February 15, 2023

As a highly experienced Canadian immigration consultant with Empire Fly, I understand that the process of becoming a Canadian citizen again, also known as “citizen resumption,” can be confusing and overwhelming. Nevertheless, it’s essential to understand that Nigerian citizens, as well as individuals from other African nations, have the opportunity to reclaim their Canadian citizenship if they have lost it previously. This article will offer a detailed, step-by-step guide tailored specifically for Nigerian citizens seeking to regain Canadian citizenship through the citizen resumption process.

Step 1: Determine eligibility: In order to be eligible for citizen resumption, you must have been a Canadian citizen at some point in the past and have lost your citizenship due to one of the following reasons:

  • Renouncing your Canadian citizenship
  • Ceasing to be a citizen due to a failure to meet the retention requirements
  • Having your citizenship revoked due to fraud

Step 2: Gather required documents: To apply for citizen resumption, you will need to provide a variety of documents as evidence of your previous Canadian citizenship and any other relevant information. These may include:

  • Your birth certificate or adoption papers
  • Your previous Canadian passport or citizenship certificate
  • Any documents related to the loss of your citizenship (e.g. renunciation papers)
  • Any court or police records related to fraud or misrepresentation

Step 3: Fill out the application: You will need to fill out the application for resumption of Canadian citizenship. This application can be found on the government of Canada website. It’s important to provide accurate and complete information in the application.

Step 4: Pay the fee: There is a fee for applying for citizen resumption, which must be paid at the time of application. The fee can vary depending on the applicant’s circumstances.

Step 5: Submit the application and wait for a decision: After submitting the application, it will be reviewed by Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) and a decision will be made on your application. The processing time can vary, but it’s important to note that it can take several months to receive a decision.

 

Step 6: Attend an interview or take a test: If your application is approved, you may be required to attend an interview or take a test to demonstrate your knowledge of Canada and your commitment to the country.

 

Step 7: Take the Oath of Citizenship: Once all requirements have been met, you will be invited to take the Oath of Citizenship. This ceremony signifies your official return as a Canadian citizen.

 

It’s important to note that the citizen resumption process can be complex and time-consuming, and it’s highly recommended that you seek the help of an experienced immigration lawyer. A lawyer can guide you through the process and help ensure that your application is complete and accurate.

 

It’s also important to note that being approved for citizen resumption does not guarantee that you will be able to enter Canada. You will also need a valid travel document, such as a Canadian passport, and you may be subject to admissibility requirements such as a background check or medical examination.

To sum up, the path to reclaiming Canadian citizenship, referred to as “citizen resumption,” is open to Nigerian citizens and others across Africa who have lost it in the past. Through adhering to the guidelines delineated in this article, furnishing precise and comprehensive information, and seeking guidance from seasoned immigration lawyers, Nigerian citizens can effectively restore their Canadian citizenship status.

February 13, 2023

As a highly experienced Canadian immigration consultant with Empire Fly, one of the concerns that we often hear from individuals is whether or not they have a deportation order. A deportation order is a legal document issued by the Canadian government ordering a person to leave Canada within a certain period of time. It is important to know if you have a deportation order as it can have serious consequences on your ability to return to Canada.

 

Here are some ways to determine if you have a deportation order:

 

Check your mail: The government will send a copy of the deportation order to the address they have on file for you. If you have not received any mail from the government, it may be worth checking with your local post office to see if they have any mail for you.

 

Contact the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA): The CBSA is responsible for enforcing deportation orders. You can contact them to find out if a deportation order has been issued against you.

 

Check the Canadian government’s public website: The Canadian government has a public website where you can check to see if a deportation order has been issued against you.

 

Check with an immigration lawyer: An immigration lawyer can help you determine if you have a deportation order and can provide you with advice on how to proceed.

 

It’s important to note that a deportation order can be issued for a variety of reasons, including overstaying a visa, committing a crime, or providing false information on an immigration application. If you do have a deportation order, it is important to take immediate action as failure to leave Canada can result in arrest and detention.

