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Eligibility criteria for Canadian immigration

While each program to migrate to Canada has different criteria, a few things are in common. Canadian immigration officials will typically assess migration applications based on:

Educational Profile

Professional Profile

IELTS score

French language skills if migrating to Quebec

References & legal documentation

Canadian employment documentation

Why choose Canada Immigration?

  • 45 million new permanent residents targeted by 2027
  • Over 1 million job vacancies available across various Canadian industries
  • Average PR processing time is 6 months through Express Entry
  • Skilled professionals can earn 5–8 times more than in many other countries
  • Canada ranks among the top 10 countries for quality of life and healthcare

Why choose Canada Immigration

Migrate to Canada from the UK

Canada continues to be a top destination for UK residents seeking permanent settlement through its structured and transparent immigration system. With over 1.4 million new permanent residents expected by 2027, the country offers ample opportunities across healthcare, IT, engineering, and other high-demand sectors. The Canadian PR visa allows individuals to live, work, and study anywhere in the country, access public healthcare, and eventually apply for citizenship.

*Want to migrate to Canada? Sign up with Y-Axis to guide you with the process.

Canada Immigration Policy (2025-2027)

Canada remains one of the most welcoming countries in the world for immigrants. Under its updated Immigration Levels Plan for 2025- 2027, the Canadian government aims to maintain a balanced and sustainable immigration system that supports economic growth, family reunification, and humanitarian commitments. The focus remains on attracting skilled talent, supporting population growth, and addressing labour market needs across provinces.

The below table gives you an overview of the 2025–2027 Immigration Levels Plan:

Immigration Class

2025

2026

2027

Economic

2,32,150

2,29,750

2,25,350

Family

94,500

88,000

81,000

Refugee

58,350

55,350

54,350

Humanitarian

10,000

6,900

4,300

Total

3,95,000

3,80,000

3,65,000

Canada Immigration Pathways

Canada offers a wide range of immigration pathways for UK residents, whether you are looking to work, study, reunite with family, or settle permanently.

Below are the major routes through which you can immigrate to Canada from the UK:

  • Express Entry (Federal Skilled Worker Program, Canadian Experience Class)
  • Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
  • Family Sponsorship
  • Start-Up Visa Program
  • Self-Employed Persons Program
  • Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)
  • Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP)
  • Agri-Food Pilot
  • Student Visa leading to PR
  • Business and Investor Visas

Canada immigration pathways

Express Entry Overview (Main Pathway for Skilled Migrants)

Express Entry is Canada’s primary immigration system for skilled workers seeking permanent residency. It operates through a points-based Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) that evaluates candidates on factors like age, education, work experience, and language skills. UK residents can apply directly through one of the following three programs:

*Want to check your eligibility to Canada? Try out the FREE Canada Immigration points calculator to get an instant score!

Step‑by‑Step Express Entry Process

Step 1: Eligibility check using factors like age, education, language, work history
Step 2: Create an Express Entry profile and receive a CRS score estimate
Step 3: Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) if your score meets the draw threshold
Step 4: Submit PR application within 60 days of ITA
Step 5: Undergo medical and police checks
Step 6: Obtain Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) and prepare to move

Immigration to Canada – PNP

The Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) is a key pathway for skilled workers, graduates, and entrepreneurs to immigrate to Canada by receiving a nomination from a specific province or territory. Each region operates its own PNP streams aligned with local economic needs and labour market gaps. The Canada PNP program is segregated into two major categories:

  • Base PNP Streams: These are streams managed entirely by individual provinces or territories. Applicants apply directly to the province, and if nominated, must then submit a permanent residence application to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) outside of the Express Entry system.
  • Enhanced PNP Streams: These streams are aligned with Canada’s Express Entry system. Provinces select candidates from the Express Entry pool and issue a nomination. A provincial nomination through an enhanced stream grants the candidate an additional 600 Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points, virtually guaranteeing an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence.

