Why apply for a Canada PR?

Canada's Permanent Residency (PR) lets people settle down, work, and live in one of the friendliest countries out there. With solid support for newcomers, a great quality of life, and a steady economy, it’s no wonder many folks want to move here.

• Canada welcomed over 431,645 immigrants through PR programs in just one year (IRCC).
• PR holders can live, work, or study anywhere in Canada without restrictions from employers or provinces.
• You get free public healthcare and education for kids under 18.
• After three years of living here, you can apply for Canadian citizenship.
• Canada is ranked as one of the top three countries in the world for quality of life and safety (U.S. News & World Report).

What is a Canada PR Visa?

A Canada Permanent Resident (PR) Visa lets foreign nationals live, work, and settle in Canada for the long haul. With this visa, you get many of the same rights as Canadian citizens, like healthcare, education, and social benefits, but you can’t vote. To stay eligible for citizenship later, PR holders need to meet residency requirements.

Here are some Do’s and Don’ts for a Canada PR Visa:

Do’s	Don’ts
Live, work, and study anywhere in Canada	Leave Canada for extended periods (over 730 days in 5 years) without meeting residency requirements
Apply for Canadian citizenship after eligibility	Vote in Canadian federal or provincial elections
Access healthcare and social services	Engage in criminal activity (can lead to loss of PR status)
Sponsor eligible family members for PR	Misrepresent information during application
File taxes annually if residing in Canada	Assume PR equals citizenship

 

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Can UK Residents be Permanent Residents of Canada?

Yes, people from the UK can become Permanent Residents (PR) in Canada if they meet the requirements set by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). They can choose different immigration routes, like Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), or family sponsorship. Usually, you will need a language test score (like IELTS), proof of education, and work experience. After getting approved, UK residents can live, work, and settle in Canada as PR holders, and later they can apply for citizenship.

 

Canadian Permanent Resident vs. Canada Citizenship

Canadian Permanent Residency and Citizenship both let you live in Canada, but they come with different rights and benefits. It is important for immigrants to know what sets them apart when choosing whether to stay as a PR or go for citizenship.

Here is a complete overview of the major differences between Canada PR and Canadian citizenship:

Factor	Permanent Resident (PR)	Canadian Citizen
Legal Status	You can live in Canada indefinitely	Full membership in the Canadian state
Right to Vote	You can't vote	Full voting rights in federal, provincial, and municipal elections
Passport	No Canadian passport	Eligible for a Canadian passport
Residency Obligation	Need to live in Canada for 730 days in 5 years	No minimum residency requirement
Social Benefits	You can access most benefits like healthcare and education	Access to all social benefits
Eligibility for Government Jobs	Restricted from certain government jobs (security clearance)	Eligible for all government jobs
Deportation Risk	You could be deported for legal issues or not meeting residency rules	Cannot be deported unless citizenship is revoked under rare cases
Travel Rights	Travel with a PR card, but you have to renew it every 5 years	Travel visa-free to over 185 countries with a Canadian passport
Citizenship Pathway	Eligible to apply for citizenship after 3 years of residency (within 5 years)	Already a citizen
Dual Citizenship	Not applicable	Allowed, Canada permits dual citizenship

 

Canada PR Process

Canada has several ways for foreigners to become permanent residents, making it a welcoming spot for immigrants. The process is meant to bring in skilled workers, entrepreneurs, and family members through clear and point-based immigration pathways. Applicants need to meet certain requirements, provide necessary documents, and pass medical and background checks before they can get their Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR).

Here are the main pathways to get PR in Canada:

• Express Entry: This is for skilled workers under the Federal Skilled Worker Program, Federal Skilled Trades Program, and Canadian Experience Class. It uses a ranking system to score applicants.
• Provincial Nominee Program (PNP): This lets provinces nominate candidates based on what they need in the job market.
• Family Sponsorship: Canadian citizens and PRs can sponsor their close family members to come to Canada.
• Quebec Skilled Worker Program (QSWP): This is specifically for people who plan to live and work in Quebec.
• Start-up Visa Program: This is for entrepreneurs with creative business ideas who have support from designated Canadian organizations.

Canada PR via Express Entry

Express Entry is Canada's main immigration system for skilled workers looking to get permanent residency. It's based on a points system, called the CRS, which ranks candidates on things like age, education, work experience, and language skills. If you score well, you might get an invitation to apply for permanent residency through one of these three options:

• Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP): For people with work experience from other countries.
• Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP): For skilled tradespeople, like electricians and plumbers.
• Canadian Experience Class (CEC): For those who have at least a year of skilled work experience in Canada.

