Dual intent means that you want to migrate to Canada temporarily, but in future you might change your plans and want to reside permanently. 

If somehow you fail to tell about your intent to the authorities, the most likely you will be refused for you temporary resident visa.

In this article we will discuss everything you want to know about Canada dual intent immigration.

What does Candian Dual Intent Immigration Mean?

Dual purpose signifies that a foreign national desires permanent and temporary residency status. Dual intent is demonstrated by foreign nationals who apply for a temporary resident visa in Canada and have already applied for or shown their intention to seek permanent residence in Canada.

This may also apply to candidates that have filed a Canadian Express Entry profile since doing so reflects an applicant’s intention to reside permanently in Canada.

Am I Applicable For A Temporary Immigration If I Have Applied For Permanent Residence Before

Individuals who can demonstrate true dual intent are eligible for both temporary and permanent residence, notwithstanding the seeming contradiction. When determining whether to grant a temporary visa, visa officers must determine if the applicant intends to depart the country upon expiration of their visa. Even though the applicant has an ongoing application for permanent residence, the visa officer may award a temporary visa if they are confident that the applicant will respect the terms on which the temporary visa is provided.

If the applicant cannot convince the visa officer that they have genuine dual intent, the visa officer may deny the temporary visa application.

In these types of circumstances, the visa officer can think that the applicant is just asking for a temporary visa in order to live in Canada while their application for permanent residency is processed. Therefore, they have no intent to leave the country after their temporary visa expires. Being refused a temporary visa does not guarantee that the applicant’s permanent residence visa will be refused.

How To Demonstrate Real Dual Intent

Visa officials must differentiate between candidates with genuine dual intent and those who have no intention of leaving Canada if their permanent residency application is denied. It is the responsibility of the applicant to convince the visa officer of dual intent.

When deciding whether a temporary visa applicant has genuine dual intent, an officer considers numerous variables, including:

How long do they anticipate being in Canada?

Regardless of whether they have strong links or commitments to their own land (ex. work, family, property)

Their purpose for temporarily visiting Canada

Whether they have overstayed a visa in Canada or any other nation in the past.

When preparing a temporary residency application, it is essential to address the aforementioned elements to demonstrate genuine dual intent.

If your application for permanent residence is approved while you are in Canada, you are not required to leave when your temporary status expires. Once you become a permanent resident (PR) of Canada, you may remain in the country so long as you continue to fulfil PR duties.