The process for obtaining permanent residency in Canada, also known as Canada Permanent Residence (PR), typically involves several steps. Here is a general overview of the Canada PR process:
Determine your eligibility: Before starting the PR process, you must determine which immigration program you qualify for. The most common immigration programs for PR in Canada include the:
- Express Entry system,
- Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), and
- Family Sponsorship
Express Entry system
Determine eligibility: Check if you meet the eligibility criteria for at least one of the three federal economic immigration programs: Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP), or Canadian Experience Class (CEC). The eligibility requirements include factors such as age, education, work experience, language proficiency, and adaptability.
The eligibility criteria for Canada Permanent Residence (PR) vary depending on the immigration program you are applying under. However, some common factors that are considered for eligibility assessment include:
- Education
- Work Experience
- Language Proficiency
- Age
- Adaptability
- Arranged Employment
Create an Express Entry profile: If you meet the eligibility criteria, create an online profile on the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website. Provide accurate information regarding your qualifications, work experience, language skills, education, and other relevant details.
Obtain language test results: Take an approved language test, such as the IELTS (International English Language Testing System) for English or the TEF (Test d’évaluation de français) for French. Ensure you achieve the minimum language proficiency score required by the program you are applying under.
Assess your education credentials: If you completed your education outside Canada, you may need to have your foreign credentials assessed by a designated organization. This step helps determine the Canadian equivalency of your education.
Calculate your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score: Based on the information provided in your profile, you will be assigned a CRS score. The CRS score considers factors like age, education, language skills, work experience, and other additional factors. The higher your CRS score, the better your chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA).
Submit your profile to the Express Entry pool: Once your profile is complete, submit it to the Express Entry pool. Your profile will be ranked against other candidates in the pool based on your CRS score. If you have a high CRS score, you may receive an ITA in one of the regular draws conducted by the IRCC.
Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA): If you are selected from the pool, you will receive an ITA to apply for PR. ITAs are typically issued to candidates with high CRS scores, but the minimum score can vary in each draw.
Complete the PR application: Once you receive an ITA, you will have a specific timeframe (usually 60 days) to complete and submit your PR application. Provide all the required documents, such as police certificates, medical exams, proof of funds, and other supporting documents.
Application processing: The IRCC will review your application and supporting documents. The processing time can vary, but it typically takes several months. During this time, the IRCC may request additional documents or conduct interviews if necessary.
Receive Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR): If your application is approved, you will receive a COPR, which confirms your PR status. You may also receive a document called a permanent resident visa (if required), which you will need to present when traveling to Canada.
Travel to Canada and complete the landing process: Once you have your COPR and, if applicable, your permanent resident visa, you can make arrangements to travel to Canada. Upon arrival, present your COPR and other relevant documents to a border officer, who will verify your information and complete the landing process, officially granting you PR status.
Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
Research and select a province/territory: Each Canadian province or territory has its own PNP with specific eligibility criteria. Research the PNPs and choose the one that aligns with your qualifications and goals.
Apply to the PNP: Submit an application to the selected PNP and follow their guidelines and requirements. If nominated, you will receive a provincial nomination certificate.
Apply for PR: With the provincial nomination certificate, you can apply for PR through the IRCC. The application process is similar to the Express Entry system but with additional documents related to the provincial nomination.
Application processing and COPR: The IRCC will process your PR application, and if approved, you will receive the COPR.
Travel to Canada and complete the landing process: Similar to the Express Entry system, you will need to present your COPR to a border officer upon arrival in Canada and complete the landing process.
Family Sponsorship
Sponsor eligibility: If you have a family member who is a Canadian citizen or permanent resident and wants to sponsor you, they must fit specific requirements in order to do so.
Sponsorship application: The IRCC must receive a sponsorship application from your sponsor, which must demonstrate their financial support of you and other requirements.
PR application: You can apply for PR by submitting your application and supporting documentation to the IRCC after your sponsorship application has been granted.
Application processing and COPR: Your PR application will be processed by the IRCC, and if accepted, you will be given the COPR.
Travel to Canada and complete the landing process: Similar to the other methods, you will need to finish the landing process in Canada and show a border officer your COPR.
