Canada PR

Canada welcomes more immigrants than any other country, and the Canada PR immigration policy has become even more favorable in recent years. 

If you’re looking to relocate to Canada, you can choose between one of three categories of Canadian immigration: Express Entry, Skilled Worker, and Family Sponsorship. 

The Canada PR process can seem overwhelming if you’re new to it, but with the right advice, you can be well on your way to receiving your permanent resident status in no time.

Applying for Canada PR (permanent residence) will give you a chance to live in the country and give you and your family access to Canada’s world-class education system, health care services, and job opportunities, including many positions with the federal government.

This article will explain the essential requirements and processes associated with each category of Canadian immigration, so you’ll know how to apply for Canada PR (permanent residence) and make your move to Canada as smooth as possible.

What Is a Canadian Permanent Resident (Canada PR)?

A Canadian Permanent Resident is a non-Canadian citizen that has been granted the right of permanent residence by the Government of Canada. 

To get this right, you must have established significant ties with this country, particularly after living here for more than ten years and not violating local laws. 

If you meet these criteria, there are different ways to become a Canadian Permanent Resident: applying through your employer, applying from within the country, or immigrating from another country.

Eligibility Requirements for Canada PR

To be eligible for a Canada PR card, an applicant must have the following:

1. Must have been physically present in Canada for at least 1,095 days during the five years before submitting their application (if the applicant is applying from within Canada) or three years (if the applicant is applying from outside of Canada); and 

2. Must also meet either one of these conditions:

• Had a status as a temporary resident who applied from within Canada and was approved under subsection 11 (1) of IRPA; or 
• Had applied from outside of Canada and held a permanent resident visa issued by another country in conjunction with Canadian citizenship; and 

3. You must complete the Application for Permanent Residence form on Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada’s website.

The Application Process

If you live in the United States, you must submit your application at a Canadian visa office or a processing center. 

The process is simple, and all the forms are provided by Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC). 

If you plan on living outside the country while your application is processed, it would be best to apply through a visa office. 

Note: Canada does not offer refugee protection visas; however, if it does happen that your application is denied, there are limited avenues for appeal. 

Based on eligibility criteria, Canada offers permanent residence visas in different categories, including Federal Skilled Worker Program, Canadian Experience Class, and others.

What Are the Different Canadian Immigration PR Programs or Visa Categories?

There are a few different immigration categories that an applicant could potentially use depending on their situation. 

The most common types of visas are Temporary Foreign Worker visas and Study Permit visas, but there are other types. 

1. Temporary Work Visas (or Work Visas)

Temporary Work Visas allow someone with no intention of living in Canada long-term or immigrating permanently to live and work there. 

If a person applies under the Temporary Worker category, they can stay in Canada for up to six years, with extensions granted for up to six years.

2. Study Permit Visas

Study Permit visas allow students from outside Canada to study at a Canadian educational institution. 

If a student applies for this type of visa, it will be valid for the duration of their program plus one year following completion. 

Upon graduation, if they wish to continue studying in Canada and have applied before the commencement date, they may apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit, which would allow them to stay in the country after graduation until December 31st of that year or, if not eligible, then until July 1st the following year. 

Note: To obtain this permit, it is necessary to show proof that they were enrolled full-time in an academic institution during either: two semesters before application, one semester before application, or three consecutive months immediately before application.

What documents are required to Apply for Different Canada PR visas?

• IELTS (International English Language Testing System) provides language test results.
• If you use the Federal Skilled Workers Program to apply, you must complete an ECA (Educational Credential Assessment).
• Enough money to back your application. (Money proof)
• Diploma degrees, sponsor certificates, and educational degrees or certificates.
• Original copies and legally certified translations of the supporting documentation are provided.
• Age verification, such as a birth record
• Employment records, including a job offer, a reference letter, and paystubs
• Health Certificate and Police Clearance
• Two recent passport photos; 
• Passport and photocopies of the photo page and all previous entries; 
• One document that proves you have experience with the job that you are applying for or a letter of acceptance from the school or business; 
• If applicable, copies of school transcripts and diplomas/degrees awarded, notarized by an authorized official such as your university registrar.

The Challenges of Canadian PR

The common question is, How long does it take to get a Canadian Permanent resident visa? 

Many factors determine the time required for the process, but generally speaking, it can take anywhere from six months to two years.

The most common challenge applicants face when applying for a Canadian permanent residency is finding a job in Canada faster. 

This may not be as difficult for those with family in Canada or relatives willing to support them financially. 

However, it can be challenging and costly for others because they need an employer to sponsor their application. 

In these cases, they will have to apply under one of the other categories of visas available and hope that they are accepted by Immigration Canada (IC).

Conclusion

If you’re interested in moving to Canada, don’t forget that you’ll need at least one year of Canadian work experience before applying for your Canada PR. 

Along with an open application, ensure you have the correct visa and that your profile is strong by staying in touch with the employer or agency that referred you. 

Once you submit your application, the visa officer will get back to you with a decision. Good luck.