How to Move from UAE to Canada: A Step-by-Step Guide

Last Updated On : May 08 , 2025

Considering a move from the UAE to Canada but uncertain about the right immigration route? This blog offers clarity. Healthcare professionals typically benefit most from Express Entry, while those in the tech field may be better matched with the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP).

7 Essential Steps- Immigrate to Canada from UAE

1. Assess Your Immigration Eligibility

Finding the immigration program that best fits your qualifications and profile is the first step. The following are a few of the most popular choices among UAE citizens:

• Programs for Federal Economic Classes (Express Entry)
• Programs for Provincial Nominees (PNPs)
• Programs for Immigration to Quebec
• Programs for Business Immigration
• Sponsorship of Family Classes

Take into account variables such age, education, job history, language ability, and wealth to determine your eligibility. There are also particular regulations in many provinces for investors and business owners.

2. Gather Required Documents

Assemble the paperwork required for the immigration program of your choice, which may include:

• The passport
• Transcripts and certificates of education
• Results of language tests (TEF, CELPIP, or IELTS)
• Work experience letters and references
• Certifications of police clearance
• Outcomes of a medical checkup
• Evidence of money or net worth (for investment and business programs)

3. Submit Your Final Application

After obtaining the necessary paperwork, submit your application via the proper channel. To apply for federal programs such as Express Entry, you must first register online and join the candidate pool.

You might have to apply directly to the province or submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) for provincial initiatives. Certain provinces, like British Columbia and Ontario, have particular demands for citizens of the United Arab Emirates.

4. Attend an Interview (if required)

You might have to go to an interview with the federal or provincial government, depending on the program you select. Be ready to respond to enquiries regarding your history, professional background, business ideas (for programs targeting entrepreneurs), and rationale for selecting Canada as your destination.

5. Receive Final Decision from RCIC

If your application is approved, the province will give you a confirmation of permanent residency or a nomination certificate. After that, you will have a deadline for submitting a completed application for federal programs.

6. Complete Medical and Security Checks

You will be required to go through security and medical screenings as part of the last phase of the application process to make sure you fulfill the conditions for permanent residency in Canada .

7. Obtain Your Permanent Resident Visa

You will obtain your permanent residence visa once your application has been accepted and you have successfully completed the required documentation. You can enter Canada with this document and obtain permanent residence.

Understanding Canadian Immigration Programs

Canada provides a number of immigration routes. For those looking to relocate from the United Arab Emirates to Canada, these are the best options:

1. Express Entry System

Express Entry is Canada's primary immigration route for skilled workers. It oversees the three federal programs for economic immigration that it administers:

• Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
• Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
• Canadian Experience Class (CEC)

2. Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)

Since each Canadian province has its own PNP, it is able to designate immigrants in accordance with their particular economic requirements.

3. Study Permits

Gaining Canada PR status may be possible through study permit. After graduating, a lot of overseas students switch to work permits and eventually petition for permanent residency.

4. Work Permits

Skilled workers can obtain Canadian job experience through temporary work permits like the Global Talent Stream, which can be helpful for applications for permanent residence down the road.

Canadian PR vs. UAE Visa: Key Differences

TR to PR Benifit

Unlike UAE visas, which are tied to employment and offer only temporary residency, Canadian PR provides a permanent right to live and work anywhere in Canada. This means greater independence and flexibility, without the constant concern of employment-linked renewal.

Path To Permanent Citizenship

One of the most significant differences is the path to citizenship. In Canada, PR holders can apply for citizenship after meeting certain residency requirements—an option that doesn’t exist in the UAE, where foreigners generally cannot become citizens.

Freedom Of Movement In Country

You can live and work in any province or territory in Canada, while in the UAE, your residency is usually tied to a specific emirate and employer.

Conclusion

There are many exciting prospects for both career and personal growth while moving from the UAE to Canada. You can facilitate a more seamless and prosperous move by being well-prepared and having a solid awareness of the immigration procedure.

Never forget that every immigration journey is different, so do your research, have patience, and don't be afraid to ask for help when you need it.