Canadian Permanent Residence (PR) offers foreign nationals the legal right to live, work, and study anywhere in Canada indefinitely. This status, while distinct from Canadian citizenship, serves as the primary pathway to eventually becoming a citizen, granting access to a comprehensive suite of social benefits, including public healthcare and free public education for children up to grade 12.1 For many Nigerians, the prospect of securing Canadian Permanent Residence represents a significant step towards a new life in North America, driven by Canada's robust economic opportunities, high quality of life, diverse and inclusive communities, and strong legal protections for permanent residents.

The Canadian government actively seeks skilled immigrants and family members to contribute to its economy and society, making it a welcoming destination for those looking to immigrate.4 For Nigerian applicants, various immigration pathways are available, each with specific eligibility criteria designed to meet Canada's diverse needs and facilitate a smooth transition for newcomers.1 Understanding these pathways, their requirements, and the broader immigration landscape is crucial for a successful application journey.

Canada offers several avenues for individuals seeking permanent residence, each catering to different profiles and circumstances. For Nigerian applicants, identifying the most suitable pathway is the first critical step.

The Express Entry system stands as Canada's flagship economic immigration system, designed to manage applications for skilled workers. It is consistently highlighted as the "quickest and most popular" pathway for Nigerians due to its efficient processing times.1 This system assesses candidates based on a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score, inviting those with the highest scores to apply for permanent residence.

Within the Express Entry system, three federal programs are particularly relevant:

• Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP): This program is a primary economic immigration pathway, requiring candidates to possess a minimum of one year of continuous full-time (or equivalent) skilled work experience within the last ten years. This experience must fall under the National Occupational Classification (NOC) TEER category 0, 1, 2, or 3. Applicants must also demonstrate intermediate or better language ability, typically a Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) 7 in English or French, and have a Canadian-evaluated post-high school education. A minimum of 67 points on a 100-point grid is also required for eligibility.

• Canadian Experience Class (CEC): This program is ideal for individuals who have already gained skilled, professional, or technical work experience in Canada. It requires at least one year of eligible Canadian work experience within three years of the application date, along with meeting specific language proficiency criteria.1 This pathway often serves as a strategic option for international students or temporary workers already in Canada, allowing them to leverage their in-Canada experience for permanent residency.

• Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP): Tailored for skilled tradespersons, this program requires at least two years of full-time work experience in a skilled trade within the five-year period preceding the application. This experience must be gained after certification in Nigeria. Applicants must also meet the job requirements for the specific skilled trade and typically need a full-time job offer in Canada for at least one year or a certificate of qualification in that trade.1

Eligibility Criteria & Selection Factors:

The Express Entry system evaluates candidates based on several key factors:

• Age: Applicants must be at least 18 years old, with those between 18 and 35 generally receiving higher scores.

• Education: Higher education completion is a significant factor, with specific requirements often linked to the National Occupational Classification (NOC) code for the applicant's intended profession. Foreign educational credentials must undergo an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) to determine their Canadian equivalency.

• Work Experience: A minimum of one year of full-time skilled work experience is a general requirement for most Express Entry streams.

• Language Ability: Demonstrating proficiency in English or French is mandatory. This is typically done through approved language tests such as IELTS or CELPIP for English, and TEF or TCF for French.

• Adaptability: Factors such as a spouse's language proficiency, education, or existing Canadian ties can contribute additional points to an applicant's score.

• Arranged Full-time Employment: While not always mandatory for the FSWP, a valid job offer from a Canadian employer can significantly boost an applicant's CRS score.

Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) Score: How it Works & How to Maximize Your Points:

The CRS score is the mechanism by which candidates in the Express Entry pool are ranked. It considers various human capital factors, including age, education, work experience, and language proficiency, as well as skill transferability and additional factors like a Canadian job offer or provincial nomination.

To improve a CRS score, individuals can pursue higher-level education, accumulate more years of professional experience, achieve higher scores on language tests, secure a valid job offer, or obtain a provincial nomination.3 If an applicant is eligible for multiple Express Entry programs, Invitations to Apply (ITAs) are typically issued in a specific order: Canadian Experience Class (CEC) first, followed by Federal Skilled Worker (FSW), and then Federal Skilled Trades (FST).3 This structured approach allows candidates to understand the most likely path to an ITA if they meet multiple program criteria.

