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.
A Canada Permanent Resident (PR) Visa grants you permanent resident status, which allows you to live, work, and study in Canada indefinitely. Permanent residents enjoy many of the same rights as Canadian citizens, including access to most social benefits and health care, while still retaining citizenship of their home country.
Once approved, you receive a PR card, which acts as official proof of your status in Canada. The card is usually valid for five years and is required for re-entry if you travel outside Canada. To maintain your status, you must meet the residency obligation of at least 730 days in Canada within every five-year period.
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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A Permanent Resident (PR) is a non‑Canadian citizen granted the right to live, work, and study in Canada indefinitely. PR holders enjoy benefits such as public healthcare, pension programs, and the opportunity to sponsor certain family members. After meeting residency and other criteria, PR status can transition into Canadian citizenship.
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.
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).
Canada offers several immigration pathways for individuals and families seeking Permanent Resident (PR) status. The main programs include:
The Express Entry system manages applications for three federal programs: Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSW), Canadian Experience Class (CEC), and Federal Skilled Trades Program (FST). Applicants are ranked using the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), and those with the highest scores receive Invitations to Apply (ITA) for PR.
Each Canadian province and territory operates its own Provincial Nominee Program to meet local labour market needs. A provincial nomination adds 600 CRS points if linked to Express Entry, almost guaranteeing an ITA. Base (non-Express Entry) PNPs are also available for candidates who meet specific provincial criteria.
Canadian citizens and permanent residents can sponsor close family members—including spouses, partners, dependent children, parents, and grandparents—for permanent residency. This pathway supports family reunification and remains one of the most important PR routes.
Canada also runs targeted immigration pathways, such as the Atlantic Immigration Program for employers in Atlantic provinces, the Caregivers Program, and other pilots designed to attract workers in priority sectors or regions. These routes provide additional opportunities for PR outside the main federal and provincial systems.
Express Entry is Canada’s points-based system for managing applications through three federal economic programs:
Prospective immigrants submit a profile to a pool and are ranked via CRS. High-scoring candidates receive Invitations to Apply (ITAs). Eighty percent of Express Entry PR applications are processed within six months.
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:
*Want to apply for Canada PNP? Get in touch with experts at Y-Axis to guide you with the process.
To qualify for Canada Permanent Residency, applicants must meet the eligibility criteria set out by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). The core requirements include:
Note: Meeting these criteria ensures that applicants are considered eligible to enter the Express Entry pool or apply through a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP).
*Check your eligibility to become a Permanent Resident of Canada with the FREE Y-Axis CRS Points Calculator and get an instant score!
To apply for Canada Permanent Residency (PR), applicants must meet the conditions set by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and provide supporting documents. Below are the main requirements:
The Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) is used to rank Express Entry candidates for Canada Permanent Residency. Points are awarded based on core factors such as age, education, work experience, language skills, and adaptability. Candidates with the highest scores are invited to apply for PR through regular IRCC draws.
Factor | Details |
Age | Maximum points typically awarded from ages 20–29; points decrease gradually after age 30. |
Education | More points for higher qualifications; foreign credentials usually need an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA). |
Work Experience | Points for skilled Canadian and/or foreign work experience; more years = higher points (program rules apply). |
Language Skills | Approved tests only: IELTS/CELPIP (English) or TEF/TCF (French). Higher CLB scores yield more points; French can also earn extra points. |
Additional points & adaptability factors | Examples include provincial nomination (+600), Canadian study, having a sibling in Canada, strong French proficiency, and other IRCC-defined bonuses. |
Applying for Canada Permanent Residency involves several stages managed by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
The process typically follows these steps:
Step 1: Check eligibility
Review the criteria for Express Entry programs (Federal Skilled Worker, Canadian Experience Class, Federal Skilled Trades) or Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) to ensure you qualify.
Step 2: Create an Express Entry profile
If applying through Express Entry, complete your profile online, providing details of age, education, language scores, and work experience.
