Your status in Canada is determined by how you entered the country and what documentation you have.
What is a newcomer?
An immigrant or refugee who has been in Canada for a short time. Usually, less than five years is considered a newcomer. Newcomers can access many services at settlement agencies, like language and immigration help. Newcomers greatly contribute to New Brunswick’s social and economic prosperity.
What is an immigrant?
An immigrant is someone who has moved from their country of origin (their homeland) to another country to become a citizen of that country. Just visiting a country, even to work for a few months, does not make you an immigrant. Immigrants are people who live permanently somewhere other than their homeland.
What is a refugee?
Refugees are people who come to Canada seeking safety and protection because they are escaping from persecution or other disasters in their homeland. This means that if they stay or return to their homeland, they will risk being tortured or killed. Refugees may come to Canada because their country of origin is under war, facing a natural disaster, or because they are being targeted because of their race, religion, sexuality, or some other reason.
What is an undocumented person?
A newcomer who has moved from their homeland to another country but whose immigration status is unknown or unofficial is called an “undocumented person.”
