CANADA

Permanent Resident Visa

A Permanent Resident (PR) Visa is an official document issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to foreign nationals through its visa offices overseas. This visa allows individuals to travel to Canada and obtain permanent resident status. Skilled workers are selected based on factors such as education, work experience, language proficiency (English and/or French), and other key qualifications that contribute to their success in Canada.

Since January 1, 2015, the first step to immigrating to Canada as a skilled worker is by completing an Express Entry profile. This system is used for the following immigration programs:

  • Federal Skilled Worker Program

  • Federal Skilled Trades Program

  • Canadian Experience Class

  • A portion of the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)

Under the Express Entry system, the Government of Canada invites candidates to apply for permanent residence based on the information submitted in their Expression of Interest (EOI). Applicants cannot apply directly to any of these programs unless they receive an official Invitation to Apply (ITA) from the government.

Program Requirements

To qualify for a Permanent Resident Visa under the Express Entry system, candidates must meet the following requirements:

  • Skilled Work Experience

  • Language Proficiency (English and/or French)

  • Educational Qualifications

Minimum Eligibility Criteria:
  • A minimum of 67 points on the Selection Factor Grid (out of 100 points).

  • Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) from a designated organization.

  • Minimum Language Requirement: CLB Level 7 (IELTS – 6 bands in each module).

  • Spouse’s Language Proficiency can be considered in place of education (minimum CLB 4).

  • At least one year of full-time work experience in an O, A, or B level skill type within the last 10 years.

  • Proof of Funds based on family size to ensure financial stability.

Canada is one of the top destinations for international students, offering a world-class education system that is recognized globally. With a strong emphasis on academic excellence, research, and innovation, the country provides a diverse, inclusive, and supportive learning environment for students from all backgrounds. Canadian institutions are known for their high-quality education, affordable tuition fees compared to other leading study destinations, and various scholarship programs that help ease financial burdens. Students in Canada also benefit from extensive research opportunities, modern facilities, and a vibrant campus life that fosters both personal and professional growth.

At International Resettlement, we provide free consultation services, helping students choose the right institution and program that align with their academic and career aspirations. Our expert guidance ensures a smooth admission process, making it easier for students to achieve their educational goals in Canada.

A Canadian Visitor Visa is required for individuals who wish to enter Canada temporarily, whether for a family visit or as a tourist to explore the country. Canada offers two types of visitor visas: single-entry and multiple-entry visas, each with different validity periods and conditions.

A single-entry visa allows visitors to stay in Canada for up to six months, while a multiple-entry visa can be valid for up to 10 years or until one month before the passport’s expiry date, whichever comes first. However, these visas do not permit visitors to work, study, or conduct business in Canada during their stay.

At International Resettlement, we provide expert assistance in processing visitor visa applications, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience for those planning to visit Canada.

We help eligible individuals secure job offers from Canadian employers, a crucial step in obtaining a work permit from the relevant government authorities. A Work Visa allows foreign nationals to work in Canada on a temporary basis. There are two main types of work permits available:

The Employer-Specific Work Permit requires an employer to complete specific steps before a worker can apply. This includes providing either a Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) or an offer of employment number, which must be included in the work permit application.

The Open Work Permit, on the other hand, is not tied to a specific employer and does not require an LMIA or proof of a job offer submission through the Employer Portal. This type of permit offers greater flexibility for workers looking to explore different employment opportunities in Canada.

At International Resettlement, we provide professional guidance and support in finding suitable job opportunities in Canada and assisting with the work permit application process, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience.

A Permanent Resident (PR) Visa is an official document issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to foreign nationals, allowing them to travel to Canada and become permanent residents. Skilled workers are selected for permanent residency based on factors such as education, work experience, language proficiency (English and/or French), and other criteria that contribute to their success in Canada.

Since January 1, 2015, the first step in immigrating to Canada as a skilled worker is completing an Express Entry profile. Candidates may qualify under one of the following programs:

  • Federal Skilled Worker Program

  • Federal Skilled Trades Program

  • Canadian Experience Class

  • Certain streams of the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)

Under the Express Entry system, the Canadian government invites eligible candidates to apply for permanent residence based on their Expression of Interest (EOI). Direct applications to these programs are not allowed—only those who receive an official Invitation to Apply (ITA) can proceed.