Step 3: Enter the pool and receive a CRS score
Once your profile is submitted, you will be placed in the candidate pool and assigned a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score.
Step 4: Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA)
If your CRS score meets or exceeds the cut-off in a draw, or if you receive a provincial nomination, you will be invited to apply for PR.
Step 5: Submit a complete PR application
Within the ITA deadline (usually 60 days), submit your full application with supporting documents, fees, and forms through the IRCC portal.
Step 6: Provide biometrics and medical exams
Applicants must attend a biometrics appointment and undergo a medical examination with an IRCC-approved panel physician.
Step 7: Get a decision and receive your PR card
IRCC reviews your application, and if approved, you will become a permanent resident. After arriving in Canada, your PR card will be mailed to your Canadian address as proof of status.
Applying for a Canada Permanent Resident (PR) Visa involves paying government processing fees and the Right of Permanent Residence Fee (RPRF). The total cost depends on the immigration program and the number of applicants included.
Below is an estimated breakdown of the costs for different applicant categories:
Applicant Type | Estimated Total Cost (CAD) | What It Covers |
Single Applicant | CAD 2,300 – 3,500 | IRCC application fee (CAD 1,365), biometrics, IELTS (~CAD 300), ECA (~CAD 200–300), medical exam (~CAD 100–200), police certificate (~CAD 50). |
Couple (No Kids) | CAD 4,500 – 6,000 | Application fees for 2 adults (CAD 2,730), biometrics, IELTS/tests, ECAs, medicals, police certificates. |
Couple + 1 Child | CAD 5,500 – 7,000 | Application fees for 2 adults + 1 child (CAD 2,960), biometrics, IELTS/tests, ECAs, medicals, police certificates. |
The table below has an overview of the program, applicant types and the fee structure:
Program | Applicants | New fees (April 2024 – March 2026) |
Right of Permanent Residence Fee | Principal applicant and accompanying spouse or common-law partner | $575 |
Protected persons | Principal applicant | $635 |
Protected persons | Accompanying spouse or common-law partner | $635 |
Protected persons | Accompanying dependent child | $175 |
Permit holders | Principal applicant | $375 |
Live-in Caregiver Program and caregivers pilots (Home Child Provider Pilot and Home Support Worker Pilot) | Principal applicant | $635 |
Live-in Caregiver Program and caregivers pilots (Home Child Provider Pilot and Home Support Worker Pilot) | Accompanying spouse or common-law partner | $635 |
Live-in Caregiver Program and caregivers pilots (Home Child Provider Pilot and Home Support Worker Pilot) | Accompanying dependent child | $175 |
Humanitarian and compassionate consideration / Public policy | Principal applicant | $635 |
Humanitarian and compassionate consideration / Public policy | Accompanying spouse or common-law partner | $635 |
Humanitarian and compassionate consideration / Public policy | Accompanying dependent child | $175 |
Federal Skilled Workers, Provincial Nominee Program, Quebec Skilled Workers, Atlantic Immigration Class and most economic pilots (Rural, Agri-Food) | Principal applicant | $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 | $950 |
Federal Skilled Workers, Provincial Nominee Program, Quebec Skilled Workers, Atlantic Immigration Class and most economic pilots (Rural, Agri-Food) | Accompanying dependent child | $260 |
Family reunification (spouses, partners and children; parents and grandparents; and other relatives) | Sponsorship fee | $85 |
Family reunification (spouses, partners and children; parents and grandparents; and other relatives) | Sponsored principal applicant | $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) | $85 |
Family reunification (spouses, partners and children; parents and grandparents; and other relatives) | Accompanying spouse or common-law partner | $635 |
Family reunification (spouses, partners and children; parents and grandparents; and other relatives) | Accompanying dependent child | $175 |
Business (federal and Quebec) | Principal applicant | $1,810 |
Business (federal and Quebec) | Accompanying spouse or common-law partner | $950 |
Business (federal and Quebec) | Accompanying dependent child | $260 |
The time it takes to process a Canada Permanent Resident (PR) application depends on the program and the number of applications in the system. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) sets service standards for most programs, but actual timelines may vary depending on completeness of the application, background checks, and country of residence.
