Canada, often referred to as a country of immigrants, has a rich history of welcoming newcomers. From its early European settlers to modern-day immigration policies, the country continues to be a top destination for people around the world. Around 21% of Canada’s population consists of immigrants.
Immigration process
Immigrating to Canada can be broken down into three main stages:
- Temporary residence (study, work) — sometimes this stage can be skipped
- Permanent residence — becoming a permanent resident of Canada
- Citizenship — gaining Canadian citizenship
Temporary residence
Temporary residence can serve as a stepping stone to permanent residence (PR). Two of the most common temporary residence pathways are through study and work permits:
- Study Permit. Canada is known for its flexible education system, and many international students choose to study at Canadian institutions. After completing their studies, students may be eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), allowing them to gain valuable Canadian work experience. This experience can eventually qualify them for permanent residency under programs like the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) or through Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs).
- Work Permit. Individuals can work in Canada temporarily by securing a work permit. Work permits may be employer-specific or open (allowing the individual to work for any employer in Canada). Gaining Canadian work experience through programs like the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) or the International Mobility Program (IMP) can make you eligible for permanent residency.
While many immigrants choose to come to Canada initially as international students or temporary foreign workers with the intention of transitioning to PR later, it is important to note that this is not mandatory. Some individuals may qualify for PR directly by meeting the requirements of Canada’s immigration programs.
Permanent residence
Canada offers multiple pathways to PR for individuals with varying backgrounds and skills. Whether you are a skilled worker, tradesperson, business owner, or seeking to reunite with family, there are programs designed to meet your needs. Below are the main categories through which you can apply for PR in Canada:
- Express Entry. The Express Entry system is an online platform used to manage applications for three major federal economic immigration programs: Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP), and Canadian Experience Class (CEC). Candidates are ranked based on factors such as age, education, work experience, and language proficiency. The highest-ranking candidates are invited to apply for PR.
- Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). Each province and territory in Canada (except Quebec) has its own immigration programs that align with its specific labor market needs. PNPs allow provinces to nominate individuals for PR based on regional economic demands. PNP streams may target skilled workers, semi-skilled workers, students, or business owners.
- Quebec Skilled Worker Program (QSWP). Quebec has its own immigration system independent of Express Entry. It targets individuals with skilled work experience who intend to live and work in the province. Quebec’s system focuses on language skills, education, and work experience.
- Business Immigration. Canada offers several immigration pathways for entrepreneurs, investors, and self-employed individuals who can contribute to the economy by starting businesses, creating jobs, or making significant financial investments. Investors and business immigrants typically need to demonstrate business management experience and a solid business plan that aligns with local economic needs.
- Family Reunification. Canadian citizens and permanent residents can sponsor certain family members to come to Canada as permanent residents. They may sponsor their spouse, common-law partner, and children under 22, as well as their parents and grandparents. Family sponsorship applicants must meet specific requirements, including providing financial support and ensuring that their family member will not require social assistance.
- Humanitarian and Refugee Programs. Canada offers protection to individuals who have fled their home country due to persecution or war. In exceptional cases, individuals who would not normally be eligible for PR can apply based on humanitarian and compassionate grounds, such as the impact of not being granted status on their family or health.
Citizenship
Becoming a Canadian citizen is the final step for immigrants who have settled in Canada and want to fully integrate into Canadian society. As citizens, individuals gain full rights and responsibilities, including the ability to vote, hold public office, and obtain a Canadian passport.
- To apply for Canadian citizenship, applicants must meet several key criteria: they must be permanent residents of Canada who have lived in the country for at least three years (1,095 days) within the past five years, have filed income taxes for at least three of those years (if applicable), demonstrate proficiency in English or French if aged 18 to 54, and pass a citizenship test on Canadian history and rights.
- If the application is approved, the final step is attending a citizenship ceremony, where applicants take the Oath of Citizenship and officially become Canadian citizens. The ceremony is a symbolic and important event, affirming the new citizen’s commitment to Canada and its laws.
