Maybe you’ve been thinking about starting life in a whole new country abroad. You’ve racked your brain deciding what location would be best. You have considered all factors, and your brainstorming has made you pick Canada. Relocating to a new country is a huge decision that needs a lot of careful planning, preparation, and financial management. For many Africans that are looking for a new opportunity, Canada represents a welcoming destination with its diverse culture, economic stability, and high standard of living. However, the process of moving abroad can be daunting, especially when it comes to managing finances and switching from your local currency to the Canadian Dollar. That is why we at Kaoshi Network are here to help you. In this article, we’ll be showing you why picking Canada is an excellent choice and how you can navigate the financial aspects of the relocation plan.
Why Canada?
There are a lot of reasons why Canada might be the best option for you to relocate to. Canada consistently ranks high in global quality of life indices due to its excellent healthcare system, high levels of safety and security, clean environment, and access to quality education.
Canada also prides itself on its cultural diversity, it welcomes people from all backgrounds and cultures. Africans relocating to Canada can experience a welcoming and inclusive society where diversity is celebrated.
It also boasts of world-renowned educational institutions offering high-quality education at all levels, from primary schools to universities and colleges. Africans relocating to Canada can access excellent educational opportunities for themselves and their children, paving the way for academic and career success.
Due to their economic stability, Canada offers numerous employment opportunities across various sectors, including technology, healthcare, finance, and engineering. These and numerous other benefits are the perks you get after relocating to Canada.
The Process of Relocation.
- Visa eligibility and choosing the suitable Immigration program.
The very first thing you need when planning your move to Canada is to check whether you need an entry visa or not. Some specific groups of people can enter without a visa or with only an electronic authorization.
Once you have identified if you need a visa or not, you can begin the Canadian visa application process. First, you need to create an online account on Canada’s immigration website, and then answer a few questions to determine your eligibility for the visa. If you are eligible, your email will be required of you so you can receive instructions for your specific visa type, a host of other things like the required documents and a reference code will be sent to you. Take note of the reference number since you will need it for the remainder of your application. Then, you will receive instructions on how to submit your application, online or in person:
- If you can submit your application online, then you have to either create a Government of Canada login (GCKey) account or use your banking details (if applicable).
- For in-person applications, you have to prepare your documents and submit them to a local Canadian representative office in your country of residence.
When it comes to immigration and immigrants, the Canadian government offers a lot of programs depending on the reason for your relocation. Therefore, it is important to go through the list of programs and pick the one that best suits you. Example of the Immigration programs offered are:
- Express Entry: This is a points-based system for skilled workers and professionals.
- Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs): Provincial-specific programs designed to address labour market needs and attract immigrants to specific regions.
- Family Sponsorship: For individuals with family members who are Canadian citizens or permanent residents.
- Study Permit: For international students pursuing education at Canadian universities or colleges.
- Work Permit: For individuals with job offers from Canadian employers.
2. Gather your documents.
Once you’re done with the selection of your desired immigration program, depending on the one you selected, you will be required to gather relevant documents. It may not be the same for everybody, and that is why it is advised to choose a program relevant to you. Some of the documents you may be required to gather depending on your program are:
- Passport and travel documents
- Educational credentials and transcripts
- Language proficiency test results (e.g., IELTS or CELPIP for English, or TEF for French)
- Work experience letters and reference letters.
- Proof of funds to support yourself and your family during your initial stay in Canada.
- Medical examination results and police clearance certificates.
3. Submit your application.
Complete the application forms for your chosen immigration program accurately and truthfully because the applications will undergo a series of reviews. You will also be required to pay the required application fees. We know how daunting it can be having to pay for things abroad, especially with the rates being extremely unstable. That is why at Kaoshi Network, you can set your own rates when sending money from Africa to the diaspora, Canada inclusive. We also offer services that enable you to swap your local currency for the CAD.
Go ahead and submit your application online or by mail, following the instructions provided by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Ensure all supporting documents meet the specified requirements and are included in your application to improve the chances of an approval.
4. Attend Interviews and Medical Examination.
Sometimes, they require you to attend interviews be it virtual or in-person. This is so you can provide additional information requested by immigration authorities. Make sure to attend with all your relevant documents just in case.
Undergo medical examinations conducted by approved panel physicians to ensure you meet the health requirements for immigration to Canada.
5. Receive Approval Documentation
Congratulations! Once your application is approved, you will receive a confirmation of permanent residence (COPR) and a permanent resident visa (if applicable).
If you applied through the Express Entry program, you would also receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence. If you applied for a study or work permit, you would receive the necessary documentation to legally reside and work or study in Canada. What a long way you’ve come.
6. Prepare for Arrival
Now that everything is set. It’s time to start planning financially for your arrival. If you’re there for education, you would need to pay your fees and at Kaoshi Network, we offer you the flexibility of setting your preferred rate while converting your fees from Naira to CAD to do just that . You can also do the same for accommodation, travel etc.
Make travel arrangements to Canada and ensure you have adequate accommodation upon arrival. It would also be good to familiarize yourself with Canadian culture, laws, and customs to ease your transition into a life in Canada.
7. Settle Down.
When you finally arrive, activate your permanent resident status by presenting your confirmation of permanent residence (COPR) and permanent resident visa (if applicable) to immigration officials. It would also be necessary to apply for a Social Insurance Number (SIN) and access essential services such as healthcare, banking, and education. Begin your job search or enroll in educational programs to further your career or academic goals in Canada.
Explore your new surroundings, connect with local communities, and embrace the opportunities and experiences that Canada has to offer. You can swap your local currency for Canadian Dollars on Kaoshi Network at your own rate, then go to the bank and make withdrawals so you can have some cash at your disposal.
Relocating to Canada offers Africans a wealth of opportunities for personal, professional, and financial growth. However, the journey can be challenging, especially when it comes to managing finances and navigating cross-border transactions. At Kaoshi Network, we’re here to ease those concerns and make the process a lot more comfortable financially. Head over to kaoshinetwork.com to get started with the process now so your dream can now become your reality.
