A category of immigrants selected for their skills and ability to contribute to Canada’s economy. Economic Class immigrants include skilled workers, provincial and territorial nominees, business immigrants, Quebec skilled workers and Canadian Experience Class members, and their spouses and dependants.

Any diploma, degree, or trade or apprenticeship credential issued for completing a program of study or training at a recognized educational or training institution.

An organization that offers academic, technical or vocational programs of study, like a university or college.

eTA is a new entry requirement for visa-exempt foreign nationals travelling to Canada by air. It will allow Canada to screen travellers before they arrive. The authorization is electronically linked to your passport and is valid for five years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.

An institution that provides educational programs for children, starting between the ages of four and six. Years of instruction usually include kindergarten (the lowest level) and grades 1 through 6 (if the area has middle schools) or grades 1 through 8.

To be eligible for something means to be qualified to participate or be chosen.

A Government of Canada office led by an Ambassador. They are located in the capital city of a non-Commonwealth country. They usually provide the full range of consular and trade services.

In Commonwealth countries, Embassies are called High Commissions and are led by a High Commissioner.

Some Embassies and High Commissions also provide immigration services.

Examples: the Embassy of Canada in France, Paris and the High Commission of Canada to the United Kingdom in London

See High commission, Consulate, Visa office

Public support available immediately if there is a dangerous situation caused by fire, a health crisis or criminal activity. These services may include police, fire department and/or ambulance services, and/or a local emergency hotline.

A type of work permit that indicates:

• the name of the employer a person can work for,

• how long a person can work, and

• the location where a person can work (if applicable).

A person who holds this type of work permit can only work for the employer for the length of time specified, and if applicable, at the location shown on the permit.

A program used to teach English to non-native speakers. ESL is usually taught in a setting where English is the dominant language.

A program that provides adult newcomers with advanced, job-specific language training in English or French. ELT also uses mentoring, job placements and other ways to help newcomers find work.

An immigrant admitted to Canada who:

• has business experience, and

• has a legally obtained net worth of at least C$300,000.

As a condition of maintaining permanent resident status as an entrepreneur, the person also agrees to:

• control at least one-third of the equity in a qualifying Canadian business,

• actively manage the business, and

• create at least one full-time job for a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.