Top 5 ways to move to Canada from Dubai, UAE

Surya Rathee
[Published 16 Apr, 2025 | 06:05 PM]
About Author - 6 min read
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Did you know?

Canada has over 104+ immigration programs.

Canada has become one of the most popular destinations for people living in Dubai, UAE.

With its high quality of life, excellent healthcare, world-class education, and immigrant-friendly policies, many people dream of immigrating to Canada from Dubai, UAE. Whether you're a skilled worker, a student, or looking to start a business, Canada offers multiple immigration pathways.

MOVE TO CANADA FROM DUBAI

Option 1: Express Entry Program

The Express Entry Program is one of the fastest and most popular ways to move to Canada from Dubai. It's an online immigration system managed by the Canadian government, mainly for skilled workers. You start by creating a profile and get a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score based on factors like age, education, work experience, and language proficiency (IELTS). The higher your CRS score, the better your chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency.

Best for: Skilled professionals with work experience, good English skills, and higher education.

Eligibility:

• Minimum of 1 year of skilled work experience.
• IELTS score (CLB 7 or higher).
• Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) to verify foreign degrees.
• Minimum CRS score (usually around 470+, but this can vary).

Processing Time: Usually between 6 to 8 months after receiving an ITA.

Option 2: Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)

If you’re not scoring high enough in the Express Entry system, don’t worry! Canada’s Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) allow provinces to select immigrants based on their own labor market needs. You can apply directly to a province or get nominated through Express Entry. A provincial nomination gives you 600 extra CRS points, almost guaranteeing an ITA.

Best for: Applicants with a lower CRS score or a connection to a specific Canadian province.

Popular PNPs:

• Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP)
• Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP)
• Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP)
• British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BCPNP)

Eligibility:

• Varies by province and job demand.
• Some require a job offer; others don’t.

Processing Time: 9 to 12 months approximately.

Option 3: Study Visa Route

Many people from Dubai apply for a Canada Study Visa to get enrolled in top universities and colleges. After completing their studies, they can apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), gain Canadian work experience, and later apply for PR through the Canadian Experience Class (Express Entry stream).

Best for: Young adults looking for quality education and a pathway to permanent residency.

Benefits:

• Study and live in Canada.
• Spouse can get an open work permit.
• Kids can study for free in public schools.
• Pathway to PR after graduation.

Processing Time: Study permit: 4 to 8 weeks.

Option 4: Work Permit

If you’re working in Dubai and have a Canadian job offer, you may be eligible for a Temporary Work Permit. There are two best types of Canada Work Permit from UAE: the LMIA-based Work Permit, which is when the Canadian employer needs to get a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) to prove no Canadian worker is available for the job. Once approved, you can apply for a work permit. The second is the Intra-Company Transfer, which means that if you work for a company that also operates in Canada, you can be transferred to the Canadian office.

Best for: Professionals with a Canadian job offer or those working in multinational companies.

Benefits:

• Gain Canadian work experience.
• Spouse can work, and children can study.
• Option to apply for PR later through the Canadian Experience Class.

Processing Time: 4 to 6 months depending on the case.

Option 5: Business or Investor Immigration

Canada offers various programs for those looking to start a business or invest in the country. These programs are perfect for people in Dubai who already run a business or have substantial capital.

• Start-Up Visa Program - For those launching an innovative business in Canada.
• Entrepreneur PNPs - Several provinces have business immigration streams.
• Self-Employed Visa - For people in cultural, athletic, or artistic fields.

Best for: Entrepreneurs, business owners, and high-net-worth individuals.

Requirements:

• Minimum investment amount varies by province).
• Business plan.
• Proof of business experience.
• Net worth requirement.

Benefits:

• Option to apply for PR for yourself and your family.
• Chance to expand your business internationally.

Processing Time: 2 to 3 years depending on the case.

Book a Free Consultation

Moving to Canada from Dubai is a dream for many, and with the right planning and guidance, it’s definitely achievable. Whether you’re a skilled professional, a student, a businessperson, or someone with family in Canada, there’s an immigration pathway for you.

Always check the latest eligibility criteria and consult with trusted immigration consultants in Dubai, UAE, to choose the best program based on your profile. With the right documents and support, you could be on your way to starting a new life in Canada. If you need expert assistance, our team at Nationwide Visas can help you at every step - from selecting the right pathway to submitting your application.

Get started today!

Read more:- Cost to immigrate to Canada from the UAE