 

At Empire Fly, our team of experienced immigration consultants can assist individuals in understanding if they have a deportation order and help them understand the implications of such order. We can also assist in understanding the reasons for the deportation order and provide guidance on how to proceed, whether it’s through an appeal or seeking relief from deportation.

In conclusion, a deportation order is a legal document issued by the Canadian government ordering a person to leave Canada within a certain period of time. It’s important to know if you have a deportation order as it can have serious consequences on your ability to return to Canada. If you suspect you have a deportation order, it’s important to take immediate action and contact the Canada Border Services Agency or an immigration lawyer for assistance.

February 8, 2023

With extensive expertise as a Canadian immigration consultant, I recognize the complexity often associated with traveling to Canada, particularly for citizens of Nigeria and other African nations. Among the prerequisites for Nigerian travelers to Canada is obtaining an eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization) prior to departure. In this article, I will offer a detailed, step-by-step guide tailored specifically for Nigerian citizens seeking to secure an eTA for their journey to Canada.

Step 1: Gather the required documents: To apply for an eTA, you will need to have a valid passport and a credit or debit card to pay the eTA fee. Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from the date of your entry to Canada.

Step 2: Complete the eTA application form: The eTA application form can be completed online, and it takes about 20 minutes to complete. The form will ask for personal information such as your name, date of birth, and passport details. It’s important to provide accurate and complete information as any errors or omissions can result in delays or a denied eTA.

Step 3: Pay the eTA fee: The eTA fee is $7 CAD, which can be paid using a credit or debit card. After paying the fee, you will receive a receipt of payment.

Step 4: Wait for the eTA to be processed: Once the application is submitted, it will take about 72 hours for the eTA to be processed. You will receive an email notification when the eTA has been issued. In some cases, additional information or documentation may be required, and the processing time may be longer.

Step 5: Check the status of the eTA: You can check the status of your eTA by logging into your account on the Government of Canada website. It’s important to check the status of your eTA before your trip to ensure that it has been approved.

It’s crucial to highlight that an eTA remains valid for a period of 5 years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first, a rule applicable not only to Nigerian citizens but also to travelers from across Africa. With an eTA, Nigerian citizens are granted a maximum stay of six months in Canada. However, it’s imperative to verify the entry stamp provided by the Border Services Officer upon arrival, as the duration of stay can vary based on individual circumstances, mirroring practices observed throughout Africa.

In summary, the application process for an eTA presents Nigerian citizens, as well as travelers from other African nations, with a streamlined and uncomplicated procedure for those intending to visit Canada. By adhering to the guidelines detailed in this article and furnishing precise and comprehensive information, applicants can effectively secure an eTA and prepare for their journey to Canada. However, it’s crucial to bear in mind that possessing an eTA does not ensure entry into Canada; the ultimate decision rests with the Border Services Officer at the point of entry. I recommend keeping the eTA confirmation and all the travel documents handy, and to have all the required documents in order to have smooth travel experience.

 

February 6, 2023

As a highly experienced Canadian immigration consultant, I understand that the process of immigrating to Canada from Africa, such as Nigeria, can be complex and sometimes result in disappointment if an application for permanent residence is denied. However, it’s important for immigrants from Africa to know that there is a way to appeal a denied residency application, and that is through filing a residency appeal.

 

A residency appeal is a legal process that allows immigrants from Africa, to challenge a decision made by the immigration authorities regarding their application for permanent residence. The process is done through the Immigration Appeal Division (IAD) of the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada (IRB).

 

The initial step in initiating a residency appeal as an immigrant from Africa is to verify your eligibility according to the criteria, encompassing nations such as Nigeria and others across the continent. In order to be eligible to file an appeal, the individual must have been the principal applicant on a permanent residence application that has been denied. Additionally, the individual must not be inadmissible to Canada on security, criminal or human rights grounds.

 

The next step is to submit a notice of appeal to the IAD within the required timeframe. This notice should comprehensively outline the grounds on which the Nigerian immigrant contests the decision to reject their application, reflecting the diverse circumstances across Africa. It’s important to note that the notice of appeal must be accompanied by a fee, and failure to pay this fee will result in the appeal being dismissed.

