Immigrating during a Pandemic, what are your Options?
Many immigration consultancies and firms are putting out expensive ads, talking about a whole host of “pandemic” immigration programs governments are opening up, to attract workers and keep their economies running. Many governments are in need of workers, and the slowdown of immigration will have a recessionary effect on many countries, as mentioned in this article. However, many Immigration consultancies may be feeling the bite of the pandemic as well, and are for the most part exaggerating the various, and oftentimes non-existent programs currently open. Therefore, this article aims to give a common sense explanation on various avenues which could be profitable for intending immigrants looking to take action during these times. Do note this is not legal advice, but simply common sense information based on our years of experience. Today we focus heavily on Canada, the US, and Australia/NZ, though the information may well apply in European or other countries, in a general way.
The Current Landscape
Most countries are slowly reopening borders. The US-Canada border is still closed (for land borders) when it comes to general traffic. Passengers between the US and Canada can travel for “essential purposes” which can include study or work. Permanent residents and citizens are allowed to return back however. The family sponsorship route (i.e. for dependents and spouses of citizens or permanent residents) is also largely unaffected, and may also see quicker processing times due to a slowdown in other immigration areas.
Tourism is generally at a standstill, though the US government has kept the US borders officially open for valid visa holders. Some countries in Europe are also open for foreign visitors, and others have even opened up for tourism. The situation is quite fluid however, as many countries grapple with potential re-infections. Covid testing is becoming the norm, as a precondition to travel.
Become a Student Again, Get your Diploma Completed, Pursue a Master’s or a Professional Qualification
The pathway that will face the least resistance in the current climate, is the study pathway. The US government did try to prevent students taking online classes from obtaining visas, but this policy was very quickly withdrawn after lawsuits followed. Canada also remains open to students. International students are a big driver of revenue for academic institutions, both public and private. Therefore, many institutions will be struggling without them. As such, international students will be able to travel and take up residence in Canada, the US, and most likely across many countries in the world as well. In Canada, students can obtain work authorization, and remain on a work permit after the completion of their studies. Eventually they can transition to permanent residency as well. The US grants students a temporary work permit, and students can transition to temporary visas. Transitioning to permanent residency is a little bit more complicated. Many European countries offer a similar system as the US, however, there may not be an analogous concept to permanent residency. However, in many countries, such as the UK, individuals who have lived there for a certain time period, e.g. ten years, can transition to citizenship directly.
Another option for potential students, and even those looking to boost their immigration profiles in Canada, Australia or New Zealand, is to take up courses of study online. If you complete an online degree, it will still count on your credential assessment, and if your degree is from your desired country of immigration, then this is even more beneficial to your migration ambitions in the long run.
Consider Starting a Business, even if it is Part Time or Freelance
The digital world has made opening up a company online easier than ever before. Using online service providers, it is even possible to open up bank accounts online in many countries, including the US and Canada. If you have a skill, and want to possibly consider moving to another country to pursue business opportunities or even work in the future, the first step could be to setup your company online. Even if you don’t move immediately, or don’t continue the business when you eventually get to your chosen country, starting a business could make the visa process easier, as you will establish business ties to your chosen country, whether it is Canada, the US or Europe. This will allow you to apply for and qualify for a business visa in the future. There are also a number of investor and entrepreneur programs that are open for business people, so this could be an option for many who have money to invest.
Start the Process of Economic Migration, but Expect Backlogs
For those looking to migrate as skilled workers, it should be known that countries such as Canada, are still processing and accepting applicants. Individuals are being invited to apply as well. However, the number of accepted applicants is much lower than in non-pandemic times, and processing times may be slow. Therefore, your application could face backlogs, if you do go down this route. In the meantime, you could try boosting your IELTS or academic profile, by taking an online diploma for example.
Using a Tourist Visa to get a Job: A Difficult Option in the Current Climate
Many intending immigrants think about entering a country on a visit visa, and then staying back to search for a job. In the past, there have been programs, such as the Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program in Canada, or others, which allowed non-residents to apply for and receive job offers and permanent residency, once they find a job. These options still do exist in Canada and other countries. However, you must first gain entry into the country and search for a job which fits these categories or find a job before arriving. You cannot apply for these programs voluntarily or on your own behalf, you need an employer to apply for you. Therefore, Immigration firms advertising this program to you are essentially lying about your options, if they ask you to apply to these kind of programs!
Many individuals may apply for a tourist trip to somewhere in Europe, the US, Canada, or elsewhere, while also planning a family visit, and a visit to test the waters in terms of their employment prospects. To prevent identification as a potential immigrant, applicants often present only their touristic ambitions in their visa applications. During pandemic times this will be difficult. For example, a trip to Disneyland in the US may be impractical, if Disneyland remains closed indefinitely. Therefore, this approach does present obstacles in the current climate.
If you have any questions about immigration and want honest, reliable and trustworthy assistance, reach out to us today at info@borderlesscounsel.com or send us a whatsapp on +97338792838.