Permanent Residence In Canada: An Expats Guide

Permanent Residence In Canada

Ready to settle in Canada? Embarking on the path to permanent residence in Canada is like setting out on a journey through a vast and varied landscape, filled with opportunities and dreams. Worry not! We’ve got your back!

The process might seem as complex as the country’s diverse cultures, but navigating it can be a rewarding experience. This guide is your compass, providing clear directions and essential tips to help you smoothly transition from a hopeful applicant to a proud Canadian permanent resident.

Let’s dive in!

What Is A Canadian Permanent Residence Permit?

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A Canadian Permanent Residence Permit (PR card) is a valid travel document granting rights and freedoms to Canadian citizens, requiring eligibility for immigration programs.

  • Express Entry
  • Provincial Nominee Program
  • Family Class Sponsorship
  • Atlantic Immigration Pilot
  • Start-Up Visa

Once you have been approved for permanent residence, you will receive a PR card. Your PR card is valid for five years; you must renew it before it expires.

Here are some of the benefits of having a Canadian PR card:

  • You can live and work in Canada permanently.
  • You can study in Canada without paying international student fees.
  • You can access Canadian healthcare and social services.
  • You can sponsor your family members to immigrate to Canada.
  • You can apply for Canadian citizenship after three years of permanent residence.

If you want to immigrate to Canada, you can learn more about the different immigration programs and eligibility requirements on the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website.

Temporary VS Permanent Residence Permit Canada

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Temporary Resident Permit (TRP)

A Temporary Resident Permit (TRP) is a document that allows a person who is inadmissible to Canada to enter and stay in the country for a temporary period. TRPs are typically issued for one year but can be renewed for extended periods.

TRPs are issued for a variety of reasons, including:

  • To allow a person to enter Canada to visit family or friends
  • To allow a person to enter Canada to work or study
  • To allow a person to enter Canada to seek medical treatment
  • To allow a person to enter Canada to participate in a cultural or sporting event

Permanent Resident Permit (PR Card)

A Permanent Resident Permit (PR Card) verifies a person’s Canadian citizenship status, allowing them to live, work, and sponsor immigrants, with the option to apply for citizenship after three years.

What Are The Differences Between TRPs And PR Cards?

A TRP is a temporary document, allowing temporary stay in Canada, while a PR card is a permanent document, granting eligibility for most Canadian government benefits.

How To Apply For A TRP Or PR Card?

To apply for a TRP or PR card, you must contact Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). IRCC has a variety of immigration programs and pathways you can apply for.

The specific application process for a TRP or PR card will vary depending on the immigration program that you are applying for. However, in general, you will need to submit the following documents:

  • A completed application form
  • A passport or other travel document
  • Proof of your identity and address
  • Proof of your financial support
  • Medical examination results
  • Police clearance certificates

The choice between a TRP (temporary residence permit) or PR card (permanent residency and work permit) depends on individual circumstances, and consultation with an immigration lawyer is recommended.

What Are The Benefits Of A Permanent Residence Permit In Canada?

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A permanent residence permit in Canada (PR card) offers many benefits, including:

✅The ability to live and work anywhere in Canada without restrictions.

✅Access to universal healthcare and social services, such as education, healthcare, and social security programs.

✅The ability to sponsor family members to immigrate to Canada.

✅Protection under Canadian law and the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms.

✅The ability to apply for Canadian citizenship after three years of permanent residence.

In addition to these general benefits, PR holders are also eligible for a variety of other benefits and programs, such as:

✅Student loans and bursaries.

✅Government grants and tax credits.

✅Employment training programs.

✅Language training programs.

✅Settlement services.

A permanent residence permit in Canada offers many benefits and opportunities for individuals and families. It is a pathway to a better life in Canada, which many people aspire to achieve.

Can You Travel With Your Canadian Permanent Residence Permit?

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You can travel with your Canadian permanent residence permit (PR card). You must show your PR card or permanent resident travel document (PRTD) when boarding a flight to Canada or traveling to Canada on any other commercial carrier.

If you do not have your PR card or PRTD, you may be unable to board your flight, train, bus, or boat to Canada. You are responsible for ensuring your PR card is still valid when you return from travel outside Canada.

Can Canadian Permanent Residence Expire?


No, Canadian permanent residence cannot expire. Your permanent resident status is permanent as long as you meet the residency requirements. 

However, your permanent resident card (PR card) does expire every five years and must be renewed before it expires.