Canada PR via a Provincial Nominee Program

The Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) lets Canadian provinces and territories nominate skilled workers, business people, and graduates for permanent residency based on what they need in their job market. You can apply through two paths: one connected to Express Entry and one that’s not. The PNP is great for those looking to settle in a specific province where their skills are in demand. Each province has its own rules, job focuses, and nomination steps. Getting a provincial nomination can really help your chances by adding 600 points to your CRS score, making it easier to get an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency.

Here are some of the main PNP programs in Canada:

• Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP)
• British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP)
• Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP)
• Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP)
• Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP)
• 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)
• Northwest Territories Nominee Program (NTNP)
• Yukon Nominee Program (YNP)

*Want to apply for Canada PNP? Get in touch with experts at Y-Axis to guide you with the process.

 

Canada PR Eligibility

To be eligible for Canada PR, you will need to score points based on things like your age, education, work experience, and language skills. If you meet these requirements, you are more likely to get an invitation to apply for permanent residency through different immigration options.

• Education: Higher education earns more points
• Work Experience: Minimum 1 year skilled work
• Language Proficiency: IELTS/TEF required for English/French
• Adaptability: Extra points for family in Canada
• Proof of Funds: Required for most applicants

*Check your eligibility to become a Permanent Resident of Canada with the FREE Y-Axis CRS Points Calculator and get an instant score!

 

Canada PR Requirements

If you are looking to apply for Canada Permanent Residency (PR), you will need to hit certain requirements set by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). These requirements cover things like education, work experience, language skills, and some other factors. Getting your documents and meeting eligibility is really important for your PR application to go smoothly.

Here's a complete list of requirements for Canada PR:

• Valid Passport: You need a current travel document.
• Educational Credential Assessment (ECA): This assesses your education to see if it meets Canadian standards.
• Language Proficiency Test: You will need to take the IELTS or CELPIP for English, or the TEF or TCF for French.
• Proof of Work Experience: You have to document your full-time, skilled work history.
• Proof of Funds: Bank statements or other financial documents need to show that you have enough money to settle in Canada.
• Medical Exam: You will need a health check from an IRCC-approved doctor.
• Police Clearance Certificate: This shows you don’t have a criminal record.
• Photographs: Provide passport-sized photos that meet IRCC rules.
• Marriage Certificate (if applicable): This is needed if you are bringing a spouse.
• Nomination Certificate (if applicable): Necessary if you are applying through the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP).

 

How to get a Canada Permanent Residency Visa?

Getting a Canada Permanent Residency (PR) Visa involves a clear process that focuses on your eligibility, paperwork, and the immigration option you choose.

Step 1: Check if you are eligible 

Pick the right PR program (like Express Entry or PNP) based on your age, education, work experience, and language skills.

Step 2: Take a language test 

You need to take the IELTS (for English) or TEF (for French) and score at least at the minimum level.

Step 3: Get your Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) 

You will need to have your international education checked by an approved organization (like WES) to make sure it meets Canadian standards.

Step 4: Create your Express Entry profile 

Fill out an online profile and join the candidate pool. Your CRS score will decide where you stand.

Step 5: Wait for your Invitation to Apply (ITA) 

You will either get an ITA through Express Entry draws or a nomination from a PNP.

Step 6: Submit your PR application 

Once you receive the ITA, you have 60 days to apply online and upload all necessary documents.

Step 7: Complete medical and police checks 

You will need to pass an IRCC-approved medical exam and provide police clearance certificates.

Step 8: Get your Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) 

If all goes well, you will receive your COPR and can move to Canada as a PR.

 

ECA – Educational Credential Assessment

An Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) is a must for anyone applying for Canada PR. It helps to check that your foreign education matches up with Canadian standards. This is especially important for those going through the Express Entry system, like the Federal Skilled Worker Program. The ECA makes sure that your qualifications from outside Canada are recognized by employers and immigration officials here. It lasts for 5 years and needs to come from an organization that’s approved by IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada).