The list of Canada PNP programs include:

  • Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP)
  • British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP)
  • Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP)
  • Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP)
  • Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP)
  • Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP)
  • New Brunswick Provincial Nominee Program (NBPNP)
  • Prince Edward Island Provincial Nominee Program (PEI PNP)
  • Newfoundland and Labrador Provincial Nominee Program (NLPNP)
  • Yukon Nominee Program (YNP)
  • Northwest Territories Nominee Program (NTNP)

Migrate to Canada – QSWP

The Quebec Skilled Worker Program (QSWP), officially known as the Regular Skilled Worker Program (RSWP), is designed for individuals who wish to move to Quebec permanently for work. This program is ideal for skilled professionals with qualifications and experience that align with Quebec’s labour market needs.

To begin the process, applicants must submit an expression of interest through Quebec’s Arrima Portal. Candidates are then selected based on their ability to integrate into the province’s workforce. Selected individuals receive an invitation to apply for a Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ), which is required before applying for Canadian permanent residency.

Unlike other immigration programs, QSWP does not require a job offer, though candidates with one are given preference. Quebec manages this program independently of Canada’s federal Express Entry and PNP systems, with its own eligibility criteria and selection process.

*Want to check your eligibility to Quebec? Try out the Y-Axis Quebec Immigration points calculator to get an instant score!

Job-Based Immigration for UK Citizens

For UK professionals looking to work in Canada, job-based immigration offers several structured pathways that can lead to temporary work permits and eventually permanent residency. These options are particularly beneficial for individuals with job offers or existing employment links to Canadian companies.

  • Employer-Specific Work Permits (With LMIA)
  • Intra-Company Transfers
  • Global Talent Stream (GTS)

Latest Canada Draws

68,181 Invitations Issued in 2025

Express Entry/ Province Draw

Jan

Feb

March

April

May

June

July

August

Total

Express Entry

5821

11,601

13,261

1246

2511

7,405

7,558

6,417

55,820

Manitoba

325

117

219

31

118

528

86

114

1,511

British Columbia 

10

NA

13

5

108

NA

17

16

164

Ontario

4

NA

NA

NA

NA

3791

NA

NA

3795

Alberta

NA

551

17

246

414

291

433

683

2635

Prince Edward Island

22

87

124

168

168

52

39

132

624

Newfoundland and Labrador

NA

NA

NA

256

733

NA

509

231

2049

New Brunswick

NA

NA

498

477

NA

608

NA

NA

1583

Total

6,182

12,356

14,132

2429

4052

12,675

8,642

7,593

68,181

Canada Immigration Eligibility

To immigrate to Canada from the UK, applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria based on the immigration program they apply through. The general eligibility criteria for Canada immigration are as follows:

  • Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) from a recognised organisation
  • Relevant skilled work experience (usually a minimum of 1 year)
  • Proficiency in English or French (IELTS, CELPIP, or TEF scores)
  • Proof of sufficient settlement funds (if applicable)
  • Health and character clearance

Canadian Immigration Requirements

The general requirements for Canada Immigration are as follows:

  • Minimum 67 points on the FSWP eligibility grid
  • Valid passport
  • Language proficiency (IELTS/CELPIP/TEF)
  • Educational Credential Assessment (ECA)
  • At least 1 year of skilled work experience
  • Proof of settlement funds
  • Medical examination
  • Police clearance certificates
  • Job offer (optional)

Canadian Immigration Requirements

Canada Immigration Points Calculator

To be eligible for Canadian immigration under the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) via Express Entry, applicants must score at least 67 out of 100 points based on six selection factors. These points assess a candidate’s potential to succeed in Canada and include age, education, language proficiency, and more. Below is a breakdown of the points allocation:

Factors

Score points

Age

Maximum 12 points

Education

Maximum 25 points

Language Proficiency

Maximum 28 points (English and French)

Work Experience

Maximum 15 points

Adaptability

Maximum of 10 points

Arranged employment

Additional 10 points (not mandatory).