Application Type | Average Processing Time |
Express Entry (Federal Skilled Worker, CEC, Federal Skilled Trades, some PNPs) | ~6 months |
Provincial Nominee Program (non-Express Entry) | 12–18 months |
Family Sponsorship – Spouse/Partner | ~12 months |
Family Sponsorship – Parents & Grandparents | 24–36 months |
Caregiver Programs (Home Child Care Provider / Home Support Worker) | ~12 months (work permit + PR eligibility assessment) |
PR Card (new, renewal, replacement) | ~2 months |
Note: Processing times are averages published by IRCC and may vary depending on the number of applications received, completeness of documents, and individual circumstances.
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:
Here are the organizations you can get an ECA from:
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.
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 |
Becoming a Canadian permanent resident gives you a wide range of rights and advantages. According to IRCC, permanent residents enjoy many of the same benefits as Canadian citizens, with the exception of voting and holding a Canadian passport. Key benefits include:
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 | Proof of funds |
1 | $15,263 |
2 | $19,001 |
3 | $23,360 |
4 | $28,362 |
5 | $32,168 |
6 | $36,280 |
7 | $40,392 |
If more than 7 people, for each additional family member | $4,112 |
Canadian Permanent Residency (PR) and Citizenship both allow you to live in Canada, but they come with different rights, obligations, and long-term benefits. Understanding the distinction between Canada PR vs Citizenship is essential for immigrants deciding whether to remain as a permanent resident or take the next step towards becoming a Canadian citizen. PR status gives you the ability to live, work, and study in Canada with access to most social benefits, while citizenship provides additional rights such as voting, running for office, and holding a Canadian passport.
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 |
A Canada PR card is the official proof of your permanent resident status and is typically valid for five years. You need a valid PR card to re-enter Canada when travelling by commercial transport such as an airplane, bus, train, or boat.
To renew your PR card, you must:
If you are outside Canada and your PR card has expired, you cannot renew it from abroad. Instead, you must apply for a Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD) to return to Canada.
Maintaining your PR card ensures you can travel in and out of Canada smoothly while continuing to enjoy your rights as a permanent resident.
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 |
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 |
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:
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Canada does not grant permanent residency based on years of residence alone. However, most individuals become eligible for PR through immigration programs like Express Entry or Provincial Nominee Programs. If you are residing in Canada on a temporary visa (such as a work or study permit), you can apply for PR once you meet specific eligibility criteria. On average, it may take 1–3 years to gain PR status through these routes.
The processing time for Canada PR varies depending on the program. Express Entry applications are typically processed within 6 months after receiving the Invitation to Apply (ITA), whereas Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) may take 12 to 18 months. Delays can occur based on documentation, background checks, and country of residence.
The minimum IELTS bands required to apply for Canada PR depend on your chosen pathway. A detailed description is given in the list below:
There is no strict age limit for applying for Canadian PR. However, the age factor in the CRS system favors applicants between 18 and 35 years. Those older than 35 receive fewer points, though other factors like work experience and language proficiency can still make you eligible.
Yes, UK residents are eligible to apply for Canada PR through multiple pathways such as Express Entry, PNPs, family sponsorship, or through a Canadian employer. You must meet eligibility requirements including education, language proficiency, and work experience.
Step 1: Identify the most suitable immigration program for you (e.g., Express Entry, PNP, AIP, Family Sponsorship, Caregiver, Start-Up Visa).
Step 2: Check your eligibility based on factors like age, work experience, education, and language ability.
Step 3: Take an approved language test (e.g., IELTS, CELPIP, TEF) and get your educational credentials assessed (ECA).
Step 4: Create an online profile or apply to a provincial program, depending on your chosen pathway.