Even if your PR card expires, you still have your permanent resident status, but you will need a valid PR card to enter and leave Canada.

You can only renew your PR card in Canada. If you are outside Canada and your PR card expires, you must apply for a permanent resident travel document (PRTD) to return to Canada.

Therefore, keeping track of your PR card expiration date and renewing it on time is crucial.

How To Maintain Canadian Permanent Residence?

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To maintain Canadian permanent residence, you must meet the following residency requirements:

  • Be physically present in Canada for at least 730 days during the last five years.
  • 730 days of non-concurrent residency in Canada can be counted, with some time abroad. Track time, apply for PR, and check eligibility with IRCC. Some exceptions exist.

Here are some tips for maintaining your Canadian permanent residence:

  • Keep a travel journal to track your time in Canada.
  • Ask a Canadian border officer how long you can leave Canada without losing your permanent resident status.
  • Apply for or renew your PR card on time.
  • Make sure you are eligible for one of the exceptions to the residency requirement if you need to be out of Canada for more than the required amount of time.

If you have any questions about maintaining your Canadian permanent residence, contact Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

How Long Does It Take To Get Permanent Residency In Canada?

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The processing time for permanent residency applications in Canada varies depending on the immigration program that you are applying for and your circumstances. 

However, the processing time can take anywhere from 6 months to 2 years.

Here is a breakdown of the processing times for some of the most popular immigration programs:

  • Express Entry: 6-12 months
  • Provincial Nominee Program (PNP): 6-18 months
  • Family Class Sponsorship: 12-24 months
  • Atlantic Immigration Pilot: 6-12 months
  • Start-Up Visa: 6-12 months

It is important to note that these are just estimates, and the actual processing time for your application may be longer or shorter depending on the factors mentioned above.

You can check the current processing times for different immigration programs on the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website.

Here are some tips for reducing the processing time for your permanent residency application:

  • Make sure your application is complete and accurate.
  • Submit all of the required documents.
  • Pay the application fee on time.
  • Respond to any requests from IRCC promptly.

If you have any questions about the processing time for your permanent residency application, you should contact IRCC.

Who Can Get A Permanent Residence Permit In Canada With Reduced Waiting Time?

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There are a few categories of people who can get a permanent residence permit in Canada with reduced waiting times:

  • Express Entry Candidates With High Scores: Express Entry is the most popular immigration program in Canada and one of the fastest. Candidates with high scores are typically processed and approved within 6-12 months.
  • Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) Candidates: PNP programs are offered by each province and territory in Canada, and they allow provinces and territories to nominate skilled workers and other immigrants who meet their specific needs.
  • PNP Candidates: PNP candidates typically have shorter processing times than Express Entry candidates, and some PNP programs even offer same-day processing.
  • Atlantic Immigration Pilot (AIP) Candidates: The AIP is a pilot program designed to attract and retain skilled workers and entrepreneurs in the Atlantic region of Canada. AIP candidates typically have processing times of 6-12 months.
  • Family Members Of Canadian Citizens And Permanent Residents: Family members of Canadian citizens and permanent residents can sponsor their loved ones to immigrate to Canada through the Family Class Sponsorship program.
  • Family Class Sponsorship candidates typically have shorter processing times than other immigration programs, and some family members, such as spouses and dependent children, are eligible for expedited processing.

If you want to immigrate to Canada, contact Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to learn more about your options and eligibility requirements.

EU Blue Card Holders

EU Blue Card holders are skilled workers with special residence permits in EU member states, allowing easier family reunification and citizenship access, and eligible for Canadian permanent residence.

To be eligible for the GTS, EU Blue Card holders must meet the following requirements:

  • Have a valid EU Blue Card
  • Have a job offer from a designated employer in Canada
  • Meet the minimum salary requirement for the GTS (currently CAD 86,872 per year)
  • Meet all other Express Entry eligibility requirements

If you are an EU Blue Card holder interested in immigrating to Canada under the GTS, you can create an Express Entry profile and submit an application. 

Your application will be processed and assessed using the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). If your score is high enough, you can apply for permanent residence.

The processing time for GTS applications is typically 6-12 months. Once your application is approved, you and your family will be issued permanent resident visas.

Here are some of the benefits of immigrating to Canada as an EU Blue Card holder:

✅Fast-track processing for permanent residence

✅Ability to live and work anywhere in Canada

✅Access to universal healthcare and social services

✅Protection under Canadian law and the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms

✅Ability to sponsor family members to immigrate to Canada

✅Ability to apply for Canadian citizenship after three years of permanent residence

Suppose you are an EU Blue Card holder and you are interested in immigrating to Canada. 

