Introduction
Canada is one of the most immigrant-friendly countries, with a welcoming attitude towards newcomers. If you dream of living and working in Canada, then obtaining Permanent Residency is your gateway to do so. Canada PR visa allows foreign nationals to reside in Canada indefinitely while enjoying the same rights and privileges as Canadian citizens, except that they cannot vote and get Canadian nationality. This article is your ultimate guide to Permanent Residency in Canada covering every aspect from eligibility to documents required for the application process.
What is Canada PR?
PR stands for Permanent Residency. It is the legal status given to non-Canadians that allows them to live and work in Canada without the need for a work permit. It is important to note that PRs are not Canadian citizens but have almost the same rights, except that they cannot vote in federal or provincial elections, nor run for elected office, and citizens’ certain federal jobs are reserved only for them.
What are the eligibility criteria for Canada PR?
Canada has several categories for PR visas: Express Entry System, Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), Quebec Skilled Workers Program, and Family Sponsorship Program. The basic eligibility criteria for Express Entry and PNP program are:
1. Age
Applicants must be at least 18-45 years of age to be eligible for the program.
2. Education
Applicants must have a minimum of a high school degree or equivalent, and in many cases, an educational diploma or certificate from a Canadian educational institution may be required. Additionally, Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) report from a designated Institution is required to verify educational credentials from outside Canada.
3. Work Experience
Applicants must have a minimum of one year of work experience in a skilled occupation, which is nominated by National Occupational Classification (NOC).
4. Language Proficiency
Applicants must have a minimum level of English or French language proficiency in terms of Reading, Writing, Listening, and Speaking. The language proficiency is evaluated through IELTS or CELPIP English test and TCF or TEF French test.
5. Financial Stability
Applicants must have enough funds to support their settlement in Canada for the initial period.
6. Health and Character
Applicants must undergo medical examinations and police/criminal verification processes.
What are the documents required for Canada PR?
The documents required for Canada PR are:
1. Educational Certificate and ECA Report
2. Work Experience Letters
3. Language Proficiency Test Result
4. Passport Bio Page and digital photograph
5. Proof of Funds
6. Medical Certificate
7. Police Clearance Certificates
8. Express Entry Profile Number (For Express Entry Program)
How to apply for Canada PR?
The application process for PR is different for each category. The application process for Express Entry and PNP program are explained below:
Express Entry Program
Step 1: Create an Express Entry Profile
The first step under Express entry program is to create an online profile. The profile includes personal details, work experience, language proficiency test scores, education details, and dependent information. After the initial assessment, the candidate receives a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score.
Step 2: Get invited to Apply
Candidates having the highest CRS score are issued the Invitation To Apply (ITA) by the Canadian Government, where candidates can submit an application for Permanent Residency.
Step 3: Submit PR Application and Supporting Documents
After receiving the ITA, candidates have to submit the PR application and all the supporting documents through an online system known as the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada’s online account.
Step 4: Wait for PR Approval
After submitting the PR application form, the authority may ask for additional supporting documents or interview. If the application is approved, the candidate will receive the Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR).
Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
PNP is a program where Canadian provinces and territories can nominate applicants for Permanent Residency in Canada. Each PNP has its own eligibility criteria, and the process varies, but the general approach is as follows:
Step 1: Apply to PNP
The first step in the PNP process is to apply to the PNP program of your choice. Applicants must meet the eligibility criteria for the program.
Step 2: Get nominated by Province
If the applicant’s PN application is accepted, he/she will receive a Nomination Certificate.
Step 3: Apply for PR
After getting nominated by the province, the applicant can apply for PR to the Canadian Government through an online system, known as the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada’s online account.
Step 4: Wait for PR Approval
After submitting the PR application form, the authority may ask for additional supporting documents or interview. If the application is approved, the candidate will receive the Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR).
What are the Benefits of Canada PR?
Canada PR provides several benefits to its permanent residents:
1. Work and Live Anywhere in Canada
Canada PR visa allows foreign nationals to reside and work anywhere in Canada for an indefinite period.
2. Healthcare and Education
PR holders can access Canada’s public healthcare system and subsidized education system.
3. Social Security Benefits
Canadian PRs are eligible for social security benefits like unemployment insurance, pension plans, and many others.
4. Sponsor Family Members
Permanent residents can sponsor their spouse, common-law partner, dependent children, or relatives to join them in Canada.
5. Pathway to Canadian Citizenship
Permanent residents can apply for Canadian citizenship after residing in Canada for three years out of five years.
Conclusion
Canada PR is an excellent opportunity for foreign nationals who look to live and work in Canada. There are several programs available, and each program has its own eligibility criteria and application process. This article provides the ultimate guide to Permanent Residency in Canada, including eligibility criteria, document requirements, and the application process. Obtaining Canada PR can lead to several benefits like work and live anywhere, healthcare and education, social security, sponsor family members, and pathway to Canadian citizenship.