There are several regulations that need to be followed when immigrating to a foreign country. This is done to ensure that the individuals entering the country are eligible, and also to prevent illegal immigration. In Canada, the immigration is divided into categories, but is mainly focused on economically motivated immigrants who are handled by the Citizenship and Immigration Canada.
The economic immigrants entering the country include professional and skilled workers, who must qualify for one of the job classifications that are listed in the chart of the National Occupational Classification. The applicants in this category are rated on their relevant experience and education level, in addition to the general requirements, such as the age limit from 18 to 49 years old. They must have the ability to function as a workforce member, the ability to speak English or French, and documents regarding their medical and criminal background.
Skilled workers in Quebec are also included in the class of economic immigrants, and they fall under the Canada-Quebec Accord of Immigration. They are required to be able to speak French, in addition to qualifying as skilled workers. Applicants in this category must first apply for a certificate of selection to the government of Quebec before applying for immigration.
A programme was designed in Canada allowing experienced businessmen to invest in the country for at least $400,000 and manage businesses. There are several classes of immigrants with business purposes that are accepted in Canada, including entrepreneurs, investors and persons who are self-employed.
Canada seeks individuals that are highly skilled in various sectors of business. Knowing that the country offers jobs with high standards, the immigration rate in the country increases every year. Over 250,640 immigrants were recorded in the country in 2001, representing 0.834% of the total population.