You should visit the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website to learn more about the GTS and other immigration programs.

Graduates Of Canadian Universities Or Vocational Training

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  • Canadian University or vocational training graduates can apply for various immigration programs, including Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), Atlantic Immigration Pilot (AIP), and Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP).
  • Express Entry is a points-based system that selects the most qualified candidates from a pool of skilled workers, international students, and Canadian work experience class applicants.
  • PNP allows provinces and territories to nominate skilled workers and immigrants, with many streams targeted at international student graduates.
  • The AIP is a pilot program designed to attract and retain skilled workers and entrepreneurs in the Atlantic region of Canada. International student graduates can obtain a permanent resident visa in as little as 6 months.
  • PGWP allows international students to work in Canada for up to 3 years after graduation, gaining Canadian work experience and improving their chances of permanent residence.
  • To Boost Canadian Immigration chances, graduates should meet eligibility requirements.

Highly-Qualified Professionals

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Canada is an excellent country for highly qualified professionals to immigrate to. The country has a strong economy and a high demand for skilled workers in various industries.

There are a number of immigration programs available to highly qualified professionals, including Express Entry, the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), and the Atlantic Immigration Pilot (AIP).

These programs offer reduced processing times and lower eligibility requirements for highly-qualified professionals.

Suppose you are a highly qualified professional interested in immigrating to Canada. You should contact Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to learn more about your options and eligibility requirements.

Self-Employed People

Self-employed people can immigrate to Canada under the Self-Employed Persons Program (SEPP). To be eligible, you must have two years of relevant experience and meet the minimum score on the SEPP selection grid. You can start or buy a business in Canada and contribute to the economy.

Family Members Of A Canadian Citizen

Family members of a Canadian citizen can immigrate to Canada under the Family Class Sponsorship program. Eligible family members include spouses, common-law partners, dependent children, parents, and grandparents.

The sponsor must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident and be able to support their family members financially.

Requirements For A Permanent Residence Permit In Canada

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The requirements for a permanent residence permit in Canada vary depending on the immigration program being applied for. 

General requirements include being admissible to Canada, meeting minimum language requirements, and meeting financial requirements.

  • Widespread Immigration: Programs include Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), Family Class Sponsorship, and Atlantic Immigration Pilot (AIP).
  • Express Entry: It requires being under 45, having a valid IELTS or CELPIP score, a skilled work offer from a Canadian employer, at least one year of skilled work experience in the past 10 years, and a valid educational credential.
  • Provincial Nominee Program (PNP): It may vary depending on the province or territory, while Family Class Sponsorship requires a Canadian citizen or permanent resident sponsor to support family members financially.
  • Atlantic Immigration Pilot (AIP): requires a job offer from a designated employer in the Atlantic region, minimum language, education, and work experience.
  • Application: For a permanent residence permit, applicants should meet all eligibility requirements, prepare a complete application package, pay the application fee on time, and respond to IRCC requests promptly.

Requirements For A Permanent Residence Permit For Family Members Of Foreign Nationals In Canada

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The requirements for a permanent residence permit for family members of foreign nationals in Canada vary depending on the immigration program under which the family member is applying.

 However, there are some general requirements that all applicants must meet, including:

  • The family member must be a spouse, common-law partner, dependent child, parent, or grandparent of a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
  • The sponsor must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident and be able to support the family member financially.
  • The family member must be admitted to Canada. This means that they must not have a criminal record, be a threat to national security, and not be a health risk.
  • The family member must meet the specific eligibility requirements for the immigration program that they are applying under.

Here are some of the most popular immigration programs for family members of foreign nationals in Canada and their specific eligibility requirements:

Family Class Sponsorship:

  • The sponsor must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident
  • The sponsor must be able to support the family member financially
  • The family members must be admissible to Canada

Spousal Or Common-Law Partnership Sponsorship:

  • The sponsor and the spouse or common-law partner must have a genuine relationship.
  • The sponsor and the spouse or common-law partner must have met in person at least once.

Dependent Child Sponsorship:

  • The child must be under the age of 19.
  • The child must be unmarried.
  • The child must be dependent on the sponsor financially.

Parent and Grandparent Sponsorship:

  • The sponsor must have a minimum annual income.
  • The sponsor must sign a sponsorship agreement that commits them to providing financial support for the parent or grandparent for 20 years.

