Immigrate to Canada from Zimbabwe – Requirements, Costs, Application

Every year, there are thousands of people looking to immigrate to Canada from Zimbabwe. For Zimbabweans looking to make this move, it should please you to know that your dream is possible.

Therefore, through this article, we intend to walk you through what you most likely know; the things you stand to gain by moving to Canada, what you may already know; what you need when you’re moving to Canada as a Zimbabwean national, and what you probably don’t know; what pathways are there for your immigration, and how much it could potentially cost.

Why Immigrate to Canada from Zimbabwe?

There are several things to gain by moving to Canada. Just ask the Zimbabwean Canadians; Zimbabweans who dwell in Canada or Canadians who reside in Zimbabwe. Admittedly, there is a whole spectrum of personal reasons why people will move to Canada from Zimbabwe. However, we shall now explore the most recurring of reasons. These reasons are the ones that genuinely affect nearly everyone.

Furthering Education

One of the main reasons people migrate in mass from Zimbabwe to Canada is to get to the next level of education. It could be either undergraduate or postgraduate education.

Canada has a high standard of education, one that rivals countries like the United States, the United Kingdom, Russia, etc. It also has relatively cheaper universities than most contemporaries, hence the rush for Canadian education.

Easy Immigration Process

It is no news that Canada has one of the most straightforward immigration procedures among the best countries in the world. As a result, it is easier to get a Canadian Visa and gain permanent residency in Canada than in most other first-world countries.

Affordable Lifestyle

Like education in Canada, the general cost of living in Canada is lower than you would find in most first-world countries. This means you can make a lot while spending significantly less as a Zimbabwean national in Canada. This makes it the perfect place to raise a home, build a career and establish yourself.

Chasing Better Opportunities

Indeed, cities like Bulawayo and Masvingo have fantastic job opportunities for Zimbabweans. However, you can hardly compare them to the job market in places like Vancouver, Montreal, Toronto, etc. The Canadian economy is easily one of the top 10 in the world; hence, it is not uncommon for Zimbabweans to go there seeking a better life.

Requirements for Migrating to Canada from Zimbabwe

Now we’re done talking about what the future holds for you as a Zimbabwean in Canada; let us talk about requirements. Like any other country, Canada has certain things you must meet to immigrate to the country. Here are some of such requirements;

• Finding an Occupation in Demand
• Proving Language Proficiency
• Showing Educational Qualification
• Proof of Zimbabwean citizenship
• Proof of funds ($12,000 USD to $16,000 USD)
• Medical Reports
• Criminal Records

Occupation In Demand

When you want to migrate to Canada from Zimbabwe, it often makes it easier when you have an occupation in demand in any of the provinces. That way, you can apply to that province and increase your chances of having your visa approved. Here is a list of some of the in-demand jobs in various Canadian Provinces, together with their NOC codes;

Language Proficiency

Canada is a culturally diverse country with many languages and people. However, there are only two official languages in the country; English and French. As a Zimbabwean who wants to Immigrate to Canada, your first point of call would be to prove your proficiency in English (one of Zimbabwe’s official languages). The most popular language exam for the English language is the IELTS. Here are the approved English language scores for IELTS using the Canadian Language Benchmark.

IELTS, however, is not the only option. If, as a Zimbabwean, you somehow attain proficiency in French and wish to immigrate to Quebec, you could use French Language proficiency tests to boost your chances. Here are the French language test scores required for immigration using the Canadian Language Benchmark.

Educational Qualification

Suppose you intend to come work in Canada, especially in professional courses. In that case, you will also need to prove that you have at least the minimum level of education in that area. For example, some jobs require diplomas, undergraduate degrees, master’s degrees, etc. Generally, one way to immigrate to Canada from Zimbabwe is to ensure you’re qualified for the job you want.

Even if your primary intention is not to work, Canada will more easily approve your visa if you have a higher educational qualification because it means you are more likely to contribute to the Canadian economy. Score points for various educational qualifications are listed below;

Proof of Zimbabwean Citizenship

Obviously, before immigrating to Canada, you will need proof of citizenship from the country you’re from, in this case, Zimbabwe. The primary proof of Zimbabwean citizenship is your national passport.

Proof of Funds

When you move to Canada initially, you will need a lot of money to settle in, find a place to stay, pay initial expenses till you get a job, etc. Typically, settling down in Canada for short to medium-term period will take about CA$15,000 to CA$20,000. This is equivalent to 12,000 to 16,000 Zimbabwean dollars.

Hence, before moving to Canada from Zimbabwe, you will need to prove that you have this much to be approved. As financial advice, you should probably apply to provinces with lesser housing costs.

Medical Reports

While applying for a Canadian Visa, you’ll also need to undergo a medical examination and present a report. The said medical report must be dated no more than 12 months before application. It is an essential part of the process.

Criminal Record Report

Finally, you’ll need to present a criminal records report, or a police certificate, signifying whether or not you have a criminal record in Zimbabwe. You may not be allowed to migrate to Canada if you have ongoing criminal cases.

