This article summarizes the landscape as it stood in May 2022. Always check current program rules before you apply.
Canada and several other destinations resumed or streamlined immigration processing after pandemic disruptions—much of it handled online. For skilled workers and investors alike, multiple pathways lead to permanent residence (PR), and ultimately to citizenship after meeting residency and other requirements.
Canada: Programs that Drove Applications in 2022
Express Entry (EE). Canada’s flagship, points-based selection system for:
- Federal Skilled Worker (FSW)
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
- Federal Skilled Trades (FST)
A job offer is not mandatory for Express Entry (though it can boost your score). Strong language results, education (ECA), age, and experience remain core score drivers.
Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs). Provinces select candidates to meet local labour needs. A provincial nomination adds significant points in the EE pool (for aligned streams) and can lead to an Invitation to Apply (ITA).
Start-Up Visa (SUV). For founders backed by a designated Canadian venture fund, angel group, or incubator. Successful applicants can obtain PR while building a business that creates Canadian jobs.
Citizenship note: PR holders may apply for citizenship once they meet the physical-presence, language, and other eligibility requirements in force at that time.
Australia vs. Canada (High-level 2022 view)
Both countries offered points-based systems, strong public services, and routes to citizenship. Australia typically required more occupation-specific assessments and documentation; Canada’s Express Entry + PNP mix provided broader targeting and, for many, faster end-to-end decisions. The right choice depends on your occupation, age, and language profile.
Beyond Canada: 2022 Options at a Glance
United Kingdom (business routes). The UK maintained business/entrepreneur pathways; eligibility and route names changed over time. Always verify which routes are currently open.
Europe (residency by investment). Several EU countries ran residency—not EU-wide—programs (“golden visas”) via real estate, funds, or job creation. Portugal was among the most prominent in 2022. Citizenship in Europe typically requires multiple years of residence and meeting language/integration requirements.
Caribbean (citizenship by investment). A handful of island nations offered direct citizenship via contributions or approved real estate. Benefits often include simplified global mobility and favourable tax regimes. Processing is usually remote and comparatively swift.
How XIPHIAS Guides Applicants
- Route selection & CRS strategy: Express Entry vs. PNP vs. work permits vs. business pathways
- Documents & filings: ECA, language tests, proof of funds, police/medical
- Founders & investors: Start-Up Visa support; introductions to designated entities (where applicable)
- Post-landing: Licensing, job search readiness, and settlement checklists
Talk to an expert: +91-9019-400-500 · [email protected]
FAQs
Do I need a job offer for Express Entry? No. It helps, but it isn’t mandatory. Your CRS hinges mainly on age, education (ECA), language, and experience.
What’s the fastest path to PR? It depends on your profile. High CRS may favour all-program EE draws; some PNPs process quickly; founders with designated support may use Start-Up Visa.
Can investors get citizenship directly in Canada? Canada’s mainstream routes first grant PR. Citizenship comes later, after meeting residence and other criteria. Some Caribbean programs in 2022 offered direct citizenship by investment.
Is Europe a single “Investor Visa”? No. There’s no EU-wide investor visa. Residency-by-investment is country-specific, and citizenship usually requires years of residence plus other conditions.
