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How to Migrate from Dubai to Canada: Step-by-Step Guide for UAE Residents
Migrating from Dubai to Canada is a dream for many residents of the UAE, given Canada’s high standard of living, multicultural environment, and strong economy. Whether you are looking to pursue better career opportunities, bring your family, or settle in a country that offers permanent residency and eventual citizenship, Canada is a top destination. This guide explains everything you need to know about the Canada visa process for UAE residents, especially those living in Dubai.
Why Move from UAE to Canada?
- Permanent Residency (PR)
Canada offers several pathways to PR, which allows you to live and work in the country indefinitely.
- Family-Friendly Migration Terms
With a strong economy, there is demand for skilled workers across sectors.
- Free Healthcare and Education
Residents and citizens enjoy access to world-class healthcare and public education.
- Thriving Job Market
Canada encourages family reunification and offers multiple sponsorship options.
Key Immigration Pathways from Dubai to Canada
Express Entry
The Express Entry system is the fastest and most popular route for skilled professionals. It includes three programs:
- Federal Skilled Worker
- Federal Skilled Trades
- Canada Experience Class
Basic Eligibility:
- Age under 45 (ideal for higher points)
- Minimum 1 year of skilled work experience
- CLB 7 in IELTS or equivalent English test
- Educational Credential Assessment (ECA)
- Proof of funds
- TIPS
You create an online profile and enter the Express Entry pool, where you’re ranked using the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). If your score meets or exceeds the cut-off, you get an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for PR.
Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
If your CRS score is not high enough, you can apply through a PNP, where provinces nominate candidates based on local labor market needs. Many PNPs have streams for overseas workers, especially those with job offers or experience in high-demand occupations.
Popular provinces include:
- Ontario
- Saskatchewan
- British Columbia
- Alberta
Some PNPs are aligned with Express Entry, offering faster processing.
- MORE OPTIONS TO MIGRATE TO CANADA
Canada Work Visa from UAE
If you're interested in working first and then applying for PR, you can apply for a Canada work visa through one of these options:
- Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP): Requires a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) from a Canadian employer.
- International Mobility Program (IMP): No LMIA required. Includes intra-company transfers and other exempt categories.
- Global Talent Stream: Fast-tracked visa for tech professionals.
Note: Work visas do not automatically lead to PR, but Canadian work experience boosts your Express Entry CRS score.
Study Visa
Studying in Canada is a strategic way to gain a quality education and qualify for Post Graduate Work Permits (PGWP). After studying and gaining work experience, you can transition to PR through Express Entry.
Family Sponsorship
If you have close family members who are Canadian citizens or PR holders, they can sponsor you under Canada's family reunification programs.