The CRS score is central to the Express Entry system. A clear understanding of how points are awarded for each factor allows applicants to strategically assess their profile and identify areas for improvement. This empowers individuals to take actionable steps to enhance their chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply.

The Family Class Sponsorship program provides a vital pathway for Canadian citizens or permanent residents to reunite with their eligible family members in Canada.1 This program underscores Canada's commitment to family reunification as a core immigration principle.

Who Can Be Sponsored:

Eligible family members for sponsorship include spouses, common-law partners, conjugal partners, dependent children, parents, and grandparents.2

Sponsor Requirements:

To be a sponsor, an individual must meet several criteria:

• Be at least 18 years old.

• Be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident residing in Canada, or demonstrate a clear intention to return to Canada once the sponsored person obtains permanent resident status.

• Sign a sponsorship agreement, committing to financially support the sponsored person for a specified period.

• Meet a minimum income threshold, known as the Low Income Cut-Off (LICO), which varies based on the size of the family unit being sponsored.

• Not have been sponsored as a spouse within the last five years if sponsoring another spouse.

• Be free of a criminal record, not be in prison, not be under a removal order, and not be receiving social assistance (unless for a disability).2

Sponsored Person Requirements:

The sponsored individual must also meet specific requirements:

• Be at least 16 years old if sponsoring a partner.

• Be closely related to the sponsor as defined by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

• For dependent children, they must be under 22 years old and not married or in a common-law partnership, or be 22 years or older and financially dependent due to a physical or mental condition.2

Factors Preventing Family Class Sponsorship:

It is important to be aware of circumstances that can prevent family class sponsorship. These include a sponsor's failure to pay previous immigration loans or family support payments, a history of previously sponsored family members relying on social assistance, the sponsor being under a removal order or in prison, receiving social assistance (excluding disability payments), or having filed for bankruptcy.2 Additionally, a sponsor who has been convicted of a serious violent or sexual crime may be ineligible.2 Understanding these potential disqualifiers allows applicants to proactively address any issues, which can significantly reduce the risk of application rejection.

Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) offer a crucial avenue for individuals who wish to immigrate to Canada and are interested in settling in a specific province or territory. These programs enable provinces and territories to nominate individuals who meet their unique labor market and economic development needs.1

How PNPs Work for Nigerian Applicants:

PNPs provide a pathway for Nigerian applicants who may not directly qualify through federal Express Entry programs or who have a strong desire to settle in a particular region of Canada. Each province and territory has its own set of immigration streams, often targeting candidates with specific skills, work experience, or educational backgrounds that address local labor shortages. Some PNP streams are aligned with Express Entry (known as "Enhanced PNPs"), allowing nominees to receive additional CRS points and a faster processing time for their permanent residence application. Other streams (called "Base PNPs") operate outside the Express Entry system.1 This diversity of programs means that even if a candidate does not meet the criteria for one federal program, a provincial nomination could still open the door to Canadian permanent residence.

Canada offers various business immigration programs at both the federal and provincial levels, designed for entrepreneurs, investors, and self-employed individuals who can make a significant economic contribution to the country.1 These programs aim to attract individuals with business acumen and capital to create jobs and foster innovation within Canada.

Success Stories: Nigerian Entrepreneurs in Canada:

The journey of Michael, an entrepreneur from Nigeria, exemplifies a successful business immigration to Canada. Michael successfully immigrated and established an auto recycling business in Ontario through the C11 LMIA-Exempt Work Permit program.7 This program is specifically tailored for entrepreneurs who can demonstrate significant benefits to Canada. Michael's success was underpinned by several key factors: a comprehensive business plan detailing sourcing, dismantling, and export strategies, sufficient liquidity (transferring over CAD $115,000 to his company's bank account in Canada), and the strategic guidance of immigration experts.7 His case demonstrates that with careful planning, adequate financial resources, and professional support, Nigerian entrepreneurs can successfully navigate complex immigration processes and launch thriving businesses in Canada. This example serves as an encouraging testament to the possibilities within business immigration pathways.