Step 5: Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) or provincial nomination, if required.
Step 6: Submit your complete permanent residency application with all required documents and fees.
Step 7: Complete medical exams, provide police clearance certificates, and submit biometrics.
Step 8: Wait for a decision from IRCC and receive your Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) if approved.
If you are an overseas skilled worker, you must opt for the FSW – Federal Skilled Worker stream to apply for Canada PR. You must score at least 67 points for the FSW stream. This is based on your French/English language proficiency, work experience, education, and age for creating a profile. You will enter the pool of candidates in the Express Entry system if selected.
You need a minimum of IELTS 6.0 in each band (Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking) for most PR programs under Express Entry. This meets CLB 7. Some occupations may require higher proficiency, especially in regulated professions.
To get a PR visa, you must determine your eligibility under a suitable immigration program, take language tests (IELTS or CELPIP), get your credentials assessed (ECA), and create an Express Entry profile. Once invited, you submit a complete PR application with biometrics and police clearance.
No, a citizen of Canada cannot sponsor an individual who is not a member of the family. This is if the individual is not a relative or member of the family class.
Canada PR visa is valid for five years
PR visa holders should be aware of the expiration date of their PR visa.
They will have to submit their renewal application six months before their PR visa expires.
Generally, to migrate overseas to Canada from India, you will be required to get an “ECA for immigration purposes”.
Your ECA Report, as well as the reference number for the same, will have to be included in your IRCC Express Entry profile.
Yes, you can still obtain an ECA. However, you'll need to provide alternative documentation, such as transcripts or a letter from your institution detailing your coursework and research. It's best to contact the ECA organization directly to confirm acceptable documents.
In most cases, WES requires only your highest completed degree for assessment. However, if your Master's program is dependent on your Bachelor's degree, WES may request both. It's recommended to review WES's document requirements or contact them directly for clarification.
Documents should be sent directly from your academic institution to WES in a sealed envelope. Alternatively, if your institution has an agreement with WES, they can send documents electronically. Ensure all documents are accompanied by a completed Academic Records Request Form.
If your institution hasn't received WES's verification email, you can:
You will have to log in to your WES account and order an additional copy — for either Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada [IRCC] or any of the programs that come under the Provincial Nominee Program [PNP].
About 35 business days.
That is, after WES has received, reviewed, accepted all documents, along with having received the payment in full.
The cost for applying through Express Entry includes:
Note: Additional costs may include language tests, ECA fees, medical exams, and police certificates.
Application fees for PNPs vary by province. For example:
Note: Some provinces, like Alberta and Nova Scotia, do not charge application fees. These fees are in addition to the federal processing fees.
By ‘misrepresentation’ is implied a false statement of fact – either deliberately or unknowingly – made by an individual that might affect the decision of the other. According to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), misrepresentation will be considered a serious crime and involves lying, or sending “false information or documents” to the federal government of Canada.
IRCC takes serious action on lying to an IRCC officer regarding the visa information provided. Because of misrepresentation, it might
The in-demand occupations in Canada are given below.
Occupation | Annual Salary (in CAD) |
IT | $91,721 |
Marketing & Sales | $81,079 |
Engineering | $115,524 |
Hospitality | $59,533 |
Healthcare | $122,008 |
Accounting & Finance | $63,321 |
Human Resources | $65,839 |
STEM | $89,266 |
Nursing | $72,735 |
Teaching | $45,007 |
The primary differences between Canada PR and Canada citizenship are given below.
