Dutch immigrants. Canada offers various immigration pathways that cater to different needs and qualifications.
Whether you are a skilled worker, an entrepreneur, a student, or someone looking to reunite with family, a pathway can lead you to a new life in Canada. With its welcoming communities, vast landscapes, and affordable cost of living, Canada promises a bright future for those willing to embark on this exciting journey.
To help guide you through the complicated process of immigrating to Canada from the Netherlands, we recommend equipping yourself with the knowledge to successfully apply by consulting with a certified Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC).
Here is a video that attests to the success of using an RCIC.
FAQs
What Work Opportunities Can Dutch People Access In Canada?
Dutch immigrants in Canada have access to a wide range of work opportunities across various industries. Canada has a strong and diverse economy, with sectors such as technology, healthcare, finance, construction, and agriculture experiencing growth and offering promising career prospects.
Dutch professionals with specialized skills and experience may find employment in their respective fields. At the same time, those looking for entry-level positions can explore job opportunities in sectors experiencing labor shortages.
Here is a map of the in-demand occupations in Canada.
Do You Need to Have a Job Offer to Immigrate From the Netherlands to Canada?
While having a job offer can enhance your chances of successfully immigrating to Canada, it is not always a requirement. Many immigration pathways, such as the Express Entry system, do not explicitly require a job offer. Instead, they assess candidates based on their skills, education, language proficiency, and other factors.
However, having a valid job offer from a Canadian employer can provide additional points and increase your chances of receiving an invitation to apply (ITA) for permanent residency.
