FAQs: Your Immigration Questions Answered
General Immigration Questions
How do I know if I’m eligible to immigrate to Canada?
Start with a personalized eligibility consultation. Canada has dozens of pathways—what matters is aligning your goals with the right program. We’ll assess your profile, explain your options in plain English, and suggest next steps you can actually act on.
What’s the difference between temporary and permanent immigration programs?
Temporary programs give you legal status for a set period. Permanent residency means you’re building a long-term future in Canada. Many people use a temporary path to become eligible for PR—strategy matters, and that’s where we come in.
Can I apply for immigration by myself or do I need a consultant?
You can—but immigration law is complex. One wrong step can delay or derail your case. Navio’s Done Together model gives you expert support while keeping costs low and control in your hands.
Work Permits
Do I need a job offer to get a Canadian work permit?
In most cases, yes. But some programs (like IEC or CUAET) don’t require one. If you’re an entrepreneur, contractor, or performer, there may also be LMIA-exempt routes. We’ll help you explore your best-fit path.
What’s an LMIA and why does it matter?
A Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is a government document that proves no Canadian could fill the job. It’s often required for employer-sponsored work permits—but it’s not the only option.
How fast can I get a Canadian work permit?
If you qualify for Global Skills Strategy (GSS), processing can be as quick as two weeks. But eligibility depends on job type, employer status, and documentation. Book early—timing is everything in immigration.
Permanent Residence
What is Express Entry, and who is it for?
Express Entry is Canada’s main system for skilled worker immigration. You need language scores, a credential assessment, and a strategic profile to get noticed. It’s competitive—but with the right CRS strategy, you can stand out.
Are CEC draws back? Should I update my Express Entry profile?
Yes—CEC (Canadian Experience Class) draws resumed in 2025. If you have Canadian work experience, now is the time to get your profile in. Even small updates can make a big difference.
Navio Services: Done Together vs Done For You
What’s the difference between Done Together and Done For You?
Done For You: classic full-service immigration. We do everything. Done Together: we guide, you lead. It’s for people who want to save on legal fees without sacrificing strategy or support.
How do I know which service is right for me?
If you’re time-poor and want hands-off support, choose Done For You. If you’re detail-oriented and willing to follow clear steps—we’ll build your case together.
Hiring Foreign Workers (for Employers)
How can Navio help my company hire internationally?
We support every stage: LMIA applications, work permits, compliance, onboarding—and strategy. Whether it’s one hire or your whole workforce plan, we act as your fractional RCIC team.
What if I’ve never done an LMIA before?
Most employers haven’t. We walk you through the process, identify any red flags early, and provide templates and timelines so your application is clear and compliant.
Can Navio help with long-term immigration planning for our hires?
Yes—and we think every company should. Retention improves when workers see a path to PR. We’ll help you map out pathways like Express Entry, PNPs, and REP.
Entrepreneurs & Startups
Can I immigrate to Canada as a startup founder?
Yes. Canada’s Startup Visa is the main federal option, but there are also provincial pathways and LMIA-exempt permits for self-employed professionals. We’ll help you navigate what’s viable based on your traction, sector, and goals.
What documents do I need as an entrepreneur?
Think business plans, contracts, pitch decks, proof of funding or traction—and a story that shows how your business adds value to Canada. (Tip: Adapt your pitch deck to immigration officers.)
I’m already running a business in Canada. Can I apply for PR?
Possibly—especially if you’ve been working here on a valid permit. You might qualify under Express Entry, PNP, or a self-employed pathway. Let’s talk strategy.
Strategy & Insider Tips
What is “dual intent” and how can it help my application?
Dual intent means you can apply for temporary status (like a work or study permit) while also intending to apply for permanent residency. It’s legal and recognized by IRCC—but you need to show that you’ll respect the conditions of your temporary stay. Strong documentation matters here.
How do I handle a Procedural Fairness Letter (PFL)?
A PFL is not a refusal—but it’s serious. It means an officer has concerns about your application (like misrepresentation or eligibility). You get one chance to respond. If you receive a PFL, get professional help right away and submit a clear, well-supported explanation with documents to back you up.
What’s the best way to organize my immigration application?
Think like a decision-maker. Label your documents clearly. Use a cover letter or submission letter to tell your story and explain anything that might raise questions. If you’re using Navio’s platform, we provide templates and reviews to keep everything organized and persuasive.
How can I avoid delays or refusals?
Submit complete, clearly organized files. Make sure your documents match your story. Flag anything unusual up front—officers don’t like surprises. Use IRCC’s checklists, but also anticipate what an officer might question based on your case. That’s the kind of strategic thinking we’re known for.
Should I include a submission letter with my application?
Yes, especially if anything about your application might raise a flag. A strong submission letter gives context, preempts confusion, and helps the officer understand your case faster. It can make the difference between approval and refusal.
