Although there are several types of Canadian visas, potential immigrants to Canada prefer the "skilled workers and professionals" visa type. For starters, you do not need a previous job offer from a Canadian employer to apply for this visa. Practicing a profession that is in demand in Canada is more likely to land you an approval. More info on this subject can be found at the Canadian Citizenship and Immigration website: http://www.cic.gc.ca/.
Applying for the right visa classification can get you a better chance of being accepted. Besides the work visa, other types include student visas, investor/self-employed person visas, and family visas.It is a good idea to review the various types on the Canadian immigration website to see which one fits you and your family best.
After choosing the visa that fits you best, you will need to print the correct application from the Canadian immigration website. After filling out the necessary information and paying the application fees, you are ready to submit it. The review process may take a while so it is best to do it promptly and well in advance of your move.
Things that may hinder your application involve past criminal offenses as well as health issues that may keep you from passing the medical examination required by the Canadian government. Once you are approved, you will be sent a permanent resident visa, as well as a confirmation of permanent residence which you must have with you upon your arrival in Canada.
Before you leave, decide what to sell and what to keep since shipping all of your belongings plus the costs of storing everything while you search for a new place to live will be remarkably expensive. Keep these expenses in mind and add them to your moving budget.
As previously stated, it is a good idea to give yourself a lot of time to plan your move thoroughly. This allows for possible delays with the approval of your visa as well. Upon your arrival, you will need to talk to a Canadian Border Services Agency officer. The job of the CBSA officer is to ensure that you are legally cleared to stay in the country. The officer will check your permanent residence confirmation, passport, and your visa. It is best to have this information on your person when you arrive to prevent delays.
Once you are cleared to live in the country, you will need to find a place to live. Careful planning makes this much easier. Researching cities and neighborhoods before you arrive will simplify this task and reduce stress. Once you have found a place to live and a new career, you have truly achieved your goal. Although this may take time, planning ahead and giving yourself adequate time will make everything easier.