Immigrate to Canada from Greece – 5 Pathways, Requirements, Timeline

There are over 100 immigration programs to immigrate to Canada from Greece. In fact, Greece is a top source country of Canada immigration. For example, you might relocate to Canada as a foreign skilled worker, an international student, or a skilled professional from Athens, Thessaloniki, Patras, or Heraklion, or be sponsored by a family member who is a Canadian permanent resident or citizen.

Greek nationals and residents wish to immigrate to Canada for a variety of reasons. These include the following:

• to continue or further their studies
• pursuing better jobs
• looking for a better future for the families, and likewise,
• searching for career opportunities in Canada.
• to search for better living conditions
• e.t.c

Similarly, Canada is looking for immigrants from Greece and from all over the world to help in the recovery of it economy meltdown due to the wreckage caused by the Covid-19. For example, Canada recently planned significant increases in immigration levels for the years 2021 through 2023. This and many more government policies indicate that Canada is in dire need of Skilled immigrants from Greece.

History of Greece in Canada

In 1901, there were 213 Greek immigrants in Canada; in 1931, there were 5,580; and in 1941, there were 5,871. During WWII, immigration was prohibited, but between 1946 and 1981, over 116,300 Greek immigrants entered Canada.

According to the 2016 census, there are 271,405 Greeks in Canada. The bulk of these people live in the provinces of Ontario and Quebec (148,550 and 71,330, respectively.)

At that time, Canada appeared to be the best destination for Greek nationals to escape the horrible situation they were in as a result of the Greek revolution, economic crisis, and unemployment.

Currently, Both countries shares diplomatic ties and are members of NATO, the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development, and the World Trade Organization. The Greek Embassy in Canada also located in Ottawa, Ontario.

Requirements for immigrating to Canada from Greece

Now, let’s have a look at the requirements for immigrating to Canada from Greece now that we’ve covered some of the reasons for their immigration.

1. Valid passport
2. Proof of Citizenship
3. Proof of funds
4. Language proficiency in English or French
5. Education credentials (if you are Immigrating for work)
6. Work experience (if Immigrating for work)
7. Police character certificate
8. Medical examination results (valid for 12 months)

Basically, you will need to provide the above proof when you apply to immigrate to Canada from Greece. Now it’s time to get down to business!

Valid International Passport

The first and most important requirement is that you must have a valid passport. In addition, you will need to provide proof of your Greek citizenship if you have other proofs other than your Greek Passport.

Proof of Funds

Many prospective immigrants from Greece often wonder how much money they need to relocate to Canada as permanent residents. Basically, the amount needed to establish proof of funds (otherwise known as settlement funds), cost of processing the application and flight tickets vary between CAD$15,000 to CAD $20,000. In simple terms, you need about €11,000 to €15,000 euros to immigrate to Canada.

Furthermore, you will also need to show that you have enough money to support yourself and your family after you arrive in Canada. The amount of money required will depend on the size of your family. Refer to the table below for details if you’re coming with dependents.

Language Proficiency

To Immigrate to Canada from Greece, you will also need to prove that you have a basic knowledge of either English or French. You can show your proficiency in English or French or both by taking a language test approved by the Canadian government. See tables below to learn about grading of language tests for immigration.

Education Credentials

In addition, you will need to provide an Educational Credential Assessment report for immigration purposes from a designated organization for either a Canadian educational credential or a foreign educational credential to prove that your foreign certificate is equivalent to a completed Canadian educational credential.

Work experience

Likewise, you must have completed at least one year of continuous full-time work (or the equivalent in continuous part-time work) in a skilled occupation designated in Skill Type 0, or Skill Level A or B of Canada’s National Occupational Classification in 2023. (NOC).

Police Character Certificate

In addition to the above, you may also be required to provide a police certificate when applying for permanent residence in Canada. A police certificate is an official document that states whether you have a criminal record in Greece. But, if you have a criminal record, this does not necessarily mean that you will be ineligible to Immigrate to Canada from Greece. The decision will be made based on the type of crime, when it occurred and other factors.

Medical Examination

Finally, as part of the application process for permanent residency in Canada, you and your family members must undergo a medical examination. The results of the medical examination are valid for a period of 12 months from the date of completion.

Best 4 Pathways to Immigrate to Canada from Greece

Below are the different pathways that you can successfully take to immigrate from Greece to Canada.

#1. Express Entry

In general, the Express Entry system is used by Canada to manage applications for three different immigration programs. The Federal Skilled Worker Class, Federal Skilled Trades Class, and Canadian Experience Class are the three.

Likewise, for newcomers seeking a new life in Canada, Express Entry is the quickest and most popular route.

The Comprehensive Ranking System, which is used by Express Entry, assigns points to candidates based on their eligibility (CRS).

It is not necessary to have a job offer to enter or be chosen from the Express Entry pool. Those who already have a job, however, receive additional Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score points.