Total

100 points

Minimum score required

67 points

Canada Immigration Process

You can follow the below steps to migrate to Canada:

Step 1: Identify the most suitable immigration pathway based on your profile and goals.
Step 2: Check your eligibility under the selected program, including points, qualifications, and work experience.
Step 3: Collect all necessary documents such as ECA, language test results, proof of funds, and ID proofs.
Step 4: Submit your application through the appropriate portal (e.g., Express Entry, PNP, etc.).
Step 5: Pay the applicable fees and complete biometrics as instructed.
Step 6: Wait for application processing and respond to any additional document requests.
Step 7: Receive your visa decision and Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR).
Step 8: Plan your move to Canada.

Canada Immigration Process

List of Canada Visas for Immigration

The list of Canada visas for immigration are as follows:

  • Express Entry (Federal Skilled Worker, Federal Skilled Trades, Canadian Experience Class)
  • Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
  • Quebec Skilled Worker Program (QSWP)
  • Family Sponsorship Visas (spouses, partners, dependent children, parents)
  • Start-up Visa (for entrepreneurs and investors)
  • Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)
  • Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP)
  • Agri‑Food Pilot
  • Caregiver Pathways
  • Self‑Employed Persons Program

Canada Visa Processing Time

The table below has details of the average processing time for different types of Canada visas:

Type of Canada Visa

Processing time of Canada Visa

Express Entry

On average, most Express Entry applications are processed within 6 - 27 months of the IRCC receiving them.

FSWP via Express Entry Processing time is up to 27 months

FSTP via Express Entry Processing time is up to 49 months

CEC via Express Entry Processing time is up to 19 months

PNPs via Express Entry (online) Processing time is up to 14 months

Canada PR Visa

An applicant will receive a Permanent Resident visa in at least 107 days

Canada PR Visa Renewal

The Canada PR visa renewal sometimes might take several months. The general processing time for PR card renewal is around 90 days.

Canada Work Visa

Canadian work visa processing has the widest range. It takes at least 14 weeks to process the work visa or work permit.

Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA)

Depending on the LMIA the applicant chooses, the processing time for LMIA takes 8 – 29 business days to process the application.

Student visa

The Canadian study visa or permit gets processed in around 12 weeks

Canadian Citizenship

To obtain Canadian Citizenship, it takes at least 24 months.

Canada Visitor visa

Canada visitor visa will get processed in a minimum of 164 days

Canada Spousal sponsorship (Dependent visa)

The average time Canada Spousal sponsorship processing takes up to 20 months

Super Visa

Most of all Super visa applicants in just a few weeks, but usually, it takes around 31 months

Post Graduate Work Permit (PGWP)

Canadian PGWP applies after completing studies; the processing time usually takes 2 – 6 months.

Start-Up Visa

The processing time usually takes 31 months.

Canada Visa fees for UK Residents

The table below has complete details of the Canada visa fees:

Type of Canada Visa

Canada Visa Fee (CAD)

Canada PR Visa

2,500 - 3,000

Canada Work Visa

155 - 200

Study Visa

150

Canada Visitor visa

100

Family Visa

1080 -1500

Business Visa

1,625

Life in Canada for Immigrants

Canada is a top choice for UK residents seeking a fresh start in a vibrant and inclusive society. With its high standard of living, free universal healthcare, and world-class education system, Canada offers a quality of life that appeals to families and professionals alike. Immigrants enjoy excellent career prospects, affordable housing in many provinces, and a strong sense of community in a safe, multicultural environment. Moving to Canada means embracing a balanced lifestyle surrounded by breath-taking natural beauty and endless opportunities for growth.

Common Challenges UK Citizens Face

  • Low CRS scores without a job offer or provincial nomination.
  • Limited awareness of alternative PNP pathways.
  • Difficulty selecting the right immigration stream.
  • Incomplete or incorrect documentation submissions.
  • Delays in medical exams or police clearance (ACRO).
  • Resumes not tailored to Canadian job market standards.
  • Insufficient proof of settlement funds.
  • Keeping up with frequent immigration policy changes.
  • Lack of employer connections in Canada.
  • Overlooking the importance of language test score validity.
How can Y-Axis help you?

Y-Axis is the leading immigration consultant for individuals looking to migrate to Canada. Our end-to-end support with the immigration process ensures that you make the right decision at every step. We guide you with:

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the requirements to immigrate to Canada?
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