Does Canada Have a Diversity Visa Lottery Like the US?

No, Canada does not have a diversity visa (DV) lottery like the USA. Instead, Canada offers various immigration programs focused on attracting skilled workers, students, entrepreneurs, and family members of existing residents. Some key pathways include:

1. Express Entry System:

o Designed for skilled workers through categories like the Federal Skilled Worker Program, Federal Skilled Trades Program, and Canadian Experience Class.

o Points-based system (CRS) evaluates factors like age, education, work experience, and language proficiency.

2. Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs):

o Provinces and territories select immigrants who meet specific regional labor market needs.

o Applicants may require a job offer in certain cases.

3. Family Sponsorship:

o Canadian citizens and permanent residents can sponsor close family members for immigration.

4. Start-Up Visa Program:

o Targets entrepreneurs with innovative business ideas and the ability to create jobs in Canada.

5. Study Permit Pathways:

o International students who complete studies in Canada often qualify for work permits and eventual permanent residency.

Canada focuses on structured and merit-based immigration, making it accessible through these programs rather than a random lottery system.