How to Immigrate to Canada from Russia in 2023

Relocating to Canada from Russia is a dream for many. Canada is a great country that offers excellent opportunities to its citizens and immigrants. It's a land of diversity and welcomes people from all over the world.

According to the 2021 census, more than 550,000 people of Russian origin living in Canada. This makes it one of the largest Russian-speaking communities outside of Russia. This large Russian-speaking population means you will feel supported when you move to Canada from Russia.

You can find community and comfort among other Russians. You can also find support and help to settle in Canada from fellow compatriots who know the Canadian ropes. They can also help you find Russian-speaking schools, churches, and other organizations in Canada.

Moving to Canada from Russia can initially seem daunting. But with the correct information, you can make the journey smoother and more successful. The Canadian government has made it easier for Russians to move to Canada. However, it depends on your qualifications, chosen visa type, financial stability, and other factors.

If you're looking to move to Canada from Russia, the first step is to research the different immigration routes available to you. There are numerous programs and visas available, and you can explore the options to find the one that best suits your needs.

Once you've identified the route, the next step is to gather the necessary documents and apply for a Canadian visa.

To help with this entire process, this article will focus on how to move to Canada from Russia successfully, the different ways to move to Canada from Russia, the benefits of moving to Canada, tips for successful immigration to Canada, and the frequently asked questions about settling in Canada as a Russian.

How to Immigrate to Canada from Russia

There are several ways to move to Canada from Russia.

Express Entry

One of the most popular ways to immigrate to Canada is through Express Entry, as processing can take as little as six months. There are three federal economic programs within this system:

The Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)

This program is specifically for foreign nationals who require a degree, like doctors, software developers and accountants.

The Federal Skilled Trade Program (FSTP)

The FSTP is specifically for skilled foreign tradespeople who generally work in an occupation that requires a diploma or other formal certification.

The Canada Experience Class (CEC)

This program is for skilled foreign workers who have lived and worked in Canada for over a year.

To apply for the Express Entry system, applicants must create an Expres Entry profile on the IRCC website. They can enter details into their profile. Their details are as follows:

Education level
Age
Marital Status
Work Experience
Links to Canada

These factors are then scored based on the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) to create a CRS score. Every applicant receives a CRS score, and all CRS scores enter an Express Entry pool.

Every two weeks, the Canadian government hosts an Express Entry draw where they announce a specific number and those with a score over that number can be eligible for permanent residency in Canada. If you qualify, you will receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency in Canada.

Provincial Nominee Programs

Another hugely popular way to immigrate to Canada is via a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). 11 of Canada's 13 provinces host PNPs, giving skilled foreign nationals the opportunity to The PNPs cater to foreigners who want to work in Canada in a specific province or territory. Different regions have different needs, and if your skills meet those needs and you meet the other requirements. For example, you could get a provincial nomination, where the government of that particular province will invite you to work and live in Canada to benefit from your skills.

Learn more about how you can be eligible for a PNP here.

Family Sponsorship

If you have close family, a spouse or a common-law partner living in Canada, they may be eligible to sponsor your permanent residency through Canada's family sponsorship program. Your sponsor has to be either one of the following:

Your spouse
Your common-law partner
Your marital partner
Your parent
Your grandparent
Your child
Your grandchild

If any of these relatives are waiting for you in Canada, you may have a head start in getting your permanent residency. Here's a full breakdown of Canada's family sponsorship programs and how to apply to get started.

Immigration Pilots

Canada has numerous specific immigration pilots to help those from particular backgrounds or occupations gain permanent residency quickly and easily. These pilots are generally designed to address labour shortages in particular industries or parts of Canada. They are as follows.

The Home Care Provider Pilot

This pilot is specifically for foreign workers who can contribute to Canada's society by professionally aiding those who need permanent assistance in the comfort of their own space.

By becoming a home care provider in Canada, you'll have a fulfilling career with tactile rewards. Find out more about the Home Care Provider Pilot, the different programs, their eligibility requirements and how you can apply here.

Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP)

The RNIP was launched in June 2019 to establish smaller communities to find skilled workers, particularly in rural areas. Employers in this program's participating communities can post job openings. Internationals who land these jobs can be eligible for permanent residency in Canada. However, this does mean you will have to live in that community.

This is an excellent opportunity for skilled foreigners who want to work and live in Canada. If you are a successful candidate, the community of that specific province may recommend you for permanent residence.

If you want to work in Canada in a smaller community, this is the program for you mainly because only some people can fill in the gaps. However, demand is also higher in these areas, so you'll have a higher salary. Learn more about the RNIP, the participating communities and how you can apply here.

The Atlantic Immigration Pilot (AIP)

If you're interested in moving to one of Canada's Atlantic Provinces - New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Newfoundland and Labrador, and Prince Edward Island - you should check if you're eligible for the AIP.

The AIP is designed to help the communities of each Atlantic province find skilled foreign labour in their most in-demand occupations. Learn more about the AIP and how you can qualify here.

