Immigration and Right Timing
You have probably heard this saying that “timing is everything” but let me insist that in immigration, that’s the NUMBER ONE RULE.
Immigration is a unique area of the law that changes frequently. Rules and programs change based on immigration and foreign policies of the government towards growing the population, providing labour and financial capital for the economy.
To illustrate the significance of timing in immigration, I will give you an example. In July of 2015, the former government of Canada made it more difficult to attain citizenship in Canada. You must have been physically present in Canada for four years in a six-year period with a minimum of one hundred eighty-three days in each of the four years. Two years later, on October 11, 2017, the liberal government changed some of the citizenship requirements including physical presence requirement. As a result of Bill C-6 became law, and as of October 11, 2017, you must only be physically present in Canada for 3 out of the last 5 years with no minimum number of days per year, before applying for citizenship. Also, days spent in Canada before becoming a permanent resident (as a temporary resident or protected person) within 5 years of applying for citizenship, count as ½ days, up to a maximum of 1 year (365 days).
Changes as result of Bill C-6 also affected the language and knowledge requirements for citizenship application. Only if you are between 18 years old and 54 years old, you must meet language (English or French) requirements and take the Citizenship Test. Therefore, new regulations made it easier again to obtain Canadian citizenship.
This is a clear example of fast and frequent change in immigration. If you were eligible to apply to get Canadian citizenship in 2015 and you delayed in submitting your application, you may have had to wait another 2 years or more to become eligible to apply.
The point is, you always need to be aware of your status and current regulations in immigration. At the end of the day, timing could help you get ahead and use the available programs and opportunities to get a visa, immigrate or attain Canadian citizenship. If you think you might be eligible to apply for Permanent Residency or Citizenship, don’t hesitate and don’t waste any time.
To find out if you are eligible to apply for permanent residency, or citizenship or to get help with your applications, contact us now and we make sure that we direct you to the right direction. Remember, TIMING is very important!
