How To Easily Become A Permanent Resident In Canada
Canada’s welcoming attitude toward immigrants makes it a top destination for those seeking a new life abroad. The country offers a high standard of living, excellent healthcare and education systems, and a diverse, inclusive society. Becoming a permanent resident (PR) in Canada is a dream for many. While the process can seem daunting, it is manageable with the right information and preparation. This article will guide you through the various pathways to obtaining permanent residency in Canada easily and efficiently.
Permanent residency in Canada allows individuals to live, work, and study anywhere in the country. PR holders have access to most social benefits that Canadian citizens receive, including healthcare coverage, and they are protected under Canadian law and the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. However, PRs cannot vote or hold certain high-security government positions. After a few years of being a permanent resident, individuals can apply for Canadian citizenship
Pathways to Permanent Residency
The easiest way to gain permanent residency in Canada depends on the eligibility requirements met by the applicant and their personal priorities and goals. Here are some of the most popular and straightforward pathways:
1. Express Entry
2. Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
3. Business Investor Program
4. Work Permit with a Job Offer
5. Study Visa
6. Visitor Visa
7. Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)
Express Entry
The Express Entry system, introduced in 2015, is one of the fastest and most popular ways for skilled workers to migrate to Canada. The process is managed through a point-based evaluation system using the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). This tool calculates the candidate’s score based on key factors like age, language competency, work experience, and education. The highest ranking candidates receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for PR. .
Steps to Apply Through Express Entry:
1. Determine Eligibility: Use the online tool on the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website to see if you meet the minimum requirements.
2. Create an Online Profile: Submit your profile, which includes details about your skills, work experience, language ability, education, and other personal information.
3. Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA): If you meet the criteria, you will be placed in a pool of candidates. The highest-ranking candidates receive an ITA during regular draws.
4. Submit Your Application: Once you receive an ITA, you have 60 days to submit a complete application for permanent residence.
There are three sub-categories under the Express Entry program:
Federal Skilled Workers Program (FSWP): Requires a minimum point score of 67 out of 100 on the assessment grid.
Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP): Requires a valid job offer from a Canadian employer for full-time employment for at least one year and a certificate of qualification in a trade occupation.
Canadian Experience Class (CEC): For applicants who have worked in Canada for at least one year.
Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
The Provincial Nominee Program allows provinces and territories to nominate individuals who wish to immigrate to Canada and settle in a particular province. Each province and territory has its own nomination guidelines and streams, often targeting specific skills and work experience.
Steps to Apply Through PNP:
1. Choose a Province: Decide where you want to live and research the specific requirements and streams available in that province.
2. Apply to the Province: Submit an application to the province or territory’s immigration office.
3. Receive a Nomination: If you meet the criteria, the province will nominate you for permanent residence.
4. Apply for PR: With a provincial nomination, you can apply for permanent residence through the IRCC.
Popular PNP channels include:
– Ontario Immigration Nominee Program (OINP)
– Saskatchewan Immigration Nominee Program (SINP)
– Nova Scotia PNP
– New Brunswick Provincial Nominee Program
– Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program (AINP)
– British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BCPNP)
– Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP)
– Prince Edward Island Provincial Nominee Program (PEIPN)
Business Investor Program
For business owners and managers looking to set up a business in Canada, the Business Investor Program offers a straightforward path to permanent residency. You can apply through a Start-up Visa or provincial business immigration programs.
Options for Business Investors:
Ontario Immigration Nominee Program (OINP) – Business Category – Corporate Stream**
Manitoba Business Investor Stream
A Start-Up Visa requires a minimum capital venture of CAD 200,000 from a designated Canadian Capital Fund.
Work Permit with a Job Offer
If you are skilled and have received a job offer from a Canadian employer, this category can be a valid option for migration. The employer must submit a Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) to the Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) to support your case.
Steps to Apply for a Work Permit:
1. Secure a Job Offer: Obtain a job offer from a Canadian employer.
2. LMIA Application: The employer submits an LMIA application to prove the need for your employment.
3. Submit Work Permit Application: Apply for a work permit with the LMIA and job offer.
Study Visa
Canada’s high-quality education system makes it a preferred choice for international students. To apply for a Study Visa, you need an acceptance letter from a Canadian university.
Steps to Apply for a Study Visa:
1. Apply to a University: Submit your application along with the required documents (Statement of Purpose, Letters of Recommendation, etc.).
2. Obtain Acceptance Letter: Receive an acceptance letter from the university.
3. Apply for Study Permit: Submit your study permit application on the Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) website with the acceptance letter and other required documents.
Visitor Visa
For short-term stays, a Visitor Visa is an easy option. It is available as Single Entry or Multiple Entry and is valid for a maximum of six months.
Requirements for a Visitor Visa:
Good health
Good passport
Sufficient financial resources
Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)
Introduced as a pilot program in 2017 and made permanent in 2021, the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) is an employer-driven program designed to help skilled workers and international graduates move to the Atlantic provinces (Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland and Labrador).
Steps to Apply Through AIP:
1. Find a Job Offer: Secure a job offer from a designated employer in one of the Atlantic provinces.
2. Get an Endorsement: The employer supports your application by obtaining an endorsement from the province.
3. Submit PR Application: Apply for permanent residence with your job offer and endorsement.
Conclusion
Becoming a permanent resident in Canada is a feasible goal with the right approach and preparation. By understanding the various pathways and their requirements, you can choose the best route for your situation. Whether through Express Entry, PNP, Business Investor Program, Work Permit, Study Visa, Visitor Visa, or AIP, Canada offers numerous opportunities for those looking to make it their new home. With careful planning and persistence, you can navigate the process successfully and start a new chapter in this welcoming and diverse country.
