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.
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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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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.
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 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 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 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.
*Check your eligibility to become a Permanent Resident of Canada with the FREE Y-Axis CRS Points Calculator and get an instant score!
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:
Canada’s caregiver pathway relaunched in March 2025 as the Home Care Worker Immigration Pilots. Caregivers with qualified job offers (NOC 44100 or 44101) can transition directly to PR. Spouses may gain open work permits, and children study permits. CLB 5 language requirement and high school diploma or equivalent apply.
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.
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 |
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:
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 |
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 |
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 |
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.
When your PR card nears expiry, ensure you still meet the 730-day residency requirement and apply for renewal up to six months in advance using IRCC’s online system. If you are abroad and the card has expired, you must apply for a PRTD to return.
| Feature | Permanent Residency | Canadian Citizenship |
| Validity | Renew PR card (5-year validity) | Permanent; no renewal |
| Voting right | No | Yes |
| Travel document | PR card or PRTD required for re-entry | Canadian passport |
| Residency requirement | Must meet 730-day rule every 5 years | Permanent |
| Sponsor family | Yes, once eligible | Yes, broader eligibility support |
The Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada (IRB) handles refugee protection claims but does not directly process economic PR or family sponsorship cases. Economic and caregiver immigration is managed by IRCC under federal and PNP programs.
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.
