The path to becoming a permanent resident of Canada may be short for some people and long for others.
Direct admission into Canada is available overseas or within the country by applying to one of the country’s numerous immigration programs.
However, many persons who are given permanent status enter Canada as temporary residents first.
This is possible when holding a job or study permit.
The experience of a temporary resident in Canada counts toward the application for permanent residence.
Types of Residency in Canada
Permanent Residency: This is a status that allows an individual to live, work, and study in Canada indefinitely. Permanent residents are issued a Permanent Resident Card (PR Card) and are entitled to many of the same rights and privileges as Canadian citizens, with some exceptions (e.g., the right to vote and hold certain public office).
Temporary Residency: This is a status that allows an individual to live, work, or study in Canada on a temporary basis. Temporary residents may include international students, workers with a work permit, or visitors. Temporary residents are not issued a PR Card and do not have the same rights and privileges as permanent residents or Canadian citizens.
Citizenship: This is a legal status that confers full rights and privileges of membership in a country, including the right to live, work, and study anywhere in Canada, the right to vote, and the right to hold certain public office. To become a Canadian citizen, you must first become a permanent resident and meet certain eligibility requirements, including a minimum physical presence in Canada and knowledge of English or French.
Ways to become a Permanent Resident of Canada
Express Entry: This is a points-based system that manages applications for permanent residence for certain economic immigration programs, including the Federal Skilled Worker Program, Federal Skilled Trades Program, and Canadian Experience Class.
To apply through Express Entry, you must first create an online profile and be invited to apply for permanent residence by the Government of Canada.
Sponsorship by a Family Member: You may be able to become a permanent resident of Canada if you have a spouse, common-law partner, or another relative who is a Canadian citizen or permanent resident and is willing to sponsor you.
Provincial Nominee Program: Each province and territory in Canada has its own immigration program, called the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), which allows them to nominate individuals who wish to immigrate to Canada and who meet specific criteria.
If you are nominated by a province or territory, you may be able to apply for permanent residence.
Study Permit: If you are a student who has completed a post-secondary program in Canada and have graduated from a designated learning institution, you may be eligible to apply for a work permit under the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program. After working in Canada for at least one year, you may be eligible to apply for permanent residence through the Canadian Experience Class.
Work Permit: If you have a job offer from a Canadian employer, you may be able to apply for a work permit. After working in Canada for at least one year, you may be eligible to apply for permanent residence through the Canadian Experience Class.
Refugee or Asylum Status: If you are fleeing persecution, violence, or other human rights violations in your home country, you may be able to apply for refugee or asylum status in Canada. If your application is approved, you will be granted permanent residence in Canada.
How Do I Complete And Fill The Application Form?
Follow the steps below to complete the application.
Create an account or login to the Permanent Resident Online Application Portal.
Click on the name of each application form to access it, then fill it out as directed. Some forms require you to complete an online form, while others require you to submit a PDF.
If you have any technical problems with the portal, please use the web form.
To ensure a timely response, please note that you are applying through the provincial nominee program when selecting the type of request from the drop-down menu for technical difficulties in the text box.
You must complete the following online digital forms.
You will fill out these online forms (for yourself and any family members 18 or older)
- Generic Application Form for Canada (IMM 0008)
- Schedule A – Background/Declaration (IMM 5669)
- Additional Family Information (IMM 5406)
- Supplementary Information – Your travels (IMM 5562)
Also, you must complete these PDF forms, which do not need to be signed.
As the principal applicant, you will electronically sign for the whole application, including those of your family members who have been added to your online application.
- Document Checklist
- Economic Classes – Provincial Nominee
- Economic Classes: Provincial Nominees – Business Nominees
Print these PDF forms, fill them out, and sign them if applicable. Hand-sign it and have the third party sign it
Conclusion
It is important to note that the process for becoming a permanent resident in Canada can be complex and may vary depending on your individual circumstances. It is recommended that you consult with an immigration lawyer or a qualified immigration professional to determine the best course of action for your specific situation.