Have you been asking yourself why haven't you applied to move to Canada already? You are not alone.         

Many people worldwide ask that very same question as Canada plans to invite over 1.2 million newcomers to come to the beautiful country. With the highest number of educated adults in the world, a stellar healthcare and education system, which is free to all Canadian citizens and permanent residents, and a wealth of employment opportunities, it's no surprise why Canada has become one of the top destinations amongst foreigners looking for a new place to call home.   

Whether you want to work, study or live in Canada, there are over 100 Canadian immigration programs and visas available to Chileans.    

So, let's take a closer look at some of those programs and how to apply for a Canadian visa from Chile in 2021.  

Top 4 Canadian Visas for Chileans 

To Immigrate: Express Entry

The Express Entry system is not only one of the most popular and efficient Canadian visa application processes, but it is also one that offers the highest number of Invitations to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency.

According to Canada's 2021 - 2023 Immigration Levels Plan, the Express Entry system programs, namely The Federal Skilled Worker Program, The Federal Skilled Trade Program, and Canada Experience Program will offer between 81,000 to 110,250 ITAs in 2021 alone! When applying for your Express Entry visa from Chile, you will need to complete your online profile containing information about your age, education, language skills in English or French, work experience (if any), and ability to adjust to Canadian life.    

Your profile will be ranked according to the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), after which you will receive a CRS score. Every two weeks, there is an Express Entry draw from a pool of eligible candidates. Those with the highest CRS scores will receive an invitation to apply for Canadian permanent residency.

Learn more here about Canada's Express Entry system.  

Work: International Mobility Program

Have you always dreamt of working in Canada? As a Chilean professional, you may have an added edge over other Canadian visa applicants. On February 5, 2019, Canada entered into an open, inclusive, and progressive trade agreement with Chile known as the Canada-Chile Free Trade Agreement (CCFTA). Originally launched in 1997, it has since been incredibly successful and was the first trade agreement that Canada declared with a South American country.     

CCFTA applicants can apply for a Canadian work visa under one of four categories: 

  • Business visitors (no work permit required);
  • Professionals (work permit required but LMIA exempt);
  • Intra-company transferees (work permit required but LMIA exempt); or
  • Trade and Investors (work permit required but LMIA exempt).

Each category has its own set of requirements, which are similar to the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). Depending on your occupation, you will need to meet specific education qualifications and credentials as well as have a valid job offer in Canada and provide proof of your Chilean citizenship.    

Your employer will have to submit the offer of employment through the Employer Portal and give you an offer of employment number, which you will be able to use to apply for a Canadian work visa.

Study: Student Permit

Canada has one of the best education systems in the world, and its universities and colleges certainly hold their own when ranked against other educational institutions globally. In fact, three Canadian universities have been ranked among the top 100 universities worldwide! 

Besides getting a world-class education, studying at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada could lead to the opportunity to stay and work in Canada through programs such as the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program (PGWPP) or various graduate programs under Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs).   

To apply for a study permit from Chile, you will need: 

  • An acceptance letter from your DLI;
  • A valid passport or travel document; 
  • Medical exams;
  • Police clearance;
  • Language tests;
  • Biometrics; and
  • Proof of sufficient funds to support yourself while you're in Canada.

You will have to submit your application online and will be able to check your status via your account.

Travel: eTA or Visitor's Visa?

Canada has some of the most breathtaking places to explore. The Canadian Rockies, Lake Louise, Banff National Park, Whistler Ski Resort, the Northern Lights, beautiful architecture of Old Montreal, bustling streets of Toronto, the list of must-see-sights goes on and on. Most visitors can stay for up to six months on their visit, and the best part is that as a citizen of Chile, you don't need a visitor's visa.  

All you will need is an eTA, which you can apply for online and will be electronically linked to your passport.

Canadian Visa Application Process: What Are Your Options?

As a Canadian visa applicant, you can choose to either complete and submit your application on your own or hire a representative to do it for you. Having someone who knows the Canadian visa application process like the back of their hand and can guide you on which Canadian immigration programs you qualify for is not only the better option but could also save you a lot of time and stress.  

For more information on how to apply for a Canadian visa from Chile, as well as the visa application process, visit CanadianVisa.org.    

Traveling to Canada from Mexico? check here.