Canada has long been a top destination for families, professionals, and entrepreneurs looking for new opportunities. Known for its excellent education system, advanced technology, and thriving business environment, Canada continues to attract people worldwide. In 2023, the process of moving to Canada with your family has become even more accessible, thanks to the New Brunswick Critical Worker Program (NBCWP). This program simplifies the journey to becoming a permanent resident without the need for provincial nominations or extensive language proficiency tests in English or French.
This guide will walk you through the steps to move to Canada with your family using the New Brunswick Critical Worker Program.
What is the New Brunswick Critical Worker Program?
The New Brunswick Critical Worker Program (NBCWP) is a specialized immigration pathway jointly established by the New Brunswick government and the federal government of Canada. Launched in November 2022, the NBCWP is designed to attract skilled workers from around the globe, offering them the opportunity to live and work in New Brunswick as permanent residents.
Unlike other immigration streams, the NBCWP is employer-driven, meaning that participants must work for a specific employer throughout their stay. Six employers are currently part of this program: Cooke Aquaculture Inc., Groupe Savoie Inc., Groupe Westco, Imperial Manufacturing, J.D. Irving Ltd., and McCain Foods. Each of these employers is required to provide settlement benefits, making the transition to life in New Brunswick easier for participants.
Benefits of the New Brunswick Critical Worker Program
The NBCWP offers several key benefits to those who participate:
- Accommodation Assistance: After obtaining your work permit, the program assists you in finding suitable housing in New Brunswick, helping you and your family settle in comfortably.
- Language Training and Skill Support: Participants are eligible for 200 hours of language training and skills development to help them adapt to working in an English or French-speaking environment.
- Educational Support for Children: The program also helps find schools for your children and provides daycare services, ensuring your family is well-supported during your transition.
These benefits, along with a fast-tracked process compared to other immigration programs, make the NBCWP an attractive option for moving to Canada.
How to Apply for the New Brunswick Critical Worker Program
The application process for the NBCWP is straightforward, but there are specific eligibility criteria you must meet:
- Secure a Job Offer: The first step is to obtain a job offer from one of the six participating employers. This job offer should be for a full-time, permanent position in a designated critical occupation.
- Apply for a Canadian Visitor Visa: If you’re an international immigrant planning to move to Canada with your family, you’ll need a visitor visa. You can apply online or submit a paper application at the Canadian embassy in your home country. Be sure to provide accurate travel information and financial details.
- Receive Visa Approval: Once your visa is approved, you can start preparing for your move. Use this time to gather necessary documents and secure accommodation in New Brunswick.
- Travel to Canada: After receiving your visitor visa, you can travel to Canada. Upon arrival, present your documents to the immigration officer and begin exploring job opportunities with the participating employers.
How to Get a Canadian Visitor Visa
A visitor visa allows you to enter Canada for visiting, vacation, or tourism purposes. When applying for a visitor visa, each family member, including children, must complete an individual application and meet the requirements. Here’s how to apply:
- Contact Your Employer: Reach out to your chosen employer from the six participating companies. They will provide you with an application package for the program.
- Complete the Application Package: Submit the completed application and required documents to Immigration New Brunswick (INB).
- Await Nomination: If your application is approved, INB will send you a nomination alert and a letter of support for your work permit application. Follow the instructions provided for the next steps.
Requirements for Applying for a Work Permit
To apply for a work permit under the NBCWP, you’ll need:
- A Valid Job Offer: From one of the six New Brunswick employers in a critical occupation.
- Relevant Work Experience: At least one year of experience in a similar occupation within the last three years.
- Education and Training: A Canadian high school diploma or equivalent or a commitment to pursue further education in Canada.
- Language Proficiency: At least a Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) in English or French or a willingness to undergo 200 hours of language training.
- Medical and Security Clearances: You must pass medical exams and provide police clearance certificates to demonstrate that you pose no security risk.
- Financial Stability: Proof that you can support yourself and your family until you start earning.
Job Opportunities in the New Brunswick Critical Worker Program
The jobs available under the NBCWP are tied to the six participating employers, each of which operates in a different sector. Here are some potential job opportunities:
- Cooke Aquaculture Inc.: Specializes in seafood farming.
- Groupe Savoie Inc.: Focuses on hardwood flooring and related products.
- Groupe Westco: Operates in the poultry industry.
- Imperial Manufacturing Group: Produces HVAC products and building materials.
- J.D. Irving Ltd.: A conglomerate with diverse business interests.
- McCain Foods: Specializes in frozen food products.
Some job roles include nurse aides, retail salespersons, home support workers, transport truck drivers, and fish and seafood plant workers.
Conclusion
The New Brunswick Critical Worker Program offers a streamlined pathway to move to Canada with your family, providing numerous benefits and opportunities. Be sure to visit the official NBCWP site for more details and updates. Good luck on your journey to becoming a permanent resident of Canada.
FAQs
Can I include my family in the application?
Yes, you can include your spouse or common-law partner and dependent children under the age of 22 in your application. They may also have the opportunity to work or study in Canada.
What are the benefits of the New Brunswick Critical Worker Program?
The program offers permanent residency for you and your family, access to social benefits, healthcare, and education, and the opportunity to live and work in New Brunswick, a province known for its high quality of life.