Decide which immigration program is best for you and your family; determine if you meet the criteria. The different categories are: skilled workers and professionals; Quebec-selected skilled workers; people who graduated or have recent work experience in Canada; investors, entrepreneurs and self-employed people; provincial nominees and family members of Canadian citizens. You can find full details of criteria for these groups on Canada's Citizenship and Immigration website.
Take a language test with an approved agency to prove your proficiency in English (or French if you are immigrating to Quebec). Include the results with your application. This is an essential part of the application, so consider taking language classes before the test if you need to.
Download an application pack from the Citizenship and Immigration website and read through the guidelines. Complete the form and attach all the required documents. Be aware that incomplete forms or applications without the right documents will be returned to you for completion. Mail or take your completed application to the Canadian High Commission in London.
Use the online calculator to work out your application fees. You will also have to pay the costs of a medical examination and a police certificate. Some categories of applicant may be able to pay fees online.
Prepare for life in Canada if your application is accepted. Research the laws and look for information on government, health care and education. Find out about the cost of living and look for organizations that support immigrants. There are useful resources on the Citizenship and Immigration website.
