Canada PR visa

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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).

Why apply for a Canada PR

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

 

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

 

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 Process

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

Canada PR Eligibility

*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.

 

How to get a Canada Permanent Residency Visa

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

Sign up for a free expert consultation

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many years should I stay in Canada to get permanent residency?
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What is an ECA?
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I want to migrate to Canada. Do I need a specific kind of ECA?
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Do I have to give details of my ECA report in my IRCC Express Entry profile?
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What are the IRCC-designated organizations that issue ECA?
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I am a physician. Where can I get my ECA from?
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I studied in the UK in a research-based program that doesn’t issue mark sheets. Can I still get an evaluation?
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Does WES accept documents sent through Docs Wallet?
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I have completed my Master’s degree. Should I send my Bachelor's degree to WES for an ECA?
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I studied in the UK, and my school hasn't received your email for secondary verification. Is there anything I can do about it?
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I previously received a WES evaluation report and would now like to apply for an “ECA for immigration”. What should I do?
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What is the application cost for the Express Entry program?
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What is the application cost for the Provincial Nominee Program?
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How to get your Canada PR Visa application banned?
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What are the top ten job markets in Canada?
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How to get your Canada PR Visa application banned?
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Is the TEF test required for Canadian immigration?
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Is there any difference between Canada PR and Canadian citizenship?
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