Canada’s commitment to welcome a significant number of new permanent residents, with a target of 500,000 by 2025, has made it an attractive destination for immigrants worldwide. Among them, a growing community of approximately 100,000 Bangladeshi-origin Canadians attests to Canada’s appeal. This article explores the most popular immigration pathways for Bangladeshi nationals to Canada, highlighting the opportunities for economic growth, education, and access to social services.
The Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP):
The Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) stands as a favorable option for applicants from Bangladesh. It allows individuals with work experience and no existing Canadian connections or job offers to apply for permanent residence. Managed under the Express Entry system, the FSWP assesses candidates based on key factors:
- Work Experience: Candidates must have at least one year of continuous full-time or equivalent paid work experience in a skilled occupation classified under NOC categories 0, 1, 2, or 3 within the past 10 years.
- Language Skills: Proficiency equivalent to Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) 7 in English or French is required across all abilities.
- Education: Applicants should hold a Canadian educational credential or a foreign credential along with an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) report.
- Selection Factors: A minimum score of 67 points is necessary on IRCC‘s six immigration selection factors.
- Financial Capability: Demonstrating the ability to support oneself and family in Canada is crucial.
Candidates eligible for the FSWP can apply through Express Entry, where their profiles are assessed based on factors like age, education, work experience, and language proficiency, among others. Additionally, recent draws have prioritized candidates with strong French language proficiency or specific work experience, enhancing opportunities for applicants.
The Quebec Skilled Worker Program (QSWP):
Quebec offers its own immigration programs, including the Regular Skilled Worker Program (QSWP). Selection under the QSWP is based on education, language skills, work experience, and ties to Quebec. Bangladeshi nationals interested in immigrating through the QSWP should express their interest by completing an expression of interest (EOI) form. The Ministry of Immigration, Francization, and Integration (MIFI) selects candidates from the pool and invites them to apply for permanent selection.
The Provincial Nominee Program (PNP):
Canada’s provinces and territories (except Quebec and Nunavut) operate the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), providing diverse immigration pathways tailored to their demographic and job market needs. Candidates can apply directly to a specific PNP program if they meet the eligibility criteria. Express Entry candidates may also receive provincial nominations, granting them an additional 600 CRS points for guaranteed invitations to apply for permanent residence.
Work Permits:
Foreign nationals from Bangladesh can come to Canada for work by obtaining Canadian work permits. These permits are divided into two programs:
- Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP): Requires a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) to demonstrate a positive or neutral effect on the Canadian job market. Typically, a job offer from a Canadian employer is necessary.
- International Mobility Program (IMP): Doesn’t require an LMIA and offers open work permits, allowing holders to work in various Canadian locations.
Study Permits:
Canada has witnessed a significant influx of international students, including over 3,800 Bangladeshi students in 2023. Study permits are highly sought after because they grant students the opportunity to work while studying and provide a pathway to permanent residency. To obtain a study permit, applicants must secure acceptance from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) among the 1,500+ options available in Canada.
Canada’s diverse immigration pathways and welcoming policies make it an appealing destination for Bangladeshi nationals seeking economic prosperity, education, and access to social services. Whether through skilled worker programs, provincial nominations, work permits, or study permits, Canada offers numerous avenues for individuals from Bangladesh to start a new chapter in this vibrant and inclusive nation.