Best 5 Pathways to move from Zimbabwe to Canada

Having discussed the requirements for immigrating to Canada from Zimbabwe, the next thing we should explore is what pathways are available for you. There are various pathways for Zimbabweans moving to Canada. The best 5, in no particular order, are;

#1. Study Permit

This is arguably one of the easiest ways for Zimbabweans to migrate to Canada. If you wish to study in Canada from Zimbabwe, this is your pathway. To get your study permit, you must present proof that you’ve been admitted to one of Canada’s Designated Learning Institutions.

A study permit in Canada also allows students to work up to 20 hours a week without a work permit. Furthermore, it is valid for up to 90 days after you conclude your program in Canada and can be renewed in exceptional cases.

#2. Express Entry

Express entry is one of the quickest ways for skilled workers to process their Canadian visas and permanent residence. This Canada Express Entry System has three programs;

• Federal Skilled Worker Program
• Federal Skilled Trades Program
• Canadian Experience Class

The candidates are based on age, educational qualification, work experience, and language proficiency. You can calculate these scores using the express entry CRS points calculator. With express entry, you can get your visa processed in around six months from Zimbabwe.

#3. Provincial Nominee Program

Another way to work from Zimbabwe to Canada is through the Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs). The Provincial Nominee Program is a way the different Provincial governments can find skilled workers tailored to their economic needs, as opposed to the Federal-controlled Express Entry Program.

To apply for the Provincial Nominee Program, you must apply to the province you want to immigrate to, then create an Express Entry Profile. Depending on the province, your application and processing could take between 10 and 24 months. Each province has its metrics and fees.

#4. Family Sponsorship

Next on the list of immigration pathways from Zimbabwe to Canada is the Family sponsorship pathway. If you, as a Zimbabwean national, have a family member who is a citizen or permanent resident in Canada, you can apply for a Canadian visa as a family member.

However, your relative in Canada can only sponsor you if you are a;

• spouse
• common-law partner
• conjugal partner
• dependent children
• Parent or grandparent – (Additional conditions apply)
• Brother or sister, niece or nephew, grandson or granddaughter who is orphaned, under eighteen (18) years of age, and unmarried or in a common-law relationship.
• Another relative of any age or relationship but only under certain conditions.
• An accompanying relative (spouse, common-law partner, and dependent children).

The processing time for this program is usually between 12 months to 24 months.

#5. Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program (AIPP)

The Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program (AIPP) is like the provincial nominee programs but tailored to cover those who intend to immigrate from Zimbabwe to any of the following provinces in Canada;

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

These four provinces are known as the Atlantic Provinces of Canada and are located along the western coast of the Atlantic, east of Canada. Processing time is usually around six months.

Steps to Immigrate to Canada from Zimbabwe

Now, we’ve spoken of the benefits, the requirements, and the pathways. Therefore, identifying your steps to immigrating to Canada couldn’t be simpler. These are the steps to take if you wish to move to Canada from Zimbabwe;

1. Choose what pathway suits you best. For students, that would be the study permit, for skilled workers, the express entry, etc.
2. Bring your documents together; these will include the general requirements based on your chosen pathway.
3. Next, begin your application process. Some pathways take longer; therefore, you should choose yours and begin about six months early so your visa can be ready before you travel.
4. Attend the interview upon invitation.
5. If the IRCC deems you fit, well done, and your procedure is complete. All that’s left is your travel tickets.

See Also: Immigrate to Canada from Namibia – How to Apply

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a Canadian Embassy in Zimbabwe?

Yes, Canada has a consular in Harare, Zimbabwe, to provide consular services to Canadians in Zimbabwe and visa services for Zimbabweans who want to travel to Canada. Similarly, the Zimbabwean Embassy in Canada services Zimbabweans in Canada and Canadians who wish to travel to Zimbabwe.

Can I study in Canada from Zimbabwe?

Yes. Canada is one of the biggest hosts for international students on the world stage. Hence, it is, in fact, possible to study in Canada from Zimbabwe.

Is it difficult to move to Canada from Zimbabwe?

Moving to Canada from Zimbabwe is relatively easy, especially compared to other first-world countries. This is because the Canadian government provides a lot of immigration pathways and makes them more affordable. It is also significantly more straightforward to get permanent residence in Canada than in other countries of its ilk.

Can a Zimbabwean apply for Express Entry and PNP at the same time?

As a Zimbabwean, you can apply for the Federal Express Entry program and one of the provincial nominee programs. However, you must first score 67, the minimum acceptable Express Entry score.

Can a Zimbabwean get Canadian citizenship?

Yes. If you’ve stayed up to 5 – 10 years, Canada will allow you to get dual citizenship. However, dual citizenship may not be granted if your country does not permit it.

Conclusion

Whether it is to study, work, or anything else, immigrating to Canada is one of the most accessible forms of migration in Zimbabwe. Just ensure you make sure you have all the requirements for what immigration pathway you choose.