Canada is a coveted destination for immigrants from around the world. In addition to having a booming economy, the maple leaf country is a well-developed country with first-rate infrastructure. The developed economy of the country is ranked as the tenth largest in the world, mainly due to its ample natural resources and advanced international trade networks.
In addition to being a paradise for explorers and nature enthusiasts, Canada is a country that really takes care of its people. This statement is backed by the existence of countless social welfare programs provided by the State.
Taking these positive characteristics into account, a large number of people from around the world seek to settle in the maple leaf country.
Understanding the Canadian PR
Essentially, a Canadian Permanent Resident (PR) is a legal status given to a foreign national, allowing them to lawfully relocate to Canada and enjoy all the perks and privileges that a Canadian citizen would. Legally valid for a period of 5 years, a Canadian PR permits immigrants to live, work, or study anywhere in the country. The PR status may be acquired through one of the many immigration pathways set up by the Canadian government. The ideal immigration program for an applicant can be determined on the basis of their qualifications and objectives.
Canadian Immigration Initiatives
Identifying the immigration route that best suits their skills and aspirations is crucial for applicants who are ready to begin their Canadian PR journey. For this, one must be well aware of the various avenues extended by the Canadian government. On a general note, there are over 100 ways to immigrate. However, let us delve into the most prominent ones among them:
- Express Entry — Express Entry is the quickest and most straightforward way to become a permanent resident of Canada. That being said, the Express Entry system is not universally applicable to all applicants seeking immigration to Canada. It has been exclusively developed by IRCC to handle and process applications for skilled workers. Designed for the effective evaluation of immigration candidates, it represents a points-based system that weighs a number of factors, including age, education, linguistic abilities, prior employment, and more. It manages immigration applications under three major categories, namely the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP), and the Canadian Experience Class (CEC). Applicants seeking permanent residence in Canada can achieve the same in a matter of months thanks to Express Entry.
- Provincial Nomination Program (PNP) — The provincial nominee program is an immigration structure that enables Canada’s various provinces to nominate immigrants based on their qualifications, experience, and education, as well as how well-suited their skills are to their respective economies and labour markets. Those seeking permanent residence in Canada may apply to various provincial programmes in accordance with their specific qualifications.
- Start-Up VISA (SUV) — The start-up visa program is an immigration mechanism specifically introduced under the business immigration category to facilitate the seamless immigration of entrepreneurs and business owners to Canada. Owners of start-ups or established foreign businesses are eligible to use this program to apply for Canadian PR, provided they fulfill the eligibility requirements.
- Self-Employed Person Program (SEPP)— The Self-Employed Persons Program (SEPP) is a unique immigration route that exclusively focuses on international athletes and artists who intend to establish and execute their cultural projects in Canada.
- Family Sponsorship — For Canadians and Permanent Residents who would like to sponsor a close relative for Permanent Residence, Family Sponsorship is a feasible choice. Those who are sponsored by a family member—typically a parent or spouse—are exempt from meeting the discretionary selection criteria or point requirements that apply to other application categories. Alternatively, they are sponsored by a Canadian family member who will help the person establish themselves in Canada.
Breaking Down the Route to Acquiring a Canadian PR
Applying for and navigating through Canadian permanent residence may initially seem quite daunting. Let us illuminate and unriddle the process with a considerably streamlined narration:
- The Eligibility Factors — There are unique eligibility criteria for each immigration program that candidates need to meet. Typical requirements include age, education, work experience, adaptability factors, language skills (French or English), and proof of sufficient financing. It is crucial to research and fully comprehend the eligibility factors with reference to the specific immigration program that an applicant chooses to apply through.
- Proof of Language Proficiency — An applicant’s proficiency in the English and/or French languages is a mandatory requirement for immigration to Canada. To test one’s English proficiency, the Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Programme (CELPIP) or the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) are widely accepted in Canada, while the Test Devaluations de Francis (TEF) is frequently used to test one’s French proficiency.
- Relevant Documentation — Applicants typically have a short window of time (often 60 days) after receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) to complete and submit a proper application with all necessary supporting documentation. These records usually consist of one’s transcripts of education, employment letters, language test results, police clearance certificates, medical examination reports, evidence of funds, and a current passport. At this point, it is crucial to verify that every document satisfies the necessary requirements and is accurate and up to date.
- Health and Security Inspection — It is a vital requirement of the Canadian PR process that the applicant undergoes a medical evaluation by a panel physician approved by the Canadian government. This test verifies that the candidate is in good enough health to be admitted to the country. A security clearance is also performed in order to confirm their criminal history and background.
- VISA Processing Time — Following the submission of their application, applicants must wait to hear about a decision from the Canadian authorities. Depending on the chosen immigration program, the processing time is subjective to the number of applications, and other variables. One may monitor the status of their application and remain updated about any requirements or updates during this waiting period through a designated online portal.
Conclusion
Applicants are issued a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) document once their PR application successfully passes through all the immigration application phases and is approved by the Canadian government. This document enables approved candidates to successfully enter and reside in Canada. Presenting one’s COPR, undergoing a final verification by a border services officer, and becoming an official Canada PR holder are the final requirements upon arrival.
Effectiveness, quality, and efficiency are the hallmarks of Kurzfeld Law’s immigration services. With perseverance, tenacity, and the right strategy, we strive to turn your Canadian PR dream into actuality.