Canada is a highly sought-after destination for people seeking a better quality of life, career opportunities, and a welcoming environment. With the right steps and qualifications, obtaining permanent residency (PR) in Canada can be a fulfilling process. This guide explains how individuals from Pakistan can navigate the process of becoming a permanent resident in Canada.
What is Permanent Resident Canada?
A Permanent Resident (PR) of Canada is a foreign national who has been granted the right to live, work, and study in Canada on a permanent basis. PR status is a significant step towards becoming a Canadian citizen, although it is different from citizenship.
PRs have most of the rights of citizens, but they do not have the right to vote or hold certain government positions. Permanent residents enjoy healthcare, educational opportunities, and the ability to sponsor family members for immigration.
What are the different Canada Permanent Resident (PR) programs?
There are several pathways to obtain permanent residency in Canada. These programs cater to different profiles, such as skilled workers, students, entrepreneurs, and family members of Canadian citizens or permanent residents. Let’s explore some of the most popular programs:
Express Entry Program
The Express Entry Program is the most popular and efficient way to apply for permanent residency. It is a points-based system where applicants are assessed based on their skills, work experience, education, age, and language proficiency (English or French).
FSW – Federal Skilled Worker Program
The Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSW) is designed for skilled workers who have work experience in an occupation that is in demand in Canada. Applicants are assessed on a point-based system and need to meet the minimum requirements for age, education, work experience, and language proficiency.
PNP – Provincial Nomination Program
Each Canadian province and territory, including Ontario, British Columbia, Quebec, and Manitoba, has its own Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). Under this program, provinces can nominate individuals for PR based on the province’s specific labor market needs.
FSTP – Federal Skilled Trades Program
The Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) is aimed at individuals who have experience in skilled trades such as carpentry, welding, or plumbing. Applicants must have at least two years of full-time work experience in a skilled trade, meet language requirements, and pass a Canadian trades qualification test.
CEC – Canadian Experience Class
The Canadian Experience Class (CEC) is for individuals who have worked in Canada temporarily on a work permit and wish to transition to permanent residency. Applicants must have gained at least one year of full-time work experience in Canada.
Quebec Immigration Programs
Quebec has its own immigration programs, including the Quebec-Selected Skilled Workers program. Applicants are required to meet the province’s specific selection criteria, which includes a points-based system, language proficiency in French, and financial requirements.
Regional and Pilot Programs
Canada also offers Regional and Pilot Programs to support immigration to specific areas in need of workers. These include the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot and the Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program, which offer pathways for skilled workers, international graduates, and entrepreneurs to settle in these regions.
Family Sponsorship Programs
Under the Family Sponsorship Program, Canadian citizens and permanent residents can sponsor their spouse, children, or other close family members for immigration to Canada. This program promotes family reunification and allows PR holders to bring their loved ones to live in Canada.
Business and Investor Immigration
Canada offers several programs for business owners, investors, and entrepreneurs who wish to establish or invest in a business in Canada. The Start-Up Visa Program is one of these, aimed at attracting foreign entrepreneurs who will contribute to Canada’s economy.
Refugee and Humanitarian Programs
Canada also has Refugee and Humanitarian Programs for individuals seeking asylum. These programs are designed for people who are fleeing conflict, persecution, or unsafe living conditions in their home countries. Refugees can apply for PR once they are granted asylum status.
What are the basic requirements to become a Permanent Resident in Canada?
To apply for permanent residency in Canada, applicants must meet several basic requirements, including:
- Age: Applicants must generally be between the ages of 18 and 35 for maximum points under the Express Entry system.
- Education: A higher level of education, such as a bachelor’s or master’s degree, earns higher points.
- Work Experience: At least one year of work experience in a job listed under National Occupational Classification (NOC) codes.
- Language Skills: Proficiency in English or French, typically demonstrated through IELTS, TOEFL, or other approved tests.
- Proof of Funds: Applicants need to demonstrate they have sufficient funds to support themselves and their family once they arrive in Canada.
- Medical Examination and Police Certificate: A medical exam and a police certificate from Pakistan are required to ensure the applicant meets health and security requirements.
What are the main benefits of Permanent Resident in Canada?
Being a Permanent Resident in Canada comes with several benefits, including:
- Right to live permanently in Canada.
- Right to work anywhere in Canada.
- Right to study at Canadian institutions.
- Access to the healthcare system and education system.
- Ability to sponsor family members for immigration.
- Work and living in a stable, democratic, and multicultural society.
- Pathway to Canadian citizenship after meeting residency requirements.
Who is eligible to apply for Canada Permanent Residency?
Individuals eligible for Canadian Permanent Residency generally include skilled workers, students, business owners, and family members of Canadian citizens or permanent residents. To be eligible, applicants must meet the criteria of one of the immigration programs and demonstrate their qualifications, work experience, and financial stability.
What is the process to apply for Canada Permanent Residency?
The process to apply for permanent residency in Canada can be broken down into the following steps:
- Choose the Program: Select the immigration program that best suits your profile, such as Express Entry, PNP, or Family Sponsorship.
- Gather Documents: Collect all necessary documents, including your educational credentials, work experience proof, language test results, and financial proof.
- Create an Express Entry Profile (if applicable): If you are applying under the Express Entry system, create your profile and enter the pool.
- Submit an Application: Once you receive an invitation to apply (ITA), submit your permanent residency application online.
- Complete Medical and Security Checks: You will undergo medical examinations and background checks.
- Wait for a Decision: The Canadian government will assess your application, and if approved, you will receive your PR status.
What is a Canada Permanent Resident (PR) Card?
A Permanent Resident (PR) Card is an identification card that proves a person’s status as a permanent resident of Canada. It is required to re-enter Canada after traveling abroad. The PR card is usually valid for five years.
What is the difference between Canadian citizenship and permanent residency?
While permanent residents enjoy most of the rights of Canadian citizens, they are not allowed to vote or run for public office. PR holders must also renew their status after five years. Citizenship, on the other hand, grants full rights, including the right to vote, run for office, and unlimited residency in Canada without renewal requirements.
How Can Go Foreign Help You?
Navigating the Canadian immigration process can be complex and time-consuming, especially when applying from Pakistan. Go Foreign is an expert immigration advisory service that can help streamline your application process, ensuring all requirements are met and your application is successful. From Express Entry to Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP) and more, Go Foreign guides you through every step of the way, offering personalized support and expert advice.