 

Following the submission of the notice of appeal, the IAD will arrange a hearing. During this proceeding, the Nigerian immigrant will be able to present evidence and summon witnesses in line with legal proceedings across Africa. The IAD will duly assess any evidence and submissions from both the immigrant and immigration authorities in their deliberations.

 

It’s crucial to acknowledge that the process of lodging a residency appeal can be intricate and protracted, underscoring the necessity for Nigerian immigrants to enlist the assistance of seasoned immigration lawyers, a practice advisable across the diverse legal landscapes of Africa. A lawyer can guide them through the process and represent them at the hearing, which can greatly increase their chances of success.

 

It’s important to be well prepared before the hearing, having all the necessary documents and evidences to prove their case. Furthermore, maintaining regular communication with immigration authorities is essential for Nigerian immigrants to stay informed about the progress of their case and prevent missing crucial deadlines, a prudent practice upheld throughout various jurisdictions across Africa.

 

In summary, should a Nigerian immigrant encounter a denial of their application for permanent residence in Canada, it’s crucial to recognize that avenues exist to contest this decision via filing a residency appeal. Although the process may entail complexity and consume time, by engaging the services of a seasoned immigration lawyer and undertaking thorough preparation, Nigerian immigrants stand a chance to effectively challenge the decision, echoing practices found in legal systems across Africa.

February 4, 2023

The Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSW) is one of the most popular and efficient ways for skilled workers to immigrate to Canada. This program is designed to help qualified candidates with the skills and experience needed to contribute to Canada’s economy and workforce. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive guide on how to immigrate to Canada under the FSW program.

First and foremost, it is important to understand the basic requirements for the FSW program. To be eligible, applicants must:

  • Have at least one year of continuous full-time or equivalent paid work experience in the last 10 years in a skilled occupation (National Occupational Classification (NOC) Skill Type 0, A or B)
  • Meet the minimum language requirements set by the Canadian government (CLB 7 for NOC 0 or A, and CLB 5 for NOC B)
  • Have a valid Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) for any foreign education
  • Obtain a minimum score of 67 out of 100 on the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS)

Once the basic requirements are met, the next step is to create an Express Entry profile. This profile is used to provide information about the applicant, including their qualifications, work experience, language abilities, and other information. The profile is then placed in a pool of applicants, where it is ranked based on the CRS score.

The CRS score is a points-based system that takes into account factors such as age, education, work experience, language proficiency, and adaptability. The higher the CRS score, the better the chances of being invited to apply for permanent residence. It is important to note that having a job offer or a nomination from a Canadian province or territory can greatly increase an applicant’s CRS score.

After creating an Express Entry profile, the next step is to wait for an invitation to apply (ITA) for permanent residence. ITAs are issued to the highest-ranked candidates in the pool on a regular basis. Once an ITA is received, the applicant has 90 days to submit a complete application for permanent residence.

It is important to note that the FSW program is a competitive process and not all applicants who create a profile will be issued an ITA. However, there are steps that can be taken to increase the chances of being invited, such as increasing language proficiency, gaining more work experience, and obtaining a higher level of education. It is also important to ensure that the work experience provided in the Express Entry profile is accurate and relevant to the occupation being applied for.

Another important aspect to consider is the Educational Credential Assessment (ECA). The ECA is used to evaluate the applicant’s foreign education and ensure that it is equivalent to Canadian education standards. It is important to obtain an ECA from a designated organization, as the Canadian government only accepts ECA reports from these organizations.

It is also important to note that the FSW program requires the applicant to undergo a medical examination and obtain police certificates from any country they have lived in for six months or more in the past ten years. These documents are required to be submitted along with the application for permanent residence.

Once the application is submitted and all required documents are provided, it is important to be patient as the processing time for FSW applications can vary. The applicant will be informed of the status of their application through the Express Entry account.