For individuals already in Canada on temporary permits, such as study permits or work permits, Temporary to Permanent Residence (TR to PR) pathways offer a strategic route to transition to permanent residency. These pathways acknowledge the value of Canadian experience and integration.

Options for International Students and Temporary Workers in Canada:

The Canadian Experience Class (CEC) is a prime example of a TR to PR pathway, specifically rewarding individuals who have gained skilled Canadian work experience.1 Other provincial programs may also offer streams for international graduates or temporary foreign workers. These pathways provide a flexible, multi-stage approach to immigration, allowing individuals to first establish themselves in Canada, gain valuable experience, and then leverage that experience to boost their eligibility for permanent residence. This approach can be particularly beneficial for younger Nigerian applicants or those with less initial work experience who may find it challenging to meet direct PR requirements from outside Canada.

Anticipated Required Documents:

Applicants pursuing TR to PR pathways should anticipate needing a comprehensive set of documents, including application forms, civil status documents, educational credentials, proof of language competency, work reference letters from Canadian employers, copies of their Nigerian passport, Canadian immigration permits, police clearance certificates, medical examination results, and digital pictures.1 Thorough preparation of these documents is essential for a smooth transition.

Regardless of the specific pathway chosen, all Nigerian applicants for Canadian Permanent Residence must satisfy a set of fundamental requirements and provide comprehensive documentation. Adhering to these requirements meticulously is paramount for a successful application.

• Language Proficiency: All principal applicants must demonstrate proficiency in either English or French. This is typically achieved by taking designated language tests such as IELTS or CELPIP for English, and TEF or TCF for French. The minimum required scores vary depending on the specific immigration program.1

• Medical Examinations: Applicants and any accompanying family members are required to undergo a medical examination conducted by an IRCC-approved panel physician. This examination ensures that individuals do not pose a public health or safety risk to Canadians, nor would their medical conditions cause an excessive demand on Canada's health or social services.1

• Police Clearance Certificates (PCCs): To verify a clean criminal record, applicants and any dependents over the age of 18 must obtain police clearance certificates from Nigeria and any other country where they have resided for six months or more since turning 18.1

• Admissibility Criteria: Avoiding Inadmissibility: A critical aspect of the application process involves meeting Canada's admissibility criteria. Applicants can be deemed inadmissible for various reasons, leading to denial of a visa or refusal of entry. These reasons include security concerns (e.g., espionage, terrorism), human or international rights violations (e.g., war crimes), criminality (even minor offenses like driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol), involvement in organized crime, certain medical conditions that could endanger public health or safety or cause excessive demand on health services, financial reasons (inability to support oneself and family), or misrepresentation (providing false information or withholding crucial details).1 Understanding these grounds for inadmissibility is crucial for applicants to ensure their profile aligns with Canadian immigration laws and to avoid potential pitfalls that could lead to refusal. Proactively addressing any past issues and ensuring complete and accurate disclosure is vital to mitigate the risk of inadmissibility.

• Purpose and Importance of ECA: An Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) is a mandatory step for many economic immigration programs, particularly the Federal Skilled Worker Program, and is essential for earning points for foreign education under Express Entry. The ECA verifies that a foreign degree, diploma, or certificate is valid and equivalent to a Canadian educational credential.

• Designated Organizations: Assessments must be obtained from organizations designated by IRCC, such as World Education Services (WES) or the International Qualifications Assessment Service (IQAS).6 These organizations provide a report detailing the Canadian equivalency of the applicant's foreign education.

• Validity and Re-issuance: An ECA is typically valid for five years for Express Entry purposes. If an ECA is nearing its expiration date while an applicant is still in the Express Entry pool or before submitting a full application, it is advisable to contact the issuing organization for re-issuance to ensure its continued validity.

• Important Note: While an ECA is crucial for immigration purposes and can assist in job searches, it does not guarantee employment in the applicant's field or a license to practice in regulated professions in Canada.6 This distinction is important for managing expectations, as many regulated professions in Canada require additional licensing or certification processes independent of the immigration application. Applicants are encouraged to research the specific licensing requirements for their profession in the province or territory where they intend to settle.

