How are Immigrants Chosen?

Immigrants are selected either for their economic contribution to Canada or for family reunification. Canada also fulfils its international humanitarian commitments by accepting a certain number of refugees each year.

• Skilled workers
  The economic or independent category includes skilled workers and business immigrants. Skilled workers provide skills needed by the Canadian labor market. Can you meet the selection criteria? Click here for the Information Guide and rate yourself under the point system.
  
  
• Business
  Canada is looking for successful business persons with funds to invest and experience in running a business. Different selection criteria apply to investors, entrepreneurs and self-employed immigrants. A new Immigrant Investor Program was launched April 1, 1999.
  
  
• Family
  Family class immigrants are sponsored, and supported financially, by immediate family members who are Canadian citizens or permanent residents in Canada.
  
  
• Refugees
  Canada provides a safe home to refugees fleeing persecution. Some are selected abroad for resettlement in Canada; others claim refugee status after arriving in Canada and may be granted protection in Canada.