In conclusion, the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSW) is a great option for skilled workers looking to immigrate to Canada. By understanding the basic requirements, creating a strong Express Entry profile, and taking steps to increase the chances of being invited, applicants can increase their chances of success. It is also important to ensure that the work experience provided is accurate and relevant to the occupation being applied for, obtain an ECA from a designated organization and be prepared for the medical examination and police certificates. With proper planning and preparation, the FSW program can be a great way for skilled workers to achieve their dream of living and working in Canada.

February 1, 2023

Canada is a country that welcomes immigrants from all over the world, and the Canadian government has implemented a number of programs to attract skilled workers to the country. One of the most popular ways to immigrate to Canada is through the Express Entry system, which allows skilled workers to apply for permanent residence in Canada.

 

There are several provinces in Canada that are particularly in need of skilled immigrants, and these provinces have implemented their own programs to attract skilled workers. Some of the provinces that are seeking skilled immigrants from across Africa include:

 

Alberta: Alberta is a province located in western Canada and is known for its oil and gas industry. The province is in need of skilled workers in a variety of fields, including engineering, construction, and trades. The Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program (AINP) is a program that allows the province to nominate individuals for permanent residence in Canada.

 

British Columbia: British Columbia is located on the west coast of Canada and is known for its beautiful landscapes and diverse economy. The province is in need of skilled workers in a variety of fields, including technology, healthcare, and trades. The British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP) is a program that allows the province to nominate individuals for permanent residence in Canada.

 

Manitoba: Manitoba is a province located in the prairies of Canada and is known for its agriculture and manufacturing industries. The province is in need of skilled workers in a variety of fields, including healthcare, engineering, and trades. The Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP) is a program that allows the province to nominate individuals for permanent residence in Canada.

 

Ontario: Ontario is the most populous province in Canada and is home to the country’s largest city, Toronto. The province is in need of skilled workers in a variety of fields, including technology, healthcare, and finance. The Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) is a program that allows the province to nominate individuals for permanent residence in Canada.

 

Quebec: Quebec is the second-most populous province in Canada and is home to the country’s second-largest city, Montreal. The province is in need of skilled workers in a variety of fields, including technology, healthcare, and finance. The Quebec Skilled Worker Program (QSWP) is a program that allows the province to nominate individuals for permanent residence in Canada.

 

Each of these provinces have their own unique characteristics, and it’s important to research and find the one that best fits your needs and qualifications. It’s also important to note that the requirements and processing times for each program can vary, so it’s important to consult with an experienced immigration consultant to determine which program may be the best fit for you.

 

In summary, Canada offers an excellent environment for living, working, and raising a family, with several provinces in need of skilled workers from across Africa. It’s important to research the different provinces and programs, and to consult with an experienced immigration consultant to determine which program may be the best fit for you. With the right approach and a bit of patience, you can achieve your goal of immigrating to Canada and start a new life in this beautiful country.

January 28, 2023

The Canada Super Visa is a popular option for Canadian citizens and permanent residents who want to bring their parents or grandparents to Canada for an extended visit. As an African citizen, if you have a child or grandchild living in Canada, you may be eligible to apply for the Super Visa. This visa permits multiple entries for a period of up to 10 years and allows the holder to stay in Canada for up to two years at a time without the need for renewing their status. In this article, we will offer a comprehensive guide on how to apply for the Canada Super Visa as an African citizen.

First and foremost, it is important to understand the basic requirements for the Canada Super Visa. To be eligible, applicants must:

  • Be the parent or grandparent of a Canadian citizen or permanent resident
  • Have a valid medical insurance that covers at least one year in Canada
  • Pass a medical examination by a panel physician
  • Provide a letter of invitation from their child or grandchild in Canada
  • Provide proof of their relationship to the child or grandchild
  • Provide proof of sufficient funds to support themselves during their stay in Canada

Once the basic requirements are met, the next step is to gather all the necessary documents to support the application. This includes a valid passport, evidence of medical insurance, and proof of relationship and financial support. It is important to note that the visa application fee must also be paid at this stage.

It is also important to note that the application process for the Canada Super Visa can take several months, so it is advisable to apply well in advance of the intended travel date. It is also important to keep in mind that the visa can only be issued for a maximum period of 10 years and it is not renewable.