• Requirement: Most economic immigration programs, such as the Federal Skilled Worker Program, require applicants to demonstrate that they possess sufficient funds to support themselves and their family members upon arrival in Canada. This requirement is typically waived if the applicant has a valid job offer in Canada or is applying under the Canadian Experience Class.

• Required Funds by Family Size: The specific amount of funds required is based on the number of family members included in the application, including those who may not be accompanying the principal applicant to Canada. This threshold is subject to annual adjustments, usually in May, reflecting changes in the low-income cut-off.10 Therefore, applicants must always refer to the most current official IRCC figures for the precise amount required.

• Accepted Documents for Proof of Funds: The primary document accepted as proof of funds is an official letter from the applicant's bank. This letter must be on official letterhead and include details such as the bank's name and contact information, the applicant's name, account numbers, the date the account was opened, the current account balance, and the average balance for the last six months. In addition to the bank letter, six months of bank statements should also be included. The funds demonstrated must be legally accessible to the applicant and available at both the time of application submission and when the permanent residence visa is issued.

• Explaining Lump Sum Deposits: Any large, recent deposits into an applicant's account must be clearly explained and documented. Failure to provide a satisfactory explanation for such lump sums may lead to suspicion that the funds are not legitimately owned by the applicant, potentially resulting in the funds not being accepted by the processing office.10 This emphasis on transparency is crucial to ensure the integrity of the financial assessment.

The dynamic nature of the proof of funds thresholds highlights the importance of consulting official IRCC sources regularly. Providing the latest available figures and directing users to official government websites for real-time, verified information enhances the article's authority and trustworthiness, setting it apart from less reliable sources.

Navigating the application journey for Canadian Permanent Residence requires meticulous attention to detail, adherence to deadlines, and an understanding of the associated costs and timelines.

The process for obtaining permanent residence, particularly through Express Entry, follows a structured multi-stage approach:

• Creating an Express Entry Profile: Eligible candidates initiate the process by creating an online profile. This profile requires detailed information concerning their age, educational background, work experience, and language proficiency. Once submitted, this profile enters the candidate into the Express Entry pool, where they are ranked against other applicants.

• Receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA): Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducts regular draws from the Express Entry pool. Candidates whose Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) scores meet or exceed the cut-off for a particular draw receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence.

• Submitting Your Application Package: Upon receiving an ITA, applicants are granted a strict 60-day window to submit a complete application package, including all required supporting documents. This deadline is non-negotiable; failure to submit a complete application within this timeframe will result in the ITA being lost, requiring the applicant to re-enter the Express Entry pool.3 The brevity of this window underscores the critical importance of preparing all necessary documents before receiving an ITA to avoid losing the opportunity.

• Using the IRCC Permanent Residence Portal: The official online Permanent Residence Portal is the primary platform for applying for permanent residence. This portal allows applicants to upload documents, track their application status, and manage their Permanent Resident (PR) cards.11 It is crucial for applicants to use this official platform and avoid unofficial or third-party sites that may offer misleading information or services.

Understanding the financial commitment is a significant concern for prospective immigrants. Canadian Permanent Residence application fees are subject to change, with recent adjustments noted in 2024 and 2025 across various categories.13 These fees typically include a processing fee for the application itself and a Right of Permanent Residence Fee (RPRF), which is a landing fee paid before permanent resident status is officially granted.

The provision of precise, up-to-date fee information is critical for applicants' financial planning. The dynamic nature of these fees necessitates a strong directive for users to always refer to the official IRCC website. This practice not only ensures accuracy for the applicant but also reinforces the authority and trustworthiness of the information provided within this guide, distinguishing it as a reliable resource.

Processing times for Canadian Permanent Residence applications can vary significantly, influenced by several factors. While some Express Entry applications can be processed in as little as six months from profile submission to visa issuance 1, other programs like Family Sponsorship and Provincial Nominee Programs may have longer timelines.

Factors Influencing Processing Speed:

• Type of Application: Different immigration programs have distinct processing targets and complexities, leading to varied timelines.

• Completeness of Application: Incomplete applications are a primary cause of delays, as IRCC requires all necessary documentation before processing can proceed efficiently.

• Volume of Applications: Periods of high application volumes can lead to increased wait times due to backlogs.