Here are the PR categories that need an ECA:

• Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
• Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) – if you are claiming education points
• Canadian Experience Class (CEC) – if you are claiming education points
• Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) – usually, in most cases
• If your spouse is claiming extra points for education

Here are the organizations you can get an ECA from:

• World Education Services (WES)
• International Credential Assessment Service of Canada (ICAS)
• Comparative Education Service (CES) – University of Toronto
• International Qualifications Assessment Service (IQAS)
• International Credential Evaluation Service (ICES)
• Medical Council of Canada (MCC) – for doctors
• Pharmacy Examining Board of Canada (PEBC) – for pharmacists

Note: Each of these organizations might have different processing times and fees. Most people applying through Express Entry tend to go with WES since they are quicker and easier to deal with.

 

ECA fees

Services	Educational Credential Assessment (ECA)
Electronic ECA report provided to you	C$248
An official paper report (delivery fees apply)
ECA report access by IRCC
Electronic storage of your report and verified transcripts for future use
Additional Fees
Delivery Options	Fees
Standard delivery (tracking not included)	C$12
Courier delivery (tracking included)
U.S. and international courier services (per address)	C$92
Next-day courier delivery (per address, Canada only)	C$27
Add a new credential	C$108
Convert ECA to a Document-by-Document evaluation	C$54
Convert ECA to a Course-by-Course evaluation	C$108
First report (WES Basic)	C$54
First report (WES ICAP)	C$33
Each additional report	C$33

Benefits of Permanent Residency in Canada

Getting Permanent Residency (PR) in Canada gives you and your family the chance to live, work, and settle in a welcoming and developed country. Here are some of the main benefits of applying for Canada PR:

• Live and Work Anywhere: You can choose to live and work in any province or territory without any restrictions.
• Healthcare Access: Enjoy universal healthcare, with services funded by the government.
• Free Education for Kids: Your children can attend public schools for free up to grade 12.
• Pathway to Citizenship: After meeting the residency requirements, usually three years, you can apply for Canadian citizenship.
• Social Benefits: You can access things like employment insurance, pension plans, and child tax benefits.
• Family Sponsorship: You can bring your spouse, partner, or dependent children to Canada.
• Legal Rights: You have the same rights and protections under Canadian law as citizens do.
• Multicultural Experience: Canada has a diverse and inclusive society that embraces immigrants.
• Job Opportunities: There are thousands of job openings across various industries for PR holders.
• Travel Freedom: With a Canadian PR Travel Document (PRTD), you can travel visa-free to many countries.

Jobs in Canada for UK Residents

Canada is drawing in skilled workers from the UK, with more than 800,000 job openings in areas like healthcare, IT, finance, engineering, and trades. There is a real need for talent, and the immigration process is pretty straightforward, giving UK residents a good chance at finding jobs and settling down in Canada.

Occupation	Average Salary in CAD
Sales Representative	52,000 - 64,000
Accountant	63,000 - 75,000
Engineering Project Manager	74,000 - 92,000
Business Analyst	73,000 - 87,000
IT Project Manager	92,000 - 114,000
Account Manager	75,000 - 92,000
Software Engineer	83,000 - 99,000
Human Resources	59,000 - 71,000
Customer Service Representative	37,000 - 43,000
Administrative Assistant	37,000 - 46,000

IT Jobs in Canada

Canada's tech scene is growing fast, and there are expected to be over 250,000 tech jobs open in the next few years. Jobs in software development, cybersecurity, AI, and cloud computing are particularly sought after, making it a great place for IT pros looking for well-paying and stable careers.

List of IT jobs	NOC codes
Developer/Programmer	NOC 21232
Business System Analyst/Administrator	NOC 21221
Data Analyst /Scientist	NOC 21223
Quality Assurance Analyst	NOC 21222
Security Analyst/Architect	NOC 21220
Cloud Architect	NOC 20012
IT Project Manager	NOC 21311
Network Engineer	NOC 22220

 

Total cost for Canada PR

Applying for Permanent Residency (PR) in Canada involves several mandatory expenses, including application fees, biometric charges, language tests, medical exams, and proof of funds. Costs can vary based on the number of family members included in the application.

