What is Canada Permanent Residency (PR)?

Canada PR is a visa status that permits non-citizens to reside in Canada indefinitely.

As a permanent resident, you enjoy many of the same rights and benefits as Canadian citizens, including access to essential public services such as healthcare, education, and social benefits.

However, certain privileges, like voting in federal elections and running for public office, remain exclusive to citizens.

Benefits of Canada Permanent Residency

Canada PR holders are entitled to a range of benefits, including:

1. Indefinite Residence: PR holders can live in Canada indefinitely and travel in and out of the country, provided they meet residency requirements.
2. Work and Study Opportunities: There are no restrictions on employment, allowing you to work in any industry and study at Canadian educational institutions without limitations.
3. Access to Healthcare: PR holders can enroll in the Canadian public healthcare system, ensuring access to necessary medical services.
4. Family Sponsorship: You can sponsor eligible family members for permanent residency, facilitating family reunification in Canada.
5. Pathway to Citizenship: After fulfilling specific residency criteria, PR holders can apply for Canadian citizenship, which grants additional rights and responsibilities.
6. Education Benefits: Enjoy access to subsidized education for your children, allowing them to thrive in a supportive educational environment.

Why Consider Applying for Canadian Permanent Residency?

• Consistently Ranked High for Quality of Life: Canada is often celebrated for its high standard of living, vibrant multicultural cities, and inclusive communities.
• Growing Demand for Skilled Workers: With a strong economy, Canada is actively seeking skilled professionals to fill gaps in various sectors, creating ample job opportunities.
• Universal Healthcare: Permanent residents benefit from Canada’s universal healthcare system, ensuring you and your family have access to comprehensive medical care.
• Robust Education System: Canada offers a world-class education system, including free public schooling for children, preparing them for a successful future.
• Supportive Immigration Policies: Canada's immigration policies are designed to welcome newcomers, making it easier to adapt and thrive in your new home.

Types of PR Visas in Canada

Canada offers various immigration programs to accommodate different applicant profiles:

1. Express Entry System:

This is the primary pathway for skilled workers, consisting of three main programs:

• Federal Skilled Worker Program: The Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) is part of Canada’s Express Entry system, aimed at skilled workers seeking permanent residency. To qualify, applicants must meet minimum requirements in skilled work experience (in TEER categories 0, 1, 2, or 3), language proficiency (in English or French), and education (Canadian or equivalent). Additional selection factors include age, work experience, job offers, language ability, and adaptability, with a minimum score of 67 points. Proof of funds and admissibility are also required, though applicants cannot plan to live in Quebec.
• Federal Skilled Trades Program: The Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) is an immigration route under Canada’s Express Entry system for skilled trade workers seeking permanent residency. Eligibility requires at least two years of recent full-time work experience in a specified skilled trade, a valid job offer or Canadian certificate of qualification, and meeting minimum language requirements. Education is not mandatory, but applicants can gain extra points for it. Proof of settlement funds is required unless already working in Canada with a job offer. Applicants cannot plan to live in Quebec.
• Canadian Experience Class: The Canadian Experience Class (CEC) is a pathway for skilled workers with Canadian work experience to become permanent residents. Eligibility requires at least one year of paid, skilled work in Canada within the last three years, meeting language proficiency, and intending to live outside Quebec. Education is not required, though it can boost ranking in the Express Entry pool. Certain restrictions apply to self-employed work and student work experience, and applicants must be admissible to Canada.

2. Provincial Nominee Program (PNP):

The Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) allows Canadian provinces and territories to nominate individuals who meet local economic and labour needs for permanent residency. Applicants must have skills, education, and work experience suited to the nominating region.

You can apply through the Express Entry system, which provides faster processing, or directly through provincial streams. Each province and territory has its own specific programs and criteria for nomination. Quebec and Nunavut do not participate in the PNP.

3. Family Sponsorship:

The Family Sponsorship program allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor certain family members to become permanent residents. Eligible family members include spouses, common-law partners, dependent children, parents, grandparents, and in specific cases, other relatives.

Sponsored family members can live, work, and study in Canada once they obtain PR. Sponsors must meet financial requirements and agree to support their family member(s) financially for a specific period.

4. Start-up Visa Program:

The Start-up Visa Program in Canada supports immigrant entrepreneurs who want to build innovative businesses that can compete globally and create Canadian jobs.

Applicants need support from a designated organisation, meet language requirements, and have funds to settle. Those awaiting PR can apply for a temporary work permit if their business offers significant economic benefits to Canada. Designated organisations develop their own processes for supporting entrepreneurs.

Eligibility Criteria for Canadian PR

To be eligible for Canada PR, you typically need to meet the following requirements:

• Age: While there is no strict age limit, applicants between 18 and 35 years generally receive higher points in the Express Entry system.
• Language Proficiency: You must demonstrate proficiency in English and/or French through standardised tests (e.g., IELTS, CELPIP).
• Education: Your educational qualifications must be assessed and meet Canadian standards.
• Work Experience: Relevant work experience in a skilled occupation is usually required.
• Health and Character: Applicants must pass health exams and provide police clearance certificates.

How to Apply for Canada PR from India

To apply for Canadian Permanent Residency (PR) from India, follow these key steps:

1.  Language Proficiency Testing: Take approved tests like IELTS for English or a French test, ensuring you meet the required scores.
2. Choose an Immigration Program: Pick a suitable program based on your skills, such as the Federal Skilled Worker Program or Canadian Experience Class, and submit your application via the Express Entry system.
3. Prepare Documentation: Gather all authentic documents, including work experience and educational credentials. If your education is from outside Canada, you may need an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA).
4. Proof of Funds and Clearances: Show proof of sufficient funds to support your settlement and complete the required medical exams and police clearance certificate.
5. Application Review and Approval: An immigration officer will assess your application and may request additional information. If approved, you'll receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR).
6. Apply for PR Card and Move: After receiving your COPR, apply for your PR card, which allows re-entry to Canada, and finalise your move.

The Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS)

For those applying under the Express Entry system, the CRS is used to assess and score applicants. Points are awarded based on:

• Age: Higher points for younger applicants between 18-35.
• Language Proficiency: Strong scores in language tests lead to more points.
• Work Experience: Points based on relevant skilled work experience.
• Education: Higher education levels earn more points.
• Additional Factors: Points can also be gained for Canadian work experience, a job offer, or a provincial nomination.

To be eligible for PR, you must score at least 67 points on the eligibility criteria and have a competitive CRS score to receive an invitation.

How Cross Border Education Can Assist You

Navigating the Canadian PR process can be challenging, but you don't have to do it alone. Our consultancy offers comprehensive support throughout your journey:

• Eligibility Assessment: We evaluate your profile to identify the best immigration pathway.
• Expert Guidance: Our team helps you understand the CRS, improve your score, and navigate the application process.
• Document Preparation: We ensure all your documentation is complete and accurate to minimise delays.
• Ongoing Support: At Cross Border Education, we aim to assist you throughout the daunting tasks of applications, documentation, and visa lodgements until you land in

Canada. You need not be anxious about any of the processes while you are with us. 
With our expert assistance, you can focus on preparing for your new life in Canada while we handle the complexities of your application.

Life After You Move to Canada

Receiving your PR visa is the start of a truly exciting new chapter in your life. We understand that whether you arrived through skilled migration, family sponsorship, or business investment, this journey comes with many emotions and hopes for the future.

Canada is ready to welcome you with open arms, offering a wealth of opportunities. Embrace the vibrant lifestyle that awaits you, secure a bright future for your family, and explore the journey towards citizenship.

We are here to support you as you take your first steps into this wonderful new beginning!