Canadian Visas

Suppose you don't qualify for Canadian permanent residency. In that case, you can get started in Canada with one of Canada's visa programs that can help you stay in Canada long enough to be eligible for a Canadian permanent residency program like the CEC.

Study Visa

Studying at one of Canada's universities is a fantastic option if you want to take advantage of Canada's world-class education system and set yourself up for an exciting career. This will allow you to enter Canada for several years to complete your studies and may allow you to stay in Canada for a further three years with a Post Graduation Work Permit (PGWP).

Here's a full breakdown of how to apply for a Canadian Study Visa.

Work Visa

Starting your career in Canada comes with a host of fantastic benefits. One of the biggest is it goes a long way to helping your eligibility for permanent residence in Canada. If you can land a job in Canada, you'll need a work permit to be able to work in that job.

Here's a full breakdown of how to get a Canadian work permit.

What's next?

You can immigrate to Canada from Russia with these three easy steps. Although we've simplified it, the process can still be confusing and frustrating. Contact us today to chat with a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC).

RCICs are qualified individuals that specialize in Canadian immigration. They'll guide you through choosing the proper visa, gathering the correct documents and ensuring your application is complete before submitting and liaising with the Canadian authorities on your behalf.

Ready to change your future?

Why Move To Canada From Russia

There are many benefits to moving to Canada from Russia.

Easy to Settle in

The Canadian government supports new immigrants, including language classes, employment programs, and social services.

Safety

Canada is a safe and welcoming country with a low crime rate and high political and economic stability levels, ensuring you and your family remain safe and protected.

Find out more about what makes Canada so safe here.

Booming Job Market

Canada's economy is constantly growing, meaning you'll find plenty of professional and personal growth opportunities. With over 1 million job vacancies nationwide, there is plenty of lucrative work opportunities for internationals in Canada. On top of this, according to Numbeo.com, the average salary in Canada can be up to three times the salary for the same job in Russia.

Find out how you can apply for a job in Canada here.

Diversity

Canada is diverse, and you'll find various cultures and religions worldwide. As a result, the general population welcomes outsiders, and you'll likely find a community where you fit perfectly in Canada.

Learn more about Canada's multiculturalism here.

Weather

As a Russian, you can likely handle the freezing Canadian winters. However, you'll also find a range of climates in Canada, from the hot summers in the south to the cold winters in the north. Canada is also hugely responsive to its weather and has a host of fantastic activities for both summer and winter to ensure you can enjoy Canada year-round.

Healthcare

The Canadian healthcare system is one of the best in the world, and you'll be able to access quality healthcare services. In addition, the entire system is funded by tax, meaning you won't have to pay expensive medical bills while still having access to high-quality care.

Learn more about Canada's healthcare system here.

Education

According to the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development's (OECD) latest survey in 2021, Canada was the most educated country in the world, with most of its population achieving tertiary qualifications. This is partly due to Canada's world-class education system, both at a university level with some of the best universities in the world and with a hugely respected public education system, ensuring all Canadians get a world-class education.

Learn more about Canada's education system here.

If you want to learn more about the great reasons to move to Canada, here's a full breakdown of some of Canada's top benefits to help you decide.

Tips to Immigrate to Canada from Russia Successfully

When ensuring successful immigration to Canada from Russia, research and preparation are essential. Here are a few tips to help with the process:

Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria for the visa you're applying for.
Gather the necessary documents and paperwork for the visa application.
Check the Canadian immigration website for updates and changes to the immigration process.
Make sure you have a valid passport and other travel documents.
Research the area you plan to move to in Canada.
Find out about the cost of living in Canada.
Utilize the services of a professional immigration expert like an RCIC to start on the right foot.

FAQs

Here are some of the most commonly asked questions about settling in Canada as a Russian.

What are the Canadian Immigration Requirements for Russians?

Requirements differ depending on your immigration program. However, you can be considered inadmissible to Canada if you have committed a serious criminal offence in Russia. Here's a breakdown of what can make you inadmissible to Canada.

Where do Russians Settle in Canada?

From the late 1900s, Russian communities were established in the following areas:

How Long Does it Take to Move to Canada from Russia?

This will likely depend on your chosen immigration program, as each has different processing times.

Find out more about Canadian immigration processing times here.

Cross the Bering Strait to a Bright New Future

With an incredible wealth of opportunities and benefits waiting for you in Canada, it's evident that Canada is a fantastic option. However moving to Canada from Russia can be a daunting process, but it can also be a rewarding one. The correct information and preparation can make the process smoother and more successful. In addition, Canada welcomes people from all over the world. It offers a range of opportunities and benefits to those moving to Canada.

If you want to start your journey to Canada today, get in touch with one of our RCICs. Our RCICs can fill out your application forms, set up your online profiles, help you verify your documentation, represent you with certain government authorities and provide you with the support you need to start your Canadian journey.