Features | Canadian PR | Canadian Citizen | |
Voting Rights | Canadian PRs do not have voting rights in Canadian elections. | Canadian citizens have the right to vote in Canadian elections. | |
Working Rights | Canadian PRs can apply for jobs in various sectors, except specific jobs that require security clearance. | Canadian citizens have total rights to work in Canada. | |
Passport of Canada | Canada PR holders are not eligible to apply for a Canadian passport. | Canadian citizens are eligible to apply for a passport in Canada. | |
Freedom to travel | Canadian PRs can travel to any country and their home country for a particular amount of time. | Canadian citizens can travel visa-free to multiple countries. | |
Passing status to children born outside Canada | Canada PRs cannot pass the PR status to their children. They must apply for Canada PR separately. | Canadian citizens can pass their citizenship to children born outside Canada. |
The "best" pathway depends on your profile. Express Entry suits skilled workers with strong language, education, and work credentials. For those with specific provincial ties or job offers, PNP streams offer targeted routes, even without the highest CRS scores. Family sponsorship is ideal for those with Canadian relatives, while AIP or caregiver programs support job-specific cases. Evaluate your qualifications and goals to choose a suitable option.
Yes, you may be eligible through Express Entry (without a job offer) if you meet the points threshold, or via PNP streams that prioritize education, language skills, or provincial ties. Express Entry‑aligned PNPs can also bolster your chances without a job offer. However, pathways like Family Sponsorship or Atlantic Immigration typically require employer support or provincial selection.
To become a permanent resident of Canada, you typically need to meet the following requirements:
Here’s a general checklist of documents commonly required for a Canada PR application:
Canada offers multiple immigration pathways tailored to different applicant profiles. The most recognized and effective programs include:
Below are the primary immigration programs through which individuals can apply for Canadian PR:
Yes, Y-Axis can assist you with professional guidance for Canadian permanent residency. Our team includes experienced consultants who are well-versed in all major Canadian immigration programs, including Express Entry, PNPs, and family sponsorship. While the Government of Canada requires all paid representatives to be authorized by the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants (CICC), Y-Axis ensures that your case is handled ethically and transparently. We provide end-to-end support—from profile assessment to application filing—while maintaining high standards of service and compliance.
Step 1: Make sure you’ve lived in Canada for at least 730 days in the past five years to meet the residency requirement.
Step 2: Gather all the documents you’ll need—your valid passport, your current or expired PR card, and proof that you’ve been living in Canada.
Step 3: Fill out the PR card renewal application form (IMM 5444) available on the IRCC website.
Step 4: Pay the renewal fee of CAD $50 online and keep the receipt handy—it will be part of your application.
Step 5: Submit your application either online through the PR Card Portal or by mail, depending on your preference.
Step 6: Wait for your application to be processed—this usually takes about 60 days, but it can be faster if you qualify for urgent processing.
Step 7: Once approved, your new PR card will be mailed to you, or you may be asked to pick it up at a local IRCC office.
To apply for Canadian citizenship, you must have lived in Canada for at least 1,095 days (3 full years) within the five years before submitting your application. These days do not have to be continuous. You may also count some time spent in Canada as a temporary resident or protected person (each day counts as half, up to a maximum of 365 days). In addition to meeting the physical presence requirement, you must be a permanent resident, have filed taxes for at least 3 years, and meet language and knowledge requirements.
Step 1: Determine which immigration program you qualify for (e.g., Express Entry, PNP, AIP).
Step 2: Complete the eligibility requirements, such as language tests and Educational Credential Assessment (ECA).
Step 3: Create an online profile or submit an application based on the program's process.
Step 4: Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) or provincial nomination, if applicable.
Step 5: Submit your complete PR application with supporting documents and fees.
Step 6: Provide biometrics and complete a medical exam and police clearance.
Step 7: Wait for IRCC to process your application and issue your Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR).
Step 8: Land in Canada or confirm your status to officially become a permanent resident.
If you need help with your permanent resident (PR) application, there are several trusted sources. You can visit the official IRCC website for detailed application guides, document checklists, and processing tools. For personalized support, consider consulting a licensed immigration representative, such as a lawyer or a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC), authorized by the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants (CICC). If you prefer end-to-end guidance, Y-Axis offers expert assistance, from profile assessment and documentation to final submission, ensuring compliance with all IRCC requirements while making the process easier and stress-free.