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The 3 Most Secure Pathways to Permanent Residency in Canada

January 26, 2024

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  • Sinethemba Phongolo

Deciding to build a new life in another country can be challenging but transformative, unlocking a world of opportunities, stability, and the promise of a brighter future. To ease you into the decision to move to Canada, We've outlined three secure pathways to help you transition smoothly to becoming a permanent resident in Canada.

Explore the top three foolproof pathways to permanent residency in Canada, from the swift Express Entry system to personalized Provincial Nominee Programs and heartwarming Family Sponsorship, unlocking a future filled with opportunities!

Express Entry System

The Express Entry System is an online platform the Canadian government uses to manage immigration applications from skilled workers. It is designed to facilitate the express immigration of foreign skilled workers who want to gain permanent residency in Canada. It offers an expedited, streamlined pathway to Canada, with application processing times as fast as six months. The system manages three immigration programs:

Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)

The Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) is a key immigration pathway for foreign skilled workers who want to become permanent residents of Canada. The program is designed to select candidates with the highest probability of successfully settling in Canada.

Once candidates create a profile and enter the Express Entry pool, they are ranked using the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), and the highest-ranked candidates receive an invitation to apply (ITA) for permanent residence.

Find out more about the Federal Skilled Worker Program.

Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)

The Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) is an immigration program under the Express Entry system that allows foreign skilled persons qualified in a skilled trade to become permanent residents of Canada.

Learn more about the Federal Skilled Trades Program.

Canadian Experience Class (CEC)

The Canadian Experience Class (CEC) program is ideal for candidates with recent Canadian work experience and seeking permanent immigration to Canada. The work experience must be in a skilled occupation, and the candidate must have performed the duties listed in the lead statement of the occupational description.

Find out more about the Canadian Experience Class (CEC).

Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)

Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) are a way to immigrate to Canada as a skilled worker. Nearly every province and territory operates the PNP to welcome skilled workers from all over the world. The PNP allows Canadian provinces and territories to nominate individuals who meet their specific selection criteria for economic immigration.

Quebec has its selection criteria for economic immigration and does not participate in the PNP. Nunavut does not have a provincial nominee program either. There are more than 80 different provincial nominee programs across Canada, each with several streams. PNPs are popular because they can be the easiest pathway to Canadian permanent residence. The table below presents a list of PNPs you can use to gain permanent residency in Canada.

Provinces PNPs
British Columbia BC PNP
Alberta AAIP
Ontario OINP
Quebec QIP
New Brunswick NB PNP
Manitoba MPNP
Saskatchewan SINP
Newfoundland and Labrador NL PNP
Nova Scotia NS PNP
Prince Edward Island PEI PNP
Northwest Territories NWT PNP
Yukon YPNP

TR to PR Pathway

The Temporary Resident to Permanent Resident (TR to PR) pathway in Canada is a limited-time pathway to permanent residence for particular temporary residents. It is for individuals with work experience in Canada in an essential occupation, the health or health services field, or who have recently graduated from a Canadian post-secondary designated learning institution (DLI). This pathway has six streams, some of which accept English- and French-speaking applicants.

Learn more about the Temporary Resident to Permanent Resident (TR to PR) pathway.

Benefits of Permanent Residency in Canada

Becoming a Canadian permanent resident offers numerous benefits; here are our top eight.

Right to Live and Work in Canada

One of the fundamental advantages of obtaining permanent residency in Canada is the unequivocal right to live and work anywhere in the country. This freedom allows individuals to explore diverse landscapes, from the bustling cities of Toronto and Vancouver to the serene wilderness of the Canadian Rockies, fostering a sense of belonging and the opportunity to build a life in a location that aligns with personal preferences and aspirations.

Free Public-funded Education for Children

Permanent residency in Canada extends to individuals and their families, significantly benefiting those with children. The Canadian education system is renowned for its high quality, and permanent residents can access public-funded education for their children.

This ensures that the next generation receives top-notch schooling without the burden of exorbitant tuition fees, opening doors to a bright future for the entire family. As the most educated country in the world according to the World Population Review, you can rest assured that your children will receive world-leading education, increasing their potential success in the future.

Universal Healthcare and Social Services in Canada

Healthcare is a cornerstone of Canada's commitment to the well-being of its residents. Permanent residents have access to the country's universal healthcare system, ensuring comprehensive medical coverage without the financial strain often associated with healthcare in other parts of the world. This access to social services contributes to a sense of security and peace of mind, knowing that health needs are met without significant financial barriers.

Find out more about healthcare in Canada.

Freedom to Start a Business in Canada

For those with entrepreneurial aspirations, permanent residency in Canada provides the freedom to start and operate a business. This entrepreneurial freedom is vital for individuals looking to contribute to the Canadian economy, fostering innovation, job creation, and economic growth. The supportive business environment and access to a diverse market make Canada an attractive destination for individuals seeking to establish and grow their enterprises.

Learn how to start your business in Canada with a Canadian Investor Visa.

Canadian Mobility Rights

Permanent residents enjoy Canadian mobility rights, allowing them to move freely within the country without additional permits. This flexibility enables individuals to explore different provinces, experience diverse cultures, and pursue employment opportunities in various regions, contributing to a dynamic and enriching lifestyle.

Family Reunification in Canada

Permanent residency facilitates the reunification of families in Canada. Individuals with permanent residency can sponsor their close family members, including spouses, children, parents, and grandparents, to join them in their new Canadian home. This family reunification process strengthens social bonds and fosters a supportive environment for individuals to build their lives surrounded by loved ones.

Find out how to bring your family to Canada with the Family Sponsorship Visa.

Path to Canadian Citizenship

While permanent residency is a significant milestone, it also serves as a stepping stone toward Canadian citizenship. After fulfilling the residency requirements, permanent residents can apply for citizenship. Canadian citizenship gives individuals the rights and responsibilities of full membership in Canadian society, further solidifying their connection to the country.

Learn more about how to become a Canadian citizen.

Diverse, Welcoming Society in Canada

Permanent residents in Canada enjoy a high quality of life enriched by the country's commitment to multiculturalism and inclusivity. Canada's diverse society celebrates differences, fostering a welcoming environment for individuals from various cultural backgrounds. This social cohesion contributes to a sense of belonging and community, enhancing the overall well-being of permanent residents.

Work Opportunities in Canada

Permanent residency opens up many work opportunities in Canada. With the freedom to pursue various professions and industries, individuals can explore their career aspirations, contribute to the Canadian job market, and advance their professional goals. The diverse and robust Canadian economy provides a fertile ground for individuals to thrive in their chosen fields.

Find out more about how you can work in Canada.



FAQs

How Can International Students Transition to Permanent Residence in Canada?

International students in Canada can transition to permanent residency through avenues like the Express Entry system, Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), and the Canadian Experience Class (CEC). By gaining valuable Canadian work experience, improving language proficiency, and obtaining a provincial nomination, students increase their eligibility for permanent residency.

What Documents Are Required to Apply For Canadian Permanent Residency as an International Student?

To apply for Canadian permanent residency as an international student, essential documents, including passports, academic transcripts, diplomas, language proficiency, test results, employment letters, proof of financial support, and medical examination results.

Additionally, police clearance certificates from relevant countries of residence and any specific documents required by the chosen immigration program, such as a Provincial Nomination Certificate, are crucial.