Moving to Canada from the UK

Whether you’re starting the process to enter Canada or are already able to claim citizenship and settle permanently, here are some of the most asked questions about Canadian visas from the UK.
Can I hold two Canadian visas in my passport?
Yes, as long as you enter on the right visa. For example, you might still have a valid student visa and have applied for the International Experience Canada (IEC) scheme and have been granted a work permit. If you try to enter Canada on your student visa or as a tourist, this will cause issues. Always declare the correct visa on entry to avoid any problems when entering the UK.
Do I qualify for the IEC?
The requirements and other frequently asked questions can be found here. Generally, you’ll need to be between the ages of 18-30 (or 35 for some routes) with good financial standing and be from a participating country. Canada has agreements with 30 countries for the IEC with the UK being on the list. Generally, coming from a commonwealth country means you qualify for the IEC as long as you meet the age and financial requirements. It’s important to note that you’ll also need a valid passport and health insurance for the entire duration of your stay in Canada.
I want to apply for a Canadian passport, what do I do?
If you’ve met the requirements to apply for Canadian citizenship and have done so, you can now apply for your Canadian passport. You can pick up a passport application at participating locations (or print one online). The requirements for the Canadian passport photos are the same as those around the world. These photos can be taken at CAA (free for members), some drug stores (like Shoppers Drug Mart), or by other photographers.
The passport photo is important as it must meet the requirements in order to be accepted. If you’re going through an independent photographer who hasn’t done passport photos before, ensure your photos are in front of a plain white background with good lighting and no glare. Remove your glasses and keep a neutral face, as well.
How long does it take to get my visa?
Processing times change depending on the time of year and the number of applications they’ve received. Generally, your visa decision will take between 2-4 weeks or potentially longer. This processing time starts once the government has received your application, not from when you sent it.
Moving to Canada from the UK (whether temporarily or permanently) can come with a lot of questions. We hope this has answered some of them for you. Remember, it’s important to follow the requirements specific to the visa you’re aiming to apply for.
This information can be accessed on the Canadian government’s website or by going through an external agency to help you with the application and process. This way, you can ensure an expert will be helping you through the whole journey.