Suppose you are a family member of a foreign national in Canada and are interested in immigrating to Canada. 

You should visit the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website to learn more about your options and eligibility requirements.

Here are some additional tips for applying for a permanent residence permit for family members of foreign nationals in Canada:

  • Make sure you meet all of the eligibility requirements for the immigration program that you are applying under.
  • Prepare a complete and accurate application package.
  • Pay the application fee on time.
  • Respond to any requests from IRCC promptly.

You may also consider hiring an immigration lawyer or consultant to help you with your application. They can provide you with guidance and support throughout the process.

What Is The Application Process For A Permanent Residence Permit In Canada?

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The application process for a permanent residence permit in Canada varies depending on the immigration program that you are applying under. However, there are some general steps that you will need to follow:

  1. Choose The Right Immigration Program: There are a number of different immigration programs available to people who want to immigrate to Canada. You will need to choose the program that is right for your situation and meet the eligibility requirements.
  2. Gather The Required Documents: Once you have chosen an immigration program, you must gather the required documents. This may include your passport, educational credentials, and work experience documentation.
  3. Submit Your Application: Once you have gathered all the required documents, you can submit your application online or by mail.
  4. Pay The Application Fee: A fee for applying for a permanent residence permit in Canada. The amount of the fee varies depending on the immigration program that you are applying under.
  5. Wait For A Decision: Once you have submitted your application, it will be processed by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). The processing time can vary depending on the immigration program and the number of applications IRCC receives.
  6. Attend An Interview: If your application is approved, you may be invited to attend an interview with an IRCC officer. This interview allows the officer to learn more about you and your application.
  7. Complete A Medical Exam: If you pass the interview, you will need to complete a medical exam. This exam is to ensure that you are in good health and that you do not have any medical conditions that would prevent you from immigrating to Canada.
  8. Receive Your Permanent Residence Visa: Once you have passed the medical exam, you will receive your permanent residence visa. This visa will allow you to travel to Canada and become a permanent resident.

Here are some additional tips for applying for a permanent residence permit in Canada:

  • Make sure you meet all of the eligibility requirements for the immigration program that you are applying under.
  • Prepare a complete and accurate application package.
  • Pay the application fee on time.
  • Respond to any requests from IRCC promptly.
  • Be honest and truthful in your application.
  • Be prepared to provide supporting documentation for all of your claims.

You may also consider hiring an immigration lawyer or consultant to help you with your application. They can provide you with guidance and support throughout the process.

Tips For Success:

  • Start planning early: The application process can be complex and time-consuming, so it is essential to start planning early.
  • Be organized: Gather all of the required documents and keep them organized.
  • Be patient: The processing time for permanent residence applications can vary depending on the immigration program and the number of applications IRCC receives.

Costs Of A Permanent Residence Permit In Canada

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The costs of a permanent residence permit in Canada vary depending on the immigration program that you are applying under. However, there are some general costs that all applicants must pay, including:

  • Application Fee: The application fee for a permanent residence permit in Canada is CAD 850.
  • Right Of Permanent Residence Fee: The right of permanent residence fee is CAD 515.
  • Biometrics Fee: The biometrics fee is CAD 85.
  • Medical Exam Fee: The medical exam fee varies depending on the clinic where you have the exam performed. However, it is typically around CAD 300.

In addition to these general costs, you may also have to pay other costs, such as:

  • Translation Fees: If your documents are not in English or French, you must have them translated by a certified translator.
  • An Immigration Lawyer Or Consultant Fees: If you hire an immigration lawyer or consultant to help you with your application, you must pay them.

The total cost of a permanent residence permit in Canada can vary depending on the immigration program you are applying under and any additional costs you may incur. 

However, you can expect to pay at least CAD 1,500.

Here are some tips for reducing the costs of a permanent residence permit in Canada:

  • Apply under an immigration program that has a lower application fee. For example, the application fee for the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) is typically lower than the application fee for Express Entry.
  • Have your documents translated by a certified translator who offers a discount for students or low-income applicants.
  • Shop around for an immigration lawyer or consultant who offers affordable fees.

You may also consider looking for scholarships or bursaries to help you pay for the costs of immigrating to Canada.

Conclusion

As we conclude this guide to obtaining permanent residence in Canada, remember that this journey is more than just paperwork and procedures; it’s about laying the foundation for a new life in a land of promise.

With the insights and strategies detailed here, you’re now equipped to navigate this path with greater clarity and confidence.

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