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Residence Visa
Residence Visa
A Canadian Residence Visa, known as Permanent Residency (PR), allows foreign nationals to live, work, and study anywhere in Canada on a permanent basis. It is a key step toward becoming a Canadian citizen.
Eligibility Criteria
There are several pathways to obtain Canadian Permanent Residency. The most common ones include:
Express Entry:
- Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP): For skilled workers with foreign work experience.
- Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP): For skilled trades workers.
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC): For individuals with Canadian work experience.
Provincial Nominee Program (PNP):
- For individuals nominated by a Canadian province or territory based on their skills and work experience.
Family Sponsorship:
- For individuals sponsored by a Canadian citizen or permanent resident relative.
Start-Up Visa Program:
- For entrepreneurs who want to start a business in Canada.
Self-Employed Persons Program:
- For self-employed individuals in cultural or athletic activities.
Quebec-Selected Skilled Workers:
- For skilled workers who want to live in Quebec.
Atlantic Immigration Pilot:
- For workers who wish to live in one of the Atlantic provinces.
Application Process
Determine Your Eligibility:
- Use the IRCC’s online tools to determine which pathway is suitable for you.
Gather Required Documents:
- This can include identity documents, educational credentials, proof of work experience, language test results (IELTS, CELPIP for English or TEF for French), and proof of funds.
Create an Express Entry Profile (if applicable):
- If applying through Express Entry, create an online profile. You’ll be given a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score based on factors like age, education, work experience, and language skills.
Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA):
- If your CRS score meets the cut-off for a particular draw, you will receive an ITA for PR.
Submit a Complete Application:
- After receiving an ITA, submit your application for PR, along with all supporting documents, within 60 days.
Pay Application Fees:
- The application fee for a single applicant is CAD 1,365 (including the right of permanent residence fee). Additional fees may apply for accompanying family members.
Medical Examination and Police Certificates:
- You must undergo a medical examination by an approved panel physician and provide police certificates from every country where you have lived for six months or longer since the age of 18.
Wait for Processing:
- Processing times vary depending on the pathway and other factors. Express Entry applications are typically processed within six months.
Receive Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR):
- If your application is approved, you will receive a COPR and a PR visa (if applicable). You need to present these documents when entering Canada.
Landing in Canada:
- Upon arrival, present your COPR and PR visa to the immigration officer. Once processed, you will officially become a Canadian permanent resident.
Benefits of Permanent Residency
- Live and Work Anywhere in Canada: PR holders can live, work, and study in any Canadian province or territory.
- Access to Social Benefits: PR holders are eligible for Canadian healthcare and other social benefits.
- Pathway to Citizenship: After fulfilling residency requirements (typically 3 years of residency within a 5-year period), PR holders can apply for Canadian citizenship.
- Protection Under Canadian Law: PR holders are protected under Canadian law and the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms.
Maintaining Permanent Residency
- Residency Obligation: To maintain PR status, you must reside in Canada for at least 730 days (2 years) within a 5-year period.
- Renewal: PR cards are typically valid for five years, and you must renew your PR card if you plan to travel outside Canada.