• Ease of Information Verification: The speed at which IRCC can verify the information and documents provided by the applicant directly impacts processing duration.

• Applicant's Response Time: Promptly responding to any requests for additional information or clarification from IRCC can help prevent delays.

• Location: Applications submitted from outside Canada and the United States may require additional mailing time, adding several months to the overall processing period.

• Provincial Processing: For Provincial Nominee Programs and certain Family Sponsorship applications where the applicant intends to reside in Quebec, the Government of Quebec also needs to process the application due to the Canada–Quebec Accord, which can affect overall timelines.

Given the variability of processing times, it is essential for applicants to consult the official IRCC website, which provides an interactive tool for checking current processing times for specific application types.15 This ensures access to the most up-to-date information relevant to their unique circumstances.

Obtaining Canadian Permanent Residence is a significant achievement, but it also comes with rights, responsibilities, and the need to adapt to a new environment. Understanding these aspects is crucial for a successful and fulfilling life in Canada.

• Residency Obligation: To maintain Permanent Resident status, an individual must be physically present in Canada for at least 730 days (two years) within every five-year period.1 This obligation ensures that permanent residents actively contribute to and integrate into Canadian society.

• Benefits of PR: Permanent residents enjoy a wide array of benefits, including:

• The legal right to live, work, and study anywhere across Canada.1

• Access to comprehensive social benefits, such as the public healthcare system and free public education for children up to grade 12.

• Protection under Canadian law and the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, ensuring fundamental rights and freedoms.2

• The ability to sponsor eligible family members to join them in Canada.

• The status serves as a direct pathway to Canadian citizenship, offering the opportunity to fully integrate into the political and social fabric of the country.

• PR Card Validity: The Permanent Resident card is typically valid for five years and serves as official proof of PR status, as well as a valid travel document for re-entry into Canada.

• Requirements for Renewal: To renew a PR card, individuals must submit necessary forms, their original PR card (or provide proof of its loss or theft), a photocopy of their passport, recent photos, and updated criminal records. Additional documents, such as tax paperwork and birth certificates for minors, may also be required.

• Loss of Permanent Residency Status: Permanent Resident status can be revoked under certain circumstances. This includes failing to meet the residency obligation (not being physically present in Canada for the required duration), being declared inadmissible to Canada due to reasons such as criminal activity or misrepresentation, voluntarily renouncing one's status, or becoming a Canadian citizen (which is a positive development as citizenship replaces PR status).1 Understanding these conditions is vital for maintaining PR status.

The transition to a new country, while exciting, often comes with unique challenges. For Nigerian immigrants, specific considerations can arise that are important to address proactively.

• Addressing Scams and Misinformation: A significant concern for prospective Nigerian immigrants is the prevalence of immigration scams. It is crucial to exercise extreme caution with immigration agents who promise work permits from Nigeria, as many such offers are fraudulent.16 All information and offers should always be verified directly with official IRCC sources to prevent falling victim to deceptive practices.

• Accommodation and Cost of Living: Housing, particularly rent, represents a substantial expense in Canada. Newcomers are advised to prioritize securing accommodation and managing their finances wisely to navigate the cost of living effectively.

• Cultural Adaptation and Community Integration: While vibrant Nigerian communities exist across Canada, integrating with diverse groups is encouraged for broader learning and cultural understanding. Newcomers should be mindful of cultural differences and adapt to Canadian social norms to facilitate smoother integration.16 Practical advice from those who have made the move, such as understanding local nuances and avoiding certain behaviors that might be misinterpreted, can be invaluable.

• Work Permit vs. Permanent Residence: Key Distinctions: It is important to understand that visitor visas generally do not permit work in Canada, and obtaining a work permit while on a visitor visa can be challenging, though temporary policy changes may occasionally offer limited exceptions. For long-term employment and career stability, obtaining permanent residence is generally the most reliable and recommended route.

• Other Practical Tips: Planning one's movement thoroughly before arrival, including pre-arranging accommodation and researching job prospects, can significantly reduce initial overwhelm. Learning to use the local transit system, saving money diligently (given inflation and housing challenges), and preparing for Canadian winters are also practical considerations for a smoother transition. Additionally, stocking up on specific Nigerian food items, if allowed, can be beneficial due to potentially higher costs for African groceries in Canada.16 These real-world considerations, often shared by those who have already navigated the journey, provide an authentic perspective on life in Canada and help manage expectations.

