Canada Permanent Residency (PR)
Who Qualifies for Canada PR
Eligibility for Canadian PR depends on the specific immigration program. The most common
programs include:
- Express Entry (Federal Skilled Worker, Canadian Experience Class, Federal Skilled Trades)
- Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
- Family Sponsorship
- Quebec-Selected Skilled Workers
- Start-Up Visa and Business Immigration
Eligibility for Canadian PR depends on the specific immigration program. The most common
programs include:
- At least one year of skilled work experience in the last 10 years
- Proficiency in English or French (measured through standardized testing)
- Educational qualifications equivalent to Canadian standards
- A score that meets the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) cut-off
- Medical and police clearance
Required Documents for Canada PR
While documents vary by program, standard requirements for Express Entry include:
- Valid passport
- Language test results (IELTS, CELPIP, or TEF)
- Educational Credential Assessment (ECA)
- Proof of funds
- Work experience letters
- Police clearance certificates
- Medical examination results
- Digital photograph
- Provincial nomination (if applicable)
- Job offer letter (optional but beneficial)
Duration of Stay
- Must live in Canada for at least 730 days (2 years) within every 5-year period.
After fulfilling physical presence and other requirements, permanent residents may be eligible to
apply for Canadian citizenship
Application Process Timeline
A general timeline for the Express Entry pathway to Canadian PR is as follows:
1. Language Testing & ECA – 1 to 2 months
Take an approved language test and obtain an Educational Credential Assessment.
2. Create Express Entry Profile – 1 week
Submit a profile to the Express Entry pool and receive a Comprehensive Ranking System
(CRS) score.
3. Receive Invitation to Apply (ITA) – Varies
High-ranking candidates are issued an ITA during regular draws (typically every 2
weeks).
4. Submit PR Application – Within 60 days of ITA
Complete the online application and upload supporting documents.
5. Processing Time – Approximately 6 months (as per IRCC standards)
If approved, a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) is issued.
Benefits of Permanent Residency in Canada
- Right to live and work anywhere in Canada
- Access to public healthcare and social services
- Free primary and secondary education for children
- Eligibility for Canadian citizenship after meeting requirements
- Inclusion of spouse and dependent children in the application
- Protection under Canadian law and the Charter of Rights and Freedoms
Express Entry Scoring System (CRS)
The Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) assigns a score out of 1,200 points based on
factors such as:
- Age
- Education
- Language proficiency (English/French)
- Work experience
- Canadian job offer or provincial nomination
- Spouse’s qualifications (if applicable)
A provincial nomination grants an additional 600 points, nearly guaranteeing an Invitation to
Apply (ITA).
Maintaining PR Status
- Reside in Canada for at least 730 days within every five-year period
- Not be convicted of serious criminal offenses
- Comply with all Canadian immigration and legal obligations