Below is an estimated breakdown of the costs for different applicant categories:

Applicant Type	Estimated Total Cost (CAD)	Breakdown Includes
Single Applicant	CAD 2,300 – 3,500	Application fee, biometrics, IELTS, medical exam, ECA, proof of funds (≈$13,757)
Couple (No Kids)	CAD 4,500 – 6,000	Application fees for two, biometrics, tests, ECAs, medicals, proof of funds (≈$17,127)
Couple + 1 Child	CAD 5,500 – 7,000	Application fees for three, biometrics, tests, ECAs, medicals, proof of funds (≈$20,371)

 

The table below has an overview of the program, applicant types and the fee structure:

Program	Applicants	Current fees (April 2022 – March 2024)	New fees (April 2024 – March 2026)
Right of Permanent Residence Fee	Principal applicant and accompanying spouse or common-law partner	$515	$575
Protected persons	Principal applicant	$570	$635
Protected persons	Accompanying spouse or common-law partner	$570	$635
Protected persons	Accompanying dependent child	$155	$175
Permit holders	Principal applicant	$335	$375
Live-in Caregiver Program and caregivers pilots (Home Child Provider Pilot and Home Support Worker Pilot)	Principal applicant	$570	$635
Live-in Caregiver Program and caregivers pilots (Home Child Provider Pilot and Home Support Worker Pilot)	Accompanying spouse or common-law partner	$570	$635
Live-in Caregiver Program and caregivers pilots (Home Child Provider Pilot and Home Support Worker Pilot)	Accompanying dependent child	$155	$175
Humanitarian and compassionate consideration / Public policy	Principal applicant	$570	$635
Humanitarian and compassionate consideration / Public policy	Accompanying spouse or common-law partner	$570	$635
Humanitarian and compassionate consideration / Public policy	Accompanying dependent child	$155	$175
Federal Skilled Workers, Provincial Nominee Program, Quebec Skilled Workers, Atlantic Immigration Class and most economic pilots (Rural, Agri-Food)	Principal applicant	$850	$950
Federal Skilled Workers, Provincial Nominee Program, Quebec Skilled Workers, Atlantic Immigration Class and most economic pilots (Rural, Agri-Food)	Accompanying spouse or common-law partner	$850	$950
Federal Skilled Workers, Provincial Nominee Program, Quebec Skilled Workers, Atlantic Immigration Class and most economic pilots (Rural, Agri-Food)	Accompanying dependent child	$230	$260
Family reunification (spouses, partners and children; parents and grandparents; and other relatives)	Sponsorship fee	$75	$85
Family reunification (spouses, partners and children; parents and grandparents; and other relatives)	Sponsored principal applicant	$490	$545
Family reunification (spouses, partners and children; parents and grandparents; and other relatives)	Sponsored child (principal applicant under 22 years old and not a spouse/partner)	$75	$85
Family reunification (spouses, partners and children; parents and grandparents; and other relatives)	Accompanying spouse or common-law partner	$570	$635
Family reunification (spouses, partners and children; parents and grandparents; and other relatives)	Accompanying dependent child	$155	$175
Business (federal and Quebec)	Principal applicant	$1,625	$1,810
Business (federal and Quebec)	Accompanying spouse or common-law partner	$850	$950
Business (federal and Quebec)	Accompanying dependent child	$230	$260

 

Proof of Funds for Canada PR            

If you are planning to move to Canada as a permanent resident, you will need to show that you have enough money to support yourself and your family upon arrival. This requirement ensures that newcomers can comfortably settle without immediate financial strain. The Canadian government sets a minimum amount based on your family size, and you must provide official proof, such as recent bank statements to confirm access to these funds.

The table below has complete details of the proof of funds required for Canada PR:

Number of family members	Current Funds Required	Funds required (in Canadian dollars) Coming into effect May 28, 2024
1	CAD 13,757	CAD 14,690
2	CAD 17,127	CAD 18,288
3	CAD 21,055	CAD 22,483
4	CAD 25,564	CAD 27,297
5	CAD 28,994	CAD 30,690
6	CAD 32,700	CAD 34,917
7	CAD 36,407	CAD 38,875
If more than 7 people, for each additional family member	CAD 3,706	CAD 3,958

 

Canada PR Visa Processing Times

The processing time for a Canada Permanent Residency (PR) visa varies depending on the pathway chosen. For Express Entry programs, the standard processing time is approximately 6- 8 months after submitting a complete application. However, for Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) and other pathways like family sponsorship or Quebec-selected skilled workers, processing times can range from 12 to 18 months.

 

How Can Y-Axis Help You?

Y-Axis, the leading overseas immigration consultancy in the UK, provides unbiased immigration services for every client based on their interests and requirements. The impeccable services of Y-Axis include:

• Free eligibility check through Canada Immigration Points Calculator
• Expert guidance/counseling for Canada Immigration
• Coaching services: Expert CELPIP coaching, IELTS proficiency Coaching
• Free career counseling; book your slot today
• Complete guidance for Canada PR visa
• Job search services to find related jobs in Canada