Preparation is key to a successful immigration journey. Many immigrants express regret over not utilizing pre-arrival settlement services, which can significantly ease the transition into Canadian life.

• Importance of Preparedness: These services are designed to inform newcomers about the expectations, challenges, and opportunities they will encounter, helping them to be better prepared for their move, settlement, and employment in Canada.

• Planning for Canada: This organization offers free pre-arrival services specifically for approved permanent residents, providing comprehensive support through various formats 17:

• Immigrant Workshops: These workshops cover essential topics related to "Living and Working in Canada," including practical guidance on cost of living, housing, financial management, primary and post-secondary education, transportation, and cultural adaptation.17 They also focus on becoming job-ready, identifying transferable skills, building professional networks, and understanding Canadian workplace culture.

• One-on-One Sessions: These personalized sessions help individuals identify their needs and assets, leading to the development of a tailored Settlement Plan. This plan is customized to their specific situation, destination, career goals, and family needs. Facilitators connect newcomers with in-Canada advisors who provide further personalized guidance on the labor market, regulated occupations, and referrals to local resources.

• Self-Directed e-Learning & Live Webinars: Flexible resources are available for continuous learning on various aspects of Canadian life, including expert-led webinars on Canadian culture and professional connections.

• Benefits for Nigerian Immigrants: The experience of Olubukola Abdul, a Nigerian immigrant who moved with her family in December 2019, highlights the tangible benefits of these services. She noted that "Planning for Canada’s services covered mostly everything that I wanted to ask about Canada," providing clarity on schooling for her children, settlement, and connecting her to bridging programs. This support significantly smoothed her family's transition.18 This example demonstrates the real-world value of proactive engagement with pre-arrival services for Nigerian newcomers.

• Essential Documents for Border Crossing: Upon arrival in Canada, newcomers must have specific documents ready for border services officers. These include a Canadian immigrant visa (if applicable), their Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) for each family member, a valid passport or other travel document, and detailed lists of all personal and household items being brought into Canada (both accompanying and arriving later). It is also mandatory to declare any funds exceeding CAN $10,000 carried into the country.19 Being well-prepared with these documents can significantly expedite the entry process.

Community Support and Resources for Newcomers: Beyond formal pre-arrival services, various community organizations across Canada offer post-arrival support, assisting newcomers with their integration into Canadian society. These resources can be invaluable for finding housing, employment, language training, and connecting with local communities.2

The journey to obtaining a Canada Permanent Residence Visa for Nigerians is a comprehensive process, but one that is entirely achievable with thorough preparation and accurate information. Canada offers diverse and welcoming pathways for skilled workers, families, and entrepreneurs, each designed to facilitate integration and contribution to Canadian society. The Express Entry system, with its emphasis on human capital and skilled work experience, remains a prominent and often expedited route. However, alternative pathways such as Family Sponsorship, Provincial Nominee Programs, Business Immigration, and Temporary to Permanent Residence options provide flexibility for a wide range of applicants.

Success in this endeavor hinges upon a meticulous understanding of eligibility criteria, the precise documentation required, and the dynamic nature of application fees and processing times. Proactive engagement with the process, including diligent preparation of documents like Educational Credential Assessments and proof of funds, is essential. Furthermore, awareness of potential challenges, such as navigating cultural adaptation or avoiding immigration scams, empowers applicants to make informed decisions and safeguard their journey.

For any prospective Nigerian immigrant, the most authoritative and up-to-date information will always reside on the official Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website (canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/permanent-residents.html).11 This resource should be the primary reference for all forms, fees, and processing time inquiries. Given the complexity and significant personal investment involved in immigration, seeking guidance from regulated Canadian immigration consultants or lawyers is highly recommended. These professionals can provide personalized eligibility assessments, navigate intricate application procedures, and offer invaluable support, ensuring that every step taken is informed and strategic. By leveraging official resources and expert guidance, Nigerian applicants can confidently embark on their journey towards realizing their Canadian dream.