In addition to the above, it is also important to prepare for the medical examination. The applicant will need to visit a panel physician who is authorized by the Canadian government. The physician will conduct a medical examination and provide a report to the visa office.

Another important aspect to consider is the medical insurance requirement. The insurance must be valid for the entire duration of the applicant’s stay in Canada and must provide a minimum coverage of $100,000. It is important to ensure that the insurance policy is valid for the entire duration of the applicant’s stay in Canada and that it covers the applicant for both emergency medical care and repatriation of remains.

It is also important to note that the Canada Super Visa is a multiple-entry visa, which means that the holder can leave and re-enter Canada as many times as they wish as long as the visa remains valid.

In conclusion, the Canada Super Visa is a great option for citizens from across Africa with children or grandchildren living in Canada who want to visit the country for an extended period of time. By understanding the basic requirements, gathering all the necessary documents, preparing for the medical examination, and having valid medical insurance, applicants can increase their chances of success. It is also important to keep in mind that the process can take several months, so it is advisable to apply well in advance of the intended travel date. With proper planning and preparation, the Canada Super Visa can be a great way for citizens from across Africa to bring their families together in Canada.

 

January 21, 2023

Canada is a favored destination for students from across the globe, including Africa, seeking high-quality education and a diverse cultural experience. One of the pathways for African students to study in Canada is through a study visa. This visa permits international students to pursue their studies at a designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada. In this article, we will offer a comprehensive guide on how to apply for a study visa as an African student.

First and foremost, it is important to understand the basic requirements for a study visa. To be eligible, applicants must:

  • have a valid letter of acceptance from a DLI in Canada
  • have proof of sufficient funds to cover tuition fees and living expenses while in Canada
  • have a clear criminal record and pass a medical examination (if required)
  • provide a letter of explanation about the purpose of their studies in Canada
  • meet the minimum language proficiency requirements as set by the Canadian government

Once the basic requirements are met, the next step is to gather all the necessary documents to support the application. This includes a valid passport, evidence of financial support, and proof of language proficiency. It is important to note that the visa application fee must also be paid at this stage.

It is also important to note that the application process for a study visa can take several months, so it is advisable to apply well in advance of the intended travel date. It is also important to keep in mind that the visa is usually issued for the duration of the program of study, which usually varies from 6 months to 2 years.

In addition to the above, it is also important to prepare for the interview process. During the interview, the visa officer will ask questions about the student’s plans while in Canada, their ties to their home country, and their financial situation. It is important to be honest and provide detailed and accurate information.

Another important aspect to consider is the financial requirement. The applicant must provide evidence of sufficient funds to cover tuition fees and living expenses while in Canada. The amount varies based on the province and the institution, but usually, it ranges from CAD 10,000 to CAD 20,000 per year.

It is also important to note that the study visa is a single-entry visa, which means that the holder can enter Canada only once and cannot leave and re-enter Canada until the visa gets expired or if the student gets a multiple-entry visa.

In conclusion, a study visa presents an excellent opportunity for students from Africa, who aspire to study in Canada. By comprehending the essential requirements, compiling all required documents, preparing thoroughly for interviews, and ensuring adequate financial resources, applicants can enhance their likelihood of success. It’s crucial to note that the application process may span several months, thus applying well in advance of the intended travel date is advisable. With meticulous planning and preparation, a study visa can serve as a promising pathway for students from Nigeria and other African countries to fulfill their aspirations of studying in Canada.

January 20, 2023

Canada is a popular destination for many immigrants from Africa seeking better opportunities and a higher standard of living. One of the most popular and efficient ways for Africans, to migrate to Canada permanently is through the Express Entry system. This system is designed to streamline the immigration process and help qualified applicants immigrate to Canada more quickly. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive guide on how Africans can migrate to Canada permanently using Express Entry for immigration.