Program Requirements for PR Eligibility

To qualify for permanent residency, applicants must meet the following minimum criteria:

  • Skilled Work Experience in an eligible occupation

  • Language Proficiency in English or French

  • Educational Credentials assessed by a designated organization

  • A minimum of 67 points on the 100-point selection factor grid

  • A minimum CLB Level 7 (IELTS 6 in each module) for language proficiency

  • If applying with a spouse, spousal language proficiency (CLB 4) can provide additional points

  • At least one year of full-time work experience in a Skill Type 0, A, or B occupation within the last 10 years

  • Proof of funds to support themselves and their family, based on the family size

At International Resettlement, we assist individuals in navigating the Express Entry process, ensuring a smooth and efficient pathway to permanent residency in Canada.

The Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) is a Canadian immigration initiative that allows provinces and territories to nominate individuals who wish to settle in a specific region. Each province and territory manages its own PNP, with unique eligibility criteria designed to address local economic and demographic needs.

Key Features of the Provincial Nominee Program
Provincial Autonomy

Each province and territory sets its own selection criteria for PNP streams, targeting candidates based on skills, work experience, or regional labor market demands.

Diverse Immigration Streams

Most PNPs include multiple pathways tailored to different applicant categories, such as:

  • Skilled and semi-skilled workers

  • Entrepreneurs and business investors

  • International graduates

  • Industry-specific professionals (e.g., technology, healthcare)

Application Process
  1. Expression of Interest (EOI) – Some provinces require candidates to submit an EOI, demonstrating their intent to settle in that province.

  2. Invitation to Apply (ITA) – Selected candidates receive an invitation from the province to apply for nomination.

  3. Provincial Nomination – Approved applicants receive a nomination, allowing them to apply for permanent residence through the federal system.

Types of PNP Streams
  • Enhanced Streams – Aligned with Express Entry, granting candidates additional Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points to improve their chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) from the federal government.

  • Base Streams – Operate independently from Express Entry, requiring applicants to apply directly for provincial nomination and then submit a separate application for permanent residence through IRCC.

Benefits of PNP Immigration
  • Higher chances of obtaining permanent residency through provincial support.

  • Faster processing times for applicants with in-demand skills.

  • Region-specific immigration opportunities, ensuring alignment with local labor market needs.

Examples of Provincial Nominee Programs
  • Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) – Includes streams such as Human Capital Priorities, Employer Job Offer, and Entrepreneur.

  • British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP) – Features categories like Skills Immigration, Express Entry BC, and Entrepreneur Immigration.

  • Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program (AINP) – Includes the Alberta Opportunity Stream and Alberta Express Entry Stream.

  • Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP) – Offers pathways such as Skilled Workers in Manitoba, Skilled Workers Overseas, and International Education Stream.

Steps to Apply through a PNP
  1. Research – Identify which province’s PNP aligns with your qualifications and settlement goals.

  2. Eligibility Assessment – Check the specific requirements for your chosen PNP stream.

  3. Submit EOI or Direct Application – Apply based on the province’s process.

  4. Receive Provincial Nomination – If selected, obtain an official nomination certificate.

  5. Apply for Permanent Residence – Use your nomination to apply for PR through Express Entry (for enhanced streams) or directly through IRCC (for base streams).

The Provincial Nominee Program is a flexible and efficient immigration pathway, offering opportunities for individuals with various skill sets while catering to the workforce demands of Canada’s provinces and territories.

The Atlantic Immigration Pilot offers a streamlined pathway to permanent residence for skilled foreign workers and international graduates seeking to live and work in one of Canada’s four Atlantic Provinces:

  • New Brunswick

  • Newfoundland and Labrador

  • Nova Scotia

  • Prince Edward Island

This program is one of the fastest immigration options in Canada, designed to assist employers in the Atlantic provinces who are facing challenges in filling job vacancies locally. The Atlantic Immigration Pilot allows these employers to hire skilled foreign workers for positions that they are unable to fill from the domestic labor market.

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for this program, applicants must meet several requirements, including:

  • A valid job offer from a designated employer in one of the Atlantic provinces.

  • A letter of endorsement from the province where the employer is located.

  • A commitment to apply for permanent residence within 90 days of submitting the temporary work permit application.

  • An individualized settlement plan for the applicant and their family to ensure smooth integration into the community.

  • A minimum education level of Canadian high school diploma or an equivalent foreign credential.

  • Valid language test results (IELTS, CELPIP, or TEF) that meet at least CLB Level 4.

  • A minimum of one year of full-time work experience within the last three years in a job related to the job offer.

This pilot program offers a significant opportunity for qualified individuals to gain permanent residency in Canada while contributing to the growth and prosperity of the Atlantic provinces.

The Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP) is a community-driven initiative created by the Government of Canada to support economic growth in small and remote communities by providing a pathway to permanent residence for skilled foreign workers who wish to live and work in one of the following participating locations:

  • North Bay, Ontario

  • Sudbury, Ontario

  • Timmins, Ontario

  • Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario

  • Thunder Bay, Ontario

  • Brandon, Manitoba

  • Altona/Rhineland, Manitoba

  • Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan

  • Claresholm, Alberta

  • Vernon, British Columbia

  • West Kootenay (Trail, Castlegar, Rossland, Nelson), British Columbia

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot, candidates must meet the general eligibility requirements set by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and the specific criteria set by the participating community. The applicant must:

  • Receive a recommendation from one of the designated communities.

  • Have one year of qualifying work experience within the past three years.

  • Possess a genuine job offer from an employer in one of the participating communities.

  • Meet or exceed the educational requirements for the job being offered.

  • Meet or exceed the language proficiency requirements for the National Occupational Classification (NOC) skill level of the offered position.

  • Prove they have sufficient funds to support themselves and their family during their transition to the community.

Application Process
  1. Start: Ensure eligibility based on IRCC and community-specific criteria.

  2. Find Suitable Employment: Search for a job in one of the participating communities.

  3. Receive a Job Offer: Secure a job offer from an employer in a designated community.

  4. Community Recommendation: Apply for a recommendation from the community where you received the job offer.

  5. Submit PR Application: Submit your permanent residency application based on the community recommendation.

  6. Government Approval: Wait for approval from the government.

  7. Work Permit/Permanent Residency: If approved, receive your work permit and eventually permanent residency.

  8. Arrival in Community: Once permanent residency is granted, you will arrive and settle in the designated community.

This program is a great opportunity for skilled workers to contribute to the development of Canada’s rural and northern regions while gaining permanent residency.

The Yukon Community Pilot (YCP) is a new initiative within the Yukon Nominee Program that enables foreign workers to live and work in Canada without the need for a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).

Eligibility for the Yukon Nominee Program

To qualify for the Yukon Nominee Program, applicants must meet the following requirements:

  • Have a full-time, year-round job offer from an eligible employer in Yukon.

  • Fulfill the specific criteria based on the application stream they are applying for.

Steps to Apply for the Yukon Community Pilot Program

Step 1: Apply for Job Offers
As the first step, applicants must apply for two or three job offers that align with their skills and qualifications. These job offers should match their profile and meet the requirements of the Yukon Community Pilot.

Step 2: Apply for Nomination
After securing job offers, applicants must submit an application to the Yukon Provincial Nominee Program. If successful, they will receive a nomination letter from the Yukon government. Based on their skill level, applicants can apply for either the Skilled Worker Program or the Critical Impact Worker Program to immigrate to Canada.

Step 3: Apply for a Work Permit
Once applicants have obtained the job offer and nomination letter from the Yukon government, they can apply for a Yukon work permit. This work permit allows them to work for any eligible employer within the Yukon, with certain location restrictions. The key benefit of this work permit is that applicants do not require LMIA approval to obtain it.

The Yukon Community Pilot offers a pathway for foreign workers to contribute to the economy of Yukon while gaining the opportunity to live and work in Canada.

The BC PNP Tech was initially launched in 2017 as a pilot project to address the growing demand for talent in British Columbia’s technology sector. In June 2021, the pilot program became a permanent fixture. This program is designed for individuals who are already eligible for either the Skilled Immigration or Express Entry BC streams of the British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP).

The BC PNP Tech invites qualified registrants with a valid job offer in one of the 29 eligible tech occupations on a weekly basis. To be eligible, candidates must meet the requirements for the Skilled Immigration Registration System (SIRS), which takes into account their job, work experience, and level of education.

The BC PNP Tech offers a prioritized pathway to permanent residency for individuals working in 29 key technology occupations. It provides an opportunity for these skilled workers to contribute to the province’s economic growth and enjoy the benefits of living in British Columbia. This program allows tech professionals to build their future in one of Canada’s most dynamic and prosperous regions.

To apply for a spouse visa, your spouse must be at least 18 years old. Additionally, your spouse must be a member of the family class; otherwise, you will not be eligible to sponsor them. To sponsor your spouse, you must be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or hold a valid work permit.

For detailed eligibility requirements, please refer to the complete instruction guide.

The Super Visa is a multi-entry visa that allows multiple entries for up to 10 years. Unlike a standard 10-year multiple-entry visa, the Super Visa permits an individual to stay in Canada for up to two years at a time. In contrast, a regular multiple-entry visa only allows a maximum stay of six months per entry. There are specific requirements for applying for the Parents or Grandparents Super Visa.