The land occupied by Canada was first inhabited for thousands of years by First Nations people. Beginning in the late 15th century, British and French expeditions explored and later settled on the Atlantic coast. In 1867 through Confederation, Canada was formed as a federal dominion of four provinces. It was not until the Canada Act in 1982 that all remaining dependence of Canada on the United Kingdom was ended.
Today the Country of Canada is made up of 10 provinces and 3 territories and is represented by two official languages, English and French. Heavily dependent upon immigration for growth, Canada is recognized as one of the world's multicultural centres.
Applying for Immigration to Canada
For a detailed explanation of of the immigration process, eligibility, fees and useful resources including downloadable forms, visit Settlement.Org.
Citizenship
Canadians are proud to hold one of the most prized citizenships in the world. For permanent residents seeking to become citizens, the general rule is that the person must be physically resident in Canada for a period of at least three years (1095 days) in the four years prior to applying.
Benefits of citizenship include the right to vote, issuance of a Canadian passport, and an ability to maintain this status despite prolonged absence from Canada. If you are a permanent resident and wish to apply for Canadian citizenship or change or confirm your citizenship status in Canada, visit the Citizenship and Immigration Canada website.
Introduction to Canada
Before arriving in Canada it is important to know what to expect in your first few days. For information on housing, working, healthcare, and services visit Citizenship and Immigration Canada.
Canada's Political System
Canada is a parliamentary democracy which elects its government through a vote. In Canada, all citizens age 18 or older are eligible to vote in elections at all three levels of government: federal, provincial/territorial, and municipal.
The Federal Government is responsible for issues that concern the country as a whole. This includes banking, national defense, and international trade. The person who leads the Federal Government is the Prime Minister.
The Provincial/Territorial government, which includes the Government of Ontario, is responsible for ministries such as Aboriginal Affairs, Health and Long-Term Care, and Education. Some responsibilities are shared between both provincial/territorial and federal government. The Premier is the person who leads the provincial/territorial government.
The County of Lambton falls under Municipal Government. The County is responsible for local services such as parks and recreation, libraries, and infrastructure. Mayors are the elected officials of Municipal Government.
Human Rights in Canada
Canadian Citizens have rights including:
- Equality rights
- The right to vote
- Freedom of religion
- Freedom of expression
- The right to live and work anywhere in Canada
These rights are granted by the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, as well as the Ontario Human Rights Code.
Women in Canada have the same rights as men. Legal protection, shelter, and counseling are available for women who are abused or threatened by their husbands, boyfriends, relatives, or acquaintances.
Children's rights are also protected in Canada. Parents or guardians must provide for their children and protect them until they reach the age of 16. Canadian law does not allow abuse of children physically, psychologically, or sexually. Parents may have their children removed from their home if they do not follow these laws.
National Anthem
Canada officially proclaimed "O Canada" as it's national anthem on July 1st 1980. Calixa Lavallee composed the music and Sir Adolphe Basile Routhier developed the french lyrics in 1880. The official English version was written in 1908 by Mr. Justice Robert Stanley Weir.
For more information on Canada's national anthem visit Canada Heritage.
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