A dream for many people looking for improved possibilities, good living standards, and a multicultural atmosphere is to become a Canadian permanent resident!
Although the Canadian PR procedure may appear complicated, it may be easily navigated by following the simple steps outlined in this guide.
We will walk you through applying for permanent residence in Canada, explain the necessary immigration pathways to obtain a PR card, and show you how to run your application smoothly.
What is a Canada Permanent Residence Visa?
For those who fulfill the IRCC standards, a unique immigration status known as Canadian Permanent Residence, or Canada PR, is awarded.
It is a legal document that grants foreign nationals permanent residency, employment, and education in Canada. In addition to giving access to social services, job opportunities, and a good standard of living, it also offers a pathway to citizenship.
A rigorous application process and fulfilling specific eligibility requirements are required to obtain a Canada PR visa. Once acquired, it allows people to start again in one of the most diverse and multicultural countries and opens up a world of opportunities.
The Four Main Immigration Pathways for Canadian Permanent Residency
1. Express Entry Programs (FSWP, FSTP, and CEC)
Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP): Prospective immigrants who have worked in occupations classified as National Occupational Classification (NOC) TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 for at least a year are eligible for this Express Entry program.
Candidates may apply for the Federal Skilled Worker Program if they receive at least 67 points out of 100 in these six screening parameters.
However, fulfilling the minimal requirements does not ensure a permanent residence permit in Canada.
Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP): The Federal Skilled Trades route is another Express Entry route for those with the necessary job experience.
This one is intended for professionals who have worked in less skilled trades, such as those in the construction industry who fall under TEER 2 or TEER 3 of NOC 2021, such as Carpenters, Electricians, Welders, Heavy-duty equipment mechanics, Industrial electricians, Plumbers, Construction millwrights, and Industrial mechanics.
Prospective immigrants frequently choose the Federal Skilled Worker option when they need the educational background, language skills, or professional work experience required for the Federal Skilled Worker option.
Canadian Experience Class Program (CEC): Candidates with at least a year’s work experience in Canada can apply for the Canadian Experience Class of Express Entry.
After completing their studies, international students who obtained job experience in Canada on a post-graduate work permit are particularly fond of this program.
2. Provincial Nominee Programs
Those not qualified to apply for permanent residence in Canada via Express Entry may consider participating in one of the numerous Provincial Nominee Programs.
Every Canadian province has immigration policies to support international investment or assist it in fulfilling its labor storage needs.
A cursory look into PNPs reveals that many programs are geared toward those who have previously studied in Canada, have employment expertise in particular industries, or want to launch or buy Canadian enterprises.
3. Business Immigration
This category is intended for people who want to invest in or launch a business in Canada.
Various programs, like the Entrepreneur Start-Up Visa Program, the Self-Employed Persons Program, and other Canada Investment Visa Programs, have different requirements and eligibility criteria.
Program-specific eligibility criteria can change for corporate immigration programs. In general, you must:
- Have a minimum net worth and investment funds (for most programs).
- Have business management or ownership experience.
- Be able to create or maintain jobs in Canada.
- Receive a positive assessment from a designated organization.
4. Family Sponsorship
Family members, such as spouses or common-law partners, dependent children, parents, and grandparents, may be sponsored by Canadian citizens or permanent residents to immigrate to Canada as permanent residents.
The sponsorship procedure includes meeting several qualifying requirements and proving a genuine partnership. To be eligible for family sponsorship, you must:
- Be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Meet the minimum income requirements.
- Be able to provide financial support for your sponsored family member.
- Have a genuine relationship with your sponsored family member.
How To Apply For Your Canada Permanent Residence
Determine Your Eligibility
Meet the requirements before starting the Canada PR application process. Canada has several immigration programs, each with unique qualifications.
The Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), Canadian Experience Class (CEC), and Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) are the most popular routes.
Verify which program best suits your skills, background in the workforce, language ability, and other considerations.
Complete Language Proficiency Tests
One of the most important aspects of any PR application is your language skills!
To demonstrate your fluency in English or French, you need to take recognized language exams, such as the TEF (Test d’Évaluation de Français) for French and the IELTS (International English Language Testing System) or CELPIP (Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program) for English.
To assess your application, you must obtain the necessary language score to receive points in the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS).
Obtain an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA)
To validate your international educational qualifications, you must receive an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) from an approved institution.
This evaluation confirms that your education meets Canadian standards. You must submit the ECA to validate your education and gain points in the CRS.
Create an Express Entry Profile
To be eligible for most economic immigration programs, you need to register for Express Entry online. The Canadian government chooses candidates for permanent residence (PR) from this pool of applicants.
Your profile details your qualifications, schooling, professional background, language ability, and more.
Based on your submitted data, you will also receive a CRS score, which will establish your position in the Express Entry pool.
Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA)
Through regular Express Entry lotteries, candidates with high CRS scores can apply for permanent residency. These draws are held at predetermined intervals by the Canadian government.
If you receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA), you will have a short time to submit your finished PR application.
Submit Your PR Application
After receiving an ITA, you must submit a thorough PR application and all the necessary paperwork, such as evidence of money, medical examination results, police clearances, and other supporting papers.
Ensure all the information is correct and comprehensive because inconsistencies may cause delays or denials.
Wait for Application Processing and Decision
You have to wait for the immigration authorities to process your Canada PR application after submitting it.
The processing dates may change depending on the completeness of your application and the program you applied through.
Keep track of any updates or requests for more information from immigration authorities during this time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply for a Canada PR Visa without a job offer?
You can apply for a Canada PR Visa without a job offer. The Federal Skilled Worker Program, Federal Skilled Trades Program, and Canadian Experience Class are three immigration programs that don’t require a job offer. However, having a job offer can increase your chances of being selected for immigration.
What happens if my Canada PR Visa application is rejected?
If your Canada PR Visa application is rejected, you can appeal the decision or reapply. The reasons for your application’s rejection will be communicated to you, and you can work on improving those areas before reapplying.
Can I bring my family with me when I immigrate to Canada?
You can bring your family with you when you immigrate to Canada. Your spouse, common-law partner, and dependent children can be included in your Canada PR Visa application. Once you become a permanent resident of Canada, your family can enjoy the same benefits and rights as you.
Is there an age limit for applying for a Canada PR Visa?
There is no specific age limit for applying for a Canada PR Visa. However, age is one factor considered in the selection process. Applicants between 18 and 35 usually score the highest in the Comprehensive Ranking System.
Do I need to know French or English to apply for a Canada PR Visa?
You must know French or English to apply for a Canada PR Visa. The language proficiency test is mandatory for all immigration programs that require a language test. The Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) assesses language skills, and the minimum score required depends on the immigration program.
How can I improve my chances of getting a Canada PR Visa?
You can improve your chances of getting a Canada PR Visa by having a high Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score based on education, work experience, language proficiency, and age. Other ways to improve your chances include obtaining a job offer, obtaining a provincial nomination, and having a solid education and work history.
Can I apply for Canadian citizenship after obtaining a Canada PR Visa?
You can apply for Canadian citizenship after obtaining a Canada PR Visa. However, you must have lived in Canada for at least three out of the past five years and meet other eligibility requirements, such as passing a citizenship test and demonstrating proficiency in English or French.