First and foremost, it is important to understand the basic requirements for the Express Entry system. To be eligible, applicants must:

  • Have a valid job offer from a Canadian employer or be a qualified candidate in the Federal Skilled Worker Program, Federal Skilled Trades Program, or Canadian Experience Class
  • Meet the minimum language requirements set by the Canadian government
  • Have a valid Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) for any foreign education
  • Obtain a minimum score on the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS)

Once the basic requirements are met, the next step is to create an Express Entry profile. This profile is used to provide information about the applicant, including their qualifications, work experience, and language abilities. The profile is then placed in a pool of applicants, where it is ranked based on the CRS score.

The CRS score is a points-based system that takes into account factors such as age, education, work experience, language proficiency, and adaptability. The higher the CRS score, the better the chances of being invited to apply for permanent residence. It is important to note that having a job offer or a nomination from a Canadian province or territory can greatly increase an applicant’s CRS score.

After creating an Express Entry profile, the next step is to wait for an invitation to apply (ITA) for permanent residence. ITAs are issued to the highest-ranked candidates in the pool on a regular basis. Once an ITA is received, the applicant has 90 days to submit a complete application for permanent residence.

It is important to note that the Express Entry system is a competitive process and not all applicants who create a profile will be issued an ITA. However, there are steps that can be taken to increase the chances of being invited, such as increasing language proficiency, gaining more work experience, and obtaining a higher level of education.

Another way of increasing the chances of being invited is by applying under a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). Some provinces in Canada have their own immigration programs and they can nominate a certain number of candidates to the federal government. This can greatly increase the chances of being invited to apply for permanent residence.

Once an ITA is received and the application for permanent residence is submitted, it is important to ensure that all documentation is accurate and complete. This includes providing police certificates, medical examinations, and other required documents. It is also important to keep in mind that processing times for the Express Entry system can vary, so patience is key.

In conclusion, the Express Entry system offers a promising pathway for Africans seeking to migrate to Canada permanently. By comprehending the fundamental requirements, establishing a robust Express Entry profile, and strategizing to enhance their invitation prospects, applicants can elevate their chances of success. It’s crucial to acknowledge the competitive nature of the process and the potential for varied processing times. Nonetheless, with meticulous planning and preparation, the Express Entry system presents a significant opportunity for Africans, including Nigerians, to realize their aspirations of settling in Canada.

 

 

 

 

January 20, 2023

When applying for a passport, it is crucial to ensure that all required documentation and information are submitted accurately to avoid potential issues or delays. Regrettably, many applicants across the continent may not be aware of the most common reasons for rejection, leading to potential denial of their passport application. Here, we will discuss the top five reasons why a passport application from African countries may be rejected for travel to Canada.

  1. Inadequate documentation: One of the most common reasons for passport application rejection is a failure to provide the necessary documents. This can include a birth certificate, marriage certificate, or other forms of identification. It is important to ensure that all required documents are submitted with the application and that they are not expired or otherwise invalid.
  2. Incorrect information: Another common reason for rejection is providing false or inaccurate information on the application. This can include incorrect personal information, such as a misspelled name or incorrect date of birth, or incorrect passport details, such as an incorrect passport number or expiration date. It is important to double-check all information before submitting the application to ensure that it is accurate.
  3. Criminal history: Having a criminal record, either in Nigeria or in any other African country or Canada, can also lead to rejection of a passport application. This is because having a criminal record may make an applicant ineligible for a passport, as it can be seen as a security threat. It is important for applicants with a criminal history to disclose this information on the application and provide any necessary supporting documentation.
  4. Unpaid debts or taxes: Unpaid debts or taxes can also lead to rejection of a passport application. This is because governments across Africa may consider an applicant with unpaid debts or taxes to be a financial risk. It is important to ensure that all debts and taxes are paid before submitting the application to avoid any potential issues.
  5. Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions may also make an applicant ineligible for a passport. This can include mental health conditions, physical disabilities, or communicable diseases. It is important for applicants with any of these conditions to disclose them on the application and provide any necessary supporting documentation.

In conclusion, it is important for passport applicants from Africa to be aware of the most common reasons for rejection when traveling to Canada. By ensuring that all necessary documentation and information is submitted correctly, and that any potential issues are addressed, applicants can help ensure that their passport application is accepted and processed in a timely manner.