Canadian Immigration for Ambitious & Self-Sufficient Undocumented Students & Skilled Workers in USA

Are you a student or skilled worker living in the United States without status or undocumented? If so, you may have options to study or work in Canada legally.

At Distinction Law Professional Corporation, we have helped undocumented individuals, including Dreamers and DACA recipients, successfully apply for study permits and work permits in Canada. 

Our goal is to assist ambitious and self-sufficient undocumented US residents who meet the eligibility criteria to transition to Canada through legal pathways. We understand the challenges you face and are here to guide you through the complex immigration process with experience and care.

Who We Can Help

We may be able to assist you if you:

  • Are currently living in the United States without immigration status

  • Have at least an Associate’s Degree or higher

  • Are under the age of 40

Take the First Step

If you meet the eligibility criteria and are interested in exploring your options for studying or working in Canada, contact us today. We are dedicated to providing clear, strategic guidance to help you navigate the Canadian immigration system successfully.

A Letter from Immigration Lawyer Andrew Kaoma

Yes, you can migrate to Canada.

Dear Future Client,

If you are living in the United States without legal status and are looking for a path to stability, you are not alone. I am an immigration lawyer in Canada, and I help eligible undocumented individuals in the U.S. immigrate to Canada to build a secure future with legal status.

Many of the people I speak with have spent years—sometimes even decades—trying to obtain legal status in the U.S., only to face roadblocks, uncertainty, and fear of deportation. I understand how overwhelming this journey can be, and I have seen firsthand the toll it takes on individuals and families.

Over the years, my team and I have successfully helped undocumented individuals secure study permits and work permits in Canada, providing them with a fresh start and the opportunity to thrive. Whether you are a student looking to further your education or a skilled worker hoping to build a career, we may be able to help.

No matter how long you have been without status in the U.S., there could be a way forward. I personally speak with every client, offering a professional and honest assessment of their options. Take the first step today by requesting a consultation using the link below. Your future in Canada may be closer than you think.

Andrew Kaoma

Top 10 Immigration Questions From Undocumented US Residents for Canada

Can undocumented residents in the USA get Canadian visas or citizenship?

Yes, even if you are illegal in the United States, you can still get a visa, study permit, work permit or Canadian residency for Canada. Our law firm has helped people just like you to get your visa application approved. Even if you have had long-term undocumented status in the United States, it is possible to get your visa, residency, and citizenship application approved.

If I am undocumented in the USA can I go to Canada? / If I have no visa in USA can I go to Canada?

Yes, people who are illegal in the USA can legally apply for a visa to Canada. The important thing is to be honest about your undocumented status and prior immigration violations. Only an experienced lawyer who has dealt with undocumented applicants can advise you on your best Canada Immigration Strategy.

If I apply for a visa to Canada, do I need to go back to Mexico? If I apply for a visa to Canada do I need to go back home?

Most of our clients do not need to return to their home country before they come to Canada. Generally, our clients are able to go directly from the United States to Canada. This applies to most workers, students, and professionals. In some circumstances, we may suggest a client return to their country of nationality if we are confident their visa application will be approved. We understand that people with status have their lives and families in the United States, and we know how serious the decision is to leave America before your Canadian status is approved. We try to avoid that scenario and usually we are able to bring people directly into Canada from the USA.

Who can apply for Canadian visa or residency while illegal in the U.S.?

Anyone who is undocumented or “illegal” in the U.S. can apply for a Canadian visa or Permanent Residency. If you have a valid passport, you can file an application for a Canada visa.

If I need an interview for my visa, do I have to go back to my country?

You may be allowed to have your Canada visa interview in the United States if you are undocumented.

How can I give biometrics if I have no status in the USA?

If you are undocumented in the United States you can still give your biometric fingerprints at the New York and Los Angeles visa offices. If you are in the southern United States or Florida, you may need to travel a great distance to give your Biometrics for your Canada visa application.

Can illegal immigrants in the US go to Canada as legal residents?

Canada is willing to accept Permanent Resident applications from people who have lived and worked illegally in the Untied States. If you have worked hard to build a life but you have no legal status in the USA, please call us to evaluate your chances of being approved for residency in Canada. We have helped many undocumented people with this process.

I am out of status in the US can I immigrate to Canada?

If your visa expired in the USA and you want to move to Canada, you’re in good company. Applicants who have expired study permits and expired visitor visas from the US are approved to come to Canada as students, workers, investors, and permanent residents. If you are out of status in the U.S. or if you overstayed your visa, trust an experienced immigration lawyer to put your best case forward with the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada.

If I entered the United States illegally, can I apply for Canada?

We often talk to clients who entered the United States illegally, across the Mexico border. Many of these situations involve being brought to America as a child, without having any part in the decision to break the US immigration laws. If you entered the US illegally but you want to enter Canada after following all official immigration rules, we can help you prepare a successful visa application.

I overstayed my visa in USA Can I get a Canadian visa?

If your visa extension was refused in the USA and you had a lapse in status, the Canadian visa officers are willing to consider the entirety of your case. Even if you have been out of status for months or years, Canada is willing to consider your entire situation as they review your immigration application. We have successfully obtained Canada visas for people who overstayed their US visa for years.

If you're undocumented in the USA, we can help.

We help undocumented students migrate to Canada.

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