#2. Provincial Nominee Programs

Also, you may be able to immigrate to Canada through one of the Provincial Nominee Programs if you are not eligible for Express Entry (PNP).

The provinces of Canada do not have the authority to grant permanent resident status. They can, however, help your application by nominating you for permanent residence through the federal government’s Express Entry system.

Applicants under the PNP category, on the other hand, are normally required to live in the individual provinces after they arrive in Canada. Furthermore, to be eligible for most PNPs, you must have a job offer from a Canadian business.

• Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program (AINP)
• British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BCPNP)
• Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP)
• Newfoundland and Labrador Provincial Nominee Program (NLPNP)
• New Brunswick Provincial Nominee Program (NBPNP)
• Nova Scotia Provincial Nominee ProgBram (NSPNP)
• Northwest Territories Nominee Program (NTNP)
• Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP)
• Prince Edward Island Provincial Nominee Program (PEI PNP)
• Quebec Skilled Workers Program (QSWP)
• Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP)
• Yukon Nominee Program (YNP)

How does PNP nomination help your application?

Basically, Candidates who are nominated earn 600 points added to their federal Express Entry CRS score.

The extra 600 points almost ensure that you will be invited to apply for Canadian permanent residence.

In addition. for an Express Entry PNP draw, a minimum score of 700 or above is usually required. Other Express Entry programs, on the other hand, require scores in the 400s.

As a result, applicants nominated by their province simply need to score in the high 100s in core human capital to be invited.

#3. Canada’s Start-Up Visa Program

Essentially, the Canada start-up visa program allows entrepreneurs with unique business ideas to immigrate to Canada.

As a matter of fact, during this epidemic recovery, Canada needs entrepreneurs like you to help strengthen the economy and create jobs.

#4. Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program

Likewise, the Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program is a program for skilled workers and international graduates who want to Immigrate to Canada and live in one of the four Atlantic provinces:

• Newfoundland and Labrador
• Prince Edward Island
• Nova Scotia
• New Brunswick

To be eligible for the Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program, you must first have a job offer from a designated employer in one of the four Atlantic provinces. Furthermore, you will then need to create an Express Entry profile and receive a notification of interest from the province.

The processing time for applications under the Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program is usually around six (6) months. Fees charged for application depend on which kind of program you choose, however you should budget at least $850 plus additional $515 for right of permanent residency fee. Learn more about Canada Immigration fees here.

#5. International Students Pathway

Finally, the international student study permit is a popular route for international students to become permanent residents of Canada.

Working while studying is permissible under some conditions. More crucially, you can get a Post-Graduation Work Permit once you graduate (PGWP).

After graduation, the PGWP allows you to work in Canada for up to three years. This is crucial since any employment experience you get in Canada will boost your PR application.

Easy Steps to immigrate to Canada from Greece

Fundamentally, to immigrate to Canada from Greece, follow the steps below:

Step 1. Identify the best program under the express entry or other types of program.

Step 2. Check if you are eligible for the program. Each program requires different documents which must be complete.

Step 3. Gather all the necessary documents.

Step 4. Create an express entry profile, especially if you will use express entry or provincial programs to immigrate to Canada. If you are using other pathways, you will not need an express entry account.

Step 5. Get an invitation to apply if you qualify.

Step 6. Get a job offer or letter of acceptance from a Canadian university. If you re moving to Canada to work or study.

Step 7. Receive your permanent resident visa, work visa or study visa from IRCC.

Step 8. Welcome to Canada!

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Frequently Asked Questions

How much money do you need to immigrate to Canada from Greece?

In most cases, a single applicant will need about CAD $15,420 to come to Canada, which includes evidence of money, government fees, and other costs. Sometimes, a couple would typically need around $20,000 CAD to move to Canada, which includes evidence of money, government fees, and other costs.

What is the easiest way to immigrate to Canada from Greece?

Checkout these 5 Options for immigrating to Canada from Greece:

• Express Entry Program.
• The Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP)
• Canada’s Start-Up Visa Program
• Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program
• International Students Pathway

How long does it take to immigrate to Canada from Greece?

Normally, the usual wait period is roughly 6 months, but if you apply in person, it could take up to 18 months. In addition, Make sure you have everything you’ll need for your move to Canada ready during this period.

Why did Greek people immigrate to Canada?

Actually, the Greek revolution was a crucial factor in these immigration (1821-1836). Then there was Greece’s economic collapse and Political dictatorship.

Can I move to Canada without a job?

Absolutely Yes! You can relocate to Canada without a job offer. if you follow the PNP program. A work offer from a provincial company is not required for PNP. With the exception of Nunavut and Quebec, the PNP covers all of Canada’s provinces and territories.

Conclusion

To sum up, there’s absolutely many reasons for you to immigrate to Canada from Greece. In fact, The Canadian government has put into place policies that enable you to easily transition from Greece to Canada. The above guide will aid you in your quest! Hope you find this guide useful? Thank you for reading!